sons of note had on their head a concave cylindrical stiff black cap. The females, who were very chaste, wore a short, thick petticoat, made of the fibres of the plantain tree. Both had ear-rings, necklaces, bracelets, and other ornaments. They were afterwards observed to cover themselves occasionally with coarse garments, made of matting, when resting in their canoes.
After dinner, the Captain and some friends, attended by a native who attached himself to him, landed on a sandy beach, in presence of a great multitude, who were unarmed and very courteous. Presents were made to several persons, whom the Captain's friend pointed out to him as men of note; but when he was holding out some beads and medals towards the women who stood behind the crowd, his friend held back his hand. Among the company was a stout young man, named Teabooma, the chief of the district Balade, where they now were. The first part of his name seemed to be an honorary title; for the Captain was honoured by his friend with the designation Tea-Cook; and the chief of Balabea was named Tea-bi. This young chief gave the Captain and his party a friendly reception; and having called for silence, the people listened attentively, while he delivered a short speech and soon after, another chief, having called for silence, made a speech also. Their speeches, supposed to be in favour of their visitors, were well received; and at the close of each sentence, two or three old men responded, by nodding their heads, and uttering a kind of grunt.
The Captain having inquired for fresh water, his friend guided him in the boat to a narrow creek or river, about two miles to the eastward: and
