SOUMAULEE FRIENDS. 19 



We came in sight of Berberah on the afternoon of 

 the 4th of March. As the brig ronnded a low 

 sandy point, and entered the narrow harbour, 

 several of the natives, who had been long watching 

 our slow advance, the wind being very light, leaped 

 into the sea, and swam on board. I could not 

 avoid noticing immediately the apparent difference 

 in disposition between them and the people of 

 Tajourah ; for a most sullen and distrustful bearing 

 seemed to characterize the latter, while the Sou- 

 maulee on the contrary, at least those of Berberah, 

 seemed confident that no violence or injury would 

 be offered to them, they seized the ropes thrown 

 over the sides of the vessel to assist them as they 

 climbed up, and in high glee they passed along the 

 deck and on to the poop, laughing, arranging their 

 wet waist-cloths, and shaking hands, as if they 

 were among old friends. 



We anchored within a short distance of the 

 town, and several of the leading people came im- 

 mediately on board. The business connected with 

 my journey to Berberah was transacted at once in 

 the cabin, the principal native authority, Allee 

 Shurmalkee, being requested by Mr. Cruttenden to 

 provide a boat and other necessaries, which he 

 readily consented to do. As it was late, we none of 

 us went on shore; although I do not believe any 

 danger would have been incurred by so doing, a 

 very friendly feeling evidently existing on the part 

 of the natives towards the English, without that 



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