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THE DIARY OF 
DR. ANDREW SMITH 
Proutispiecl!. 
Sir Andrew Smith. 
Photograph by permi.mon of 
Major-General Sir JV. P. Macarthur. 
The Diary of 
Dr. Andrew Smith, 
director of the 
•• Expedition for Exploring Central Africa," 
1834-1836 
Edited, with an introduction, footnotes, map and indexes, by 
PERCIVAL R. KIRBY, M.A., D.LIIT., F.R.C.M. 
Professor of Music and History of Music, 
University of the W~twatersrand, 
Johannesburg. 
VOL. II 
THE VAN R IEBEECK Socu!TY 
CAPE TOWN 
1940 
QI 
NAS!ONALE PERS. BEPEU. Kaapstad 
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kry, desverkiesende, vyf•en•twintig-gratis exemplare van sodanige werke. 
THE VAN RIEBEECK SOCIETY PUBLICATIONS. 
1. Reports of De Chavonnes and his Council, and of Van Imhoff, 
on the Cape. 1918. Out of print. 
2. Mentzel, 0. F.-Life at the Cape in the mid-eighteenth century; 
being the biography of Rudolph Siegfried Alleman, Captain of 
the Military Forces at the Cape of Good Hope. Translated from 
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3. De Mist, J. A.-Memorandum containing recommendations for 
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6. Mentzel, 0. F.-A geographical·topographical description of the 
Cape of Good Hope. Translated from the German by H. J. 
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7. The Diary of the Rev. F. Owen, Missionary with Dingaan, 
together with the accounts of Zulu affairs by the interpreters, 
Messrs. Hulley and Kirkman. Edited by Sir Geo. E. Cory, 
M.A., D.Litt. (Camb.). 1926. Out of print. 
8. The Wreck of the Grosvenor.-Containing a narrative of the loss 
of the Grosvenor, East Indiaman, wrecked on the Coast of 
Caffraria, 1782; comj>iled by Mr. George Carter from the 
examination of John Hynes, one of the survivors. London, 1791; 
and Journal of a Journey from the Cape of Good Hope in 1790 
and 1791, undertaken by J. van Reenen and others in search 
of the Wreck of the Grosvenor; a literal translation of the 
Original by Capt. Edward Riou. London, 1 792. With a 
preface by C. Graham Botha, M.A. 1927. Price to members, 
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9. Die Dagboek van Hendrik Witbooi, Kaptein van die Witbooi• 
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deur Gustaf Voigts. Uitgegee met die medewerking van die 
Suidwes·Afrika Wetenskaplike Vereniging, Windhoek. 1929. 
Price to members, 6s. 6d. 
10, 11. Lichtenstein, Henry.-Travels in Southern Africa in the 
years 1803, 1804, 1805', 1806; by Henry Lichtenstein. Trans• 
lated from the original German by Anne Plumptre. London, 
1812-181". 2 vols., 1928-1930. Price to members, 12s. each. 
12. Journals of the expeditions of the Honourable Ensign Olof 
Bergh (1682 and 1683) and Isaq Schrijver (1689); transcribed 
and translated into English and edited with a foreword and 
footnotes by Dr. E. E. Mossop. 1931. Price to members, 7s. 6d. 
13. Louis Trigardt's Trek across the Drakensberg, 1837-1838, by 
Claude Fuller; ed. by Prof. Leo. Fouche. 1932. Price to 
members, 7s. 6d. 
14. The Early Cape Hottentots described in the writings of Olfert 
Dapper (1668), Willem Ten Rhyne (1686) and Johannes 
Gulielmus de Grevenbroek (1695'). The original texts, with 
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B. Farrington, M.A., ed., with an introduction and notes by 
I. Schapera. 193 3. Price to members, 7s. 6d. 
U'. The Journal of Hendrik Jacob Wikar ( 1779) with an English 
translation by A. W. van der Horst; and the Journals of Jacobus 
Coetse Jansz : ( 1760) and Willem van Reenen ( 1791) with 
an English translation by Dr. E. E. Mossop; edited with an 
introduction and footnotes, by Dr. E. E. Mossop. 1935' (for 
1934). Price to members, 7s. 6d. 
16, 17. Travels and Adventures in Eastern Africa by Nathaniel 
Isaacs; ed., with footnotes and a biographical sketch by Louis 
Herrman, M.A., Ph.D. 2 vols. 1935' and 1936. Price to 
members, 1 Os. each. 
18. Die joernaal van Dirk Gysbert van Reenen, 1803; uitgegee en 
van voetnote en 'n landkaart voorsien deur wyle Prof. Dr. W. 
Blommaert en Prof. J. A. Wiid; met 'n Engelse vertaling deur 
Prof. Dr. J. L. M. Franken en Ian M. Murray. 1937. Prys 
aan lede, 7s. 6d. 
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van inleiding en voetnotas voorsien deur Prof. Dr. J. L. M. 
Franken. 1938. Price to members, 10s. 
20. The Diary of Dr. Andrew Smith, director of the "Expedition 
for exploring Central Africa," 1834-1836; ed., with an intro• 
duction, footnotes, map and index, by Percival R. Kirby. 2 vols. 
1939-1940. Price to members, 12s. each. 
PREFACE. 
Since the publication of the first volume of the Diary of 
Dr. Andrew Smith, I have collected a large amount of fresh 
material bearing directly upon his great journey. 
One of the most important items was the discovery of the 
abstract of the missing journal kept by Robert Moffat during 
his stay with Mzilik~ while Smith explored the Magaliesberg. 
This was of considerable value in checking that portion of 
Smith's route. 
Another mine of information was found in the columns of 
'The Graham's 'Town Journal and 'The South African Com· 
mercial Advertiser, where appeared the correspondence which 
ensued after the return of the Expedition. 
Yet another discovery, which I confess that I might have 
made long since, was my finding that the University of the 
Witwatersrand had, a year or two ago, acquired from 
Dr. Gunther, of Oxford, the originals of the zoological drawings 
executed by George Ford while on the Expedition. 
Most of this material, though of considerable historical 
importance, has of necessity had to be excluded from this 
publication, though I hope to incorporate some of it in a 
biography of Dr. Smith on which I have embarked. 
I have no doubt, however, that much more remains to be 
discovered. For example, I am certain that by no means all 
of Charles Bell's drawings have come to light, there being not 
a few significant lacunae. Again, Smith's official reports and 
original map have hitherto eluded all attempts to trace them; 
but I have no doubt that they will be discovered some day. 
One final remark remains to be made. I am aware that it 
has been suggested that perhaps Smith's Journal of the 
Expedition ought to have been published rather than his Diary 
since, as I stated in my Introduction to Volume I, it was his 
intention to give it to the world, and he had partially prepared 
it for that purpose. 
Mv reasons for not doing so are, I think, unassailable. In 
the first place, the Journal was never completed by Smith, for 
2 PREFACE 
it breaks off just where the most interesting part ought to begin, 
the journey into the Magaliesberg. Secondly, the Journal does 
not give a daily account of the happenings of the trek, and, 
geographically, it also falls short of what might be expected of 
it. Again, as I put it to the Members of the Van Riebeeck 
Society at the General Meeting in Apl'il of this year, one could 
readily deduce the Journal from the Diary, but one could never 
reconstruct the Diary from the Journal. Moreover, the Journal 
was written in England, several years after the event, while 
the Diary was executed on the spot. Finally, and this I think 
is the most important reason of all, the Diary reveals to us 
the Man. 
P.R.K. 
CONTENTS. 
PAGE 
PREFACE • 1 
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 3 
LIST OF PLATES 5 
INTRODUCTION 9 
DIARY OF THE EXPEDITION 25 
APPENDIXES 311 
INDEX 319 
MAP OF THE ROUTE (SEE END OF VOLUME) 
PLATES (SEE END OF VOLUME) 
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. 
Once again I have pleasure in expressing my gratitude to 
the many friends who have helped me in the preparation of 
this work. 
It is unnecessary here to repeat the names of all those whose 
help I acknowledge in the first volume of the Diary; suffice 
it to say that my gratitude to them is still unabated. 
Rather do I on this occasion single out those who have so 
kindly and wilHngly assisted me in specific directions in the 
preparation of this second volume. 
Among these are numbered Professor L. F. Maingard, of the 
University of the Witwatersrand, who has solved for me a 
number of linguistic problems; Dr. Abel Coetzee, of the same 
University, who has given me much enlightenment on obscure 
Dutch references in the text; Miss D. F. Bleek, of Newlands, 
Cape, who has helped me with many Bushman terms; Dr. N. J. 
van W armelo, Government Ethnologist, who identified for me 
some of the less known Tswana tribes; Professor I. Schapera, 
of the University of Cape Town, who aiso identified tribes and 
gave me general friendly advice; Dr. A. L. du Tait, who checked 
Smith's route through the Magaliesberg; Mr. Stanley Jackson, 
of the University of the Witwatersrand, who afforded me much 
geographical assistance; Mr. H. B. Gilliland, of the same 
University, for explaining some botanical details; and Dr. Robert 
Broom for deciphering a passage that would have remained 
untranscribed but for his expert help. 
