54 
MASSOWAH. 
shells, and to shoot. He begged me to apply to the Banian when- 
ever I wished them to go out, and I should have some of his 
people to attend : but said there was a contagious disorder on the 
islands and therefore he wished us not to visit them lest we should 
bri|ig it back. He assured me the ship should have every supply 
she wanted. He gaveHyder five dollars, and, after coffee, we took 
our leave, much pleased with his behaviour. 
He is rather a small man, of a grave countenance, and about forty 
years of age. His name is Edris; he has been nine years Nayib, and 
bears a most excellent character. He is the son of the late Nayib 
Hannes or Othman, who was the son of Achmed, of whom Mr. 
Bruce speaks so well, and who was nephew and heir of Hassan, 
the then Nayib, but did not survive him. The present Nayib has 
two sons, grown up, by one of his wives, and two infants by an 
Abyssinian. His brother is Sirdar of Janissaries, whom they now 
call Ascarri, having completely lost the former name. 
May 27. — I was extremely unwell, with a slight fever, and in- 
sufferable restlessness. I took some medicine, and felt considerably 
relieved. I obtained from the Nayib, an Ascar who kept my door, 
and prevented my being crowded by coffee-drinking visitors. The 
heat was very great ; the thermometer at 96°, and less air than 
usual. 
May 28, — The night was cooler, and I was not so restless. In the 
morning I had no fever, and at dinner some appetite. The Nayib 
sent frequently to enquire after me. His brother and sons were all 
here. A great number of the natives visited the ship: by the 
Captains orders they had coffee and raisins, with which they were 
much pleased. My room was as pleasant as could be in this climate. 
