270 
MISSIONARY LIFE IN ASHANTEE. 
The king then asked whether Mr. D. had brought the 
£1000, or if it had been paid to Owusu Kokoo. The 
two ambassadors began a discussion, and a hot debate 
•ensued between the interpreters and the chiefs, of which 
it was difficult to perceive the purport. Some chiefs ap- 
peared to think tliat the money was in the hands of the 
Ashantees, because Owusu Kokoo had been speculating 
and making large purchases. The chief of Mampong 
rose up and sharply accused the interpreter Nantschi of 
twisting matters. 
Once more at home, we united in our daily prayer, 
" Open their eyes and soften their hearts, direct them, and 
incline them to hear Thy voice." 
The chief of Mampong summoned Mr. Dawson on 
January the 16th, to consult with him on the most advisable 
steps to take. D. declined to say much, for he had been 
warned not to go to the chiefs, "perhaps," rejoined the 
chief on hearing this, " he who warned you has prompted 
me to speak to you." D. then mentioned what he thought 
requisite, though cautiously, for fear of the king ; but 
afterwards conversed more freely with Bosommuru, who 
complained that the governor would not receive the king's 
nephew, Owusu Kokoo, as a negotiator ; and that he pro- 
posed peace, whilst at the same time he was advancing 
with cannon, and was going to cross the Mouse mountain. 
If it were so, he continued, they must oppose the 
cannon with their small arms, and fight to the last man. 
We were much depressed in view of the Ashantees sense 
of honour, so misguided and ungovernable ; they looked 
upon it as the greatest disgrace to be moved by threats to 
set us at liberty. The continual excitement of those few 
days completely prostrated us, and but for special help 
from the Lord, we should have broken down. 
We again sought an interview with Bosommuru, and 
D., who felt this very important, conducted us to him on 