Then I wish especially to express my gratitude to Dr. Austin 
Roberts, of the Transvaal Museum, Pretoria, for not only 
helping me to solve several difficult zoological problems, but for 
so generously undertaking the laborious task of compiling the 
Index to the work. 
I am also deeply indebted to Mr. Vivian M. Hiller, Archivist 
to the Government of Southern Rhodesia, for drawing my 
attention to and enabling me to consult photostats of the abstract 
of the missing two-months journal of Robert Moffat. 
4 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 
To the Master of Rhodes, the Registrar, Dr. Sherwood 
Watson and the Library Staff of Rhodes University College, 
I also wish to extend my thanks for their kindness in welcoming 
me and assisting me when I invaded their premises to search 
the files of the Graham's Town Journal in their possession, and 
for their forbearance during the orgy of photography that 
ensued. 
Again, I owe a special tribute to Mr. Tait, of the Surveyor­
General's Department, Cape Town, for the infinite care and 
skilful craftsmanship that he has bestowed upon the map. 
Once more my wife has earned my thanks for again assisting 
me with my proof reading. 
Nor can I omit the names of Miss Margaret Ralling, of the 
South African Public Library and Mr. I. M. Murray, of the 
same institution, who have been ever ready with bibliographical 
help, and have been a tower of strength in assisting me in 
seeing the Diary through the press. 
Finally, I again owe a deep debt of gratitude to the Van 
Riebeeck Society itself for shouldering the financial responsibility 
of the entire publication. 
LIST OF PLATES.1 
Frontispiece.-Sir Andrew Smith. Pho~ograph of a portrait by . an 
anonymom artist. It now hangs m tlie Royal Army Medical 
College, Millbank, London, and is reproduced here by kind 
permission of Major-General Sir William McArthur. 
Pl4te I .-The Great Choai, on the way from Kuruman to Motseli· 
katzie' s country, 18 35. 
Plate 2.-Matabeli threshing floor, 18H. 'ntompi. 
Pl4te 3.-First reception by Matzelikatzi, 1835. (Moffat is seen sitting 
on the ground on Mzilik~i's left band, Smith on a &tool on 
his right band.) 
Plate 4.-Zulu concert under the patronage of Matzelikatsi, 1835. 
Pl4te 5 .-Head, paws, and tail of Lioness, and the two Zulu boys 
reputed to have killed her in defence of the cattle, presented to 
Matselikatzi, 18 3 5. [This picture was reproduced by Livingstone 
in his MissionaT)I 'Travels and Researches in South Africa, London, 
1857, where it faces page 171. Needless to say, Livingstone was 
not present. He must have obtained this picture, and at least 
two others which he also published, from either Moffat, who 
likewise used a few of Bell's drawings, or from Smith himself.) 
Plate 6.-Three praisers and the henchmen of Matzelikatzi, 18 35. 
Plate 7.-Zulu kraal or cattle post on the north side of the Kashan 
Mountains, 1835. [According to Dr. A. L. du Toit, this is 
probably the northwest extremity of the Magaliesherg, on the 
road from Lindley's Poort to Boshoek railway station. The view 
is drawn looking east. This is the only section of the range 
which is still well bushed.) 
Plate 8.-The Kashan Mountains from the westward, 1835. (Dr. du 
Toit considers that this was drawn looking east towards Moreson 
Triangulation Station, on the road from Zwartruggens to Rusten• 
burg, which fasses through Magato's Nek. The Nek is seen in 
the centre o the picture, and the Selon's River is in the fore• 
ground.) 
Pl4te 9.-The Kashan Mountains from the Mavooba River, 1835. 
(Dr. du Toit describes this picture as the Magaliesberg Range 
from near Hekpoort, looking N.N.W.) 
1 The original titles were written in peno1 by Charles Bell, the 
artist; later titles were written over these in ink, apparently by 
Dr. Smi~ himself. I have used the latter here. In photographing 
the drawings no attempt has been made to touch up either negatives 
or prints; all blemishes or worn places in the pictures are shown 
exactly as they exist today. 
B 
6 LIST OF PLATES 
Plate 10.-Scenery of the Kashan Mountains and the Mavooba River, 
1835'. [Dr. du Toit regards this as the Magaliesberg Range from 
, a point between Hekpoort and Commando Nek, looking North.] 
Plate 11.-The Kashan Mountains from the banks of the Oorie River, 
1835'. 
Plate 12.-Scenery of the Kashan Mountains; the poort of the Urie 
River (or Oorie River), 1835'. [Dr. du Toit says that this is 
a drawinA of Hartebeestepoort, looking north down the Crocodile 
River. He considers that the tops of the mountains have been 
probably exaggerated to make the picture more impressive. I 
had the same thoughts, but would suggest that it is possible that 
Bell finished the sketch in camp.] 
Plate 13.-Scenery of the Kashan Mountains. The Oorie River, 1835'. 
[Dr. ·du Toit describes this as Hartebeestepoort, looking north, 
from just below where the dam is today. The Krokodilberg is 
seen in the distance.] 
Plate 14.-The Kashan Mountains at the Oorie River, 1835'. [Another 
view of Hartebeestepoort, according to Dr. du Toit, but this 
time looking northeast. The drawing was made just below the 
confluence of the Limpopo and Magalies Rivers close to the old 
drift. In the centre, behind the tree, is the site of Schoemans• 
ville township.) 
Plate 15.--0n the Limpopo River near the Kashan Mountains, 1835'. 
[Dr. du Toit regards this as a view looking due west across the 
Limpo~o River from near the Triangulation Station, Krokodil• 
poort E., near Mamagalie's Kraal. The hill on the right of the 
picture is the Krokodilberg; those on the left are the Karee• 
poortbergen. J 
Plate 16.-Bacquaine; position of dead in the grave. 
Plate 17.- Machaka (warriors) conducting a train of tributary 
Bacquains with supplies for Matzelikatzi, 1835'. 
Plate 18.- Disposal of an alleged malefactor near our wagons. No 
other water being procurable within practicable distance the pool 
continued to be used by ourselves and Matzelikatzi's people as 
before, 18 3S'. 
Plate 19 .- (a) Prisoner conducted to execution for witchcraft at 
Matzelikatzi's kraal, 1835'. 
Plate 19.-(b) The penalty of witchcraft, near Matzelikatzi's kraal 
or residence, 1835'. 
Plate 20.-Matabeli corn store, 1835'. 
Plate 21.-Zulus physicking an ox, 1835'. 
Plate 22.-Plan of Bacquaine game trap. 
Plate 23.-Shooting hippopotami in the Marique, 1835'. 
Plate 24.~.utting ';1P .~e ¥I?r,opotami in the Marikwe River, 1835'. 
{Sllllth 1S seen m neglige in the foreground to the right of the 
picture.] 
LIST OF PLATES 7 
Pkite 25 .-Feasting on the hippopotami and preserving a store of food 
on the banks of the Marique, 1835. The Matabeli guard of 
honor singing the praises of Matzelikatzi. 
Pkite 26.-Country and foliage near the junction of the Limpopo 
and the Marique, 18 3 S'. 
Plate 27.-Junction of the Limpopo and the Marique, 1835. 
Plate 28.-Training a refractory bullock, 1835. [Smith himself lends 
a hand.) 
Plate 29.-Campbell, a station of the London Missionary Society in 
Griqualand, 1835'. 
Plate 30.-Charles Bell, Simon'a Town, 14th January, 1871. [The 
original of this photograph, a drawing by D. Krynauw, is in 
the Africana Museum, Johannesburg, and is reproduced by kind 
permission of the Trustees.) 
INTRODUCTION. 
I. 'The Expedition 'Trel{s into the Matabele Country. 
At th~ end of Volume I of the Diary we left the Expedition 
at Motito, the French Missionary Station to the north of 
Kuruman. The party had, it will be remembered, left 
Kuruman for Mzilikazi's domain on 30th April, 1835, having 
added materially to its numbers.1 It had been joined by 
David Hume, a trader who had, in partnership with Hugh 
Millen, travelled considerably in the north, and already knew 
a good deal about the Western Transvaal.2 Robert Schoon, 
another trader who was also with the Expedition, had also 
been in the Transvaal before, having, in company with his 
partner William McLuckie, visited Mzilikazi's kraal in 1829.8 
On 10th May, at Motito, Dr. Smith was joined by Robert 
Moffat, who had left his convalescent wife in order to guide 
the Doctor and to act as intermediary between him and 
Mzilikazi, since that monarch had befriended him on the 
occasion of their meeting in 1829, and had never ceased begging 
him to return."' 
The number of waggons was now ten, and the total personnel 
of the Expedition about fifty, quite a formidable force with 
which to face the Matabele monarch. 
