ot yet say
with certainty whether the measure will be adopted or not; if it
should, you may rely upon my attention to your interest. I have
given your name to the secretary of state, and have spoken of you
with that distinction, which I think, without any flattery, your
qualifications justly deserve.

Peace still appears to be at a great distance, since the late
negociations; yet, as nothing is so uncertain as an event of this
kind, it may come upon us, (as the last peace did) like a thief in
the night, when we least expect it. You will have, I have no doubt,
frequent opportunities of procuring information concerning
Timbuctoo, and other places in the interior of Africa. Your
knowledge of the language, customs, and commerce of that continent,
give you advantages which few possess upon this ground; and I
assure you, every kind of information will be greedily received
72 here, concerning those regions; especially that which relates to
their commerce, civilisation, customs, geography, and language.

I request as a favour that you would write me as often as possible;
exclusive of the interest I take in all that relates to the
politics and commerce of Africa, (particularly of the interior,) to
hear of your own individual welfare, will give me the sincerest
pleasure.

I remain, my dear Sir,

Your's very sincerely,

J. WILLIS.

No. 67. Harley-street, London, 2d February, 1796.

We have no letters from Mr. Park, since he left the river Gambia;
but we have heard from others, that he had proceeded in safety
above two-thirds of the journey. We expect soon to hear of his
return. If he succeeds, his fame and fortune will be worthy of
envy.
73

LETTER VII.

_Emperor's March to Marocco.--Doubles the Customs' Duties of
Mogodor.--The Governor, Prince Abd El Melk, with the Garrison and
Merchants of Santa Crux, ordered to go to the Court at
Marocco.--They cross the Atlas Mountains.--Description of the
Country and Produce.--Dangerous Defile in the Mountains through
which the Author passed.--Chasm in the Mountain.--Security of Suse
from Marocco, originating in the narrow Defile in the Mountains of
Atlas.--Extensive Plantations of Olives.--Village of Ait
Musie.--Fruga Plains.--Marocco Plains.--Fine Corn.--Reception at
Marocco, an