36 ME. BROOKE. [1843 



and apparently of finer quality than that procured at 

 Singapore, approaching in some parts to the hardness of 

 good mahogany or cedar. With the advantages which 

 the river offers for the construction of saw mills, poon 

 and cedar plank might afford a lucrative article of export 

 to Hong-Kong. 



With respect to the position which Mr. Brooke now 

 occupies in Borneo, I am firmly of opinion, that it would 

 be unsafe to trust the power which he has so firmly but 

 mildly wielded in the hands of others. His acceptance 

 of any appointment under Government, which would 

 interfere with the absolute power which he exercises 

 would destroy the charm by which he has maintained 

 himself amongst the unruly Malays. Nothing but the 

 vigorous exertion of power, untrammelled by law, will 

 avail with them. As the British population increase and 

 become better able to protect themselves, the necessity 

 for this power may decrease, but so long as Mr. Brooke 

 exists, he should not descend from his princely position. 



