But of that I shall speak presently.

I see from your looks that more important matters have brought you hither.
Nothing wrong at the cottage, I trust ?" "No, nothing--that is to say, not exactly wrong; but things, I fear, are not altogether right in the settlement.

I have had an unfortunate rencounter this morning with one of the savages, which is likely to lead to mischief; for blood was drawn, and I know the fellow to be revengeful.

In addition to this, it is suspected that Durward, the pirate, is hovering among the islands, and meditates a descent on us.
How much truth there may be in the report I cannot pretend to guess; but Gascoyne, the captain of the Foam, has been over at our cottage, and says he has seen the pirate, and that there is no saying what he may venture to attempt; for he is a bold fellow, and, as you know, cannot have a good will to missionary settlements." "I'm not so sure of that," said the pastor, in answer to the last remark.

"It is well known that wherever a Christian settlement is founded in these islands, that place becomes a safe port for vessels of all sorts, pirates as well as others, if they sail under false colors and pretend to be honest traders,--while in all the other islands, it is equally well known, the only safety one can count on, in landing, is superior force.