CHAP. IX. 
RETURN TO EUROPE. 
S51 
ing the Basliaw of Egypt's army, I could with ease ascertain the 
situation in which the Niger ended, as I should have to pass into 
a country from whence I well knew how to proceed, and to which, 
should I ever again return to Africa, I would immediately make 
my way. 
On the 29t.h of June we left Leghorn ; and passing overland, 
arrived in London on the 29th of July, 1820. In travelling 
through France I was so severely attacked by ophthalmia, as to be 
nearly deprived of sight ; but on my arrival in England, I soon 
recovered. Belford continued still deaf and much emaciated, and, 
as I feared, with little prospect of ever regaining health or strength. 
I must observe, in justice to this my faithful, though humble com- 
panion, that during the service on which we were engaged, both 
prior to, and after the death of Mr. Ritchie, his conduct was such 
as to ensure my perfect esteem and confidence. He did not pos- 
sess the advantages of birth or education ; but his quiet, unobtru- 
sive manners, and excellent disposition, made ample amends for 
these deficiencies. In the most trying moments, when all distinction 
between man and man is levelled, he never lost sight of the respect 
he considered due to me ; but in sickness faithfully nursed me, and 
in health implicitly obeyed all my directions. 
On my arrival in London, I waited on Earl Bathurst, to acquaint 
his lordship with the result of the mission ; and delivered up the 
whole of the public papers belonging to the late Mr. Ritchie. 
