fferent
coloured ochres smeared over their bodies. On inquiry, I found they were
subject to fever and ague, and the application of different earths was
their best mode of treating this complaint. Three weeks afterwards we
again visited Cape Coast Roads, where we found the frigate, who had lost
the marine officer and several of the seamen. Whenever the surgeon
reported five men on the sick list in harbour I immediately put to sea,
and to amuse the crew we got up some pantomimes. They were ridiculous
enough, but they answered the purpose and kept all hands in good humour.
The consequence was that we did not lose one man during the four months we
were on the coast.

I received orders from the captain of the frigate to repair to Sierra
Leone and proceed to the West Indies with the slave ships as soon as they
were ready. We had now been more than two months on this station without
capturing anything, and we were much pleased with the order to change. On
taking leave of the Governor, he told me he had had a palaver with the
King of the Ashantees, whom he described as a fine, high-spirited young
man. "I have been trying," said he, "to prevail on him to make peace with
the Fantees. The King's answer to my request was brief and positive.
'What,' asked he, 'is your most sacred oath?' 'We swear by our God,' I
replied. 'Then,' said the king of the savages, 'I swear by an Englishman's
God that instead of making peace with the Fantee nation I will exterminate
the whole race.' 'Not those under the protection of the British flag?'
said I. 'Yes,' returned he, 'all, and without exception.' 'Then if you do
persist in so fatal a purpose, you must take the consequences, for I also
swear that if you or any of your people come in a hostile manner within
reach of our guns, I will shoot every one of you.' He gave me a look of
fierce defiance, and informed me by the interpreter that the palaver was
over. On which I took my leave, not highly pleased. You are going to leave
us, I understand," said he. "I much regret it, for we have just made your
acquaintance, and I should like to have continued it." I acknowledged the
compliment, which I believe was sincere. "To-morrow," continued he, "I am
invited to dine at the Danish settlement. The Governor is a very good kind
of man, well-informed, and hospitable. Would you like to accompany me? He
speaks English, and I am sure would feel flattered by your visit."

I consented, and at four o'clock in the aft