NUTlilTlOUS GUM ARRIVAL AT RICHTERFELDT, 61 



or two species of thorn trees. The latter produced at this 

 season an abundance of excellent and nutritious gum, which, 

 though almost as sweet as sugar, might be partaken of in 

 any quantity without the least inconvenience or disagreeable 

 consequence. 



In the afternoon of the third day we took our departure 

 from " Tjobis Fountain," and at an early hour on the fol- 

 lowing morning found ourselves once more in the bed of the 

 Swakop ; but here, unfortunately, our mules came to a dead 

 stand-still, and nothing could induce them to proceed any 

 further. Indeed, they were completely knocked up, and we 

 had entirely to thank Stewardson for this misfortune ; for 

 had we traveled by night, as we ought to have done, instead 

 of during the hottest part of the day, the poor creatures 

 might have been as fresh as when they left Scheppmansdorf, 

 and we ourselves spared much suffering. It stands to rea- 

 son that no animal, however hardy, will bear much work or 

 fatigue in the day at this terribly hot season of the year. 

 Fortunately, the missionary station of Eichterfeldt was now 

 within two hours' ride, and Galton at once pushed on for 

 the purpose of obtaining assistance. In a short time, six 

 oxen, with attendants, yokes, &c., arrived, and we were able 

 to prosecute our journey without further delay. On reach- 

 ing the station, we were most kindly and hospitably received 

 by the Rev. Mr. Rath, of the Rhenish Society. 



Richterfeldt is prettily situated on the bank of the River 

 Swakop, and at the junction of one of its tributaries, the 

 Ommutenna. It is well supplied with fresh water, which is 

 either obtained from a prolific mineral spring, or by digging 

 a few inches in the bed of the rivers. There is an abundance 

 of garden ground, which, when properly cultivated and irri- 

 gated, is exceedingly productive. Nearly all European vege- 

 tables thrive well ; wheat grows to perfection, and is of excel- 

 lent quality ; but here, as at Scheppmansdorf, floods at times 

 cause sad havoc. The pasturages are extensive and excellent. 



