358 IN THE GRIP OF THE NYIKA CHAP. 



Rain came down in torrents during the night, 

 which made matters very unpleasant, especially for 

 the porters who had to carry the tents, &c., next day, 

 as their loads weighed nearly twice as much when 

 wet as when dry. 



Our next march took us to a place called Myeru, 

 , and from thence we pushed 

 on to Mackinduni through a 

 thickly-populated and well- 

 cultivated piece of country. 

 We had to cross a very deep 

 ravine, at the bottom of which 

 ran a stream. Here Mithari 

 took leave of us, for he said 

 he dare not cross, as the 

 people on the other side were 

 his enemies and would kill 



"A QUAINT-LOOKING YOUTH 



CLOTHED IN BANANA LEAVES." he went with us through their 

 country. I gave him a handsome present of copper 

 wire and amerikani, and he departed quite pleased 

 with the gift. 



Meanwhile the safari had been crossing the river 

 by means of the hollowed-out trunk of a great tree 

 which formed a rude bridge. All passed over in 

 safety, with the exception of one pony that slipped 

 over the side. The poor beast fell heavily on to a 

 smooth rock, some eight feet below, and then tumbled 



