CHAPTER III.

Voyage along the Coast —Account of the Islands of Zanzebar and Pemba—Sterile anduniform appearance of the Coast above Mugdasho—Soundings to the southward ofCape Bassas—Description of the Capes d’Orfui and Gardafui—Excursion on Shorenear Somauli Point—Remarks relative to this Voyage, as applied to the Theory respecting Ophir by Mr. Bruce. Arrival at Aden—Observations respecting thatPlace—its Ruins—ancient Towers—Aqueduct, &c.—Plan to render Back Bay safeagainst an Enemy—Journey to Lahadj—Interview with the Sultan of the Country—Description of his Territory, and Character of its Inhabitants—Return to Aden.Singular Effects of the Atmosphere produced by Refraction . Character of the Banians.Voyage from Aden to Mocha—Residence at the Factory—Abstract of occurrences inYemen since 1805 — Preparations for Abyssinian Journey—Deputation of Mr. Stuart,in the Service of the African Association, to Zeyla, with the intention that he shouldproceed to Hurrur and Efat—Departure from Mocha for the Abyssinian Coast.