219 CHAPTER X.

Arrival of Mr. Partarrleau from the Coast—Interview with Ahnamy—Arrangements with and Presents made to him —His false and deceitful conduct—My Determination and Retreat from Boolibany—Difficulties on the March —Want of Water, and breach of oath on the part of our Guides—Enter Foota Toro—Difficulties there—My March to, and Return from, Baquelle—Affair with the Foolahs—My Captivity—Departure of the Party for Baquelle—My disappointment on finding the Camp deserted—My own Return to Baquelle.

On the 30th of April I received a letter from Mr. Partarrieau, announcing his arrival at Balla, whence he could not move in consequence of the loss of a great many of the camels, until I should send some men and asses to his assistance.

I therefore despatched without delay eleven men with thirty of the latter, and, having obtained from Almamy one of his nephews as a guide for them, they left the camp at an early hour the following morning.

About nine o'clock that night, Almamy paid me a private visit, and, after many congratulatory words on the safe arrival of my friend (as he called him), said he wished to be informed whether the articles I had promised to the late