1812. THE EVE OF DEPARTURE. 553 
gaged a Half-Hottentot, named Daniel Kaffer, and his son, to be the 
driver and leader of my waggon from the river back to Klaarwater : 
but, in the course of the evening, as they all sat round the fire, 
talking in high spirits over the prospects of their intended journey, 
they at last persuaded old Daniel to make one of our party, and 
Hendrik immediately gave up one of his pack-oxen for his use. 
I had not, for several months, experienced so much pleasure 
and satisfaction as I did this evening, in beholding all my little party 
assembled, and, in such a cheerful mood, anticipating nothing but 
pleasure from the journey before us. In the most perfect harmony 
and good humour, and in a zealous attention to every circumstance 
which could be thought likely to ensure our success, they now 
showed themselves to be exactly the men that were to be desired on 
such an expedition. Nor was this happy situation of affairs without 
its effect upon myself : my difficulties and disappointments vanished 
entirely ; I felt all my enthusiasm for travelling revived in its great- 
est ardor ; and beheld the prospect open before me, painted with 
all the fflowino; colors of a warm imagination. 
Thus pleasantly passed the eve of our departure ; and, occupied 
with the enlivening anticipations of new scenes, and of the pros- 
perous result of our journey, all retired to rest, impatient for the 
arrival of the next morning. 
4 B 
