206 
OCCUPATIONS. 
against monkeys and tlie large antelope or golden 
roode bok. They station themselves near brooks or 
certain trees where these animals are likely to come, 
and imitate so faithfully the several cries, that these 
cautious inhabitants of the forest are enticed to 
within a few paces of the spot where the sportsman 
stands prepared to salute them with the deadly dis- 
charge; for it is a rule among them, — powder and 
shot being both so scarce, — never to fire unless they 
are quite certain of securing the object. 
The usual occupations of the peoj)le are hunting, 
fisliing, and procuring the palm-nut, each of which is 
followed by separate persons in the town or village ; 
but during the time of planting the yam, all are very 
industriously employed. This takes place before the 
conclusion of the rains in November, and as the 
underwood grows so rapidly, it is a work of labour to 
get the grounds properly cleared. The yam and corn 
plantations are kept in excellent order, and the twin- 
ing foliage of the former being supported on upright 
canes, gives something the appearance of a hop-field 
in the commencement of the season. The yams of 
Fernando Po are justly considered the finest in the 
world, being very farinaceous, and when well cooked, 
mealy like good potatoes. 
The natives have several methods of catching fish, 
wdiich abound all round the island. 
One of the most plentiful is a species of clupaea, 
resembling in size and appearance our English sprat, 