The route followed by the Expedition during the early days 
of this portion of the trek was, roughly, that previously 
travelled by Robert Moffat in 1829,5 and before him, though 
in the same year, by Schoon and McLuckie. The route as 
far as Zeerust had been followed by Rev. Stephen Kay, the 
1 See Volume i, p. 397. 
• See Volume i, p. 27, and footnote 3. 
• 'The South Afric4n ~1.14rteTly Journal (No. IV, from July to 
Seftember, 1830), Cape Town, 1830, pp. 402·407. 
Moffat, R., MissionaTy Labours and Scenes in Southern Africa, 
London, 1842, p. 510 et seq. 
I Ibid. 
10 INTRODUCTION 
Wesleyan Missionary, in 1821,8 and by Rev. John Campbell, 
of the London Missionary Society, so far back as 1820.T 
But it must be clearly understood that there was no ' road ' 
in the accepted sense of the term; the travellers made the 
best of their way from one waterhole to the next, and it was 
not unusual for waggons to pass each other without the drivers 
being aware of the fact. It was just such an occurrence 
which ended in the death of Hugh Millen, the mason of 
Kuruman, while he was journeying north from that station 
in 1834; for Robert Moffat found that he had passed within 
five miles of the dying man on the road between Old Lattakoo, 
or Takoon as it is called nowadays, and the north, without 
having the slightest idea that Millen was in the neighbourhood, 
let alone that he was in direst need. 8 
From Kuruman the track led north to the French Mission 
Station at Motito,9 where the Rev. Prosper Lemue was the pastor. 
Thence it turned east to Takoon, or Old Lattakoo, and then 
northeast through the Little Choai (the word means 
' salt-pan ') to the Great, or Baralong, Choai, where Stella 
Post Office is to-day. There Charles Bell made a drawing, 
which clearly shows not only the countryside but also the 
ten vehicles which accompanied the Expedition.1° From the 
Great Choai the road continued in a northwesterly direction 
till it struck the Setlagoli River, from there to the Maritzani 
River, and then through Lothlakane to the Molopo River at 
Mafeking. At all these points water was generally to be 
found, although in dry seasons considerable search had to 
be made to right or left of the accepted waterholes. 
From Mafeking the Expedition worked its way up the 
Molopo River and then cut across country to Malmani Oog, 
on the farm of the late Dr. J. G. Gubbins, where a good 
supply of water was always available. Proceeding northwards 
• Kay, S., 'T'ra11els and Researches in Caffraria, London, 1833, p. 206 
et seq. 
' Campbell, J., 'T'ra11els in South Africa (Second Journey), London, 
1822, Vol. i passim. 
• Moffat, J. S., 'The Li11es of Robert and Mary Moffat, London, 
188f, pp. 181-2. 
• For this, and other places mentioned in this introduction, see 
ma if· See Plate 1. 
INTRODUCTION 11 
it reached Mosega, a former Huruthse town which had been 
captured and rebuilt by the Matabele. This was close to 
what is now Zendeling's Post, and here were the ruins of 
the old French Mission Station, which Mzilikazi, with prophetic 
intuition, appears to have protected with all the assiduity 
of our Historical Monuments Commission.11 
As Mzilikazi was not at the time resident in or near Mosega, 
since he had hidden himself away in one of his smallest kraals 
owing to the fact that smallpox had been ravaging the country, 
the Expedition pressed onwards to the Zeerust valley, through 
the poort to the northeast of the modem town where lay 
the ruins of the ill-fated Kurichani, once the proud capital 
of the Huruthse, over the Marico River, and on until a little 
kraal on the Tolane River was reached. Here they met 
Mzilikazi for the first time, and here it was that Smith parted 
from Moffat in order to explore the Magaliesberg. Here, too, 
they agreed to meet on Smith's return. This place was not 
far from the present-day Silverkrans Post Office. 
Smith, with the main body of the Expedition, set out for 
the east on 16th June accompanied by Matabele guides who 
were there for the double purpose of showing him the route 
and of preventing him from going too far and from seeing 
too much. It says a good deal for Smith's astuteness that 
he was able to outwit them on several occasions, although it 
is obvious that they hampered him enormously at times. 
Having left Tolane, the Expedition proceeded m an easterly 
direction until the northwest comer of the Magaliesberg was 
reached. So far Smith's route was much the same as that 
taken by Robert Moffat in 1829, and, as the Diary shows, 
Smith reached the place where Moffat saw the villages on 
poles, though he turned south of the Magaliesberg from that 
point and thus missed seeing the famous ' inhabited tree,' of 
which Moffat must surely have told him..12 
His road now lay along Selon 's Spruit, the mountain range, 
11 Described fully in Smith's unpublished Journal, Vol. ii. 
u Moffat, R., Missionary Labours and Scenes in Southern Africa, 
London, 1842, p. no and illustration on p. nt. This tree had 
been previously observed by Schoon and Mcluckie; see 'The South 
African ~uanerly Journal, No. IV (July-September, 1830), Cape 
Town, 1830, pp. 402·407. 
12 INTRODUCTION 
over which he could not cross, being on his left. He continued 
in this direction until the point where the Magaliesberg turns 
to the east, and he accordingly followed the general direction 
of the mountains, passing through Hekpoort and thence along 
the course of the Magalies River, which was then known as 
the Mavooba 13 on account of the many hippopotami that lived 
in it. He reached the confluence of the Magalies and Crocodile 
Rivers, and saw Hartebeestepoort, but, since he could not take 
his waggons through it, he retraced his steps to Commando 
Nek, and, much against the wishes of his gmdes, who did 
all in their power to prevent him, succeeded in ems.sing it, 
again reaching the Crocodile on the northern side of the range, 
and camped not far from Brits. During this part of the 
journey his artist, Charles Bell, was kept very busy, for he 
revelled in the boldness of the landscape that kept changing 
like the patterns in a kaleidoscope. We must be thankful 
that he did so, for the drawings which resulted formed the 
final check of Smith's route through a district which, till then, 
was entirely uncharted. u 
From the neighbourhood of Brits the Expedition trekked 
east, and Smith scaled the northern slopes of the Berg at a 
point whence he could see, or thought he could see, the kraal 
at which Mzilikazi had been visited by Moffat in 1829. But, 
so far as I can discover as yet, that particular kraal was on 
the Aapies River, or Entsabotluku, as Moffat called it,16 and 
was consequently not far from Pretoria North; and as Moffat 
was not there in person to point out the place to Smith, 
and the indunas who were acting as guides had been instructed 
to prevent his proceeding very far in the direction of the 
greatly feared Dingaan, if not actually to mislead the Doctor, 
I suspect that what he saw was not the kraal he thought it was. 
Be that as it may, on leaving this point the Expedition 
worked its way back to the Crocodile R.!iver, and then proceeded 
along its course past the Krokodilberg, after which it took a 
turn towards the west and reached the Hex River. Smith 
had heard of the massacre of the Griquas in 1831, and wished 
11 Umvubu in Zulu means a hippopotamus. 
,. The descriptions given by Schoon and Mcluckie and Robert 
Moffat are too vague to be decisive. 
11 Moffat, R., op. cit., p. S'30. 
INTRODUCTION 13 
to see what traces remained after four years. The Matabele 
indunas, however, kept such close watch that he could not 
ride south himself over the few intervening miles, but, instead, 
sent several of his own servants to the desolate Moordkop 
to report on it to him. 
From this point Smith directed his steps towards Saulspoort, 
through which he passed, and thep described a wide arc round 
the north of the Pilandsberg, finally arriving at the appointed 
place, Tolane, on 24th July, having been away for thirty·nine 
days. 
II. The Return to Cape Town. 
After their brief stay together Smith and Moffat parted, 
Smith going north along the course of the Marico River, and 
Moffat returning to his wife at Kuruman. 
The Expedition, having arrived at the junction of the Marica 
with the Limpopo, continued along the latter river tm its 
junction with the Notwani was reached. Smith was tempted 
to follow the Limpopo further east, but finding that the river 
began to bend to the south and that his oxen were failing 
he retraced his steps, and from the site of the present-day 
Palla Camp set out with a few men to reach the Tropic of 
Capricorn and thus f ul:fil his undertaking to the shareholders 
of the Association which had financed his journey. It was with 
great reluctance that he abandoned the idea of visiting the 
lake (Ngami) of which he had heard so much, and which, he 
was convinced, was a reality and not a mere myth. But in truth 
he had done all that had been expected of him, and more, 
so, directing his course to the south, Smith and his Expedition 
returned to Mzilikazi again, and, having parted from the 
Matabele chief with all goodwill, and taking with them 
Mncumbati, the ambassador, and his suite, they set out for 
Kuruman. On the way one of the servants, Botha, disobeyed 
Smith's orders, and as a result was mauled by a lion and 
died. This was the only casualty that occurred in the north. 
