We have had alarming rumours of the unsettled state of the disaffected tribes on the Great Island, but later reports make us believe them to have been greatly exaggerated. Sir Arthur intends going there in person, without even a body-guard—only sending a small body of native police beforehand. Now it is growing dark, for it is past six o’clock, at which hour the sun sets all the year round. We regret the long summer evenings, especially when returning from any distant expedition. However, we shall have the gain of no short days in winter. Now I must climb down from my rocky perch and get home while I can see my way, so good-bye.—Ever yours, C. F. G. C. Among other peculiarities of this small colony, our postage-stamps would amuse you. They were struck by the Government which crowned Thakombau king, and bear his initials, C. R. (Cacobau Rex). In the present necessity for rigid economy no new stamps are issued, but the letters V.R. partially obliterate the C.R., or rather, blend with them. Another curiosity is the bank-note of the late Government, which wisely eschews any binding “promise to pay,” and merely states that “the bearer is entitled to receive” his due, with the _sous entendu_, “Don’t he wish he may get it!” The suggestion may prove useful nearer home! CHAPTER VII. A CANOE ADVENTURE—SHARKS—FEVER—THE FEAST OF WORMS—RESULTS OF MISSION WORK—NO MEANS OF LOCOMOTION—GODS ACRE. LEVUKA, _November 16, 1875_. The happiest of happy birthdays to you, my dear Nell. I suppose you are not even awake yet, for you know our time is twelve hours ahead of yours. I wish I could look in on you all and have a long, long talk. Certainly it is a weary expanse of sea that separates us at present. I was within an ace of bringing my journeys to an end last Saturday; and as I don’t have many adventures to relate, I may as well tell you about it.