260 POLYNESIAN RESEARCHES. 
of motive, imbodied, before such observers, in un- 
deviating and disinterested efforts, will in general 
be appreciated, although they may not soon yield 
themselves up to the influence of those efforts. 
One of the most effectual means of implanting 
and preserving this impression is, the exhibition of 
uniform benevolence. The office and the aim of 
every Missionary require the exercise of this dis¬ 
position in the highest degree ; and he who would 
be successful, should by this identify himself, as far 
as possible, with the objects of his regard. With¬ 
out officiously interfering with their individual or 
family affairs, he should interest himself in their 
welfare, and strive to share and alleviate their 
distress. Besides the deep commiseration, which 
their spiritual wretchedness will excite, he will 
often find their temporal afflictions and sorrows 
such as to claim his tenderest sympathy. “ Kind¬ 
ness is the key to the human heart;’’ when the 
spirit is softened or subdued under the influence of 
sufferings, it is often most susceptible of salutary 
impression ; and the exercise of Christian sympathy 
and kindness, in such a season, will seldom fail to 
produce, even among the most barbarous tribes, 
highly favourable results. 
In mere casual visits, or journeys through the 
countries of uncivilized tribes, presents to their 
chiefs are necessary, and often desirable, even 
where a Missionary is a permanent resident; but 
they should always be given as a token of friend¬ 
ship and personal respect from the Missionary, or 
of good-will from some friends by whom they may 
have been sent, and not as a means of obtaining 
influence, or inducing the people to attend to in¬ 
struction. 