At Kuruman the party was a:gain welcomed by the Moffats, 
and on Smith's advice, Mary Moffat determined to travel to 
the coast to recover her health and strength. Strange to say 
(and I can find no reason whatever for her choice), she 
elected to travel with David Hume, who was about to visit 
14 INTRODUCTION 
Grahamstown, rather than with the Expedition, where she 
would have had the continual attention of the Doctor had 
she required it. Still, as the Diary shows, during at 
least the early part of the journey the two parties were 
from time to time in touch with each other, and I have no 
doubt that, had any emergency arisen, the Doctor could have 
been summoned to her side with but relatively small delay. 
Having left Kuruman Smith made his way to Campbell, 
whence he paid a short visit to Andries Waterboer at Griqua• 
town. Returning to Campbell, he travelled to Douglas where 
he easily crossed the Vaal, which was nearly dry. But when 
he reached the Orange at Hopetown he found it in flood. 
At this point the river in the rainy season presents a terrifying 
spectacle. It was then well over 1,000 yards wide. The party 
waited for some time to see if it would subside, and then 
Smith gave orders for a pontoon to be constructed. The word 
• knees ' in the Diary 18 shows clearly that it was no mere 
raft that was knocked together. With the help of this pontoon 
the dangerous crossing was accomplished in perfect safety, and 
the party journeyed without further delay back to Graaff-Reinet, 
which was reached on 4th January, 1836. The round trip 
had taken just one year, four months and twenty-three days. 
From Graaff-Reinet Smith appears to have made his way to 
Algoa Bay, in all probability accompanied by the Matabele 
party although he does not say so specifically, and thence to 
the Cape. 
Having arrived safely at Cape Town with his charges, who 
remained under his personal supervision, Smith duly reported 
himself to Sir Benjamin D'Urban, who entertained the 
Matabele ambassador, and also to the Association which had 
sponsored the Expedition. 
The Governor prepared a treaty which he proposed should 
be signed by Mncumbati, the ambassador, on behalf of his 
chief Mzilikazi. Now, in the Introduction to Volume I of 
the Diary,17 I noted the fact that, before he left Cape Town 
in 1834, Smith received from the Governor's secretary a letter 
in which he was instructed to negotiate with the principal 
chiefs on behalf of the Government of the Colony. This I 
,. See p. 297. 
" See Vol. i, p. ~9 and footnote 1. 
INTRODUCTION 
did not print as at that time I was not aware of the bearing 
that the letter had upon the treaty of 1836. But because of 
this, and also because the document in question is now bound 
up with the autograph of the Diary and is therefore absent 
from the Archives, I print it here. 
Colonial Office, Cape Town, 
1 July, 1834. 
Sir, 
His Excellency the Governor being desirous of ascertaining 
the views and feelings of the principal tribes beyond the Colony, 
in relation to certain subjects, has directed me to request that 
you will put the questions herewith enclosed, seriatim, to the 
principal chiefs you may visit during the progress of the 
expedition, and that you will minutely record the answers 
which each may return and transmit them to this Office on 
the termination of your Journey. 
Whenever it can be inferred from the tone, manner and 
acts of any independent Chief that he and his subjects are 
favorably disposed and ready to avail themselves of the benefits 
which teachers of religion and traders from the Colony may 
be inclined to extend to them, His Excellency is ·of opinion 
that some trifling encouragement might at the moment be 
advantageously applied. He has therefore placed at your 
disposal twelve ornamented cloaks, twelve medals with chains 18 
and twelve large mirrors which he requests you to distribute 
amongst such persons as shall appear to you most entitled to 
the confidence of the Colonial Government and in doing that 
you will impress upon them how solicitous His Excellency 
11 Mr. Allan, of the Department of Coins and Medals of the 
British Museum, informs me that, in his opinion, these medals were 
undoubtedly identical with those presented to African Chiefs in 
Gambia. They were first made about 1830, and no others issued until 
1840. A photograph of one of these medals is reproduced in 
Jameson, M. A., Medals awarded to Indian and African Chiefs, 
London, 1936, p. 68. The obverse side bore the head of King 
William IV to the right, with the date 1830; the reverse the Royal 
Arms, etc., with the date 1814. The former date is that of William 
IV's accession; the latter is that of a medal presented to North 
American Indian Chiefs, the same design having been used for the 
medal of 1830. They were of silver, and were 2~ inches in 
diameter. 
16 INTRODUCTION 
is to promote their welfare provided they conduct themselves 
so as to merit hls respect and friendship. 
I have the honor to be 
Sir, 
Your most obedient servant, 
J. G. BRINK. 
Questions to be put to the principal Independent Chiefs beyond 
the Boundary of the Colony. 
Are you desirous of entering into a friendly alliance with 
the King of the white people? 
Are you anxious that his subjects should from time to time 
visit your country and trade with your people? 
Will you solemnly promise to protect all white men who 
may visit you for such a purpose or for others of a peaceable 
nature? 
Do you wish for teachers of religion to reside amongst 
your subjects to instruct them in the ' Great Word '? 
Would you ensure to them your countenance and support 
and zealously guard them against insult and injury? 
J. G. BRINK, 
Dr. Andrew Smith, 
Superintendent of the Expedition 
for Exploring Central Africa.19 
Actg. Secy. to Govt. 
The treaty to which I have referred, if treaty it can be 
called, was signed on 3rd March, 1836, by Mncumbati and 
Sir Benjamin D'Urban, the witnesses being Andrew Smith, 
M.D., and James E. Alexander, A.D.C. I reproduce this 
interesting document. 20 
'" Inserted at the foot of the first page. 
"' Quoted from Treaties •••• with }{ative Chieftaim, etc., 1803-
1854, No. 9. A copy may be seen in the Archives, Cape Town. 
INTRODUCTION 17 
ARTICLES of Agreement between the Governor of the 
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope, on the one part, 
and Umsiligas (by his representative and chief councillor 
Um'Nombate, specially appointed for the purpose of 
treating), on the other part. 
1. The King of the Abaqua Zooloo or Qua Machoban, 
Umsiligas, engages to be a faithful friend and ally of the 
Colony. 
2. He engages to preserve order in his territory and to 
abstain from war unless forced thereto m self-defence. 
3. He engages to protect all white men who may visit his 
country, and to defend and treat in a friendly manner, all 
missionaries or other persons who may, with his consent, settle 
and reside in his territory, so long as they act in accordance 
with just.ice. 
4. He engages to defend and assist all travellers or traders 
who may reach his country, either with the object of extending 
knowledge or otherwise benefiting mankind. 
5. He engages not to interfere with the remnants of tribes 
resident in the vicinity of his country, unless in self-defence, 
a.nd promises to permit them to enjoy, undisturbed, the 
advantages of religious instructors, should any such be disposed 
to settle amongst them. 
6. And, generally, he engages to cultivate and encourage 
peace, and apprize the Colonial Government of any intended 
or actual hostile movements in the interior, and to act in 
concert with the said Government, in subduing whatever may 
be calculated to disturb the general peace, or retard the 
civilization and prosperity of the native tribes of South Africa. 
In consequence of the above engagement, the Governor, 
upon his part, engages:-
1. That he will regard Umsiligas and his subjects as friends, 
and will receive any of them as such when they visit the 
Colony. 
2. That he will grant, in the first instance, as presents for 
Umsiligas, a variety of articles suitable to his present condition, 
and 'Will continue supplies of the kind from time to time, so 
long as the terms agreed upon shall be strictly observed. 
18 INTRODUCTION 
And in order to facilitate intercourse hereafter, between 
Umsiligas and the Colony, the Governor will duly consider the 
request made for an individual of the Colony to be resident 
with the Abaqua Zooloo or Qua Machoban, and endeavour 
to obtain a missionary for that purpose, who will be most 
calculated, under the circumstances, to forward the views of the 
contracting parties. 
This done at the Government House in Cape Town, this 
1 hird Day of March, in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand 
Eight Hundred and Thirty-six. 
(Signed) B. D'URBAN, Governor (L.S.) 
UM'NoMBATE, X his mark (L.S.) 
Signed and sealed in our presence : 
(Signed) ANDREW SMITH, M.D. 
]AS. EDW. ALEXANDER, A.D.C. 
Mncumbati returned to Mzilikazi with presents for that 
chief, which had been purchased by Smith on the authority 
of Sir Benjamin D'Urban. Smith, ever the true Scot, insisted 
on discount, as the following letter which he wrote to the 
Governor shows. 21 
Cape Town, 
Sir, 
March 21st., 1836. 
I have the honor to enclose a statement of the expenses 
incurred for the support etc. of the Zoola messengers and for 
presents to Umsiligas. Several of the individuals whose 
accounts are herewith forwarded solicit immediate payment in 
consequence of the articles having been sold at ready money 
prices. 
I have the honor to be, 
Sir, 
Your most Obedt. Servant, 
ANDREW SMITH, M.D., 
Staff Asst. Surgeon. 
