The morning of the 21st of December found us in perfect safety, after having passed the night among these people without the least molestation. I must here observe, that this honourable security of our persons, which we had placed completely in their power, is the strongest proof that can be given of their not being wantonly cruel; and that if treated with kindness, their friendship might readily be conciliated. It may be questioned whether Nature has ever formed any race so perversely implacable as to repel those kindly feelings which a courteous demeanour and obliging services must always inspire; and the most barbarous savage will not feel the same sensations in his heart, while subject to the same sensations in his heart, while subject to the galling lash of the oppressor, as when tenderly treated by the benevolent philanthropist.

The chiefs George and Tippouie, with three or four of their warriors, were invited to accompany us to breakfast on board the ship, with which they were very happy to comply, and shewed no signs of fear or hesitation. Passing through the village on our return, we found the inhabitants all stirring and going about their usual employments. We were very soon followed to the beach, where our boat lay ready to receive us, by numbers of them who crowded round us, and were very ready to offer us their assistance in pushing off the boat.