Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.2): between the years 1826 and 1836 : describing their examination of the southern shores of South America, and the Beagles's circumnavigation of the globe

1835. KERI-KERI — WHITE CHILDREN. GOT field, quite transported me in imagination to the other side of the world. Recalled to the truth by our pedestrian companions asking us to stop for them, I enquired of Mr. Baker how long that respectable church had been built.'' and was disappointed to hear that the fancied church was a store-house. A small, low building, which he pointed out, was the chapel — it looked much more like a small school-house. I was glad to see that our native companions took pains to dress themselves decently before they entered the village ; as, while running along the road, they had carried their clothes in their hands ; but of their own accord they put them on as soon as the houses were seen. In the village of Keri-keri we found an English welcome, and an abundance of happy-looking, healthy children. Their parents seemed to bear the Chui'ch missionary character, open integrity, and the outward indications of a sincere wish to do that which is right. It may seem absurd to speak thus decidedly upon a hasty glance and first impression ; but there is a talisman in a truly honest face, and a charm in the manner of one who ' thinketh no evil,' that to me is irresistible ; and I have never yet found cause to think lightly of ' ten minutes sight.'' At about ten o'clock, Mr. Baker and I embarked in my boat, to return to Paihia. As we passed down a river-like arm of the sea by moonlight, but little idea of the country on either side could be formed. What I could distinguish was undula- ting, and rather low land. We were four hours on the water, though the boat moved fast with a fair wind. I was glad to learn from all quarters that the natives are very fond of the white children. Mr. Davis told me, that his sons could engage the attention and assistance of natives a great deal more easily than he could himself. Speaking the native language more fluently may assist, the young people in their intercourse ; but they are liked chiefly because born in the land, and because of the naturally kind disposition of the New Zealanders. Many instances have proved that they are kind by nature, and that their feelings are keenly sensitive, as