June.] APPLICATION FOR A SHEEP. 
65 
nected with the improvement of the mind they 
lightly esteem, or view with indifference, if not 
with disgust. This frivolity renders it extremely 
difficult to interest or affect their minds with 
religious truth, and till the Missionaries can 
address them in their own tongue, without an 
interpreter, concerning the wonderful displays of 
divine power, wisdom and love, probably little 
impression will be made. 
Mateebe called in the forenoon, and told me 
that Mahootoo was unwell, and asked to have a 
sheep for her, which I could not refuse. He 
knew some sheep had been brought to us from 
the Orange River. He keeps a sharp look out 
after such occurrences, and it is not his fault if 
he does not obtain a good share. 
17th. In the morning when Mr. Moffat pre- 
sented the sheep to Mateebe in the presence of 
Mahootoo, he said the sheep was for himself, and 
that we ought to give one to his queen ; though 
he had pretended to me that it was entirely for 
her, because she was ill. Mr. Moffat very 
properly advised him to give the one half to 
Mahootoo, and retain the other himself. Many 
of the principal men went upon a hunt in the 
morning, and returned about two o'clock without 
having killed any game ; but, from their returning 
so early, it is probable they did not attempt to 
VOL. ir. F 
