Beta Book

? ? ? ? As Jimmy led the way along the ridge, Toby observed that the valley of the Happars did not extend near so far inland as that of the Typees. This accounted for our mistake in entering the latter valley as we had.

? ? ? ? A path leading down from the mountain was soon seen, and following it, the party were in a short time fairly in the Happar valley.

? ? ? ? "Now," said Jimmy, as they hurried on, "we taboo men have wives in all the bays, and I am going to show you the two I have here."

? ? ? ? So, when they came to the house where he said they lived- which was close by the base of the mountain, in a shady nook among the groves,- he went in, and was quite furious at finding it empty- the ladies had gone out. However, they soon made their appearance, and, to tell the truth, welcomed Jimmy quite cordially, as well as Toby, about whom they were very inquisitive. Nevertheless, as the report of their arrival spread, and the Happars began to assemble, it became evident that the appearance of a white stranger among them was not by any means deemed so wonderful an event as in the neighbouring valley.

? ? ? ? The old sailor now bade his wives prepare something to eat, as he must be in Nukuheva before dark.


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