69 
represent them all to the governor as a 
people that deserved every consideration 
and encouragement. When this was inter- 
preted to the chief, I looked him steadily 
in the face, that I might observe what effect 
it produced. He observed only, and with 
great composure, that he understood the 
Cape was at a prodigious distance. I did 
not think it prudent to press him so soon 
again on the subject of our departure. I 
therefore requested he would suffer me to 
throw an assaygay, and I had the honour 
of receiving one of his own for the experi- 
ment. I appeared such a novice to the 
savages on this occasion, that the chief in- 
structed me how to throw it with effect. 
This is done by giving a trembling motion 
to the wrist, and as the shaft quivers, it is 
delivered by a sudden jerk, aided by every 
strength the arm can afford. I improved 
so much on the second trial, that I had the 
honour of a smile from my preceptor, who 
appeared to say, if you continue with us, we 
will make you an adept. 
Not a word more passed this day about 
our departure. . The natives retired as 
