LETTER TO HER BRITANNIC MAJESTY. 143 
French Consul had done before I wrote to you 
by Captain Jones, I being absent at Raiate." 
After bemoaning the dependent state into 
which she had been thrown by French interven- 
tion, and the political movements of her chiefs, 
she proceeds : 
u And now, my friend, think of me, have 
compassion on me, and assist me ; let it be 
powerful, let it be timely and saving, that I 
may be reinstated in my government. 
4; Have compassion on me in my present > 
trouble, in my affliction, and great helplessness. 
Do not cast me away ; assist me quickly, my 
friend. I run to you for refuge, to be covered 
under your great shadow, the same as afforded 
to my fathers by your fathers, who are now 
dead, and whose kingdoms have descended to 
us the weaker vessels. I renew that agreement. 
Let it be lasting and for ever. Let its con- 
tinuance extend not only to ourselves and 
children, but to our children's children. My 
friend, do not by any means separate our friend- 
ship. This is my true wish. 
" I now deliver up to you, my friend, my last 
effort. My only hope of being restored is in 
you. Be quick to help me, for I am nearly 1 
dead. I am like a captive pursued by a warrior 
and nearly taken, whose spear is close to me. 
The time is very nigh, when, I fear, I shall lose 
my government and my land. 
" My friend, send quickly a large ship of war 
to assist me. A French ship of war is daily 
expected here. Speedily send a ship of war to 
protect me ? and I shall be saved. It is my 
K 
