SUAKIN, 
591 
never gave presents of that sort, that they only came here for pro- 
visions, and would pay for what they got, but would receive no pre- 
sents or make returns. The two Dolas and the Emir took our part, 
and the whole business was amicably adjusted. Three sheep were 
sent off, but Abdallah told me the Emir said they would be one dollar 
and a half each. This was evidently an imposition, though they were 
worth double the price of those we obtained at Massowah. One of the 
merchants to whom I had letters, was on board ; I spoke to him, and 
he admitted the price was too high, for that a dollar w^as sufficient 
for the best, three-fourths for a middling one, and half a dollar for 
a small one. I said that, at that rate, I would buy for the crew; but 
if the other price was charged, I should not want half the quantity, 
as 1 should only buy for myself. He said, he was a friend of Emir 
Mohammed, and would speak to him. A brother of Emir Moham- 
med was on board, to consult Mr. Macgie, who also promised to do 
the same. Abdallah brought a message from the Emir, that his 
brother was that day to be married, and requested that when the 
town guns were fired, we would fire three, which was promised. He 
also requested a few pounds of sugar-candy, and two candles: the 
former we sent, the latter we could not spare. Abdallah went on 
shore. The boys went a shell-hunting on the reefs, and procured some 
very good ones. The wind varied much in the course of the day. 
It was once E. The weather was moderate and pleasant^ 
February 15.—The water-boat and Abdallah came off as usual. 
He brought two large sheep for a dollar each, and some vegetables, 
but not sufficient for the ship's company. On enquiring respect- 
ing grain, we learned that none was to be had here, except juwarry, 
and for a hundred weight of that they asked three dollars, no very 
VOL. II. P P 
