A KAMBLE. 183 



and shrubby bushes of Carissa, smelling like jasmine. In addi- 

 tion to these, I observed several aloes, a low hibiscus with brim- 

 stone-coloured blossoms, some low Solanaceas, and a pretty Poly- 

 gala. Above our heads circled a species of eagle (most likely 

 Aqtcila Wahlbergii), whilst in the bushes and on the stones 

 we saw turtle-doves and pipits (Anthus). Here a number of 

 people with burdens, mostly of firewood, on their heads, passed 

 us on their way down the mountain. 



At 9.45 A.M. we began the descent, which was quicker, but 

 not pleasanter, than the ascent, being made in twenty-nine 

 minutes. At 10.20 we reached our huts. Here the aneroid 

 now read 27.81 in. at 84° Fahr., consequently 1 mm. less than 

 the reading taken when we set out. 



Although there was now nothing to prevent my departure, 

 I nevertheless, at Kagoro's request, consented to stay a day 

 longer. Towards evening that chief came with a budget of 

 compliments and a few eggs by way of a present, excusing 

 himself for not bringing more on the ground of bad times and 

 short supplies — a sure means to enhance the value of his gift. 

 On getting the pet wish of his heart gratified, viz., the pre- 

 sent of a pair of shoes, he took his departure in high delight. 

 With a little patience and goodwill, Negroes are so easy to 

 please ! 



Before leaving, I took a walk to the little brook close by, 

 going along the shore towards the south. At this part the 

 shore is broad and sandy, sloping gradually into the lake ; on 

 the landward side it rises into dunes, but falls away again beyond 

 them. The vegetation is identical with that described above. 

 After thirteen minutes' walking I turned away from the lake, 

 crossed the sandy fringe obliquely, and soon reached a tract 

 of open wooded country, the trees being mostly acacias, covered 

 all over with the nests of the weaver-bird (Hyphantornis abys- 

 sinica), beside which the twittering males were keeping watch. 

 In the neighbourhood of the brook the vegetation becomes 

 richer aud more plentiful. The brook itself, which bears the 

 name of Kachoro, is nearly six feet wide, and in level places 

 about a foot and a half deep, At the time of our visit it had 

 inundated a large part of the land adjoining it, and formed 

 several pretty little cascades, and pools of still water rest- 



