by noon they arrived
at the Mission station of Butterworth, which was about one hundred and
forty miles from the colonial boundaries. This station had only been
settled about three years, but even in that short time it wore an air of
civilisation strongly contrasted with the savage country around it. The
Mission-house was little better than a large cottage, it is true, and
the church a sort of barn; but it was surrounded by neat Caffre huts and
gardens full of produce.

On the arrival of the caravan, Mr S, the missionary, came out to meet
the travellers, and to welcome them. He had been informed that they
would call at the station, and bring some articles which had been sent
for. It hardly need be said that, meeting at such a place, and in such
a country, the parties soon became on intimate terms. Mr S offered
them beds and accommodation in his house, but our travellers refused;
they were well satisfied with their own; and having unyoked their oxen,
and turned them out to graze with those belonging to the station, they
accepted the missionary's invitation to join his repast.

Alexander having stated the object of his expedition requested the
advice of Mr S as to his further proceeding, and asked him whether it
would not be advisable to see the Caffre king, and make him a present.
This Mr S strongly advised them to do; and to ask for a party of
Caffres to accompany the caravan, which would not only insure them
safety, but would prove in many respects very useful. All that would be
necessary, would be to find them in food and to promise them a present,
if they conducted themselves well. "You are aware," continued he, "that
Hinza's domain only extends as far as the Bashee or St. John's River,
and you will have to proceed beyond that; but with some of the Caffre
warriors you will have no difficulty, as the tribes further will not
only fear your strength, but also the anger of Hinza, should they commit
any depredation. But things, I regret to say, do not look very
peaceable just now."

"Indeed! what is the quarrel, and with whom?"

"Hinza has quarrelled with a powerful neighbouring chief of the name of
Voosani, who reigns over the Tambookie tribes, about some cattle, which
are the grand cause of quarrels in these countries, and both parties are
preparing for war. But whether it will take place is doubtful, as they
are both threatened with a more powerful enemy, and may probably be
compelled to unite, in order to