She was indeed one of Nature’s pets. Her face was open and sunny. To one who rigidly exacted the fineness of Grecian outline in each feature of the face, some fault might be found with the fulness of the lip and nostril. But this was so slight that it was lost in the generous loving smile, laughing, sensuous eye,—sympathy in the joyful and beautiful which sparkled in her countenance. This, with a consciousness of rank, and a dignity which had never suffered from the passions of rivalry and ambition, made Liliha,—for such was the name of the maiden,—a specimen of natural loveliness, which the salons of civilization might not excel, except in the acquired refinements of intellectual life.
She wore on her neck a wreath of rich yellow feathers. Another of gossamer lightness, the effect of which was increased by alternate rows of crimson feathers, was interwoven with her long dark wavy hair. Over her delicately moulded bosom was thrown a loose white mantle, which hid her form as the foam conceals the wave, but to heighten its beauty.
She was no less surprised than her people at the apparition of the whites. Tolta she had heard of as the companion of Pohaku, but had never seen him. “Who is it that gives orders in my presence,” she asked somewhat haughtily, as she stepped forward.
Tolta advanced to greet her, and made himself known. Acknowledging his claim to her aid by the tie of allegiance to the supreme chief, she coolly repeated his orders, as if through her only they should be given, and then with courteous manner turned to Beatriz, took her hand and said, “You are welcome. Come with me; the daughter of Hewahewa will be the friend of the pale maiden.”
Beatriz looked her thanks, and simply said, “My father needs your hospitality too. We will gladly make your home ours until we can return to our own.”
Tolta kept silent. It was dark before the party arrived at the abode of Liliha, which was in a considerable village, pleasantly situated in the centre of one of the few verdant spots to be found in that region. Olmedo was allowed to occupy one of the best houses, where every attention was shown him. Liliha led Beatriz to her own habitation, where she was received with true Hawaiian hospitality. At a signal from their mistress, her waiting women made her up a couch of the finest mats, and before retiring they so refreshed her by their gentle, soothing manipulations,[3] by which the pain was drawn out from her wearied limbs, that she was soon able to sleep soundly.