‘ JACK SMOKE.’ 
105 
important as being the head-quarters of the Fishmen. 
The native town at some little distance apart from the 
American location, is a collection of mud huts with 
raised floors, and roofs generally conical. Their town is 
kept very clean, though straggling. Commander Allen 
went thither in search of his old and faithful servant 
‘ Jack Smoke,’ who had served him with such unwearied 
attention during his frequent and long illnesses on the 
former expedition ; when there was no other person to 
assist him, poor ‘ Jack Smoke’ performed the part of 
servant, nurse and friend, for which he was held in most 
grateful recollection. 
‘ Jack Smoke’ was now enjoying the otium cum digni- 
tate on the profits of that voyage, which could not 
have been small. He was not at home to receive his 
visitor, but at the door of his neat hut. Commander 
Allen saw an interesting young black woman, playing 
with a very pretty chubby little naked negro-boy These 
proved to be Mrs. Smoke and Master Jacky. Papa was 
soon sent for, and expressed much gratification, in his 
quiet way, at the sight of his old master ; who now had 
an opportunity of showing the estimation in which 
he held him by offering the berth of second head 
Kruman, which, after a slight consultation with Madame 
his better half, he joyfully accepted, and entered at once 
on his office, having no preparation, and small adieux 
to make ; he came indeed in a very light marching 
order, with nothing but his waist-cloth about him. 
Most of the women were busily engaged preparing rice 
