Lost plankton drag overboard when dragging in evening Niua fou Island, to which we approached within about 15 miles this morning, is a huge volcanic cone 3 1/2 by 3 miles, rising steeply from the sea to a height of 588 feet. The entire interior of the crater is filled by a large lake, with hot springs, small cones and other signs of volcanism. George, the mate, who has been there several times, tells me that the shores are rocky, percipitious, with neither anchorage or good landing places. The population number about 1200 to 1300 and although there is only rainwater to drink and for irrigation, bananas, taro and other native crops are extensively grown. There are three stores and other signs of prosperity. The island is visited frequently by cutters, schooners and small craft from Tonga, to which group it belongs. There are numerous craters about the island, some of which were active in 1912 and before. A series of very severe erruptions occured in 1853, 1856 and 1887. We did not land, not having permission from Tonga to collect birds. Tuesday, June 3, 1924. Usual shower at about 4 A.M. Very calm. Ran engine most of the day to maintain headway. Curious colored cloud affect about sun in morning, at about 8 A.M. Spent morning copying more extracts from Richardson's MS and reading. Noon position S. 15° 58', 177° 15' W. Bar. high, 30.11. Clear and rather hot in afternoon. Read, looked over Quaretech catalog of scientific books, and typed page of "Impressions of Samoa." Calm, to light breeze from E.N.E. or variable during night. Wednesday, June 4, 1924. Heavy shower between 4 and 5 A.M. accompanied by sharp squall. Smooth