[Illustration: _C. Johnston dd. T. & E. Gilks, Lith^{rs.}_ MULKUKUYU FORD OVER THE HAWASH. ] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TRAVELS IN SOUTHERN ABYSSINIA, THROUGH THE COUNTRY OF ADAL TO THE KINGDOM OF SHOA. BY CHARLES JOHNSTON, M.R.C.S. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. LONDON: J. MADDEN AND CO., LEADENHALL STREET. M DCCC XLIV. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ MACINTOSH, PRINTER, GREAT NEW STREET, LONDON. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TO M^{R.} THOMAS JOHNSTON, OF BIRMINGHAM, THESE VOLUMES ARE AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED, BY HIS SON. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ PREFACE. ---------- As a young Author I may be allowed to make a few introductory remarks, for the purpose of propitiating that spirit of critical inquiry which will probably be directed to the examination of these volumes. To undertake this journey into Africa I resigned a valuable medical appointment in the East, and voluntarily assumed the character of an adventurer. My taste and prudence were questioned much at the time by my friends. Whether the results of the ambition which prompted me to endeavour to be of service to others are, or are not, sufficient reward for the sacrifice I made, now depends upon the judgment of my reader. In 1840 I held the appointment of Surgeon on board the iron armed steamer Phlegethon, on secret service, but presumed to be bound for the Eastern coast of Africa or India. I had long entertained the idea of travelling in Africa, and determined to carry this into effect by resigning at the end of the voyage out, and returning to England by a road across that continent. Accordingly, whilst in London, I prepared in some measure for the journey, by purchasing such instruments and outfit that I thought would be necessary. I also waited upon Captain Washington,[1] then Secretary of the Geographical Society, who entered warmly into my views, and introduced me to Captains Trotter and Allen, who were about to proceed upon the Niger expedition. Footnote 1: Now commanding the Blazer steam-vessel, R. N.