Books appear fairly often in this narrative but little about them—just enough to indicate a fairly well-educated sailor, and the usual tribute to missionary linquists.
p. 198-99, on Island Owhyhee in Sandwiches he applauds missionary activity: The missionaries have taught them to read and write, and they have books printed in their own native language, by the Missionary Society, and sent out to them. I saw several native preachers and school teachers, among them. It was a pleasant sight to see all ages, sexes and conditions in life, from the little boy and girl, to the old grey-headed man, all going to school together. Their memory is quick and retentive, and they learn very fast. They show a degree of improvement and civilization, which, when we consider that it is but twenty years, since the first missionary effort was made among them, is truly astonishing. Their common deportment, strict honesty, and their attendance to all the means of improvement placed within their reach, speak well for the missionary enterprize.