Page:History of the Indian Archipelago Vol 3.djvu/158

 142 DOMESTIC AND INTERNAL Columbus, the two grandest events in the history of our species. All the great tribes of the Archipelago are in that state of advancement in social improvement in which the mercantile profession is a distinct em- ployment. It is even one which, from the pecu- liarity of their maritime situation, is honoured be- yond the rank which usually belongs to it, in so humble a state of social existence. To engage in commerce is reckoned no dishonour to any one, but the contrary, and it is, indeed, among the maritime tribes especially, one of the most dignified occupa- tions even of the sovereign himself, and of his prin- cipal officers. The higher class of dealers, in point of moral character, are remarkable for their fair- ness, spirit, and integrity. In the management of their concerns, though they are not systematically skilful, they display, from habit and familiarity with their business, much discernment and acuteness. The use of money is understood by all the con- siderable tribes. The metals are used by the civi- lized ones, and the ruder have recourse, as in the earlier stages of society elsewhere, to the staple and current commodities of their respective countries, as I have mentioned in another part of this work. Bills of exchange, such as exist among the Hin- dus, and which imply much commercial intercourse, and considerable confidence, have never existed among the scattered and hostile tribes of the In- dian islands.