MEMOIR OF BRUCE. 
*7 
came to Gorgora, an elevated peninsula running 
into the lake for several miles, and one of the 
pleasantest situations in Abyssinia. Proceeding 
onwards they reached Bamba, a collection of small 
villages in a valley, where Fasil was encamped with 
his army. Knowing that this chieftain had power 
to forward his object, Bruce obtained an interview 
with him in his tent, and was disappointed to find 
that he was disposed rather to betray, or even to 
destroy him, than to promote his design. He alfected 
great surprise at the purpose of his undertaking ; 
told him that the Galla, through whom he had to 
pass, were a wild and ferocious people, and that he 
would not reach his destination in twelve months. 
Bruce, full of indignation at this treachery, remon- 
strated with him on his breach of faith ; and hinted, 
that if he did not do his duty, he might incur 
another visit from Ras Michael and the army. 
This spirited conduct had the desired effect. Fasil 
changed his tone ; assured him that the head of the 
Nile was within a day’s travel with a fleet horse, 
and offered to send a trusty guide with him to 
Geesh. After making him handsome presents, and 
obliging the Galla chiefs to swear that they would 
not hurt him ; “ Now go in peace (said he), you are 
a Galla ; this is a curse upon them and their chil- 
dren, their corn, grass, and cattle, if ever they lift 
their hand against you or yours, or do not defend 
you to the utmost if attacked by others.” Upon 
this, Bruce kissed hands and took leave. 
On the 31st of October he crossed the Nile once 
