204 
by this action, it will render itself worthy of an 
alliance, the value of which it is well convinced of.” 
The governor, in reply, remarked that he had 
always been desirous of an alliance with the Samba- 
rives, but that the remoteness of their province had 
not hitherto permitted him to treat with them directly; 
that the offer of supplies inspired him with a high 
opinion of their sentiments ; and he should accept this 
mark of friendship with the greatest pleasure, as it 
would justify the unbounded confidence he was deter¬ 
mined to place in the Sambarive nation, respectable 
for the blood of Ramini. 
A few days after, the enemy made their appearance 
to the number of about three thousand, and demanded 
a private conference. Not to seem intimidated, 
the governor went with only an interpreter to their 
camp. They then declared their grievances, which 
appear to have been principally occasioned by their 
own acts. He replied very calmly to their complaints, 
and gave them firmly to understand that no alteration 
could be made to meet any of their wishes, the object 
of which was to demolish the different posts he had 
established. 
They were much surprised at the boldness of his 
speech; but some of the chiefs cried out, “ We shall 
never have a better opportunity than now that we have 
him in our power,” and instantly surrounded him on all 
sides. At this juncture, one of his officers, at the head 
of fifty blacks, came to his assistance. While these were 
engaged with one party of the enemy, another went 
