I don't think they mean just now to harm us.

I believe we can trust them, at any rate for the present." The poor girl drew back, in still greater awe and alarm than ever.

"Oh, are they going to land here ?" she cried, still clinging closer with both hands to her one friend and protector.
"Try not to look so frightened!" Felix exclaimed, with a warning glance.
"Remember, much depends upon it; savages judge you greatly by what demeanor you happen to assume.

If you're frightened, they know their power; if they see you're resolute, they suspect you have some supernatural means of protection.

Try to meet them frankly, as if you were not afraid of them." Then, advancing slowly to the water's edge, he called out aloud, in a strong, clear voice, a few words which Muriel didn't understand, but which were really the Fijian for "We also are friendly.