82 NEWS OF HOSTILITIES. 



goats and some plantains in return for a few 

 things which I gave him, and had the honour of 

 drinking the King's health in pure Jamaica, to 

 his infinite delight. I learnt from this fellow that 

 the Brass people take their palm-oil ; but, from 

 his account, what they give them for it is about 

 one-fourth of what they charge ships for it in the 

 Rivers Nun and Bonny. 



King Boy kept at a respectful distance astern 

 of us to-day ; and it was only now and then, at 

 the end of a long reach, that we caught a glimpse 

 of his flag. At eight in the evening, our fuel 

 being expended, I came to an anchor. 



The crew had gone to rest, and I was making 

 myself comfortable in my berth, when, at about 

 half-past ten at night, a canoe came alongside, 

 and a note was brought to me from Mr. Lander 

 by the pilot Louis. It was briefly as follows : — 

 " M'Gregor Laird, Esq. 



" Sir, — The Eboes threaten to attack us to- 

 morrow. I would thank you to have everything 

 in readiness to resent an attack of whatever na- 

 ture it may be. Your obedient servant, 



" R. Lander. 



" P. S. They say we shall not pass this place, 

 although there are not ten houses in the town." 



