King George’S Jubilee

Gift From Tonga

WHEN Queen Salote of Tonga leaves Nukualofa shortly for England, she will take with her a unique gift for His Majesty King George on the occasion of his Silver Anniversary. It is the famous tortoise, over 160 years old, which was presented to King Poulaho of Tonga by Captain James Cook, the celebrated Eng lish navigator.

When Cook visited Tongatabu in 1777 he was very hospitably received. As a token of gratitude, he gave the King a young turtle, captured during his voyage through the South Seas, which he had intended taking home to England to present to King George III. Now, almost 160 years later, the tortoise will be taken to England as a gift to King George V. from the people of Britain’s tiniest Protectorate.

After Cook’s departure the turtle had free run of the royal grounds at Malila, the King’s residence, and soon acquired the title of Tui Malila (King of Malila).

The Tongans regarded it with great respect, esteeming it a chief. It was always honoured with food and kava at all ceremonies and festivals.

The Royal Tortoise