ashore, and stabled in a hut of cocoanut boughs within the
fortified enclosure. Occasionally it was brought out, and, being
gaily caparisoned, was ridden by one of the officers at full
speed over the hard sand beach. This performance was sure to be
hailed with loud plaudits, and the 'puarkee nuee' (big hog) was
unanimously pronounced by the islanders to be the most
extraordinary specimen of zoology that had ever come under their
observation.

The expedition for the occupation of the Marquesas had sailed
from Brest in the spring of 1842, and the secret of its
destination was solely in the possession of its commander. No
wonder that those who contemplated such a signal infraction of
the rights of humanity should have sought to veil the enormity
from the eyes of the world. And yet, notwithstanding their
iniquitous conduct in this and in other matters, the French have
ever plumed themselves upon being the most humane and polished of
nations. A high degree of refinement, however, does not seem to
subdue our wicked propensities so much after all; and were
civilization itself to be estimated by some of its results, it
would seem perhaps better for what we call the barbarous part of
the world to remain unchanged.

One example of the shameless subterfuges under which the French
stand prepared to defend whatever cruelties they may hereafter
think fit to commit in bringing the Marquesan natives into
subjection is well worthy of being recorded. On some flimsy
pretext or other Mowanna, the king of Nukuheva, whom the invaders
by extravagant presents had cajoled over to their interests, and
moved about like a mere puppet, has been set up as the rightful