Their allowance consisted of half a
small yam each day, but on the evening after their arrival, his
majesty being out of the way, two of his wives brought them half a
glass of rum each, and four yams; this was a great treat to them, but
a considerable risk to the ladies, for had Boy discovered the theft,
it is more than likely that he would have had them flogged and sold.
Wet and uncomfortable as was their dwelling, yet it was infinitely
more desirable and convenient than their confined quarters in the
canoe, for here they had the pleasure of reposing at full length,
which was a luxury they could not have purchased on the water at any
price.
The Spanish captain paid them another visit, and left the town in the
afternoon, on his return to his vessel. He informed them that slaves
were very scarce, and obtained with difficulty and expense.
Richard Lander was now invited to visit King Forday, and he
accordingly complied with the summons. His house was situated about a
hundred yards distant from that of King Boy, and on entering it, he
found him sitting, half drunk, with about a dozen of his wives, and a
number of dogs in a small filthy room.
