9 4 CERAM. [ohap. xxv.
to have been chosen on account of its being close to the
only deep channel between the extensive shoals of Cerarn-
laut and those bordering the east end of Ceram. We now
had contrary east winds, and were obliged to pole over the
shallow coral reefs of Cerain-laut for nearly thirty miles.
The only danger of our voyage was just at its termination,
for as we were rowing towards Manowolko, the largest of
the Goram group, we were carried out so rapidly by a
strong westerly current, that I was almost certain at one
time we should pass clear of the island; in which case
our situation would have been both disagreeable and
dangerous, as, with the east wind which had just set in,
we might have been unable to return for many days, and
we had not a day’s water on board. At the critical
moment I served out some strong spirits to my men, which
put fresh vigour into their arms, and carried us out of
the influence of the current before it was too late.
MANOWOLKO, GORAM GROUP.
On arriving at Manowolko, we found the Eajah was at
the opposite island of Goram; but he was immediately sent
for, and in the meantime a large shed was given for our
accommodation. At night the Eajah came, and the next
day I had a visit from him, and found, as I expected, that
I had already made his acquaintance three years before at