correct knowledge of their real disposition and
habits.«30
    From my own familiar intercourse with the natives, this last reflection
still more forcibly applies to myself.
 

                                  Chapter XLIX

                             Same Subject Continued

We have glanced at their moral and religious condition; let us see how it is
with them socially, and in other respects.
    It has been said that the only way to civilise a people is to form in them
habits of industry. Judged by this principle, the Tahitians are less civilised
now than formerly. True, their constitutional indolence is excessive; but
surely, if the spirit of Christianity is among them, so unchristian a vice ought
to be, at least, partially remedied. But the reverse is the fact. Instead of
acquiring new occupations, old ones have been discontinued.
    As previously remarked, the manufacture of tappa is nearly obsolete in many
parts of the island. So, too, with that of the native tools and domestic
utensils; very few of which are now fabricated, since the superiority of
European wares has been made so evident.
    This, however, would be all very well, were the natives to apply themselves
to such occupations as would enable them to supply the few articles they need.
But they are far from doing so; and the majority being unable to obtain European
substitutes for many things before made by themselves, the inevitable
consequence is seen in the present wretched and destitute mode of life among the
common people. To me, so recently from a primitive valley of the Marquesas, the
aspect of most of the dwellings of the poorer Tahitians, and their general
habits, seemed anything but tidy; nor could I avoid a comparison, immeasurably
to the disadvantage of these partially civilised islanders.
    In Tahiti the people have nothing to do; and idleness, everywhere, is the
parent of vice. »There is scarcely anything,« says the good old Quaker Wheeler,
»so striking, or pitiable, as their aimless, nerveless mode of spending life.«
    Attempts have repeatedly been made to rouse them from their sluggishness;
but in vain. Several years ago, the cultivation of cotton was introduced; and,
with their usual love of novelty, they went to work with great alacrity; but the
interest excited quickly subsided, and now not a pound of the article is raised.
    About the same time, machinery for weaving was sent out from London; and a
factory was started at Afrehitoo, in Imeeo. The whiz of the wheels and spindles
brought in volunteers from all quarters, who deemed it a privilege to be
admitted to work: yet, in six months, not a boy