REFLECTIONS. 361 



from the palm-tree by puncturing. A large 

 calabash, containing about six gallons, was 

 brought, and its contents were served out to all 

 present with great generosity. The huts are 

 regularly built of a yellow clay, by the side of 

 the river, and have a pretty appearance. I pre- 

 sented the chief a looking-glass, and he gave us 

 in return two fowls. Rain coming on, I was 

 glad to return to the boat, and we continued on 

 our journey. 



At about one o'clock, I was told by Mr. Lander 

 that we were within a short distance of the 

 Niger. A pleasant breeze now favoured us, 

 and, gratified by our progress, we cheered our 

 companions in the canoe, and continued un- 

 der sail at about two knots per hour. It was 

 not possible, however, to repress the thoughts of 

 our actual position. We were then in a small 

 boat, open to the attacks of the natives, and 

 nearly four hundred miles from the steamers, in 

 which many of our companions had fallen sacri- 

 fices to the climate. Such reflections were not 

 very encouraging ; but our trust was in the Giver 

 of all good for his divine protection. 



At 7 p. M. we came to a town named Hooproo- 

 mah. At this part, where the Benin branches 



