The Dingi-Dingi 
once, in bringing these boys all the way from 
Salisbury, for at this time it was next to im- 
possible to get bearers locally. I was, in conse- 
quence, independent of the local supply. Be- 
sides that, these boys of mine were strangers to 
the country and would be more likely to stick 
to their job without complaint, not that there 
was any ground for discontent, as I took par- 
ticular care to see that they were provided with 
everything that could be reasonably demanded 
for their comfort. I found my West Coast 
boy awaiting me. During my absence up-country 
he had been getting extra pay by taking on 
the job of cook at the hotel, and was earning 
very good money at it. After a day or so I 
thought he seemed to be more than a little 
independent, but when I found him using my 
vests and silk handkerchiefs for his own adorn- 
ment, my wrath was aroused, and I am afraid 
I smacked his head for his impudence. This 
punishment was useless—I might have stroked 
his head, for all he seemed to mind. He grinned 
as though he were highly amused, so I fined him 
ten shillings—a month’s pay—which I afterwards 
remitted. 
I had engaged a Dane named Weddell to 
accompany me on a hunting trip to the Dingi- 
Dingi. This place is some thirty miles north 
of Fontesvilla. After a day or so employed in 
buying the necessary stores we made a start to 
107 
