40 WELLS OF THE NEGROES. 
the clay, which generally extends to the depth at which the 
stratum of calcareous and ferruginous stones is met with, 
they raise it with long wooden shovels of a semi-cylindrical 
form, and put it into leather buckets, which are drawn up by 
their comrades at the top. The stratum of stone they work 
with an iron tool, which resembles a very short broad spade. 
Every welR* belongs to the person who, with his slaves, has 
taken the trouble of digging it : they are generally situated 
between two hills, and are shaded by trees, principally 
tamarinds. 
Upon our arrival at Niamrei, we went to pay our respects 
to the chief of the village, a ceremony which ought never to 
be omitted, for if it be not performed, you cannot claim his 
protection in case of insult. The chief begged us to excuse 
his inability to lodge us at his own house, but at the same 
time gave orders to one of his old attendants to prepare a hut 
for us. We received here the same attentions as were lavished 
on us by our friend at Niakra. 
February 6th. In bidding adieu to my host, I gave him 
two heads of tobacco and a sheet of paper. During the day 
we passed through Therina, where we had great difficulty to 
procure water. My colour and long face were subjects of 
mirth to the Negroes. 
* The Negroes who do not possess one, are obliged to pay the proprietor 
for the right of drawing from his. 
