The Voyage of the Beagle Chapter 18 - Tahiti and New Zealand Part 3

In which the observations of the native New Zealanders reveal a striking contrast between their rugged, untidy habits and the civilising influence of missionaries who have introduced agriculture, education, and industry amidst a landscape both volcanic and fern-clad. The narrative gently reflects on the hopeful progress of the settlers, the peculiar customs of the people, and the solitude of the wild country, all painted with a subtle mixture of admiration and sober reflection.