VISIT TO SOUTH AFRICA. 
253 
By the specimens we had just seen of the behaviour of certain 
farmers in the Lange Kloof, we augured but unfavourably of the re- 
ception we w^ere likely to meet with at Avantur, and afraid that 
we should be obliged to spend a cold, windy night, in our tent; but 
herein we were most agreeably dissappointed. Nothing could ex- 
ceed the cordial welcome we experienced from Mr. Zondag. He 
stood like an ancient patriarch before his door, and as we walked 
up to the house, held out his hand, inviting us in the most friendly 
manner, to enter, and make his house our home. His wife was 
worthy of him, and in the kindest manner received Sister Schmitt 
and the whole party. Perhaps their friendliness and hospitality 
was rendered the more conspicuous and gratifying, in contrast 
with the savage conduct of those we had left; hut the general be- 
haviour of the Zondags towards all persons in the house, proved 
them to have benevolent dispositions. The children, who were yet 
young, seemed to partake of the virtues of their parents, and be- 
haved with unaffected good-will and confidence towards us. Two 
dragoons, entering the room, came up to us, shook hands, and, in 
lively terms, expressed their joy to see English faces, and hear their 
own language spoken. They were civil, well-bred young men. 
After much agreeable conversation, we were entertained by looking 
over a large Dutch bible, in folio, admirably w ell printed, and full 
of good cuts, Avhich was valued as the chief jewel in the family. 
Little Peter, a favourite boy, was employed to read some portions 
of its contents, which he did well, but the want of schools in the 
country was much lamented by the parents. That we might be the 
better accommodated, Mr. and Mrs. Zondag, unknown to us, gave 
up their own room, and retired into the dragoons house to sleep. 
The latter went into the garret. 
29th. We seemed in no great hurry to leave so agreeable a man- 
sion, and did not set oft' till half past nine. Meanwhile all kind of 
business was carrying on. The slaves, and others wanted Gnaden- 
thal knives, which brother Schmitt furnished. A dragoon gave me 
the skin of a bush-cat, shot a few days ago. This is a tierce, but 
