Page:Narrative of a survey of the intertropical and western coasts of Australia, Volume 1.djvu/146

 SURVEY OF THE INTERTROPICAL boat impeded by the roots of a mangrove bush; and whi!tthe boat's crew were busily employed in clearing' the rudder, we were suddenly startled by the shout of a party of Indians, who were concealed from our view by a projecting bush, not more than eight or ten yards from us: our situation was 'rather alarming, from the beat being so entangled, and the fiver.not being broad enough for the oars to be used. No sooner had the natives uttered the shout, than they leaped into the water armed with, spears and dubs; but the moment they made their ap- pearance round the tree, two muskets loaded with ball, and a fewling-piece with small shot, were fired over their heads, which had the desired effect, for they gave up their premedi. dated attack, and quickly disappeared among the bushes on the opposite side, where they re- mained screaming and vociferating loudly in angry threatening voices, whilst we were clearing the boat from the bushes that obstructed our progress. Having at last effected thiS, we pro- ceeded on our way down the rivulet, and at the same time the natives were observed through' the bushes, to hasten towards a low part, which we were obliged to pass before we could reach the bay. But as we were aware of their intention we were prepared for the event,

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