[56] The two shops in Camp contained precious little, and no foodstuffs.
[57] Mr. Van As and Mr. Fourie were the contractors.
[58] How well I remember this incident; how we hopefully approached the Superintendent's tent; how he gave two little boxes; and how he said, "That's the way you spoil them," as I myself unpacked the bottle straw for the old man. (The bottle straw had to be saved for his horse's bedding.)
[59] I got permission first.
[60] Literally from Dutch "spit afbijten"—bear the brunt.
CHAP. III.
Tuesday, October 1.—Village whole morning; barber (at last); came back wiser and sadder man; can safely stow away comb and brush for a month; two packets of candles by piece of luck. Grand dinner; roast mutton, rice, mealies, and canned quinces. May I never forget that dish of gravy!
Found goods from Champion had arrived; life again; pickles, jam, "domel simmel" (golden syrup), cheese, and few pounds butter.
Supper sumptuous; good spirits.