this: a pirate state lies on the sea, between the Scheldt and Eastern Friesland!
And if even this did not avail?
Then I should translate my book into Malay, Javanese, Soondah, Alfoor, Booghinese, Battah . . .
And I should hurl klewang-whetting warsongs into the hearts of the poor martyrs to whom I have promised help, I, Multatuli.
Deliverance and help, by legal means if possible . . . by lawful means of force if necessary.
And this would react most disadvantageously on the Coffee-sales of the Dutch Trading Company.
For I am no fly-rescuing poet, no gentle-hearted dreamer, as was down-trodden Havelaar, who did his duty with the courage of a lion, and who starves with the patience of a marmot in winter.
This book is an introduction . . .
I shall increase in power and keenness of weapons, in proportion as it shall be needed . . .
God grant that it may not be needed!
No! it will not be needed! For to You I dedicate my book, William the Third, King, Grand Duke, Prince . . . more than Prince, Grand Duke and King . . . Emperor of the glorious realm of Insulind, that winds yonder round the equator like a girdle of emerald . . .
From You I dare ask with confidence whether it is your imperial will:
That Havelaar is splashed with the mud of Slimerings and Drystubbles.
And that yonder Your more than thirty million subjects are maltreated and exploited in YOUR name!
