BRITISH BORNEO. at 
‘ed my intentions and mode of operation, and having loaded 
“the vessel’s guns with grape and canister, and brought her 
‘broadside to bear, I proceeded on shore with a detachment 
“fully armed, and taking up a position at the entrance of the 
“Raja's palace, demandedand obtainedan immediate audience. 
“In a few words I pointed out the villany of MAKOTA, his 
‘tyranny and oppression of all classes, and my determination 
“to attack him by force, and drive him from the country. | 
“explained to the Raja that several Chiefs and a large body of 
‘‘Siniawan Dyaks were ready to assist me, and the only course 
“left to prevent bloodshed was immediately to proclaim me 
‘Governor of the country. This unmistakeable demonstration 
‘had the desired effect a 3 a None 
‘Joined the party of MAKOTA, and his paid followers were not 
‘“more than twenty in number. 
“Under the guns of the Royalist, and with a small body of 
“men to protect me personally, and the great majority of all 
‘classes with me, it is not surprising that the negotiation pro- 
“ceeded rapidly toa favourable issue. The document was 
“quickly drawn up, sealed, signed, and delivered; and on the 
“ 24th of September, 1841, I was declared Raja and Governor 
‘of Sarawak amidst the roar of cannon, anda general display 
“ of flags and banners from the shore and boats on the river.’ 
This is a somewhat lengthy quotation, but the language 
is so graphic and so honest that! need make no apologies for 
introducing it and, indeed, it is the fairest way of exhibiting 
Mr. BROOKE’S objects and reasons and is, moreover, interest- 
ing as shewing under what circumstances and conditions the 
first permanent English settlement was formed in Borneo. 
Mr. BROOKE concludes his account of his accession to the 
Government in words that remind us of another unselfish 
and modest hero—General GORDON. He says :—‘ Difficulty 
“followed upon difficulty ; the dread of pecuniary failure, the 
‘doubt of receiving support or assistance; this and much 
‘more presents itselfto my mind. But I have tied myself to 
“the stake. I have heaped faggots around me. I stand 
‘‘upon a cask of gunpowder, and if others bring the torch | 
‘shall not shrink. I feel within me the firm, unchangeable 
