482 OUE ENGLISH SAILORS. Chap. XXIV. 



Spirits always do harm, if the fever has fairly begun ; and 

 it is probable that brandy-and-water has to answer for a 

 good many of the deaths in Africa. 



Mr. Kae had made gratifying progress in screwing to- 

 gether the Lady Nyassa. He had the zealous co-operation 

 of three as fine steady workmen as ever handled tools ; and, 

 as they were noble specimens of English sailors, we would 

 fain mention the names of men who are an honour to the 

 British navy — John Reid, John Pennell, and Richard Wil- 

 son. The reader will excuse our doing so, but we desire to 

 record how much they were esteemed, and how thankful 

 we felt for their good behaviour. The weather was delight- 

 fully cool ; and, with full confidence in those left behind, it 

 was with light hearts we turned our faces north. Mr. Rae 

 accompanied us a day in front; and, as all our party had 

 earnestly advised that at least two Europeans should be 

 associated together on the journey, the steward was at the 

 last moment taken. Mr. Rae returned to get the Lady 

 Nyassa ready for sea; and, as she drew less water than 

 the Pioneer, take her down to the ocean in October. 

 One reason for taking the steward is worth recording. 

 Both he and a man named King,* who, though only a 

 leading stoker in the Navy, had been a promising student 

 in the University of Aberdeen, had got into that weak 

 bloodless-looking state which residence in the lowlands 

 without much to do or think about often induces. The best 

 thing for this is change and an active life. A couple of days' 

 march only as far as the Mukuru-Madse, infused so much 

 vigour into King that he was able to walk briskly back. 

 Consideration for the steward's health led to his being selected 

 for this northern journey, and the measure was so com- 



* A brother, we believe, of one who I famous but unfortunate Australian 

 accompanied Burke and Willis in the | Expedition. 



