1832.] ISLAND OF SUMATRA. 211 
is at the northern end, at the distance of two cable lengths from 
a coral shoal, over which the swell sometimes breaks. Vessels 
intending to anchor within this little island must round the north 
end near to ; when between it and the main, moor where it suits, 
laying the heaviest anchor to the northwest, on account of the 
heavy swell from that quarter. The soundings are three or four 
fathoms near the shore on either side, and the channel is clear, 
with ten or fifteen fathoms water, muddy bottom. The tides ebb 
and flow from two and a half to three feet. At low water it is not 
convenient to land at the beach in a common boat, on account of 
the coral reef and shoals that extend some way from the landing- 
place. Here were found small wells of excellent water. The 
rajah of Lamboan Hadjee claimed jurisdiction at the island and 
harbour, and together with the rajah of Soo-soo, appeared anx- 
ious to trade and hold friendly communication with Americans 
visiting the coast. He found head men at all the landing-places 
within the districts, but says instances have occurred, when they 
can get arms and a few vagabonds about them, that they have 
declared their independence of the principal rajahs ; but not being 
supported by any force that can be rehed on, they are generally 
soon overcome. A surprise from these fellows, he says, is chiefly 
to be guarded against on the coast at first landing, or at any of 
the small unfrequented places. 
The captain remarks, that he was at some pains to inquire into 
the truth of the many frightful reports of vessels being cut ofl", 
plundered, men murdered, &c., but could not learn that any thing 
of the kind had ever taken place on the west coast under the au- 
thority of any of the legal governments, except against vessels 
which had committed acts of piracy by seizing coasting proas, 
and forcibly taking away their cargoes. Occurrences of this kind 
had taken place even in Lamboan Hadjee Bay, by vessels from 
some of the European settlements. When any thing of this kind 
happens, the rajahs unite forces and take the vessels by storm, 
stratagem, or any means in their power. The natives do not 
easily forget such wrongs, but embrace the first opportunity of 
doing themselves, as they deem, justice, by retahation upon the 
first aggressors. 
At this period, the King of Acheen had several armed brigs 
and proas, which he frequently sent along the coast to enforce the 
