About midday
They were built chiefly of bamboos , and were thatched with the large , thick leaves of the pandanus ; but many of them had little more than a sloping roof and three sides with an open front , being the most simple shelter from the weather that could well be imagined . Within these and around them were groups of natives -- men , women , and children -- who all stood up to gaze at us as we marched along , followed by the party of men whom the chief had sent to escort us . About half-a-mile inland we arrived at the spot where the sandal-wood grew , and while the men set to work I clambered up an adjoining hill to observe the country . About midday the chief arrived with several followers , one of whom carried a baked pig on a wooden platter , with yams and potatoes on several plantain leaves , which he presented to the men , who sat down under the shade of a tree to dine . The chief sat down to dine also ; but , to my surprise , instead of feeding himself , one of his wives performed that office for him ! I was seated beside Bill , and asked him the reason of this . `` It is beneath his dignity , I believe , to feed himself , '' answered Bill ; `` but I dare say he 's not particular , except on great occasions .