It appeared to me to be very remarkable, that they stedfastly refused to permit my appointing any one as their head chief. In spite of all my arguments in favour of such an appointment, they continued obstinate, and it would not have been possible for me to succeed, unless I had resorted to absolute command. They assured me that up to this time they had always lived in peace and unity under the separate government of their various chiefs, and I therefore allowed them to have their own way, which appeared to give universal satisfaction. I subsequently endeavoured to induce them to carry their goods for sale to Amboyna or Banda, and gave them other advice which had for its object the increase of their prosperity; and I had the satisfaction of perceiving that they duly appreciated it. Men and women showed a confidence in, and friendship towards, our Government, which I should find it difficult to describe in appropriate terms. At the general meetings some of them often came forward, and, kissing my hand, entreated that the Government would hereafter bear them in remembrance, and take an active part in the management of their affairs. I promised them that I would faithfully inform our colonial rulers of their numerous good qualities, and would at the same time request that a teacher should be sent to them to instruct their children in useful knowledge, and in the observances of the Christian faith. The day before my departure from the island, the armed seamen were sent on board, to the great regret of the people, who earnestly requested me to stay a few days longer. Their farewells to our seamen were truly affecting; and those only who are acquainted with the warm dispositions of these people, can conceive how strong a friendship had grown up between them and us in so short a time. When, at length, on the afternoon of the 19th of July, I prepared to return on board, I was accompanied by at least seven-eighths of the people. Amid repeated good wishes they conducted us to our boats, showing us every attention in their power. They carried us into the boats on litters, and I was here again detained some time by the fair islanders, young and old, who crowded around me to take leave. The proofs of friendship, confidence and regard, which all my fellow voyagers, as well as myself, experienced from the people of Luan, were greater than any we had met with elsewhere. The continued kindness of these islanders was the more striking, from its bearing undeniable marks of sincerity; indeed, it perfectly accorded with their usual conduct, for I never met with more harmony, contentment and toleration, more readiness to afford mutual assistance, more domestic peace and happiness, nor more humanity and hospitality, than among the simple inhabitants of Luan.