Page:Journal of the Right Hon. Sir Joseph Banks.djvu/411

Rh township of Seba, where we were. What sort of Christians they are I cannot say, as they have neither clergymen nor church among them; the Company have, however, certainly been at the expense of printing versions of the New Testament, catechisms, etc. etc., in this and several other languages, and actually keep a half-bred Dutchman, whose name is Frederick Craig, in their service, who is paid by them for instructing the youth of the island in reading, writing, and the principles of the Christian religion. Dr. Solander was at his house, and saw not only the Testaments and catechisms before mentioned, but also the copy-books of the scholars.

The island is divided into five principalities, each of which has its respective radja or king; what his power may be we had no opportunity of learning. In outward appearance he had but little recognition shown to him, yet every kind of business seemed to centre in him and his chief councillor, so that in reality he seemed to be more regarded in essentials than in showy useless ceremonies. The reigning Radja, while we were there, was called Madocho Lomi Djara, he was about thirty-five, the fattest man we saw upon the whole island, and the only one upon whose body grew any quantity of hair, a circumstance very unusual among Indians. He appeared of a heavy, dull disposition, and I believe was governed almost entirely by a very sensible old man called Mannudjame, who was beloved by the whole principality. Both these were distinguished from the rest of the natives by their dress, which was always a night-gown, generally of coarse chintz; once, indeed, the Radja received us in form in one of Black Prince's stuff, which I suppose may be looked upon as more grave and proper to inspire respect. If any differences arise between the people, they are settled by the Radja and his councillors without the least delay or appeal, and, says Mr. Lange, always with the strictest justice. So excellent is the disposition of these people that if any dispute arise between any two of them, they never, if it is of consequence, more than barely mention it to each other, never allowing themselves to reason upon it lest