VISIT TO SOUTH AFRICA. 137 
gon almost insupportable. The slave-boy, given us for a leader, was 
a remarkably lively lad, and, with his stories and mimiekries, afifbrded 
to our Hottentots a good deal of merriment. In general, ^\e seldom 
found the slaves, either old or young, much depressed by their situ- 
ation. They appeared full of vivacity and mirth. 
About six o'clock we arrived at a farm on Stinkrevier. Mr. Mel- 
ville accompanied me into the yard, where we sought in vain for 
the proprietor. Only one Hottentot maid seemed left in charge of 
the premises. Half a hundred geese, and as many ducks, turkies, 
and fowls, having probably been accustomed to be fed about this 
time, came running and flying towards us, all cackling and crying 
out for food. They followed us to the waggons, and we could not 
refuse a meal to such hungry supplicants. 
Having left our orders for a relay, we proceeded towards the 
river, which was nearly dry, and pitched our tent for the night. 
The moon shone bright, but the air was very cold. The Hottentots,, 
therefore, after making a hearty meal, retired into the waggons to 
sleep. 
14th. Early, we were disturbed by a great bleating of oxen and 
other noises close to the tent. We rose to see what w^as the mat- 
ter, and perceived, that about iifty head of cattle, passing on to a graz- 
ing place, according to their usual custom, greeted the strangers. 
Being tethered to the waggons, and not able to follow, the latter 
answered by moans, expressive of their disappointment, some even 
making serious attempts to disengage themselves. This serenade 
broke our rest, and prepared us for an early departure. No oxen 
being furnished by the farmer, we detained those we had in posses- 
sion, and after a ride of two hours, arrived at a farm called Klein- 
berg. Here we \\ ere received by the farmer Muller, with much civi- 
lity, and though we had sentLeonhard forward with the landdrost's 
order to the Veldcornet, and had no written commands to produce, 
he readily furnished us with the two spanns required, supplied us 
with various articles we wanted; and, having a smithy adjoining his 
house, permitted Brother Schmitt,who understands something of the 
T 
