"I know not whether most to admire the Chinese for their many virtues, or to despise them for their glaring defects and vices. Their industry exceeds that of any other people on the face of the earth; they are laborious, patient, and cheerful; but, on the other hand, they are corrupt, supple and exacting, yielding to their superiors, and tyrannical to those who fall into their power."

--- Narrative of Events in Borneo and Celebes, Down to the Occupation of Labuan: From the Journals of James Brooke Esq., Rajah of Sarāwak, and Governor of Labuan. Together with a Narrative of the Operations of H. M. S. Iris / James Brooke