476 CHARLES DARWIN 



savage life, but never, I think, one where the natives were 

 in such high spirits, and so perfectly at their ease. After 

 the dancing was over, the whole party formed a great circle 

 on the ground, and the boiled rice and sugar was distributed, 

 to the delight of all. 



After several tedious delays from clouded weather, on the 

 1 4th of March, we gladly stood out of King George's Sound 

 on our course to Keeling Island. Farewell, Australia! you 

 are a rising child, and doubtless some day will reign a great 

 princess in the South: but you are too great and ambitious 

 for affection, yet not great enough for respect. I leave your 

 shores without sorrow or regret. 