21 Archives, Cape Town. Military and Naval Affairs, 1836, No. 26. 
INTRODUCTION 19 
This letter was thus endorsed by Sir Benjamin: "Dr. Smith 
was duly authorised to incur these Expenses and I have 
approved their payment, as within. 21st March, 1836. 
B. D'URBAN." 
On 4th April, 1836, Sm1th wrote to Colonel Bell, Secretary 
to the Government, on behalf of his friend and former patient, 
Mary Moffat, requesting that His Excellency the Governor 
should authome Mrs. Moffat to receive a supply of gunpowder, 
which she had asked for in a 'memorial ' of April, 1836, 
at Graaff-Reinet, to which she was travelling.22 The request 
was granted, instructions being sent to the authorities at 
Graaff-Reinet on 8th April, 1836.28 
Most people appear to have agreed that the Expedition had 
fulfilled a very useful function, and that it had enormously 
extended their knowledge of the hinterland, but there were 
nevertheless those who, for one reason or another, were 
dissatisfied. These malcontents were supported by a series of 
letters which appeared in the pages of The Grahamstown 
J oumal and to a less extent in those of The South African 
Commercial Advertiser, during the early part of the year 
1836, before Smith's own preliminary &port was made 
public.2' 
These communications seem to me to afford adequate reason 
for the comparative neglect of the work achieved by the 
Expedition by historians (as they were accessible and the Diary 
was not) and the occasional discrediting of Smith himself that 
we meet with here and there.25 I might add that students 
of natural history have never neglected him. 
02 Ibid. No. 35. 
•• Ibid. This despatch is mentioned in the previous one . 
.. Although these documents are "accessible" in the sense that 
they exist in print, their location involves much time and trouble; 
I therefore list those issues of the newspapers which contain the 
principal references. 
'The Graham's 'Town Journal (1836) 7th 1an., 14th Jan., 21st 
Jan., 18th Feb., 9th Mar., 31st Mar., 21st pr., 12th May, 2nd 
June, 9th June, 16th June, 30th June, 28th July. 'The South African 
Commercial Advertiser (1936) 27th/.an., 3rd Feb., 9th Mar., 19th Mar. 
• e.g. Wilmot, A.., and Chase, . C., History of the Colony, etc., 
Cape Town, 1869, p. 302. 
20 INTRODUCTION 
One or two of the letters, however, contain information 
of considerable importance. Among these are the communi· 
cations of Hume and Schoon, who, it will be seen, accompanied 
the Expedition to Mzilikazi's country, and who remained behind 
after Smith and his party had left. Hume claimed that he 
had visited areas much further north than the most northerly 
point touched by the Expedition. In support of his claim he 
submitted affidavits from his own Hottentot servants and from 
one of Smith's. 26 The former shows clearly that Hume had 
actually reached the Ngwato country, near Serowe, as early 
as 1833; the latter proves conclusively that the route taken 
by the Expedition through the Magaliesberg was as shown on 
my own map. Schoon, on the other hand, maintained that he 
had penetrated further east than Smith had done. This was 
undoubtedly the case, for he reached the Olifant's River in 
the Transvaal, and near the present-day Zebediela, a few miles 
southeast of Potgietersrust, he met Louis Trigardt and his 
party of farmers, with thirty wagons, large herds of cattle, 
flocks of sheep and many horses. 
The publication of Smith's own Report silenced the critics, 
and the correspondence ceased forthwith. 
The main features of Smith's Report were outlined in the 
Introduction to Vol. I of the Diary. The Association which 
sponsored the Expedition was, however, active for some time 
after its return, holding exhibitions of the articles brought back 
from the north, and making preparations for the shipping 
of many of them to England, where they were subsequently 
sold by auction. Details of the Association's activities are to 
be found in the pages of The South African Commercial 
Advertiser.27 
In several footnotes to the first Volume I have referred to the 
Journal des Missions Evangeliques, the organ of the French 
missionaries. It remains for me to say here that this periodical 
contains much that concerns the Expedition, told from the 
missionary point of view. The Frenchmen were inclined 
,. 'The Graham's 'Town Journal, 21st April, 1836, and 12th May, 
1836. 
" 'The South African Commercial Advertiser (1836), 10th Feb., 
12th Feb., 16th Mar., 19th Mar., 23rd Mar., 26th Mar., 30th Mar., 
9th Apr., 27th Apr., 7th July, 14th July, 3rd Aug., 10th Aug., 
24th Sept. 
INTRODUCTION 21 
to be amused when they first heard of the exploring party; 
but their amusement soon gave way to admiration for Smith's 
work, and to sincere regard for the man himself, as their letters 
to Paris amply prove. 28 Like all others, they were soon won over 
bv his personal charm, his innate honesty, and his enthusiasm 
for knowledge. 
III. The Map of the Route. 
I have already stated that I have been unsuccessful in tracing 
Smith's original map of the route followed by the Expedition. 
The most thorough search on my part of every possible 
institution, public or private, where it might conceivably have 
been deposited has failed to yield even a hint of it. 
Accordingly I have found it necessary to reconstruct it, and 
in so doing I have utilised all available sources, both direct 
and indirect, and I have, in addition, gone over a good deal 
of the ground covered by the exploring party. The principal 
sources upon which I drew were as follows: 
1. Andrew Smith: 
(a) Diary of the Expedition (autograph), 1834-
1836. 
(b) Geological Report (autograph), 1834-1836. 
(c) Journal, Vols. i and ii (autograph), c. 1837-
1838. 
(d) Report of the Expedition, etc., Cape Town, 1836. 
2. Robert Moffat: 
(a) Missionary Labours, etc., London, 1842. 
(b) Abstract of Journal (autograph), 1836. 
3. John Smith Moffat: 
The Lives of Robert and Mary Moffat, London, 1885. 
4. French Missionaries: 
Various maps in the Journal des Missions 
Evange1iques, Paris, 1833-1836. 
"' Journal des Missions Evangeliques, (1833) pp. 378-379, (1834) 
p. 269, pp. Hl-3S2, (183') p. 31, p. 164, pp. 270·272, pp. 288·289, 
p. 296, pp. 327·338, (1836) pp. 7•8, pp. 14-17, p. 112, pp. 181·189. 
c 
22 INTRODUCTION 
5. James Arrowsmith: 
Map of the Cape of Good Hope, London, 1842. 
6. Edward Stanford: 
Map of South Africa, etc., London, n.d. This map 
contains details supplied by Charles Bell, Robert 
Moffat and others. 
7. Charles Bell: 
Topographical Drawings made on the Expedition. 
I began by making a complete calendar of the entire journey, 
extracting all possible information from each entry in the 
Diary, checlcing these, or adding to them, by referring to all 
the other sources. Then I plotted the route upon five sheets 
of the Topographical Map of the Union of South Africa. First 
of all, those places which could be identified immediately were 
plotted, then those which were less certain. In all cases the 
route between the various points was checked by geographical 
methods and in not a few by means of local information. 
Certain portions of the route were, of course, quite well 
known even in Smith's time. Others, such as the upper reaches 
of the Caledon River, the route to Honing Vlei, and, above 
all, the Magaliesberg, were to all intents a.nd purposes terrae 
incognitae in those days. Even when the names of rivers and 
hills were obtained, they frequently gave no clue whatever 
to their location, since they have long since been re,christened. 
Accordingly, having drafted my map, I submitted it first of 
all to my colleague, Mr. Stanley Jackson, of the Department 
of Geography, University of the Witwatersrand, in order that 
he might check my findings, and, if necessary, revise them. In 
several places Mr. Jackson made valuable emendations, and I 
am very grateful to him for doing so. 
With regard to the difficult Magaliesberg section, I asked 
Dr. A. L. du Toit, the geologist, to try to identify the pictures 
of that area which were drawn by Charles Bell. He agreed, 
and I include in the list of plates his descriptions of the pictures 
in question. Without exception they were drawn at different 
points along the route which I had plotted on my map. 
The result of the whole process is, I believe, as accurate 
as it is possible to make it at this juncture. Of course, if 
INTRODUCTION 23 
the autograph map were to tum up, it might be that I should 
find many errors in my reconstruction, but I, for one, should 
welcome such an eventuality. 
Charles Bell's drawings were invaluable in many instances. 
Apart from the use which I made of them in identifying 
various places among the Magaliesberg Mountains, they enabled 
me to identify with certainty Sekonyela's stronghold, which 
Bell sketched from a point about one hundred and fifty yards 
on the Ficksburg side of the present-day Sekonyela halt on 
the railway, and to find the long-lost site of the Wesleyan 
Mission Station of Lishuani, which Bell drew, apparently, from 
a spot near the main road between Clocolan and Ladybrand, 
about eight and a half miles from the former, and facing east. 
I could multiply these instances, but I think I have said enough 
to prove how, in spite of his tendency at times to 'dramatise' 
his landscapes, Charles Bell left us a legacy which alone entitles 
him to an honoured place among those of our explorers who 
wielded a facile brush. 
