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290, the whole was concluded, and ready for publication. I found the latter part of the occupation a most enjoyable one in a quiet way. The loneliness I experienced after commencing it vanished, and I found agreeable company in my work. Besides, I got to love the rural obscurity of the surroundings, and possessed no desire to commence another long holiday.

I now devoted the whole of my time to the improvement of my homestead and lands. There was abundance of outside work to keep me well employed. Everything appeared to prosper, and my life in the country was surrounded by circumstances in the highest degree encouraging. The grain crops were beginning to ripen, and the fruit trees were already laden with blossom. Clouds now made their appearance in the sky, and were beautifully illuminated by the sun, which was still below the horizon, yet it was evident that he would soon make his appearance, for it was becoming almost as bright as day.

I had two zealous assistants in Bashipolo and Illilippli, who took considerable interest in the improvement of the estate.

Everything was in readiness when the visitors arrived. The ladies took possession, in a