I have abandoned my continental tour for the present; but I have another proposal to make, which I hope will meet with your approbation." "Why, my dear Alexander, on what expedition would you now proceed?
Do you wish to visit the United States or South America ?" "No, sir; I wish to make a voyage of still more interest--I wish to go to Africa,--that is, to embark for the Cape of Good Hope, and from thence proceed to the northward, to ascertain, if possible, what now is a source of sad disquiet to you, the actual fate of those who were wrecked in the _Grosvenor_, and have not since been heard of with any degree of certainty." Sir Charles was for a time silent.

He pressed his hands to his forehead; at last he removed them, and said,--"I can not, much as I wish it, no,--I can not consent, my dear boy; the danger will be too great.

You must not risk your life.

It is very kind of you--very kind; but no, it must not be." "Indeed, sir, I think, on reflection, you will alter your mind.

As for danger--what danger can there be when missionaries are permitted to form their stations, and reside uninjured among the very savages who were so hostile when the _Grosvenor_ was lost?
The country, which was then a desert, is now inhabited by Europeans, within 200 miles of the very spot where the _Grosvenor_ was wrecked.