s of the mountain range. Now we
had to plunge into a valley thickly covered with trees, and then to
ascend the opposite side, now to proceed along the edge of lofty
precipices. Sometimes the ascent was so steep that we were obliged to
use our hands as well as our long poles to make our way up it. I was
thankful that bearers had been provided for the young ladies; for
although they had spirit enough to attempt whatever we did, yet they
must inevitably have been much fatigued had they been compelled to walk.
Leo and Natty, however, trudged on bravely in our midst; and often
indeed, when ascending steep places, took the lead. Chickango, who knew
the way, having often before traversed it, was of great use. He also
kept a watchful eye on either side of the path, especially when we were
crossing valleys, lest a leopard or lion might spring out on us, or any
huge serpent might lie across our path. At length we reached a lofty
plateau, or table-land, which Chickango informed Senhor Silva extended a
long way to the south. Over this, therefore, we resolved to travel,
till we could find a suitable spot in which to fix our abode. We
purposed remaining there till we could send a messenger towards the Cape
Colony, hoping that he might fall in with either traders or explorers or
missionaries, several of whom were settled in Damara or Namaqua land.
The further we travelled south, the cooler and more healthy we should
find the climate. We had no wish, either, to remain longer than
necessary in the gorilla region.

CHAPTER SIX.

THE CRYSTAL MOUNTAINS.

Several days had passed away. Our progress had, of necessity, been
slow; but it was a satisfaction to feel that we were going towards the
south, and getting nearer to where we might hope to meet with
assistance. We had all kept our health, and even my young cousins
seemed in no way to have suffered; indeed, they looked stronger and
better than they were when they landed. Our bearers, however, had for
some time shown a disinclination to proceed. They told Senhor Silva
that they had come further than they had bargained for, and evidently
began to doubt our intentions. They knew very well that their
countrymen were carried off in great numbers by the whites; and stories
had been told them about the cruelties practised by those white men, and
that they even collect people merely to slaughter and eat them.
Although they did not perhaps suspect us of such intentions, yet
al