down a
precipice, so gigantic, that the state of their remains could not even
be ascertained. Our mules were, at times, on their haunches, actually
sliding over the rocky surface of the road, and although Captain Lyon
had travelled this path several times, he had never ventured to ride
down it before: but not knowing any better way to manage me and my mule,
than by allowing us to follow him mounted, down the hill, he most kindly
braved the danger for my sake, and I resigned myself to the intelligence
of my mule, who very soon assumed the entire control of his own conduct,
shaking his head whenever he felt the reins tighter than convenient, and
picking his way with all imaginable care: I always found, when the
ground appeared uncertain, that the sagacious animal would pause, and
putting out his foot, discover, by scratching, whether the ground might
be trusted, before he would advance a step further.

After leaving the mountain, we arrived at the village of Antonio
Ferreira, which is ten miles from Ora Preta. At this village, the
Company have some landed property, which they intended to mine, but they
had not yet commenced their operations. From thence we passed on to
Inficionado, where the Company have another estate, Ceta Preta. The road
from Antonio Ferreira to this place, was very hilly and circuitous, as
well as very bad in particular places. We arrived about sunset, and got
comparatively well lodged, by some of the Company's servants, who reside
here to look after the estate: it had produced a little gold, but the
quantity was not considered sufficient to induce them to prosecute their
operations; and the people were consequently ordered to return to Gongo.

_Friday, 15_.--We breakfasted with Mr. and Mrs. Bilden (one of the
clerks of the Gongo establishment); and about nine miles distant we
stopped to refresh, at the village of Catas Altas; where we had tidings
by an _avant courier_ from Gongo, that the heads of the mining
department were on their way to receive their chief (Captain Lyon), at
Brunado, which is about twelve miles from the establishment; and we
accordingly met them. After an exchange of civilities, we all proceeded
in grand cavalcade, towards Gongo, Lieutenant Tom, of the navy
(Lieutenant-Governor), and myself, leading the way. On our arrival, we
were received with cheers and gratulations, from all the individuals in
the establishment; and the day concluded by an entertainment to the
officers, give