Page:Williams and Calvert, Fiji and the Fijians, New York, 1860.djvu/252

222 FIJI ANT> THE FIJIANS. compelled to hold intercourse with the natives. The arrival of these strangers was a new era in Fiji. Many now obtained an axe or a hatchet, or plane-iron, or chisel, or knife, or razor, or iron pot, or some calico or print, or other article, for which they had often longed hopelessly be- fore, and which was given in payment for fencing, building, gardening, or other services ; as also for pigs, fowls, fish, crabs, fruits, and vegeta- bles. Thus, too, were purchased wooden bowls, mats, curtains, etc. ; for in no other way could these or other things be procured for the use of the Mission families. A new stimulus was thus given to native in- dustry, and new comforts were introduced among the people. x other result was, that the Missionaries were brought into contact with many from distant towns and islands. A fair and regular way of dealing ; the purchase by useful articles, of industrial produce, which was known to be for home use, and not for gain ; and the sight of English com- forts in the Mission-houses ; made a very favourable impression on all who came. On the return home of these visitors, what they brought back was the object of general admiration, as what they had witnessed became the theme of general conversation. Tlie consequence was natural. Many more came me sarasara — to see, as well as to sell, and the thing grew into a nuisance. However, it had to be borne ; and then, too, it gave an opportunity of teaching many who could never have been visited at their own homes. Tlius the great object of the Mission was helped forward, and the fame of the new religion spread in every quarter. It was frequently the case that large parties visiting Lakemba from distant islands, would ask permission to inspect the premises, which was generally granted. These visitors, having nothing to do, were generally disposed to stay longer than was necessary for any good purpose, and would prowl about, picking up any knife or other small article that they could lay hands on, and secreting it, with marvellous cleverness, in their scanty clothing. Increased watchfulness was the result ; and such parties, after having spent time enough in ex- amining the place, and having listened with attention to a statement of the objects of the Mission, were informed that the Missionary or his wife had other business, and were kindly reminded of the expediency of their attending to their o^vn affairs elsewhere. Considerable losses, and such annoyance, but great good as well, came of all this. The natives took notice of everything, and could not help admiring the domestic comforts, regularity of meals, subjection of children, love of husband and wife, and general social enjoyment, which could only be taught by a practical exhibition of them in every- day life. In this respect, as well as in many others, the French Priests