EXTRACTS.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume I, Issue 22, 16 September 1843, Page 4

EXTRACTS.

Tahiti. When the Julia left Tahiti, on the 26th May, 11. M.5. Vindictive and a French ship of war (the Bousole) were in port ; the French Admiral had not then arrived, but was daily expected. On the 24th, Her Majesty Queen Victoria's birth-day was celebrated with due honours ; Commodore Nicolas entertained a large party on board the Vindictive to dinner, consisting of Queen Pomare, her Suite, the French Commander, his Officers, English and American Consuls, and the respectable residents of the place, — which went off well. It is well known that the French used compulsory measures in getting Queen Pomare to sign the document by which she placed her Government under their protection. It was extorted firom her by threats, at a time she was little able to resist their importunities, being only a few hours before her confinement. So decidedly averse was she to their measures, that she never visited her seat of government until the arrival of the Talbot. Sho placed all her hopes on the protection of Great Britain, which was promised to her by letters from different Secretaries of State ; and now reposes the most implicit confidence in Commodore Nicolas, whom she has most urgently solicited to remain, and afford her that protection from French aggression, which she has every reason to dread, should the Vindictive leave the port. The High Chiefs held their usual May meeting, for the exacting of laws and dispatch of public business : several new Acts were passed, among others one for" imposing duties on wines, spirits, malt liquor, &c. Commodore Nicolas has had various improvements made, by his direction and able assistance, in the town and neighbourhood of Papiete — such as establishing a market, improving the streets and roads, and other matters of public utility. All that he does is protested against by the French. Business was very dull at Tahiti ; very few ships in port. The laws had been revised and republished. The pilotage and harbour-dues are

now, for vessels under 50 tons, 15 doll. ; under 100 tons, 20 doll. ; under 300 tons, 25 doll. ; and 7 doll, for every additional 100 tons. All intoxicating drinks are to be placed in bond when the vessel arrives, under a penalty of 500 dollars. Spirits are not to be sold in less quantities than two gallons ; duty is 1 doll, per gallon. — Sydney Morning Herald.