88 
SURVEY OF THE INTERTRQPICAL 
1818. boat impeded by the roots of a mangrove bush ; 
April 23. and whilst the boat’s crew were busily employed 
in clearing the rudder, we were suddenly startled 
by the shout of a party of Indians, who were 
concealed from our view by a projecting bush, 
not more than eight or ten yards from us : our 
situation was rather alarming, from the boat 
being so entangled, and the river not being 
broad enough for the oars to be used. No 
sooner had the natives uttered the shout, than 
they leaped into the water armed with .spears 
and clubs ; but the moment they made their ap- 
pearance round the tree, two muskets loaded 
with ball, and a fowling-piece with small shot, 
were fired over their heads, which had the 
desired effect, for they gave up their premedi- 
dated attack, and quickly disappeared among the 
bushes on the opposite side, where they re- 
mained screaming and vociferating loudly in 
angry threatening voices, whilst we were clearing 
the boat from the bushes that obstructed our 
progress. Having at last effected this, we pro- 
ceeded on our way down the rivulet, and at the 
same time the natives were observed through 
the bushes, to hasten towards a low part, which 
we were obliged to pass before we could 
reach the bay. But as we were aware of 
their intention we were prepared for the event. 
