MASSOWAH. 49 
We set off in the boat, under a salute from the ship, followed by 
all the Banians. We landed close to the town. There were three 
brass cannon there, much injured by time: with these they at- 
tempted a salute, but as the first missed fire, and I advanced, I cannot 
tell with how many they intended to honour me. I landed at a pier, 
with a small open space, that led to an ancient gateway, on one side 
of which was a large building. In one of its balconies I perceived 
several well dressed people. There was a considerable crowd, but 
they behaved very well. I entered by the gateway, and turning to 
the left, passed through several ruined rooms, and ascended a slope 
of rubbish to a large apartment, the end of which was covered with 
mats, on which was seated a very numerous assemblage of half clad 
natives. On the left side, in the balcony, was the Nayib, and several 
well dressed men. Opposite to them were two old fashioned English 
elbow chairs with high backs. 
On entering, I made my salaam to the Nayib, who pointed to the 
chairs. Mr. Salt and 1 immediately seated ourselves, my servant 
and Hyder standing by. The Nayib was in one corner ; he was 
dressed in white muslin with a shawl of scarlet for a turban, pre- 
cisely similar to the one I wore round my waist. Next him, (as I 
have since learned,) was his brother, the Sirdar of the forces, in a 
large Janissary turban of scarlet: the others were his sons and 
secretary, kc. The crowd follow^ed us in, and were now crouched 
on their haunches, over the whole surface to the door, completely 
filling the room, like Milton's devils in Pandaemonium ; but in no 
other respect would the comparison hold, for their countenances 
were generally pleasing and intelligent, free from the traces of vio- 
lent passions. I delivered a message to Hyder, expressive of my 
