A RAMBLE, 183 and shrubby bushes of Carissa, smelling like jasmine. In addition to these, I observed several aloes, a low hibiscus with brimstone-coloured blossoms, some low Solanaceze, and a pretty Polygala, Above our heads circled a species of eagle (most likely Aquila Wahlbergu), whilst in the bushes and on the stones we saw turtle-doves and pipits (Anthus). Here a number of people with burdens, mostly of firewood, on their heads, passed us on their way down the mountain.

At 9.45 AM. we began the descent, which was quicker, but not pleasanter, than the ascent, being made in twenty-nine minutes. At 10.20 we reached our huts. Here the aneroid now read 27.81 in. at 84° Fahr., consequently 1 mm. less than the reading taken when we set out.

Although there was now nothing to prevent my departure, I nevertheless, at Kagoro’s request, consented to stay a day longer. ‘Towards evening that chief came with a budget of compliments and a few eggs by way of a present, excusing himself for not bringing more on the ground of bad times and short supplies—a sure means to enhance the value of his gift. On getting the pet wish of his heart gratified, viz., the present of a pair of shoes, he took his departure in high delight. With a little patience and goodwill, Negroes are so easy to please !

Before leaving, I took a walk to the little brook close by, going along the shore towards the south. At this part the shore is broad and sandy, sloping gradually into the lake; on the landward side it rises into dunes, but falls away again beyond them. The vegetation is identical with that described above. After thirteen minutes’ walking I turned away from the lake, crossed the sandy fringe obliquely, and soon reached a tract of open wooded country, the trees being mostly acacias, covered all over with the nests of the weaver-bird (Hyphantornis abyssinica), beside which the twittering males were keeping watch. In the neighbourhood of the brook the vegetation becomes richer and more plentiful. The brook itself, which bears the name of Kachoro, is nearly six feet wide, and in level places about a foot and a half deep. At the time of our visit it had inundated a large part of the land adjoining it, and formed several pretty little cascades, and pools of still water rest-