bloodshed, should take place; the youngest of the boys espied his uncle among the natives, and begged his protectors to stay and talk with them. The river being between the parties, a parley commenced by means of Tupia. The three boys shewed their countrymen the ornaments which they had received; and then going to the body of the man who was killed the day before, lying near them on the beach, they covered it with a part of the clothes that had been given them. Upon this, the boy's uncle swam across, bringing a green branch, which was received by the hands of Tupia; and many presents were given him in return. He declined an invitation to go on board the ship, and was left on the beach; where, having pulled another green branch, he laid it on the dead body, with much ceremony: and the body was afterwards carried off by the natives on a kind of bier. All this being considered as a ratification of peace, the boys, who had preferred embarking with their new friends, consented after dinner to be put ashore; and although, on being landed, they still shewed a reluctance to part with the English, they were afterwards observed among the natives unhurt; and were seen to come down and wave their hands three times towards the ship, after which they retired with several companions in the direction of their home.
Next day, four men came on board from a canoe, and afterwards many others; all of whom were treated with presents, while some also engaged in trade, selling their clothes, paddles, and weapons, for articles on board. They stated, that the three boys were safe at home, and that they themselves had been encouraged to come on board, by hearing
