and it is employed by the
Dutch to polish wood and brass, on that very account. We know but
little yet, but we do know that mineral substances are found in the
composition of most living animals, if not all; indeed, the
colouring-matter of the blood is an oxide and phosphate of iron."

"I can now understand why you are so enthusiastic in the science, Mr
Swinton, and I regret much that the short time which will be occupied in
the remainder of our voyage will not enable me to profit as I should
wish by your conversation; for when we arrive at the Cape, I fear our
pursuits will lead us different ways."

"I presume they will, for I am about to penetrate as far as possible
into the interior of the country," replied Mr Swinton, "which of course
is not your intention."

"Indeed, but it is," replied Alexander; "I am about to do the same,
although perhaps not in the same direction. May I ask your intended
route, if not too inquisitive?"

"Not at all; I can hardly say myself. I shall be guided by the
protection I may fall in with. Africa is a wide field for science, and
I can hardly go anywhere without being well rewarded for my journey; and
I will say, that should it meet both our views, I should be very glad if
we were to travel in company."

Mr Fairburn, who had come on deck, had been standing close to them at
the latter portion of the conversation, and made the observation--

"I think it would be a very good plan if Mr Swinton would venture to go
where you are bound, Mr Wilmot, but you can talk of that another day,
when you have been longer together. There is nothing that requires more
deliberation than the choice of a travelling companion; any serious
imperfection of temper may make a journey very miserable. Now, Wilmot,
if you are tired of natural history, and wish to change it for the
painful history of human nature, I am ready to continue my
observations."

"With great pleasure, sir."

"I hope you have no objection to my reaping the benefit also?" said Mr
Swinton.

"Oh, most certainly not," replied Mr Fairburn, "although I fear you
will not gain much information, as you have been at the Cape before. In
a former conversation with Mr Wilmot I have pointed out the manner in
which the Cape was first settled, and how the settlers had gradually
reduced the original possessors of the land to a state of serfdom; I
will now continue.

"The Dutch boors, as they increased their wealth in cattle, required
more p