i88 THE BERTHON BOAT.

Om Hagar, in the Berthon boat. This boat proved a most excellent institution, and was a great acquisition during our stay on the river. It was nine feet in length, and, being collapsable, was easily carried on one side of a camel, in which position it travelled the whole of the long journey without mishap ; and, notwithstanding the great heat to which it was constantly subjected, was as sound on its arrival at the coast as on its departure for the interior. As I have already mentioned, it was extremely serviceable in shooting the net, and in clearing it when foul of rocks. It, moreover, afforded an easy means of crossing the river ; thereby saving many a weary tramp to reach the nearest ford, possibly two or three miles distant.