As a final check I myself went over considerable sections 
of the route, though it was manifestly impossible for me to 
attempt the whole; but I saw enough to convince me of the 
value of this method, which has been followed with such 
success by Dr. E. E. Mossop, of Fish Hoek, Cape. 
The map will, I hope, fulfil a double function, for not only 
does it illuminate the Diary, but it also throws light upon 
Smith's great publication, Illustrations of the Zoology of South 
Africa, to which he provided no such guide. 
I understand that I was criticised to some extent for having 
issued the first volume of the Diary without the map. No one 
could possibly have regretted doing so more than I did, but the 
omission was inevitable, since at that time I was by no means 
satisfied that my drafting of the Expedition's route through 
Basutoland and the Magaliesberg was correct. Moreover the 
fact that later on I discovered a considerable amount of 
additional information regarding the latter, which caused me 
to modify my original idea of the route followed, is evidence 
that the delay was not only unavoidable but judicious. 
DIARY OF THE EXPEDITION. 
10 MAY (SUNDAY), 1835'.1 
11 MAY (MONDAY). 
When a cow is wicked and they cannot easily milk 
her, they throw her down, put a stick through the 
nose and fix a cord to each end, in which way they 
hold her. When a cow will not give her milk they 
blow into the vagina. The Coranna do so likewise. 2 
As a calf dies they give the cow another calf; they 
blow also to induce her to let the calf drink. 
The Bechuanas kiss also. When relations have not 
seen each other for a long time they kiss each other. 
They never had the venereal disease amongst the 
Baralongs till they became acquainted with the 
Corannas. They have it now and it kills some. 
~uatsie 3 was always in the country and generally as 
fatal as it is now. Before Malala 4 was born small pox 
appeared in the time of Ratclu 11 and killed many people. 
Three times in his lifetime they have appeared, once 
when he was young, another time when they appeared 
at Kuruman, and two years ago. A woman 
• There is no entry for this date. 
• Compare "The Early Cape Hottentots" (V.R.S. 14), pp. 186·7, 
where Grevenbroek describes this practice among the Nama Hottentots. 
• Black quarter, or quarter evil. See Henning, M. W., Animal 
Diseases in South Africa, London, 1932. 
• A Tlhaping chief, brother of Mothibi. See Campbell, J., Travels 
in South Africa (Second Journey), London, 1822, Vol. ii, p. 66. 
• Ratlou, chief of a branch ol the Rolong. Compare Vol. i of 
this Diary, p. 407. 
26 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
menstruating cannot enter the cattle kraal nor the 
fence because the men and cattle would get sick. She 
cannot go amongst the cattle. The husband also 
cannot go near the house when she is sick. A man 
cannot go to hunt nor on a commando whilst she is 
sick, but as soon as she is well he can go. [Among} 
the Wankets when the woman recovers [she} goes 
to the river and rubs herself with clay. When sick 
she cannot rub herself with red clay, but when she 
is well she rubs with it which is a sort of cleansing. 
During that time she cannot sit on a skin because if 
she sits on that it causes men to die. She must sit 
on the ground. When a ba:by dies a man cannot go 
and sleep with his wife till both have washed and 
smeared their bodies with medicine and fat mixed 
together which is done in the evening before they go 
to rest. As 6 a woman's husband dies the Dr. must 
make red klip 7 and medicine into a mixture if she 
will marry another man, and both the man and woman 
must rub with it before they sleep together. Must 
continue single for six months. When a man will 
marry a widow he must go to the house of a pregnant 
woman and there rub himself with red clay. The 
pregnant woman must also do so; then can he go and 
marry the widow. After the pregnant woman has 
a child then the man can go where he feels inclined; 
before that he must continue by the house. After 
the pregnant woman has the child then other men, 
not the husband, can go and sleep by the widow who 
marries. Part of the Bechuanas forgive a man for 
sleeping with their wives; others make them pay. 
When a woman loses her youngest child she must 
• Smith means "when". 
' Red ochre, called by the Tswana lecho~u. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 27 
continue by the house till she has another child. When 
she has one she can go wherever she is inclined in 
the kraal, etc. As another man, not her husband, sleeps 
with the woman and then goes amongst the cattle, they 
will die. When the husband of a woman who has 
lost her youngest haby child will go amongst the cattle, 
he must take cattle dung mixed with medicine and rub 
it over and under his feet, and then he can go into the 
kraal or amongst the cattle. Betrothing or marriage 
does not save a man from going on a commando. 
When a man wishes to be lucky in getting cattle he 
must every morning chew medicine and ·the saliva must 
be rubbed on the face and belly. This is to ensure 
food on a journey. When the owl leaves the :fields 
and comes and sits on the house, that is a bad sign. 
They will not kill the owl. They will not kill the 
guanna 8 in the summer; in the winter they kill it. 
They say if they kill it they will get no rain; if they 
happen to kill him in the summer they bury him. 
When the corn is young they will not kill elephants; 
they think the corn will bum up. They cannot go 
and get red clay or blink klip before harvest. They 
can also kill elephants after harvests. The last month 
the com and mac~atan 9 were burnt up and that was 
by the elephant. 
BARALONG MARRIAGE. 
When a young man will marry a young woman of 
another kraal he must first ask her, and, if she is 
willing, then the man must send either his father, 
mother or servant to ask the parents of the girl, and 
• Leguan (Varanus niloticw). 
• M4atant:, plural of lel{atant:, the K.allir melon. 
28 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
if they consent then he goes and takes her to his kraal. 
After he has got her he sends some cattle according 
to his ability to the parents of the girl, but never speaks 
about those till they are taken to the kraal. After 
the payment has been made the father of the girl sends 
an ox or cow to the father of the man to kill, and 
then the father of the man sends the same to the 
father of the woman. The day the woman leaves the 
house of her parents the ox or cow is sent, and next 
day that from the man's kraal, then the payment is 
made. Then the men who take the cattle which is 
to form the payment when they return bring back one, 
two, three or even four other cattle from the parents 
of the girl to kill in the kraal of the man. Then it 
is done till the woman has a child. They then kill 
an ox at the kraal of the woman and send the flesh 
to the woman. Then they kill by the man's place 
and send the flesh to the parents of the girl; then 
if she has another child the husband must support her. 
As 10 two cannot agree they separate and the 
woman goes to her parents. If she has had children 
the cattle remain with her parents, but if she has had 
no children then the cattle are returned. As he ·begins 
to get large if a boy he goes to his father; if a girl 
[she} remains with her mother, but if she marries the 
cattle paid for her go to the father. As that is a young 
boy when the time of circumcision arrives the father 
gives an ox to the boy to be given to his grandfather. 
She can after that marry another man. Sometimes, 
after marrying a second, she leaves him and returns 
to the first husband. 
10 When. 
ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 2.9 
BARALONG BURIAL. 
Sometimes they bury a chief under the wall of the 
kraal, but most commonly in the middle of the kraal. 
His people dig the grave. They take him out through 
the door of the house but make a new door through 
the fence to take out the corpse. They carry him by 
means of several men to the grave. When arrived at 
the grave they place medical shrubs in the grave and 
then make the grave up. All the man's cattle are 
brought to the grave, then the men that were engaged 
in burying the body rub ashes on the forehead and 
then leave the grave. The women cry; the men only 
appear sorry. 
When lions intend attacking cattle in this country 
a portion of them keep to windward of the kraal, 
whilst another portion keep on the other side to catch 
them as they fly. 
When the Matabeli commandoes go out before the 
attack, they observe the movements of the opposing 
power if there is a suspicion that they are going to 
:fight them. They generally sit down, if the opposing 
party does so, and then some of each side go out and 
speak on the subject. A party of Mata:beli once came 
close to Hume 11 when going in to their country. 
When near them, being at the time unarmed and ahead 
of his wagons, he stood still. They immediately stood 
still. He sat down, they also sat down, and then two 
or three came up to him and made enquiries as to 
where he was going, etc. Most Caffers act in this way. 
During the whole of last night heavy thunder and 
11 David Hume, a trader, who long resided at Kuruman. Compare 
Vol. i of this Diary, p. 289, footnote. 
30 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
about dark a little rain. Thermometer in Mr. I.emu's 12 
house 70 at 2 p.m. 
12 MAY (TUESDAY). 
Yesterday got a new species of Bu.cepha1us of a 
:fine gras&'green colour, also a new species of Herpestes. 
13 MAY (WEDNESDAY). 
One of the inhabitants of Motito one evening was 
watching game by a pool. A lion came. He thought 
it was a wildebeest and intended to fire at it. His 
gun burnt prime.13 The lion came towards him, took 
hold of him by the loins, and bit him severely. He 
let go his kaross and ran off. The animal remained 
standing and was attacked hy the dogs. He got the 
head of one in his mouth and crushed it. 
14 MAY (THURSDAY). 
Last night rained heavily and also frequent showers 
during the day. Ready to proceed when the rain 
holds up. 
15' MAY (FRIDAY). 
