HISTORY OF MADAGASCAR. 
93 
. CHAP. IV. 
Effects of the French revolution on the plans for the colonization of 
Madagascar—Visits of European vessels to the island—Wreck of the 
Winterton East Indiaman — Sufferings of the passengers and crew— 
Their treatment by the natives—Humane and friendly conduct of the 
king of that part of the island—Insalubrity of the climate—Notice 
of Admiral Watson’s visit—Munificent generosity of the king—His 
interference to screen offenders from punishment—Allusion to the slave- 
trade— Embassy of Lascallier to Madagascar in 1792—His testimony in 
favour of the islanders, and condemnation of the conduct of foreigners— 
Civilization of the natives on the coast—-Voyage of Bory de St. Vincent 
in 1801—His estimate of the importance of the island—Effects of the 
war in Europe on the Isle of France, Bourbon, and Madagascar—Capture 
of the former by the English-—English settlement formed at Port Loquez 
in Madagascar—Massacre of the English—Punishment of the chief who 
had instigated the destruction of the English—Favourable disposition of 
the natives towards the government of Mauritius. 
Benyowsky abandoned the French settlement he had 
formed in Madagascar in the year 1776; and for some 
years afterwards, the French government appear to have 
given up all idea of establishing a colony in that island, 
confining their efforts to the maintenance of military posts, 
and factories for the purpose of trade with the natives to 
obtain supplies of rice and bullocks for the Isle of France. 
The intention of forming an extensive colonial settlement 
was thus lost sight of; but it was still considered desirable 
to make it an auxiliary to the Isle of France as an im¬ 
portant depot for those engaged in the slave-trade, which 
continued to be carried on to a great extent throughout 
the whole island, notwithstanding the declarations of the 
