How the Gospel was First Carried, 273 
eye ; however, I laid hold of him, and advised him, and 
urged him not to kill me. Thus was I between two who 
might be friendly. I told my name, my work, my labours, 
in various ways again and again on their behalf. I told 
him that I had interceded with the Mbau chief to send them 
the very help with which they were now strengthened, and 
that my full knowledge of being one, and friendly with them, 
led me to come on shore. Matters were in a very hopeful 
state when a very ugly 
man drew near, deter- 
mined, in spite of 
opposition, to take my 
life. He was extremely 
ferocious, but his arms 
were seized by several. 
He struggled hard for 
a length of time to get 
his musket to bear on 
me, which, indeed, he 
once or twice managed, 
but it was warded off 
before he could fire. 
At length his rage sub- 
sided: all then con- 
sented to my living. 
But as their thirst for killing was now up, and as they 
could not kill me, they wished me to return towards 
the boat, intending to accompany me, hoping to get one 
or more of the natives in my stead. I refused to go. 
One untied my neckcloth, and took it. They pulled my 
coat, felt me, and I fully expected to be stripped. My 
trousers were wet and heavy. I was weak with talking and 
disputing with them, — indeed, quite hoarse. As we still 
NGAVINDI, SECOND TO THAKOMBAU. 
