MOS AMBIQUE.

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said to have been formerly more frequented than the Cuama(Vide Purchas, Part II, 1544,) but such changes constantly occurin rivers subject to tropical rains.

From the branching off of the Luabo to Senk it is about thirtyleagues, making the distance of that place from Quilimanci abouttwo hundred and forty-seven English miles, which in the mostfavourable season may be accomplished in ten or twelve daysThe whole course of this part of the river is much intersected withislands, some of which are inhabited and some occasionally over-flowed in the rainy season, by which their positions becomechanged, as in the Ganges , forming new channels for the directionof the stream. The left bank is in possession of the Portuguese ,and the right is inhabited by independent native tribes.

Senk is a considerable town on the southern bank of the river,containing altogether about two thousand inhabitants. It isprotected by a strong fort, and is governed by a commandant, whoat present receives his appointment direct from the Portuguese Government. He commands all the minor establishments oh theriver, but is himself subordinate to the Governor of Mosambique.

The chief mart for gold in the interior is at Manica, abouttwenty days journey south-west from Senk, where an annual fairis held to which the traders resort with their merchandize. Thefirst part of their journey lies through a countryunder the influenceof the Portuguese , and the remaining part of it comprises districtsin the hands of native tribes, which the traders are obliged toconciliate by frequent presents: a tribute also still continues tobe paid to the Quiteve for his permission to carry on the trade ;for which purpose an annual deputation is sent from Senk to his

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