1845.] PROGRESS THROUGH THE VILLAGES. 53 



that mine, which was a very active, but easy-going little 

 animal, had not inherited some of the feelings of his 

 biped masters, for he never missed an opportunity when- 

 ever we came within reach of the Padre, either of lashing 

 out at him with his heels, or, if in advance, of snorting, 

 and using his fore legs : frequently to my discomforture ; 

 the Padre on occasion remarking, "you perceive that 

 even their horses are taught to dislike me." Having 

 ascended about one-third of the distance, to the highest 

 ridge, commanding a view of the town and anchorage, 

 as well as the city above us, we were invited to rest and 

 take refreshment in a small thatched house, apparently 

 constructed for the occasion. Our next stage carried us 

 through a much more interesting country than my view 

 from the sea led me to imagine existed in Loo-Choo. 

 No hesitation was now shown by the inhabitants in 

 taking us through their villages, the old women were 

 driven away, or made to stoop in hiding their heads, but 

 were, in all probability, taking a sly peep under their 

 arms ; and the young ladies in the houses were very 

 plainly pulling the blinds aside to get a sight of the bar- 

 barians. At length we reached a very pleasant seques- 

 tered spot, surrounded by large trees, and barely admit- 

 ting of prospect beyond the anchorage and town beneath. 

 Here mats were spread upon the grass, and being seated, 

 sweetmeats, cakes, tea, &c., were again introduced, and 

 from the regular " set to " and the abundance of canteens 

 produced, I suspect that this was the general meal hour, 

 as in reply to my wish to proceed, it was hinted, "Mandarin 

 man eat plenty this time." It appeared also to be in 

 some measure devoted to the toilet, if one might judge 



