e double-faced dealings of the Malay. Their stipulations were,
forgiveness for the past, and an assurance that none of the Dyaks from
the sea (_i. e._ Sarebus and Sakarran) should be employed; for they
were, they said, hateful to their eyes. These terms being readily
conceded--the first from interest, the second from necessity--they
became open and communicative on the best means of attacking
the forts. A grand council of war was held, at which were present
Macota, Subtu, Abong Mia, and Datu Naraja, two Chinese leaders, and
myself--certainly a most incongruous mixture, and one rarely to be met
with. After much discussion, a move close to the enemy was determined
on for to-morrow, and on the following day to take up a position
near their defences. To judge by the sample of the council, I should
form very unfavorable expectations of the conduct in action. Macota is
lively and active; but whether from indisposition or want of authority,
undecided. The Capitan China is lazy and silent; Subtu indolent and
self-indulgent; Abong Mia and Datu Naraja stupid. However, the event
must settle the question; and, in the mean time, it was resolved that
the small stockade at this place was to be picked up, and removed to
our new position, and there erected for the protection of the fleet. I
may here state my motives for being a spectator of, or participator
(as may turn out), in this scene. In the first place I must confess
that curiosity strongly prompted me; since to witness the Malays,
Chinese, and Dyaks in warfare was so new, that the novelty alone might
plead an excuse for this desire. But it was not the only motive;
for my presence is a stimulus to our own party, and will probably
depress the other in proportion. I look upon the cause of the rajah
as most just and righteous: and the speedy close of the war would
be rendering a service to humanity, especially if brought about by
treaty. At any rate much might be done to ameliorate the condition
of the rebels in case of their defeat; for though I cannot, perhaps
ought not to, save the lives of the three leaders, yet all the others,
I believe, will be forgiven on a slight intercession. At our arrival,
too, I had stated that if they wished me to remain, no barbarities
must be committed; and especially that the women and children must
not be fired upon. To counterbalance these motives was the danger,
whatever it might amount to, and which did not weigh heavily on my
mind. So much for re