THE AUTHOR IS DETAINED AT BISSAO BY ILLNESS. 329 
heat, so reduced my strength, that I seldom quitted my bed. 
On this occasion, Boukari gave me the most unequivocal 
proofs of his attachment. Incessantly at my side, this faith- 
ful servant tried by his fervent prayers and assiduities, to 
retard my last breath, which seemed on the point of escaping. 
Thanks to the vigour of my constitution, I was enabled to 
resist without the aid of art, the attacks of two severe illnesses, 
and the malignant influence of a damp and burning climate. 
My physical and mental strength returned in some degree 
"with the dry season. I then solicited M. de Mattos to furnish 
me with the means of proceeding by water to Mansua, a large 
Mandingo village, situated on the river of the same name, 
whence I intended to repair by land to the banks of the 
Gambia. M. de Mattos gave a bullock to carry me and my 
merchandize to this river, for I was too weak to walk through 
the deep morasses which occur in this route. The master of a 
canoe demanded fifty piastres for my passage to IMansua. I 
was on the point of departing, when sickness again suspended 
the execution of mv desiçrn. 
At length, on the 1st of November, I found myself able 
to set out, and went to take leave of M. de Mattos ; his 
tears proved the deep regret he felt on parting with me ; 
he added to these marks of interest some still stronger 
proofs of his attachment ; he gave me all the provisions 
which were necessary for my voyage, and also letters for 
the commandant of Geba, whither I was returning. He 
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