These persons, they said, had charged them to send over from Papeetee, if they could, two white men for field-labourers.
Now, all but the prospect of digging and delving suited us exactly; but the opportunity for leaving the island was not to be slighted; and so we held ourselves in readiness to return with the planters; who, in a day or two, were expected to visit Papeetee in their boat.
At the interview which ensued, we were introduced to them as Peter and Paul; and they agreed to give Peter and Paul fifteen silver dollars a month, promising something more should we remain with them permanently.

What they wanted was men who would stay.

To elude the natives--many of whom, not exactly understanding our relations with the consul, might arrest us, were they to see us departing--the coming midnight was appointed for that purpose.
When the hour drew nigh, we disclosed our intention to the rest.

Some upbraided us for deserting them; others applauded, and said that, on the first opportunity, they would follow our example.

At last, we bade them farewell.