RETURN TO SARAWAK. 



179 



Oa the 22nd, tho expedition quitted the Bejang. 

 Several Siriki praluis took advantage of the conYOj to 

 exchange the oppressive government of Serilf Musahur 

 (the Fortunate), for the more mild rule of the Eajah of 

 Sarawak, at which place tliej all arrived on the 24 th 

 August, 1849. 



Such ^-ere this year's operations against these hordes, 

 than whom few more formidable infest the Eastern 

 Archipelago. The blow they tlien received is the greatest 

 contribution yot made by England towards the security 

 of the liighway of nations. How long its effect will 

 last is a problem resolvable by th(^e general rul^ 

 wtiich apply to human nature and human operations of 

 any kind. After vigorous measures to eradicate a disease, 

 we are commended to a systematic care of health 

 restored ; if tliis bo left to take care of itself, the morbid 

 symptoms quickly re-ai)pear. 



It seems almost ludicrous that the facts just narrated 

 should require any sequel in the shape of a defence* 

 Kevertheless, sundry pubUc speeches and proceedings lie 

 before me, testifying that some minds will remam uncon- 

 vincfid, even while the majority of understandings would 

 be affronted by the offer of more proof I shall now 

 therefore follow up the subject as I proposed, first 

 adverting to the charges publicly made against all 

 concerned in the chastisement of the Bomean pii-ates ; 

 and then offering answer to them, as a small con- 

 tribution to the cause of truth. 



