The cultivation of bananas and yams--of the latter of which, and of two other edible roots, we saw large quantities in the huts--costs him very little trouble--he occasionally keeps a few pigs, and when inclined, can always catch plenty of fish, and occasionally a turtle upon the reefs at low-water.
(*Footnote.

Some of these are represented in the preceding woodcut--the hole in the top is usually plugged with a portion of banana leaf.) Before leaving the beach I presented old Wadai with an axe, as a recompense for his civility.

The poor man looked quite bewildered at his unexpected good fortune, and for a little while was quite speechless--not understanding the nature of a gift, or being taken with a sudden fit of generosity, he afterwards waded out to the boat with some coconuts to give me in return.
BARTERING FOR YAMS.
July 4th.
The first cutter was sent to Brierly Island today, for the double purpose of endeavouring to procure yams from the natives for the use of the ship's company, and enabling me to make additions to my vocabulary and collection.

Mr.Brady took charge of the bartering, and drawing a number of lines upon the sandy beach, explained that when each was covered with a yam he would give an axe in return.

At first some little difficulty occurred as the yams were brought down very slowly--two or three at a time--but at length the first batch was completed and the axe handed over.