ANTALOW. 
63 
after having understood the sense of it, (for I had in conference with 
Hadjee Hamed, examined its contents) as it appeared to me rather 
a petition for presents, than a proper letter of business. Not know- 
ing, however, the way in which these matters were transacted 
between Gurrum Ghund and the Ras, and there being no other 
sufficient cause for my keeping it back, I determined to deHver it. 
On opening the subject to the Ras, his first question was, " what 
did I want money for?" as it was his intention to supply us with 
every thing requisite till we should again arrive at Massowah. I 
then gave him to understand, that it was rather from the necessity 
of satisfying the demands of his own servants, than from any want 
of money for my own use. After my reply, he thus continued : " this 
is a town of cattle, bread and honey ; why do you want money ? 
there is none to be had here; and besides, Gurrum Ghund has with 
me neither money nor credit ; and it appears to me that he has 
been playing tricks with you." He added ; " however, it is of no 
consequence ; we are friends ; and every thing that you may want, 
you shall have, till you are safe at Massowah." After this I could 
not say more on the subject, except explaining, as well as I was 
able, the nature of money transactions among the EngUsh, and that 
the present letter was merely a matter of business. We then took 
leave. 
" After this, being obliged to consult rather my ability than my 
inclination, I presented to Hadjee Hamed ten dollars, and as many 
pieces of blue cloth, and the same to Negada Moosa ; both of whom 
received the donation with a very ill grace. I had an intimation 
from the Ras, that when 1 arrived at Dixan he was informed all our 
boxes were filled with gold. I took pretty good care to undeceive 
