JIBAEEH CREEK. 
245 
We got under weigh accordingly, in the hope of 
being able to gain the main branch of the river above 
the mangroves ; and with the assistance of Mr. Lilly, 
King Bell, and Glasgow a native pilot, proceeded up 
the Jibareh creek, which the latter declared to be — 
though a circuitous route — the safest channel in the 
river. It was found, however, not to be deep 
enough to warrant our taking the vessel more 
than seven or eight miles from the anchorage; but 
prior to returning, the Bomano, another creek, was 
explored as far as could be done with safety. This 
stream, at the highest point visited, had diminished very 
much, both in breadth and depth, and Glasgow the 
pilot said it terminated about a mile and a-half 
further up, towards the mountains. It doubtless 
receives some of the drainage of the eastern portion 
of a range of mountains, behind the lofty Oameroons, 
or Mongo-ma-Lobah, which were visible in the distance. 
Having failed in the intention of penetrating by 
these creeks, we were induced to try the direct 
channel, which lies close to the actual left bank of 
the river; but it was ascertained to be so narrow and 
shallow, that considering the fearful consequences of 
being left aground at the spring tide, in such a locality, 
it was necessary to abandon the idea of passing in 
the vessel, the Mangrove Islands, which conceal the 
true nature of the river, and to accomplish if possible 
the survey by a short boat excursion. 
A large forty-foot galley, which had been intended 
for a trip to Bussah on the Niger, was hastily fitted 
