Nordland. 275 



raft, constructed by the kind orders of the Forstassistent, 

 who did everything in his power to make our visit en- 

 joyable ; and I must say he succeeded admirably. 



Saying good-bye, and wishing him a speedy realization 

 of his expectations to promotion to an Inspectorsliip, I 

 stepped on board the raft, which dashed into the first rapid 

 amidst a roar of dynamite, exploded for my benefit on 

 shore. 



The raft was constructed of ten pine logs of 22 feet 

 each, lashed to cross-pieces with ropes of twisted birch 

 boughs, and was sufficient to support four persons, a lot 

 of luggage, and three large cases of empties, which served 

 as seats to keep us clear of the water, which continually 

 swept the raft from stem to stern. The logs, having 

 intervals of about two inches between them, allowed the 

 deck to quickly clear itself of water while negotiating the 

 many rapids of the first ten miles. She was steered by an 

 oar at each end, and although the journey, perhaps, might 

 not suit nervous dispositions, she was so steady, even in 

 the rapids, that a glass of liquid placed upon the cases 

 would not have been upset, thanks to the skill of the 

 steersmen. 



The native footgear in the valley, except during winter, 

 when they wear fur or reindeer skin, is the Lapp boot. 

 The piece of leather which forms the sole is gathered up 

 all round, and covers the foot, leaving uncovered a tongue- 