As it continued to rain nearly the whole of yesterday 
we were not a:ble to start. About 8 a.m. started and 
proceeded towards Letako u which we passed in about 
" Prosper Lemue, of the Paris Evangelical Society. He was 
stationed at Motito, to the northeast of Kuruman. See map. 
11 Missed fire. 
" Old Lattakoo, as opposed to New Lattakoo, or Kuruman. See 
map, on which it is called Talman. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 31 
two hours. It gets its name from the numbers of broken 
stone walls which exist and which have been formed 
for kraals, etc. Letako means walls. We passed the 
large camel tree where Messrs. Read and Hamilton, 
missionaries of the London Society, :first established 
themselves. At that time Matibe 111 was living near 
it and a great number of Bechuanas. A little to the 
N .E. of Letako on the opposite (eastern) side of the 
river is some open ground with only a few scattered 
Mimosa trees. Upon that the battle between the 
Griquas and Mantatees 16 was fought. Several small 
kraals along the Mashua River 17 about and above 
Letako. 
Mr. Moffat states that Masalacatzie was much afraid 
of their wagons when they visited him :6.rst.18 He 
inquired if they would not injure him. He felt the 
wooden parts with his hand before he seemed satisfied. 
He shook hands with Mr. Moffat during which 
operation he kept his elbow quite stiff. 
It is easy to hunt the cameleopard 19 and drive 
it to the wagons. Some old males can scarcely be 
turned. They strike with the forefeet, raising them 
both at the same time. The fall of this animal is 
very heavy. 
About 24 April Hiru.ndo C~pensis began to assemble 
in great troops and then flew away. At Kuruman the 
Oryx ty picu.s nearly lost their summer dress on 
24 April. 
11 Mothibi, a Tlhaping chief. 
11 See Moffat, R., Missionary Labours and Scenes in Southern 
Africa, London, 1842, p. 354 et seq. 
" Mashowing River. See map. 
'" Moffat, R., op. cit. p. 532. 
11 Giraffe. 
32 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
16 MAY (SATURDAY). 
When in the Bamanguato country a lion sprung 
over a kraal at least six feet high, took up a woman 
and threw her over, then sprung over himself and 
carried her off to about the distance of 20 yards from 
the encampment where he devoured her, leaving simply 
one leg. This is related by Hume. The same thing 
happened to Schoon. A woman who had quarrelled 
with her husband left him and took another of the 
men. She was 20 lying between them. The lion took 
her off next morning. Her forearm, on which were 
some brass ornaments, and the head were found; all 
the rest had been devoured. The woman in the first 
case called out three times, after being thrown over 
the kraal, that she was not hurt, that the people must 
come and assist. When she was at the place where 
he eat her she also cried out once. Nobody durst 
approach her. The crocodile sometimes takes off 
tractoes 21 and the iron rings have 'been found in the 
stomachs of some that have been killed. 
17 MAY (SUNDAY). 
Divine service was performed about 10 a.m. by Mr. 
Moffat. Weather very fine; ~y during the last 
night. 
18 MAY (MONDAY). 
Heavy dew during last night; chilly in the morning. 
Thermometer in the sun at 2 p.m. 90. Wind light 
from the N.E.; calm in the evening. Saw a herd of 
'°"Way" in MS. 
11 Trek•touw, or draught rope. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 33 
Antelope melampus, nearly 30 together; when moving 
from one place to another [they} follow each other. 
No inhabitants seen since leaving the Little Choai.22 
Water only after rains. Roads since last outspan 
pretty bad, first part rather sandy. Everywhere in 
the low grounds and valleys abundance of water. 
Travelled 4¥2 hours; course E. by S. 
19 MAY (TUESDAY). 
Cephalopus: Chaffron 23 brown black, upper 
extremity losing itself on forehead, muzzle small, 
black; outside of forelegs and front of forelegs towards 
knees freckled with dull black, particularly the latter; 
front of forelegs below knees brown black; pasterns all 
round black; front of hinder legs towards pasterns, and 
pasterns brown black with some white hairs intermixed; 
a fine pencil of long black hairs between horns about 
two thirds of their length; eyelids black, inner canthus 
elongated after junction of lids into a rounded point 
extending parallel with the line of chaffron, lachrymary 
slit a line about an inch and a quarter in length and 
waved ( vide drawing), 24 eyelashes black; tail white, 
the middle above black; ears longer than horns, broad, 
white inside with 4 striae of hairs. 
Thermometer at 7 a.m. 34. No inhabitants. Road 
good, but stony in some places. About 8 p.m. two 
men arrived from Motito with a parcel of letters from 
the Colony. Letter of secretary dated 20 March.25 
Sheep lost. 
22 Klein Chowing, 60 miles N.E. of Kuruman. See map. 
•• A coarse dark patch of hair on the forehead, like a mask. 
" I cannot trace this drawing . 
.. I have not succeeded in finding this letter. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
20 MAY (WEDNESDAY). 
Travelled ten miles to the Great or Baralong 
Choai.26 Numbers of quaggas over the flat. One was 
shot and two others wounded. On reaching the 
halting place the people arrived with reports that 
numerous lions must be in the neighbourhood as the 
traces were everywhere to be seen. On walking round 
the lake saw the traces of four which must have been 
left last night. Hartebeasts, springbok and quaggas 
appear to resort in great numbers to drink. The lion 
soon after dark was heard roaring to the east of our 
encampment. They are always most troublesome 
immediately after dark and just before daylight. The 
game principally arrive at the water a little before 
daylight, seldom leaving the spots where they feed till 
dark. The lion generally roams about hy the water 
before day. When oxen are disturbed by lions in the 
night they do not cease running for a long time, and 
it is sometimes almost impossible to stop them even 
should men on horseback get before them. 
21 MAY (THURSDAY). 
Spoors of many lions along the road; elands see~ 
towards evening_. The country still :fine, but little or 
no rain has fallen lately t~wards the halting place. 
Before starting a native visited our encampment. He 
was a Batlapi and lived at a kraal not far distant. Last 
evening several others were seen, but when our people 
endeavoured to get to them, in order to bring them 
to the wagons, they secreted themselves in the long 
•• A salt•pan at Stella P.O., 40 miles N. of Vryburg. See map 
and Plate 1. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 35 
grass and bushes. The fresh dung of rhinoceri were 
seen near to the road and also some cameleopards were 
seen, spoors of them abundant. Makan 27 went off 
this morning for Motito. Ordered the bell to be rung 
all night to endeavour to frighten the lions. 
The Helotarsus typicus when flying raises the tips 
of the wings much above the level of the back more 
than any other of the Falconidae that I am acquainted 
with. 
22 MAY (FRIDAY). 
Elephants sometimes approach wagons in a 
threatening manner. Once a party of them came close 
to Hume·s wagons and screamed dreadfully. After 
a time they went off. People when they were at some 
distance pursued them to kill some. They turned and 
chased them back to the wagons where they screamed 
and tossed their trunks about. Went off again; again 
were followed. They again turned and gave chase 
as far as the wagons. After this the people 
discontinued following them. 
Catoblepas tau.Tina, female: two mammillae, conical 
form; interinguinal sinus furnished with long brown 
hair which projects beyond it above hoof; immediately 
over upper point of anus a minute black tuft of hair; 
fore legs: false hoofs large and arched at points; under 
lip and chin deep black with numerous long bristles, 
particularly about angle of mouth where they are 
directed forwards, those of chin downwards; centre 
of face deep black and considerably arched, covered 
with long hair about two inches; under inner angle 
of eye a black bare spot of an oval form a:bout the 
" A Tswana messeneer. 
36 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
size of a partridge egg, porous, and with numerous 
minute holes through which a viscous glairy 28 fluid 
exudes; forehead and space between horns black, 
freckled with brown hair; behind horns and stretching 
to ears black; outer surface of ears also black, inside 
of ears and part in front round base of ear opening 
brown grey; hair very long on eyebrows, and eyelashes 
of great length, particularly over inner canthus; a patch 
of long black hair under eye, and the lower eyelashes 
are also very long, lying down upon the cheek below 
the patch of long black hair under the eyes; sides of 
head pale grey white freckled with pale brown, sides 
of head brown grey, striped vertically with narrow 
black lines; from hind part of lower jaw long 
pendulous hair, middle black on sides, colour of sides 
of head; along throat to anterior part of breast long 
black hair; from about two inches behind horns to 
hinder part of shoulder hunch a mane of long hair stiff 
and erect towards head, more hanging behind; on each 
side of black mane of neck a short mane of greyish 
hair lying upon the black; body brown grey, striped 
vertically with black, irregular in disposition and size, 
also some irregular stripes on hinder legs; limbs dirty 
light brown clouded with dark brown black; tail with 
short freckled brown hair along centre above till near 
tip, edged on each side with long black stiff hair, towards 
tip with hair like that on the tail of a horse, the side 
hairs of tail long to the hair at tip. This animal is 
considerably lower behind than before. Immediately 
behind the black chin colour nearly white, then brown 
grey till the long hair; belly and lower parts of sides 
nearly dull brown; upper lip towards angle of mouth 
" Viscous. Glair is the clear part of an egg used as varnish. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 37 
pendulous and hanging in a lap over the under one; a 
consider~ble hollow between the horns, which are a 
considerable distance apart at base; horns directed 
backwards and upwards towards points. 
