HISTORY OF MADAGASCAR. 
303 
they had, with their subsistence, being obtained with¬ 
out much exertion. It having also been ascertained, that 
the restriction from eating pork had not originated in 
the observance of any religious prohibitions, but in the 
command of the king’s ancestors, it was supposed that the 
discontinuance of these restraints w r ould be advantageous in 
promoting commerce and industry, and a representation to 
that effect was consequently made to the king, which ulti¬ 
mately proved successful. 
Radama, however, did not appear disposed to grant his 
subjects the favours required of him, without their, also, 
making some concessions; and the chieftains having agreed 
to his demands on behalf of the army, little was left him to 
ask. Taking advantage of these circumstances, the British 
agent deemed it a fair opportunity for urging him to adopt 
more energetic measures for promoting industry, and parti¬ 
cularly for improving the present public roads, and making 
new ones. 
A kabary on the subject was accordingly published, 
and the restrictions upon food and dress abolished. As it 
appeared necessary, however, that some mark of distinction 
should still exist, it was enacted, that no persons not of 
noble blood should wear either gold or coral in their hair. 
The king, taking the opportunity of again recommending 
agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, made a new law, 
by which any person found to pass two or more successive 
days in idleness, should be compelled to work a similar 
number of days on the roads. 
The tumult of joy on publishing the message for taking 
off the restrictions, exceeded every thing that had been 
witnessed in Imerina since the abolition of the slave-trade. 
The shouts of exultation and gratitude were so violent and 
continued, that the ministers could not, for the space of two 
