ey instantly ran off to the boat and
brought us provisions, which my father's old friends had sent him. They
placed before us large baskets containing several loaves, cheese, a
bottle of Madeira, a bottle of filtered water, and dresses for my
father. Every one, who, during our journey, had taken any interest in
our unfortunate family, and especially the brave Captain Begnere, had a
share of our provisions. We experienced a real satisfaction in partaking
with them, and giving them this small mark of our gratitude.

A young aspirant of marine, who had refused us a glass of water in the
Desert, pressed with hunger, begged of us some bread; he got it, also a
small glass of Madeira.

It was four o'clock before the boats of the government arrived, and we
all embarked. Biscuit and wine were found in each of them, and all were
refreshed.

That in which our family were was commanded by M. Artigue, captain of
the port, and one of those who had sent us provisions. My father and he
embraced as two old friends who had not seen one another for eight
years, and congratulated themselves that they had been permitted to meet
once more before they died. We had already made a league upon the river
when a young navy clerk (M. Mollien) was suddenly taken ill. We put him
ashore, and left him to the care of a negro to conduct him to Senegal
when he should recover.

Immediately the town of St Louis presented itself to our view. At the
distance its appearance is fine; but in proportion as it is approached
the illusion vanishes, and it looks as it really is--dirty, very ill
built, poor, and filled with straw huts black with smoke. At six in the
evening we arrived at the port of St Louis. It would be in vain for me
to paint the various emotions of my mind at that delicious moment. I am
bold to say all the colony, if we except MM. Schmaltz and Lachaumareys,
were at the port to receive us from our boats. M. Artigue going on shore
first to acquaint the English governor of our arrival, met him coming to
us on horseback, followed by our generous conductor Mr Carnet, and
several superior officers. We went on shore carrying our brothers and
sisters in our arms. My father presented us to the English governor, who
had alighted; he appeared to be sensibly affected with our misfortunes,
the females and children chiefly exciting his commiseration. And the
native inhabitants and Europeans tenderly shook the hands of the
unfortunate people; the negro slaves