Close opposite is the rugged promontory and beautiful volcanic cone of Tidore; to the east is the long mountainous coast of Gilolo, terminated towards the north by a group of three lofty volcanic peaks, while immediately behind the town rises the huge mountain, sloping easily at first and covered with thick groves of fruit trees, but soon becoming steeper, and furrowed with deep gullies.

Almost to the summit, whence issue perpetually faint wreaths of smoke, it is clothed with vegetation, and looks calm and beautiful, although beneath are hidden fires which occasionally burst forth in lava-streams, but more frequently make their existence known by the earthquakes which have many times devastated the town.
I brought letters of introduction to Mr.Duivenboden, a native of Ternate, of an ancient Dutch family, but who was educated in England, and speaks our language perfectly.

He was a very rich man, owned half the town, possessed many ships, and above a hundred slaves.

He was moreover, well educated, and fond of literature and science--a phenomenon in these regions.

He was generally known as the king of Ternate, from his large property and great influence with the native Rajahs and their subjects.