Making twenty-seven of pure Moriori descent, and five half-breeds. The Maoris on the islands number about two hundred and fifty souls, and there is roughly about the same number of a white population.

The island (Rekohu) is an exceedingly pleasant place of residence. The sea surrounding it equalises the temperature very much, and prevents extremes of heat and cold. The island in many places is extremely fertile, and I never saw more beautiful soil than-the land at Owhenga, on the eastern side, near the large Moriori Reserve.

It would be desirable, if possible, for the society to acquire the large collection of axes, clubs, &c., of stone now in the possession of Mr. Clough. They could be obtained, I believe, for a very moderate price, and it would be a pity for such a collection (which could never be replaced) to find its way into the possession of private persons and tourists. Among other curiosities is a bone dagger, about 9in. long, the blade being about 4½in. in length, with a double edge. I do not know of any other Polynesian people having used the dagger except the Hawaiians (of course I do not refer to the common bamboo knife of the South Seas), but Tapu assured me that the weapon was known and used by the ancient Moriori.