Page:Some Account of New Zealand.pdf/34

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Their countenances are in general open; and though you are not alarmed by any marks of savage ferocity, you clearly discover signs of undaunted courage, and a resolution not easily shaken.

The workings of the mind are readily discernable in most instances; but this country is not without its dissemblers; and particularly among those advanced in life are to be found some who can smile, and assent to your opinion, when their natural feelings dictate a frown, and a decided disapprobation of your conduct or sentiments.

The natives have a great aversion from spirits, and I do not find that they have any mode of intoxication among them; they are consequently robust, cheerful, and active, and probably, in many instances, live to a great age.

I observed, that in a few persons the appearances of longevity were very strongly marked, though it is impossible to speak with certainty upon the subject, there being no positive criterion for determining the age of man. In some in- Rh