Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1835 edition. Excerpt: ...mountains, Wandered bleating in valleys, and warbled in blossoming branches!" CHAPTER IX. State of Glen-Lynden Settlement in July, 1822--Road-making--Military Guard withdrawn--Arrival of Relatives from Scotland--Departure of the Author for Cape Town; his Views there--Graaff-Reinet--The Sneeuwberg--Household of an affluent Grazier--Hospitality of the Inhabitants--The Great Karroo--Habits of the Ostrich--Gaol at Beaufort, and its Inmates--Journey along the Ghamka River--Transition from Sterility to exuberant Vegetation--Hex River--Arrival at Cape Town. The state of our little settlement at the close of its second year, in July, 1822, was on the whole prosperous. The first difficulties had been surmounted; the severest privations were past. A crop, though a somewhat scanty one, of wheat and barley, had been reaped. The gardens were well stocked with vegetables. The flocks and herds were considerable in number, and gradually increasing. The necessaries of life were secured; comforts and conveniences were slowly accumulating. The several families had all obtained Hottentot servants; and, being now familiarised to the country and its various inhabitants, had begun to feel quite at home on their respective farms. Among other improvements, the frightful road down the glen had been so far repaired and ameliorated, that wagons could now travel on it, if not with ease, at least without imminent danger. This had been accomplished by the vigorous voluntary labours of the party, assisted by our Mulatto tenants; the Colonial Government having, at my request, relieved for one year our coloured allies from all other public services, in consideration of their aid in this enterprise. It may be worth while to mention that, in accomplishing this...
