CHAPTER XII

Summary

While engaged in an interesting conversation with Africaner on the state and prospect of the mission in connexion with the barrier to civilization, not only from the state of country and climate, but also from the want of intercourse with the colony, the idea darted into my mind, that Africaner would do well to accompany me to Cape Town; and I at once made the proposal. The good man looked at me again and again, gravely asking whether I were in earnest, and seemed fain to ask if I were in my senses too; adding, with great fervour, “I had thought you loved me, and do you advise me to go to the government, to be hung up as a spectacle of public justice?” and putting his hand to his head, he asked, “Do you not know that I am an outlaw, and that 1000 rix-dollars have been offered for this poor head?” These difficulties I endeavoured to remove, by assuring him that the results would be most satisfactory to himself, as well as to the Governor of the Cape. Here Africaner exhibited his lively faith in the gracious promises of God, by replying, “I shall deliberate, and commit, (or, as he used the word according to the Dutch translation) roll my way upon the Lord; I know he will not leave me.”

During three days this subject was one of public discussion, and more than one came to me with grave looks, asking if I had advised Africaner to go to the Cape.