BE. MUEIE'S LETTEE. 
315 
“ The consequence of all this worry and excitement has been 
to bring on a severe dysentery on Mrs. Petherick, which slowly 
recovering from, but still weak, has produced a nervous excita- 
bility, which on any further rows with the men causes the blood 
to flow to her head, and hence that confused state for the time 
— really nothing more or less than weakness — which a little calm 
and quiet will throw off. Mr. Petherick is indeed very much 
changed since I met him first at Korosko ; the misfortunes and 
losses have reduced him very much; bilious fever more than 
once weakened him so that he required aid in walking. What I 
fear is that after all his outlay, and the losses and suffering he 
has undergone, that he will get but little credit for it from those 
at home. Captain Speke having come right on, and almost re- 
fusing aid. 
“ The British Government giving strict orders to the Consul, 
at the same time giving no support, has placed him in a critical 
position. Khartoum is a hotbed of enemies, so that no Arab 
soldier will enter his service : this being the case, Mr, Petherick 
is all but ruined, and I see nothing before him but to return to 
Europe, which do not be surprised to hear of from themselves 
soon. In a short time Mr. Petherick intends proceeding to 
Khartoum, from whence, no doubt, letters will be sent you 
containing a more full account of matters. I regret it was not 
in my power to keep my promise regarding the photographs — 
that, like our projects, turning out unsuccessfully. You will 
give my apology to the Misses McQuie, hoping I have not given 
them too severe a disappointment. 
“ My best wishes to Mrs. Me Quie and all the children. 
Believing me, 
“ Yours truly, 
(Signed) JAMES MEEIE, M.D.” 
