16 
THE LION'S HEAD. 
29 Nov.— 5 Dec. 
occurrence in this colony,- and signifying a pass, either over or 
between mountains, and often a deep ravine down the side of a 
mountain. Here there is a commanding view of the whole town, 
looking down the streets, which from this spot exhibit their regu- 
larity very remarkably. 
In the opposite direction is a view of Camps Bay (or, more pro- 
perly. Van Camps Bay) ; but instead of descending to it, we continued 
at a considerable elevation, along a road leading round the Lion's 
Head, having all the way a fine view of the sea on our left, and on 
our right the rising slope of the mountain, covered with low scattered 
bushes. All that I had pictured to myself of the riches of the Cape 
in botany, was far surpassed by what I saw in this day's walk. At 
every step a different plant appeared ; and it is not an exaggerated 
description, if it should be compared to a botanic garden, neglected 
and left to grow to a state of nature ; so great was the variety every 
where to be met with. 
After having been so long confined to a ship, without taking 
much exercise, I felt a little fatigued, and we rested at a pleasant cot- 
tage belonging to Mr. Beck. We were told that a few days ago a 
tiger [Felis Leopardus) had been shot near this place ; but this 
was mentioned as an extraordinary occurrence, this animal very 
seldom venturing so near to Cape Town. Continuing our walk 
homewards, night overtook us, and put an end to further observ- 
ation ; but by the light of the moon, enough could be discovered 
to raise my curiosity, and excite a strong wish soon to return and 
examine the road by day-light. We did not reach home till nine 
o'clock, although the A^alk had not, perhaps, exceeded nine miles. 
Dec. \st — 4M. I every day became more sensible of my good 
fortune in having taken up my abode under the hospitable roof of 
Mr. Hesse. A congenial love of the works of nature, added to his 
learning and acquirements, rendered his society delightful, and 
ripened my acquaintance with him into a cordial and lasting friend- 
ship. He entered into my views in visiting Africa, and was 
anxious to assist me by advice, the result of long experience 
