vessel's guns with grape and canister, and brought her broadside
to bear, I proceeded on shore with a detachment fully armed, and
taking up a position at the entrance of the Raja's palace,
demanded and obtained an immediate audience. In a few words I
pointed out the villany of MAKOTA, his tyranny and oppression of
all classes, and my determination to attack him by force, and
drive him from the country. I explained to the Raja that several
Chiefs and a large body of Siniawan Dyaks were ready to assist
me, and the only course left to prevent bloodshed was
immediately to proclaim me Governor of the country. This
unmistakeable demonstration had the desired effect * * * None
joined the party of MAKOTA, and his paid followers were not more
than twenty in number.

"Under the guns of the _Royalist_, and with a small body of men
to protect me personally, and the great majority of all classes
with me, it is not surprising that the negotiation proceeded
rapidly to a favourable issue. The document was quickly drawn
up, sealed, signed, and delivered; and on the 24th of September,
1841, I was declared Raja and Governor of Sarawak amidst the
roar of cannon, and a general display of flags and banners from
the shore and boats on the river."

This is a somewhat lengthy quotation, but the language is so graphic and
so honest that I need make no apologies for introducing it and, indeed,
it is the fairest way of exhibiting Mr. BROOKE'S objects and reasons and
is, moreover, interesting as shewing under what circumstances and
conditions the first permanent English settlement was formed in Borneo.

Mr. BROOKE concludes his account of his accession to the Government in
words that remind us of another unselfish and modest hero--General
GORDON. He says:--

"Difficulty followed upon difficulty; the dread of pecuniary
failure, the doubt of receiving support or assistance; this and
much more presents itself to my mind. But I have tied myself to
the stake. I have heaped faggots around me. I stand upon a cask
of gunpowder, and if others bring the torch I shall not shrink,
I feel within me the firm, unchangeable conviction of doing
right which nothing can shake. I see the benefits I am
conferring. The oppressed, the wretched, the outlawed have found
in me their only protector. They now hope and trust; and they
shall not be disap