In consequence of the current, which usually sets with the wind, and runs with great strength about the parallel of Banda, we were driven so far to leeward, that we were forced to pass to the northward of the Matabella Islands; after leaving which we were enabled to make much better way, but still found it a matter of difficulty to work up against the monsoon. It was my intention to run as close as possible along the coast of New Guinea, but I was unable to effect my object. On the 22nd we made Pulo Adi, a low and thinly peopled island, lying to the north of the Great Ki, near to the mainland of New Guinea. On the 24th of August we celebrated the anniversary of our beloved King's birthday. The distance which separates them from their fatherland, renders this holiday doubly interesting to all true hearted Netherlanders, being not only a tribute of love to their King, but also a renewal of dear associations connected with their homes. At the rising of the sun, a salute from our guns announced the arrival of this national holiday. The masts were adorned with flags, and all the seamen, clad in their best array, attended divine service, after which a grand parade was performed, enlivened by the old national hymn, "_Wilhelmus van Nas sauwen_," the remainder of the day being spent in amusements. The weather favoured the celebration of the feast, and space was made upon the deck for games and dances,[23] as I willingly allowed my brave crew to enjoy themselves to the fullest extent, placing full confidence in them and their officers. I cannot refrain from here making honourable mention of Lieutenant Brennwald, who, on these and all other occasions, fully responded to the confidence I reposed in his circumspection, calmness and seamanship. The anniversary was spent by the seamen, in this far distant region of the globe, with very lively, and indeed with boisterous joy; but the day closed without any one having committed the least excess. On the 26th we arrived off the Arru Islands. The westernmost islands of this group, (Wama, Wokan, Maykor, and Wadia,) are inhabited, the three first by Christians, and the latter by Mohammedans, the eastern isles being occupied by Arafuras, who live under the control of the others. Since our departure from the Matabella Islands, we had experienced a set of current to the westward of twenty-four miles, which would render it impossible for an inferior sailing vessel to beat up to the Arru Islands during the east monsoon. Under the guidance of our pilot, but with the precaution of having our boats a-head, we ran along the west coasts of Wadia and Wokan; and on the 27th came to an anchor off Wokan, about cannon-shot from the shore, opposite the village of Wanla. The chiefs of the people came on board to welcome us, as well as those of the neighbouring islands, all of whom evinced the liveliest joy at our arrival.