oubt; and that, beyond all hope of escape, we were now placed in
those very circumstances from the bare thought of which I had recoiled
with such abhorrence but a few days before. What might not be our fearful
destiny? To be sure, as yet, we had been treated with no violence; nay,
had been even kindly and hospitably entertained. But what dependence could
be placed upon the fickle passions which sway the bosom of a savage? His
inconstancy and treachery are proverbial. Might if not be that, beneath
these fair appearances, the islanders covered some perfidious design, and
that their friendly reception of us might only precede some horrible
catastrophe? How strongly did these forebodings spring up in my mind, as I
lay restlessly upon a couch of mats, surrounded by the dimly-revealed
forms of those whom I so greatly dreaded.

From the excitement of these fearful thoughts, I sank, towards morning,
into an uneasy slumber; and on awaking, with a start, in the midst of an
appalling dream, looked up into the eager countenances of a number of the
natives, who were bending over me.

It was broad day; and the house was nearly filled with young females,
fancifully decorated with flowers, who gazed upon me as I rose with faces
in which childish delight and curiosity were vividly portrayed. After
waking Toby, they seated themselves round us on the mats, and gave full
play to that prying inquisitiveness which, time out of mind, has been
attributed to the adorable sex.

As these unsophisticated young creatures were attended by no jealous
duennas, their proceedings were altogether informal, and void of
artificial restraint. Long and minute was the investigation with which
they honoured us, and so uproarious their mirth, that I felt infinitely
sheepish; and Toby was immeasurably outraged at their familiarity.

These lively young ladies were at the same time wonderfully polite and
humane; fanning aside the insects that occasionally lighted on our brows;
presenting us with food; and compassionately regarding me in the midst of
my afflictions. But in spite of all their blandishments, my feelings of
propriety were exceedingly shocked, for I could not but consider them as
having overstepped the due limits of female decorum.

Having diverted themselves to their hearts' content, our young visitants
now withdrew, and gave place to successive troops of the other sex, who
continued flocking towards the house until near noon; by which time I have