THE NORTH RIDING PROJECT

The whole of the islands are covered with an extremely dense jungle, reaching to the sea-shore, and, owing to the thick undergrowth of canes, etc., it is in places impassable even to the Aborigines. Mangrove swamps are of course common and extensive. The trees are lofty, and often covered with gigantic climbing plants, which hang from the summits in festoons.

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In appearance, when not smeared over with red and white pigments, the Andamanese men, and the young women, are not unpleasing, some indeed are distinctly good-looking and have fine, well-shaped noses, thin lips, small mouths, even white teeth, bright sparkling eyes , and very well shaped figures. The old people often become hideous.

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They are certainly cruel, and are jealous, treacherous and vindictive; they have short memories for either good or evil, are quick tempered, and have little or no idea of gratitude. I have often likened them to English country schoolboys of the labouring classes, with the passions of the mature savage.

Portman/Andamanese