The trees around it were in rapid decay, and the little vegetation to be seen appeared to derive but little advantage from its proximity to water.
EXTREME HEAT OF THE WEATHER.
We had started at early dawn; and the heat had become intolerable long ere the sun had gained the meridian.

It was rendered still more oppressive from the want of air in the dense bushes through which we occasionally moved.

At 2 p.m.the thermometer stood at 129 degrees of Fahrenheit, in the shade; and at 149 degrees in the sun; the difference being exactly 20 degrees.

It is not to be wondered at that the cattle suffered, although the journey was so short.

The sun's rays were too powerful even for the natives, who kept as much as possible in the shade.