Before starting on our journey we were invited to a dinner by one of the chiefs.  Our surprise was great, when we approached the house, to find two lines of soldiers drawn up, dressed in white kilts with white belts across their naked shoulders, with a musket or spear.  We were ushered into a handsome hall full of officers in every variety of European uniform, the chiefs having cocked hats, feathers, and gold epaulets. The lady of the house and several other ladies were present, dressed in English fashion; and the feast, which was abundant, was served much in the English style.  Several of the officers spoke English, and toasts were drunk and speeches made, while a band played very well both when we entered and after dinner.  Some female slaves stood behind the ladies, and two afterwards came in and made some very excellent coffee.  We were very much interested as well as surprised to find so much civilisation among those whom we had supposed barbarians.