THE INDIAN OCEAN. 331 
to any nation, however dexterous and acute. Since, 
if we consider the aptitude of this proa to the 
navigation of these islands, which, lying all of them 
nearly under the same meridian, and within the 
limits of the trade-wind, requires the vessels made 
ase of in passing from one to the other to be 
peculiarly fitted for sailing with the wind upon the 
beam; or, if we examine the uncommon simplicity 
and ingenuity of its fabric and contrivance, or the 
extraordinary velocity with which it moves, we shall 
in each of these particulars find it worthy of our 
admiration, and deserving a place amongst the 
mechanical productions of the most civilized na- 
tions, where arts and sciences have most eminently 
flourished.”* 
In direct contradiction to the practice of civilized . 
nations, the proa is built with the two ends alike, 
but the two sides different. It is intended never 
-to turn, but always to present the same side to the 
wind; the bow becoming the stern, and the stern 
the bow, at pleasure. The ends of the boat are 
high and project much above the water; the wind- 
ward side is rounded, as in other vessels; but the 
lee side is flat, and almost perpendicular. As the 
depth greatly exceeds the breadth, it would, of 
course, instantly fall over on the leeward side, but 
for an ingenious contrivance already alluded to as 
used in the Polynesian islands. A light but strong 
frame is run out horizontally to windward, to the 
end of which is fastened a hollow log, fashioned into 
the shape of asmall boat, which floats upon the 
* Anson’s Voyage, p. 339. 
