CHAP. XV. THE LAST NIGHT AT THE CAPITAL. 421- 



after knowledge in reference to so simple a thing as a thermo- 

 meter, I said I felt persuaded, existed in reference to far more 

 important things. 



I have adverted to these conversations as indicating the 

 views and feelings of those with whom I had most frequent 

 intercourse. I felt that all I could do was to endeavour to 

 lodge some germs of useful thought in their open and inquir- 

 ing minds. 



At length the prince, observing that it was nearly ten 

 o'clock, apologised for having stayed so late. He said the 

 cannon would soon fire, when all doors would be closed ; and 

 adding that they ought not to set an example of violating the 

 regulations of the capital, he gave orders for preparing to 

 depart. He then proposed my health, directing the band at 

 the same time to play the English " God save the Queen." 

 The prince and princess, with their niece, then took their leave, 

 and entering their palanquins, departed amidst a profusion of 

 lanterns and a crowd of attendants. 



After they had left, many of my friends came, successive 

 parties arriving until nearly midnight. We commended each 

 other to God as we separated ; and I gave them all my stock of 

 medicine. Two of their number, one of whom understands 

 English, had acquired some knowledge of the use of English 

 medicine from Dr. Powell of Mauritius, who, when formerly 

 resident in Madagascar, had given medical instruction to 

 several of the Malagasy youth. I also gave to them a number 

 of useful articles, and left others to be sold, and the proceeds 

 to be distributed amongst the afflicted and the destitute. 



By daylight on Friday, the 26th of September, I was stirring, 

 and finished my packing. Several of my patients came, some 

 bringing presents, memorials, as they said, of their sense of 

 my kindness, and many of my friends came to say farewell. 

 Before breakfast the prince, with two of his attendants, came 

 to say that he and several of his friends intended to accompany 



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