COASTS OF AUSTRALIA, 
21 
then finding we were not intimidated or hurt 
by the spears, began to make friendly gestures, 
which we, of course, returned, but still con- 
tinued to walk away with our faces turned to- 
wards them. 
We were now only four in number, (for I had 
despatched one of the Dick’s people to recal 
our boat, and to order the crew over to our 
assistance,) and being without any means, or 
shew of defence, it required much caution and 
management on our part to prevent their throw- 
ing any more spears; for they were now within 
a few yards of us : their ferocity, however, began 
to diminish, as their attention was taken by our 
clothes and a silk handkerchief which Mr. Roe 
held out to them : they were about ten in num- 
ber, of whom five or six were armed with spears. 
Our only safety now was in letting them ap- 
proach, and amusing them by a display of our 
silk handkerchiefs and other parts of our dress, 
and making all the grimaces and monkey-like 
gestures we could think of. 
Among the natives was a young woman, whom 
they repeatedly offered to us by using the most 
significant signs ; which she also endeavoured to 
strengthen by appropriate gestures on her part ; 
but our inclinations were not consonant with the 
opportunity so pressingly, but so suspiciously, 
1821 . 
June 22, 
