THE KUECHAKA. 
263 
encumbered the pathway, and the earth was highly impregnated 
with oxide of iron. Descending slightly for a short distance, we 
crossed the nearly dried-up channel of a brook, where water was 
found only in a few isolated pools. Beyond we bivouacked, pro- 
tected by the shade of a bold group of finely laminated gneis rocks, 
bearing in their crevices several welcome trees. My wife for several 
FETTIT AND LEAVES OP THE KUECHAKA TEEE. 
days had with a great deal of energy nobly fought against increasing 
indisposition, doubtless brought on by the sudden changes of climate 
and excessive heat of the sun. She was now prostrate and quite 
unable to proceed, although we were but an hour’s march from our 
temporary destination, the village of Neangara, whence Poncet’s 
men and our porters were to return. It was hoped that a few hours’ 
rest and a little nourishment would so far restore her as to enable 
