made from the juice of the grape, that
grew in a certain land in Europe, and could not be manufactured
elsewhere, though other wines which were equally good could be
made--that as the fruits grown in a hot country like theirs could
not be grown in Europe, where the climate was much colder, so the
grape could not flourish in their hot country.

Three days later the tumangong came off, in a canoe gaily decorated
by flags, attended by several smaller craft. As he set foot on the
deck, a salute was fired. He appeared much disturbed when the first
gun went off; but the interpreter explained to him that it was a
mark of honour, always granted to native princes of importance.
Seeing that no harm was done by the fire, the Malay approached
Harry, whose escort had been rendered more imposing by a line of
blue jackets, with musket and cutlass, drawn up behind them.

Harry advanced to meet him, and friendly greetings were exchanged.
He then invited him down into the cabin, where he was accompanied
by one of his chief officers. Harry, the captain, and the
interpreter went down with them. The Malay commenced the
conversation.

"I hope that you bring a favourable answer to my letter?"

"The Governor bids me say that he willingly accepts your offer of
friendship, and would readily establish a trading station on the
island of Singapore; but that, being now engaged in a serious war
in India, it is not in his power, at present, to engage in an
alliance that might involve him in war here, since he might be
unable to fulfil his obligations. With us, obligations under a
treaty are regarded as sacred, and to be upheld at all sacrifices.
Later on, when affairs are more settled in India, he will gladly
form an alliance with you.

"Here is a despatch, in your language, stating his reasons more
fully but, in order to show his friendship, he has sent me down in
this ship of war to explain matters to you, and to assure you that
he appreciates your offer, and will later on accept it; but that he
cannot enter into such a treaty now as, being engaged in war, he
might not be able to protect you from all enemies, should you call
upon him to do so. I am the bearer of several presents from him,
which he has sent as a proof of his friendship towards you."

He touched a bell and, at the signal, some sailors brought in the
presents; consisting of a handsome double-barrelled gun, a brace of
pistols, some embroidered robes, and some bales of English c