98 MALAY FOWLS. 



commenced their labours in the forests, the first 

 blow of the axe caused a large flock of these 

 creatures to mount in the air, and wing their 

 way to a less precarious retreat. They flew in 

 a body to the distance of more than two hundred 

 yards, then returned as simultaneously to the 

 vicinity of the spot they had quitted, and 

 ultimately settled in the depths of the jungle. 

 Considering how little their vision is adapted 

 for day-duty, it was interesting to notice 

 the systematic manner in which they directed 

 their flight ; one, which arose some time after 

 the others, taking immediately the right di- 

 rection to follow and join the main body of fu- 

 gitives. 



Sperm Whales frequent the abrupt coast of 

 this, in common with other of the Malay Islands, 

 probably attracted by the animated currents 

 that prevail in their vicinity. Many English 

 South-Seamen cruise, during the winter months, 

 in the Straits of Ombay and adjacent seas, and 

 usually with success. It is somewhat remarkable, 

 that American whalers, though seldom behind 

 the English in enterprise, have not as yet 

 ventured their barks in these waters. 



The domestic fowls are of the Malay breed, 

 so superior to every other for size and courage 

 qualities which the natives devote much at- 



