We had been told we should find water at Padang-batu as we were exceedingly thirsty; but we looked about for it in vain.

At last we turned to the pitcher-plants, but the water contained in the pitchers (about half a pint in each) was full of insects, and otherwise uninviting.

On tasting it, however, we found it very palatable though rather warm, and we all quenched our thirst from these natural jugs.
Farther on we came to forest again, but of a more dwarf and stunted character than below; and alternately passing along ridges and descending into valleys, we reached a peak separated from the true summit of the mountain by a considerable chasm.

Here our porters gave in, and declared they could carry their loads no further; and certainly the ascent to the highest peak was very precipitous.

But on the spot where we were there was no water, whereas it was well known that there was a spring close to the summit, so we determined to go on without them, and carry with us only what was absolutely necessary.