How was I to act? A happy thought struck me. I made them a neat little speech, in which I told them that I would pay them straight away, and that they could go home to their wives that same evening. How their faces beamed with delight! I went on to say that the work had not been finished by them, so in consequence I had decided to deduct four sticks of tobacco off each man's payment. I then paid them the balance, and upon asking them if they were satisfied received an answer in the affirmative. They also said they would be glad to come again whenever I might require them. So we parted friends, both parties being satisfied with the arrangement. They departed in good spirits, and on the Monday I obtained some natives from another island, who finished the job in one day. The way you work the natives is of the utmost importance. Never cheat them, and never allow them to cheat you. Treat them kindly but with firmness, and never lose your temper. Follow this advice, and, I can vouch for it, you will find them tractable and good workmen. I can strongly recommend the natives of Milne Bay (Mainland), the islands of Sariba and Loger (China Straits) and the island of Wari, either for plantation work, or the building of houses. The islanders of Wari are by far the best sailors, the others very indifferent. * * * * * Unlike Australia, New Guinea is never subject to periodical droughts, and when it becomes better known, British capital will be introduced. Industries will spring up, and the country will eventually be developed and become the home of many of our fellow countrymen. And now, my task being done, if task indeed it can be called, I must bid farewell to the reader. If he has been as much interested in the perusal of this narrative as I have been in writing it, I am more than repaid for my trouble. Should he at any time visit New Guinea, he will find much to interest him, much to study and think about, and, let us hope, will return to Old England with a mind enlarged, a wiser and a better man. FINIS. APPENDIX. VOCABULARY OF LANGUAGE. SOUTH-EAST COAST. SUBSTANTIVES. ENGLISH. NATIVE.