The girls went aft, and remained with the others in the cabin for a few days. When we sighted Ocean Island, Hayston called me on deck, and said, "Come and see a bit of fun."
Old Mary was told to bring up her flock. The two Pleasant Island girls came up with the rest. They were about fourteen and fifteen years of age, and, from their close similarity, probably the children of the same mother—a somewhat unusual thing in the Gilbert group. They seemed frightened at being called up, and clung closely to Sara and Nellie. Their hair, Pleasant Island fashion, hung down straight upon their backs, and was carefully oiled and combed. A girdle of Pandanus leaf was their only garment. Speaking kindly to them, the Captain asked them if they would like to go ashore there and live. I give the conversation.
Captain.—"Well, will you go ashore here?"
Girls.—"Are there plenty of cocoa-nuts and fish?"
Captain.—"Pretty fair; but there are not always plenty."
Girls.—"What chiefs will take us and give us food?"
Captain.—"I don't know—there are more women there than men. All the young men have gone away in whaleships."
Girls.—"That's bad; the Ocean Island women will soon kill us strangers."
Captain.—"Most likely. Would you like to stay on the ship if I get you husbands?"
Girls.—"Yes! where are they?"