46 
Their mental powers are considerable. As far as 
their information extends, their reasoning is sound 
and strong, and they are very ready in comprehend¬ 
ing any new subject that is proposed to them. Some 
of their speakers are possessed of considerable elo¬ 
quence, as will be evinced by a reference to their 
speeches, recorded in the historical part of this work. 
In delivering their sentiments, their periods are short; 
but their addresses are argumentative and conclusive, 
and well calculated to enforce conviction on the minds 
of an audience. 
The sanctity of an oath is universally observed by 
them, and it is usual to resort to it whenever more 
than ordinary affirmation is required. The mode of 
administering it was, as they assure us, prescribed by 
their forefathers ; and in no case where that form has 
been adhered to, was it ever known that a native of 
Madagascar has broken his oath. The treachery 
which the French settlers complained of, was the 
natural consequence of the lawless tyranny and op¬ 
pression they practised upon them ; they had no other 
means left to free themselves, and it must not be 
looked upon as a criterion of their character. That 
there are bad men in Madagascar, we do not attempt to 
deny; but such characters are treated with contempt 
there, as well as in more civilized countries, and 
the non-observance of an oath is held in abhor¬ 
rence. 
They are much given to superstition, and are great 
observers of dreams, which they sometimes carry to a 
