Women and children take their share in every discussion, and seem little alarmed at the sight of strangers and Europeans.
Of the intellect of this race it is very difficult to judge, but I am inclined to rate it somewhat higher than that of the Malays, notwithstanding the fact that the Papuans have never yet made any advance towards civilization.

It must be remembered, however, that for centuries the Malays have been influenced by Hindoo, Chinese, and Arabic immigration, whereas the Papuan race has only been subjected to the very partial and local influence of Malay traders.

The Papuan has much more vital energy, which would certainly greatly assist his intellectual development.

Papuan slaves show no inferiority of intellect, compared with Malays, but rather the contrary; and in the Moluccas they are often promoted to places of considerable trust.

The Papuan has a greater feeling for art than the Malay.