Page:Travels to Discover the Source of the Nile - In the Years 1768, 1769, 1770, 1771, 1772, and 1773 volume 2.djvu/631

Rh the law of England, may be defended from the importance of the case, but scarcely from any principle of justice or reason.

soon appeared that a conspiracy had been on foot; several great men fled from court, among these Johannes, who had the charge of the king's horses. But Shalaka Waragna and Billetana Gueta David, being sent immediately after him, this conspiracy was soon stifled, and the ringleaders dispersed, mostly into Amhara, where they were taken prisoners by Woodage governor of the province, and sent to the king. Johannes, finding it impossible to escape, took to one of those papyrus boats used in navigating the lake Tzana; and, being driven by the wind, landed in an island belonging to the queen, where he was taken prisoner, with his wife and family, and delivered up, on condition that he should not be put to death.

, returning from Damot, fell accidentally upon Palambaras Masmari and several others, and brought them prisoners to Gondar. A council was thereupon held, and the conspirators put upon their trial. Palambaras Masmari, and Abou Barea who was one of the judges, were condemned to be hanged on the tree before the palace-gate. Johannes and the rest were committed to close prison, in the hands of the Betwudet.

was thought a proper expedient to check these disorders, to hasten the coronation of the king, though very young.