23G LIVINGSTONE'S LAST JOUENALS. [Chap. IX. 



trees on west side. Crossed a good stream 12 feet broad 

 and knee deep. 



Buffaloes grazing. Many of the men sick. Whilst camp- 

 ing, a large musk cat broke forth among us and was killed. 

 (Ya bude — musk). Musk cat (N'gawa), black with white 

 stripes ; from point of nose to tip of tail, 4 feet ; height at 

 withers, 1 foot 6 inches. 



29th September. — Through much bamboo and low hills 

 to M'pokwa ruins and river. The latter in a deep rent 

 in alluvial soil. Very hot, and many sick in consequence. 

 Sombala fish abundant. Course W. 



dOth September. — Away among low tree-covered hills of 

 granite and sandstone. Found that Bangala had assaulted 

 the village to which we went a few days ago, and all were 

 fugitives. Our people found plenty of Batatas* in the 

 deserted gardens. A great help, for all were hungry. 



1st October, 1872, Friday. — On through much deserted 

 cultivation in rich damp soil. Surrounded with low tree- 

 covered ranges. We saw a few people, but all are in terror. 



2nd October. — Obtained M'tama in abundance for brass 

 wire, and remained to grind it. The people have been 

 without any for some days, and now rejoice in plenty. A 

 slight shower fell at 5 a.m., but not enough to lay the dust. 



3rd October. — Southwards, and down a steep descent 

 into a rich valley with much green maize in ear ; people 

 friendly ; but it was but one hour's march, so we went on 

 through hilly country S.W. Men firing off ammunition, 

 had to be punished. We crossed the Katuma River in the 

 bottom of a valley ; it is 12 feet broad, and knee deep ; 

 camped in a forest. Farjella shot a fine buffalo. The 

 weather disagreeably hot and sultry. 



■1th October. — Over the same hilly country ; the grass 

 is burnt off, but the stalks are disagreeable. Came to a fine 



* Sweet potatoes. 



