Anchored at Singapore. In the absence, and by permission, of Bonham--now Governor of the Straits Settlements--took possession of the Hill, a charming residence with flagstaff and native guard established. I noticed that the signalmen--smart fellows from Bengal--were branded on the forehead with the interesting little word “Murder,” also with a Hindustanee word of same meaning. As senior naval officer, had much more to do than picnics and tiger-hunting. Had, too, the use of Bonham’s stables, with a good deal of fat to take down. [Sidenote: Mar. 15.] Exchanged visits with heads of departments; one of the most important was the Resident Councillor, Mr. Thomas Church. But no visits were considered valid until you had exchanged dinners. An attorney of note was Mr. William Napier; he had a brother, the Rector of Holkham, which brought us together. A charming old salt was Captain William Scott. The mercantile community was much as I had met all over India--most hospitable and agreeable. Shaw, Whitehead, and Co. were the Navy agents. Soon found that my most important duty was the suppression of piracy. Scarcely a day passed without the landing of wounded for hospital treatment. [Sidenote: Mar. 17.] Dined with Napier, where I met for the first time Mr., afterwards Rajah, Brooke. I was initiated into the mysteries, depths, and horrors of pirates in the ways of the Malay Peninsula, by these two men who had studied the question. [Illustration: _Rajah Brooke._] [Sidenote: Mar. 18.] A royal tiger that had devoured several convicts had been viewed on the outskirts of the town. I joined expedition in search, as did many older and experienced men, but without success. Recorder Sir William Norris arrived from Penang. Heard of death of the famous China General, “Elepo.” “S’pose he catchee too muchee shame face.” [Sidenote: Mar. 20.] Another Chinaman killed by tiger close to the spot we had been over half an hour previously. [Sidenote: Mar. 23.] Rumours of another China war, which rather upsets proposed joint arrangement with Rajah Brooke of an attack on pirates in their strongholds in the interior of Borneo. Sale of Bonham’s effects on the Mount, which looks like a better appointment. Got two old paintings. [Sidenote: Mar. 24.] Preparing boats for a regatta got up by W. H. Read, an enterprising young merchant (who subsequently left his mark in Singapore). Entered ship’s boats, pinnace winning 45 dollars under name of _Victoria_. Committee on board _Dido_. I was voted umpire. Band increased and improved. Regatta afforded great amusement. Tiffin on board _Diana_ steamer. “Didos” invited. Dined with Napier. [Sidenote: Mar. 27.] Up early for another unsuccessful attempt to shoot tiger; heard the brute unpleasantly near, without seeing him. Visited Elliot at the Observatory, also Balastier, United States Consul, and wife; she has a nice collection of shells; made some exchanges. [Sidenote: April 2.]