ABSTRACT
The account of the whole transaction given by Ledyard, who was near his commander when he fell, though fuller and more explanatory, does not differ in any material points from the native narrative-indeed, not more th'1n do any two independent histories of one transaction. The English version gives some names and circumstances which did not come within the islanders' knowledge. Lieutenant Phillips, who had landed his marines to support Cook, was close to the latter, who when he was stabbed, fell with his face downwards into the water, the margin of which he had reached, and immediately expired. Phillips, who was a fine swordsman, threw down his fusee, and engaging the chief who had stabbed Cook, dispatched him with his sword. His guard by this time were all killed, except two, who swam to the boats, leaving the Lieutenant alone opposed to the natives. His brave defence astonished the people who were attacking him; but being at last wounded and faint, he plunged into the sea sword in hand, and was taken on board the boats. As soon, however, as he was safe, one of the marines, who had swum from shore, was seen lying at the bottom of the water. The wounded officer hearing this, ran aft, plunged again into the sea, and brought the man to the surface, an~ both were taken into the boat.
