Chap. X. VISIT OP OFFICIALS. 163 
called Metari. Boats in large numbers, filled with 
wondering natives, had been sculling round us to 
get a sight of the ship that went ahead without 
wind or sails, and of the strange beings from some 
far-off foreign land who crowded her deck. While 
we were sitting at dinner, and speaking of the 
strange and beautiful scenery through which we 
had passed during the day, a messenger came on 
board to inform us that the high officers of the 
place were coming off to pay us a visit. In a few 
minutes three quiet, modest-looking individuals 
were ushered into the cabin, and led up to the 
head of the table, where Captain Dundas was 
seated. They wanted to know whence we came, 
what we wanted, and whither we were bound — all 
of which questions, with many others, were an- 
swered to their entire satisfaction. They were 
then politely offered wine, biscuits, and sundry 
other things which were upon the table. Each of 
them tasted what was set before him, and then, 
pulling out a piece of paper, wrapped up in it the 
remainder of the solids, and thrust the parcel into 
his wide sleeve. Such is the custom of the coun- 
try, and such is termed politeness in Japan. A 
numerous retinue of servants attended these high 
officials, all of whom were delighted with what was 
given to them, and begged for more ! As these 
gentry took their departure, they intimated to us 
that an officer of a yet higher rank than theirs was 
coming on board. This personage presented him- 
self soon afterwards, and, giving his swords to an 
M 2 
