conciliated.
The effect, when adopted, was electric: they learned to address Mr.
Robinson as their _marmanake_, or father, and thus to distinguish him
from other white men. The stupidity attributed to barbarians, and the
vacant laughter, with which they receive the announcement of new ideas
in a foreign tongue, would be ascribed, by experienced teachers, to the
absurdity of such a medium of communication.[19]

The plan adopted by Mr. Robinson, was not only humane--it was
reasonable. The natives were proud of freedom: their restraint was
disguised, and by unvarying kindness he taught them to regard him as
their friend; and thus they were prepared, not only to submit to his
authority, but to rely upon his promises. White men had thought it a
merit to deceive, and it required some skill to convince them. Having
explained the proposals of the government, he took with him several of
their number, and went on his errand of mercy. The aborigines were
evidently prepared for his mission. Most of the tribes had occasionally
direct intercourse with Europeans--true, the more frequent, the more
hostile; but while they regarded the whites with hatred, this commerce
enabled them to appreciate the presents provided to entice them, and
facilitated friendly communication. All on the east side of the island
were confederated; and when any were gained, they became agents in each
other's pacification. The late pursuit, though it had not subdued their
enmity, or even their courage, had convinced many that there was no
security but by peace. Others, however, long resolved to confide in
their own strength, and to take refuge in the fastnesses of the island.
Such was the answer they gave to the messages of Robinson; but the late
events had separated them from each other--it had scattered their
tribes: members of the same family were part in captivity, and the
knowledge of their condition moved the sympathies of relations still at
large. Of this, an affecting instance transpired in 1831. Some, who gave
themselves up, stated that they had been very unhappy: they had gone
over the country, searching for their lost friends, of whom they could
gain no tidings. We realise a softening scene, in contemplating these
fragmentary tribes, traversing their ancient haunts, and uttering the
unanswered, and then melancholy call which distinguishes their race.
When this party were told that their relations were living under the
protection of Robinson, they expr