What you suppose to be cuirasses and pantaloons, are their tabooed breasts and legs." "Are you sure of that, Willis ?" "Not a doubt about it." "Such garments are both durable and economical," remarked Jack; "but I scarcely think they are suitable for stormy weather.

But do you think it is safe to land amongst such a set of barebacked rascals, Willis ?" "I should not like to take the responsibility of guaranteeing our safety; but I do not see what other course we can adopt." They had now approached within musket-shot of the shore.

They could see that a venerable-looking old man stood a few paces in front of the group of natives.

He held a green branch in one hand, and pressed with the other a long flowing white beard to his breast.
"According to universal grammar," said Jack, "these signs should mean peace and amity." "Yes," replied the Pilot; "the more so that the rear-guard are pouring water on their heads, which is the greatest mark of courtesy the natives of Polynesia can show to strangers." "Gentlemen," cried Jack, taking off his cap and making a low bow, "we are your most obedient servants." "We must be on our guard," said Willis; "these savages are very deceitful, and sometimes let fly their arrows under a show of friendship.

I will go on shore alone, whilst you keep at a little distance off, ready to fire to cover my retreat, if need be." The young men objected to Willis incurring danger that they did not share; but on this point Willis was inexorable, so they were obliged to suffer him to depart alone.