233 
CHARGE OF SLAYING. 
present for “ Gappy." During tlie discussion he dis- 
patched half a tumbler of pure brandy, without offer- 
ing any to his guests ; and after every sip, which he 
enjoyed to the utmost, by rinsing his mouth with it 
while any strength was left, before swallowing it, he 
was careful to keep in the flavour of the spirit, by 
crossing both his hands over the glass. On his 
want of hospitality being hinted at, he offered us 
bottled ale, and even wine ; but could not open his 
heart to the extent of brandy. We only asked for 
some green cocoa-nuts, which afforded a delicious and 
refreshing beverage, without taxing his cellar. On 
being accused of slaving with the Spaniards, he stre- 
nuously denied having done so for many years. 
Billeh, or King William, as he likes to be called, is 
a fine specimen of a savage potentate. He is tall, 
and with a good forehead, though somewhat ferocious 
features ; to which, however, his late excitement may 
have given a worse expression than usual. Though 
he assumes so much consequence, he is but the prin- 
cipal trader, and owes his apparent superiority over 
the other chiefs, to the possession of a greater number 
of wives and chattels ; by which he acquires the con- 
sideration due to a “big man," all being looked on as 
“little boys” until they can boast of such increase of 
their substance. Several others, especially John King 
his brother, have perhaps more influence in the 
interior, though they cannot shew such a house, nor 
array themselves in such a boat-cloak. 
