2G4 AN INCIDENT. 



Lascar, wlio happened to be on shore, jumped 

 into the river to swim on board, forgetting that 

 natation was an accomplishment that he did 

 not possess. The result may easily be imagined, 

 as, after floundering for some seconds, down lie 

 went. Providentially our boat was out astern, 

 and observing the Lascar's danger, two men 

 jumped in, just in time to save the poor fellow, 

 who had sunk twice before he could clutch the 

 oar held out to him ; and when lugged into the 

 boat he appeared for some moments senseless, 

 and had to be assisted on board, where om' 

 commander received him with a volley of strong 

 ejaculations, both English and Hindustani, and 

 two tremendous slaps in the face, followed by 

 a kick behind — such being, I thought, rather a 

 novel mode of reviving a half-drowned man, 

 which I notice for the information of the Royal 

 Humane Society. I cannot say that I approved 

 the practice, but in other respects I liked the 

 commander of the Laivrence. Ever at his post, 

 no man could be more attentive to his duty, or 

 more hospitable at his table, which was first- 

 rate in all respects. The Laivrence^ a sister- 

 vessel to the Frere^ had exactly the same ad- 

 vantages and defects. I say had, for I am told 



