curious account of the
proas or prows so much used among them. This is extracted, as likely
to interest the reader, and as more satisfactory, than the brief
notice already given in the history of Magellan's voyage. This account
is more deserving of regard, as being drawn up from very particular
examination of one of the vessels taken, as has been mentioned, at
Tinian.]

The Indians that inhabit the Ladrones, of which Tinian (formerly well
peopled) is one, are a bold, well-limbed people; and it should seem
from some of their practices, that they are no ways defective in
understanding; for their flying proa in particular, which has been for
ages the only vessel used by them, is so singular and extraordinary
an invention, that it would do honour to any nation, however dexterous
and acute. Whether we consider its aptitude to the particular
navigation of these islands, or the uncommon simplicity and ingenuity
of its fabric and contrivance, or the extraordinary velocity with
which it moves, we shall find it worthy of our admiration, and
meriting a place amongst the mechanical productions of the most
civilized nations, where arts and sciences have most eminently
flourished.

The name of flying proa given to these vessels, is owing to the
swiftness with which they sail. Of this the Spaniards assert such
stories, as appear altogether incredible to those who have never seen
these vessels move; nor are the Spaniards the only people who relate
these extraordinary tales of their celerity. For those who shall have
the curiosity to enquire at the dock at Portsmouth, about a trial made
there some years since, with a very imperfect one built at that place,
will meet with accounts not less wonderful than any the Spaniards have
given. However, from some rude estimations made, by our people, of the
velocity with which they crossed the horizon at a distance, whilst we
lay at Tinian, I cannot help believing that with a brisk trade-wind
they will run near twenty miles an hour: Which, though greatly short
of what the Spaniards report of them, is yet a prodigious degree of
swiftness.

The construction of this proa is a direct contradiction to the
practice of the rest of mankind. For as the rest of the world make
the head of their vessels different from the stern, but the two sides
alike, the proa, on the contrary, has her head and stern exactly
alike, but her two sides very different; the side, intended to be
always the lee-side, being fla