"Of an evening," says Lieutenant Walpole, RN, writing of Samoa, "when,
taking advantage of intervals of fine weather, we went for a ramble in
the delightful woods, the quiet of the grove was often disturbed by a
ruthless savage, who would rush out upon you, not armed with club or
spear, but with slate and pencil, and thrusting them into your hands,
make signs for you to finish his difficult exercise or sum."
Dr Coulter, surgeon of HMS _Stratford_, has given this testimony: "The
power of religion has completely altered the naturally uncontrolled
character of the natives, and effectually subdued barbarism. The former
history of these islanders is well known to all readers. They were
guilty of every bad and profane act. Infanticide and human sacrifices,
in all their horrid shapes, were common occurrences. Utter abandonment
and licentiousness prevailed over these islands (the Friendly Islands).
What are they now? The query may be answered in a few words: They are
far more decided Christians than the chief part of their civilised
visitors."