Russian friends, that they generously desired their grog to be stopped, that the brandy, which was here scarce and valuable, might be presented, in their name, to the garrison of Bolcheretsk! Capt. Clerke, and the rest of the officers, did not suffer them to lose much by this spontaneous sacrifice, supplying them with rum, in lieu of the small quantity of brandy which the Major was prevailed on to accept.
A circumstance occurred at this time, affording a pleasing illustration of the advantage of treating savages with kindness; being a result of the friendly visit which Captain Cook paid to the Tschutski. This warlike tribe, the Russians had repeatedly, but ineffectually, attempted to subdue, or to bring into alliance with them: but what they had long tried to effect by force, Captain Cook had quickly accomplished for them by mildness and goodness. The savages, not knowing any other Europeans, had taken the British for Russians; and, impressed with the friendly conduct of their visitors, they had lately sent a party to the nearest Russian fort, with propositions of friendship, and a voluntary offer of tribute; alleging as the cause of this peaceful measure, the great kindness experienced by them from the officers and crew of two ships. Major Behm, who received this news on the day when Captns. Gore and King visited him, could not have known what the savages alluded to, had not these officers furnished a key to open the mystery of this pacific negociation. Thus, through the effect of British benevolence, the Russians were, in some sort, requited beforehand, for their generosity to our seamen; and, at the same time, received a salutary lesson, on the best means of extending their commerce and their power. A further reward
