VISIT TO SOUTH AFRICA. l6l 
clouds, covering the western horizon, were fast following us, thun- 
der muttering at a distance. In a short time, a violent wind arose, 
which filled the air with clouds of dust. The backs of the oxen 
and the waj^gons were covered with it. Soon after, it began to 
lighten, thunder, and rain, and almost made us fear, that we should 
be obliged to give up the thoughts of visiting Jackal's Kraal to- 
day, and be forced to seek shelter. We persevered, however, and 
by the time we had reached the heights, which overlook the vale 
bearing this name, the rain ceased. The sudden change in the 
appearance of the countryj afforded us much pleasure. From 
an insipid flat, it swelled into hills, with woody glens sloping 
down towards the vale. As it was now too late to examine the 
spot proposed for an establishment, a consultation was held; 
the result of which was, that we would not proceed to the next 
farm, but, to save time, descend with our waggons into the vale, 
and there encamp for the night, though the weather threatened 
to be rather boisterous, and the appearance of the situation be- 
low was wild, resembling a haunt of beasts of prey in undisputed 
possession. 
Mr. Rex offered to accompany us down the hill, but having 
business at a farm, several miles from hence, much as we delight- 
ed in his company, and profited by his conversation, we could not 
accept of a service, which would have put him to much inconve- 
nience. Here, therefore, though with sensations of regret, we took 
leave of our worthy and generous conductor. The Veldcornet, 
Mr. Van Huysteyn, accompanied us into the valley. 
Previous to our arrival at Melkhout Kraal, Mr. Rex had made 
application to Government for the possession of Jackal's Kraai. 
Though no answer had been returned, I should, as in other in- 
stances, have considered this circumstance as a sufficient bar a- 
gainst occupation on our part, not wishing in the smallest degree to 
interfere with the plans of any individual in the colony, in fixing 
upon a tract of land, for a settlement of the Brethren's Mission. 
Y 
