that nearly the same language is spoken at Kunashir and Paramousir, it
cannot be questioned, that some intercourse has always subsisted
between the inhabitants of this extensive chain of islands.

[90] The vessel here spoken of was from Satsma, a port in Japan, bound for
another Japanese port, called Azaka, and laden with rice, cotton, and
silks. She sailed with a favourable wind; but, before she reached her
destination, was driven out to sea by a violent storm, which carried
away her masts and rudder.

On the storm's abating, not one of the crew, which consisted of
seventeen (having probably never made any other than coasting
voyages), knew where they were, or what course to steer. After
remaining in this situation six months, they were driven on shore near
the promontory Lopatka; and having cast out an anchor, began to carry
on shore such articles as were necessary to their existence. They next
erected a tent, and had remained in it twenty-three days without
seeing a human being; when chance conducted a cossack officer, called
Andrew Chinnikoff, with a few Kamtschadales, to their habitation. The
poor unfortunate Japanese, overwhelmed with joy at the sight of fellow
creatures, made the most significant tenders, they were able, of
friendship and affection; and presented their visitors with silks,
sabres, and a part of whatever else they had brought from the ship.
The treacherous Chinnikoff made reciprocal returns of kindness and
good-will; and, after remaining with them long enough to make such
observations as suited his designs, withdrew from them in the night.
The Japanese, finding that their visitors did not return, knew not
what course to take. In despair they manned their boat, and were
rowing along the coast in search of a habitation, when they came up
with their vessel, which had been driven ashore; and found Chinnikoff