On the east side of Lette, near the village of Batu Meau, we met with a block-house, surrounded by a high stone wall, which had formerly been occupied by a garrison of the Dutch East India Company. It was in a state of great dilapidation, indeed, every thing we encountered bore evident marks of the poverty and misery of the people, which, however, is in a great measure to be attributed to the unavoidable disasters which had befallen them. I promised the chiefs that I would inform the Government of their difficulties, and stated to them that I had remained at the island longer than I had originally intended, with the hope that my mediation would effect a termination to their disputes. I urged them strongly to live henceforward in unity, and I had the satisfaction of perceiving, before my departure from the island, a considerable improvement in their social state, the people of the different villages having become on far better terms with one another. The exhortations and advice of that estimable clergyman, M. Kam, had also effected much good. Many of the people were baptized and married by him, the solemnity with which these duties were performed making a deep impression on the susceptible minds of this simple, and by no means badly-disposed people. Before our departure they gave proofs of a returning spirit of industry, by commencing to repair their church and houses. From Lette I proceeded to Moa, of which island I will give a description in the ensuing chapter. FOOTNOTES: [Footnote 12: This name is also here applied to the vessels of the head chiefs. They are large galleys, with high stems and sterns, having a roof of _attap_, or palm leaves, raised over them.] CHAPTER V. MOA AND ROMA. Boat Expedition to the Island of Moa.--Good Inclination of the Inhabitants.--The Block-house.--The Duif Family.--Character of the People.--Respect entertained by the Heathen towards the Christian Inhabitants.--State of Civilization and Public Instruction.--Kind Hospitality of the Natives.--Their Feelings of Attachment and Confidence towards the Dutch Government.--Departure for the Island of Roma.