KHOR ERGUGU. 33 to east, leaving a brilliant track of light behind it.

At its appearance the men all spat three times on the ground ; whether this arises from the same superstition prevailing in England at the appearance of the new moon, I cannot say.

From this spot the large trees become less numerous, and the ground gradually sinks until we come to the Khor Ersfusru. In February this khor was some 200 yards wide, and about knee-deep. We crossed at the same place, but now the river was about three-quarters of a mile wide, and up to the neck in depth. As the bottom was very uneven and slippery we found crossing difficult work. The porters seemed to manage it pretty well, but for my part I had several falls, and did not at all enjoy the bath. There was a current, quite perceptible though slight, west by north, and I feel confident that the river drains into the Kafur. If boats were taken from Mruli up the Kafur, and the confluence discovered, they could then come up this Ergugu, and so a good deal of marching would be avoided, to the great satisfaction of the weary traveller.

The native canoes could easily push their way through the floating vegetation. A very large tree, about 150 feet high, can be descried from this point, forming an excellent landmark. Mount Mkono, or Hand—so called from its five peaks—and Mount Kivambere, can also be seen.

After passing Khor Ergugu we had eight good VOL. n. D