They were, they said, of the same opinion; but when I again told them of my intention to visit those mountains, they pointed out many objections, some of which were not unreasonable. They were aware of the strict injunctions of the King to my guard respecting my safety and return to Abomey, and also that the captain, or caboceer, of my guard was responsible by his head for my safe return; they moreover observed, that if we entered the territory of another prince with an armed force, it would place us in danger. Still I persevered in my intention of proceeding, and told them I would make each of them a present of a handsome piece of cloth, over and above their pay, upon my return, if they would accompany me. This was to them a tempting offer for one day’s journey (as we then supposed). They promised to keep all quiet, and agreed to my arrangement. I told them that I would go out early in the morning, as if on a shooting excursion, and directed them to bring with them one head of cowries, and a small box, containing a few clasp knives and some small scissors, Jew’s harps, needles, and thimbles. With these few articles we went out to shoot; and as I generally shot off my horse’s back, no suspicion of my intentions was evinced by any of the rest of my party. It fortunately happened, that early on this morning the caboceer from Mount Awya, whose name is Cassoo, had brought us plenty of provision and live-stock, namely, a goat, a fowl, some yams, and five strings of cowries, so that I had an opportunity of leaving when the soldiers were at breakfast. Only three soldiers accompanied me, one of whom happened to be a Fellattah. After we had gone about five miles, and I not appearing to notice the different birds, my attendants pointed out to me the palm and shea butter nut trees as we passed, and appeared to become uneasy, broadly hinting that it was now time to return. However, I was determined not to let the present opportunity slip, but at once told them that I intended to visit a friend who was at present trading in a town close at the foot of the distant high mountains.