Your faithful friend,
Movana.
Written by interpreter Jacob Mazuni.
I believe Gregory was pleased: at any rate he permitted the messengers to see his house. For the full three days they stayed. He often found them agape in the hall or in the dining room, taking mental notes. It was clear that the five natives were much impressed. Whenever Gregory entered the house, they saluted him and crept silently out. There was no reason to guard against theft; uncivilised natives do not steal.
On the fourth day Siadiadiadi and his companions thanked Gregory in the name of their mistress and went away.
O wad some power the giftie gie us
To see oorsel's as ithers see us!
It wad frae monie a blunder free us
And foolish notion.
II.
Some six months later Gregory, travelling to the extreme limit of his district, found himself within easy distance of the village occupied by the Chieftainess who had been so curious about his house. He felt inclined to go out of his way to see her. When he was resting at midday a native brought him a letter which helped him to make up his mind to do so.
My Friend,
I hear that you have arrived near to my village. Please come and see my house. I think you will like it. Hoping you are well, with greetings.