Page:Voyage in search of La Perouse, volume 2 (Stockdale).djvu/42

32 9th. As soon as day-light appeared, while the two men that accompanied us were still asleep, the gardener and I proceeded towards the part of the lake opposite that which we had visited the evening before.

I had the pleasure of collecting several species of mimosa with simple leaves, all the parts of fructification of which were unfolded. I had already some specimens, but they were very imperfect.

After walking at least a couple of miles, we fancied we heard human voices before us. Redoubling our attention, we advanced a few steps, when a sudden cry, arising from several voices united, issued from one spot, and we perceived through the trees a number of the natives, most of whom appeared to be fishing on the borders of the lake. As we were unarmed, and ignorant of their intentions, we did not hesitate to return to our companions, each of whom had a musket; and immediately crossed through the wood, that the savages might not see us, lest they should be tempted to pursue us, on perceiving our flight.

When we had told our men the occasion of our return, I expressed my strong desire to have an interview with these people. It was necessary first, however, to prepare our means of defence, so that we might be able to avail ourselves of them