He
was certainly in earnest to-night when he prayed for the Motumotuans, and
that our visit might be blessed to them. I was charmed with his
simplicity, fervour, and expectancy.
This old man, a few weeks before, at the close of a meeting at Port
Moresby, said, addressing _us_--
"Listen, you think we Motumotuans are not attending to your words; but
you are mistaken. Before you came here, we were always fighting and were
a terror to all, east and west, but now it is different. We are at peace
all round; we go about unarmed, and sleep well at night. Soon our
fathers' ancient customs will be given up, and you will see us, old and
young, coming to be taught the word of the great and good Spirit."
I was aroused about two a.m. by shouting, and, looking over the gunwale,
saw a large double fighting canoe alongside of Piri's boat, in which all
were sound asleep. On awaking, they were startled by the appearance.
They were asked by those on the bridge--
"Who are you?"
"Tamate and Piri going to Motumotu.
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