With 70 lbs. weight on
his back, the carrier finds it difficult enough. Sometimes he is
assisted by ropes extemporized from the long convolvuli which hang
from almost every tree, but not always, these being deemed
superfluities by the Washensi.
Fortunately the baggage was transferred without a single accident,
and though the torrent was strong, the donkeys were dragged through
the flood by vigorous efforts and much objurgation without a
casualty. This performance of crossing the Ungerengeri occupied
fully five hours, though energy, abuse, and fury enough were
expended for an army.
Reloading and wringing our clothes dry, we set out from the
horrible neighbourhood of the river, with its reek and filth,
in a northerly direction, following a road which led up to easy
and level ground. Two obtruding hills were thus avoided on our
left, and after passing them we had shut out the view of the
hateful valley.
I always found myself more comfortable and lighthearted while
travelling than when chafing and fretting in camp at delays which
no effort could avoid, and consequently I fear that some things,
while on a march, may be tinted somewhat stronger than their
appearance or merit may properly warrant.