Thermometer at daylight 3 3. Arrived at Sitlaholi 29 
about 1 p.m. No lions according to the natives. One 
or two Baharutse 30 visited us after halting; stated that 
no Matabeli had been seen this side of Molopo since 
Bain's wagons were seized.31 They stated that some 
of Mohura's 32 men had repaired to the Wankets 33 
country but were too timid to attempt taking cattle 
from Masalacatzie, but that some Baharutse accom· 
plished it whilst they were in the neighbourhood. They 
then fell upon them, 4 men. [They} shot three; the 
·other escaped and left the cattle in possession of the 
Batclapi who drove them westwards for a considerable 
distance and then in the direction of Letako. These 
were the cattle which Mohura gave over to us. They 
do not know of any second attempt having been made 
since that. In descending to the Sitlaholi we passed 
a clump of trees where a Baralong chief was at one 
time residing subordinate to Towani who was himself 
living in a valley more to the eastward. Mulitsani 34 
determined upon attacking Towani 35 and seized men 
as guides. They mistook in the night the valley and 
fell upon the minor chief and his people instead of 
upon Towani; killed most of them and carried off all 
their cattle. 
29 Setlagoli, about 60 miles N. of Vryburg. See map. 
• Huruthse. 
11 See Vol. i of this Diary, p. 201, footnote 1. 
12 A Tlhaping chief. 
11 Ngwaketse. 
" Molitsani, chief of a clan of the Bataung. Theal, G. M., 
Histo_ry of South Africa (1834·1854), London, 1888, Vol. iii, p. 304. 
• Tawane, a Rofong chief. Thea!, G. M., op. cit., pp. 321·323. 
D 
38 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
23 MAY (SATURDAY). 
Travelled nearly eight hours to the Maritsani. Early 
this morning a number of Baharutsi came to the wagons 
and from them I learnt that Bain' s wagons were seized 
just a little below where we halted yesterday, and 
they showed us nearly the spot. 38 They all fled when 
the commando arrived. They, the Mata:beli, killed some 
of the oxen and kindled large fires to prepare the flesh. 
Those were doubtless the fires which Bain saw. A 
cameleopard was shot this afternoon, a female with 
young, very fat. A number of the Baharutse who 
determined upon accompanying us remained with the 
portions of the animal which could not be carried by 
the wagons. They have the appearance of half starved 
persons, have no cattle and on account of the dryness 
of the country cannot grow com. Trust entirely to 
the spontaneous productions of the ground and what 
game they can procure. Their poverty is their only 
safeguard. . They brought skins and mackatan 37 for: 
barter, also a few ostrich feathers. The last commando 
from Dingan was opposed by the old men who had 
wives, and Masalacatzie .said if they should be beaten 
off then the machaha 88 would go; the latter, if the 
others should be overcome provided they repulsed them, 
were to take the cattle of the men. Some of the men 
fled and those M. separated from their wives. They 
live now in a separate kraal and it is his intention to 
send them alone against the next commando that may 
come, and if they conquer them they will be permitted 
to live with their wives again. There are many old 
• See Vol. i of this Diary, p. 201, footnote 1. 
" Ma1tataT1e, plural of leltataT1e, the Kaffir melon. 
" Ama;aha, or strapping fellows. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 39 
men who never have had wives heing still kept as 
machaha. [M.] says that when they get wives they 
are no longer brave soldiers. Masalacatzie has one 
son called Kuruman 39 and another Mosheto. 40 
Immediately after the return of Barend's commando 
they suffered terribly from small pox. Bootschap u 
was left with only about 16 men. Some of his very 
old men died of that disease. There was a large pot 
placed in some fissure of a rock and the original natives 
told the Matabeli that they must not break it else they 
would see what would be the consequences. They 
broke it to see and now the Baharootzie say that the 
present disease which we have this day heard to be 
raging there has been occasioned by that. 
Reached the Meritsani 42 about dark. 
24 MAY (SUNDAY). 
Mr. Moffat had a Dutch service in the morning, 
in the middle of the day an English service, and in 
the evening one in Sitchuana. 
Cloudy at night and very cold. Thermometer during 
the greatest heat of the day 92 in my wagon. Hyenas 
and jackals heard during the night. 
25 MAY (MONDAY). 
From the chin of kokoon 43 some long black and 
white hairs or bristles; upper lip turned inwards. The 
'" Nkulumana. See Posselt, F. W. T., Fact and Fiction, Bulawayo, 
193S', p. 161. 
• Moshete was the name by which the Tswana knew Robert Moffat. 
See Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives of Robert and Mary Moffat. London, 
188S', p. 416. 
" Boetsap. 
a Maritzani, about 70 miles N.E. of Vryburg. See map. 
•• Kgol(_on, the wildebeeste. Smith is describing the Blue Wilde• 
beeste, the Tswana name of which is, however, pudumo. 
40 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
muzzle terminates in an angular point on the middle 
of upper lip. Nostril lids very broad and are opened 
and shut 'by means of a bone which is imbedded in 
each cover 44 and extends to the nose bones. 
The beds of some of the valleys when much vegetable 
soil is collected sometimes catch fire and continue to 
bum for many years. One had burned 7 years on the 
Meritsani. 
Lions sometimes pursue men and the latter 
occasionally climb up trees. On one occasion a 
Bechuana ascended a tree whose principal branches 
were all destroyed just before dark. The lion remained 
under till near daylight. He continued awake but 
almost as the light was appearing he went to sleep. 
Whilst in that state he fell from his position and landed 
upon the lion who had also been asleep. The animal, 
frightened to an extreme, sprung up and ran off without 
attempting to injure him. Another man ascended a 
tree when pursued by a lion. The latter in endeavour, 
ing to get up to the man tore the whole of the bark 
from the trunk of the tree. Once in Namaqualand 
a lion observed a cameleopard plucking leaves from a 
thorn tree, his head very high. The lion with the 
intention of seizing him about the head sprung at it. 
The cameleopard, observing him, pulled away the head 
and the lion fell back over into the tree. There he 
remained unable to extricate himself and a fine skeleton 
was there formed. When a lion approaches a wagon 
with oxen in it the best method to keep all quiet is 
for the leader to turn back and as quickly as possible 
fix the front oxen to the fore wheels. When oxen 
run off with a wagon on being frightened by a lion, 
•• I am indebted to Dr. Robert Broom for this sentence, which, 
without his help, I could not have deciphered. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 41 
the leader ought always to beat them as severely as 
possible and urge them on. They seem to forget their 
fright and eventually think that they have been driven 
to their rapid pace by the hands of the driver. After 
a time by calling to them they stand still. Before 
halting we passed a sort of temporary hut, the resort 
of a number of poor Baharutsi, in a thick bush near 
a fley of water~ perhaps twenty men were assembled 
around it. Close to this the party of our people who 
had advanced in front of the wagons saw a lion and 
two lionesses with two cubs. The lion advanced 
towards them and when about twenty yards from them 
stood still, looked at them and then retired. They 
rode off to acquaint some persons who were near them 
of their danger, and as they were returning back to 
the road he was again before them. The females with 
the cubs galloped off in an opposite direction. About 
dusk a woman with a child came to the wagons and 
there remained. She was afraid to go farther as the 
country was filled with lions. She lived upon the 
Meritsani and had been this far gathering food of the 
fruits of the field. The poor Caffers which :first 
approached our wagons at Sitlaholi still continue with 
us and continue to carry heavy loads of the flesh [of} 
the :first cameleopard which was shot near their home. 
They seem to feast with great pleasure, keeping ug 
a large :fire and eating almost the whole night. The 
two that approached so gradually the wagons yesterday 
also kept company with us. They were two of the 
poor that lived as they do at present even ·before the 
Baharutse were attacked by Masalacatzie. 
During the whole day sky nearly obscured by thick 
black clouds; clear towards evening. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
26 MAY (TUESDAY), 
The footsteps of numerous rhinoceroses seen in 
several directions and a large troop of bastard hartebeast 
were seen close to where we halted last night. An 
eland shot today, also a large herd of hartebeasts with 
four quaggas amongst them. When flying they 
generally run one after the other. 
The Bamangwato 0 dig a large hole between two 
bushes and then one man goes and provokes the 
elephant. When he runs after him the man takes the 
direction of the hole but avoids it and turns round 
the bush. The elephant, not knowing of the hole, 
falls in and a number of men who are close in pursuit 
fall upon him. 
There was, when Hume was last in, a tribe of people 
living on some very stony mountains before he reached 
the Bamangwatos called Bakas; 46 when they used to 
be attacked they fled immediately and concealed 
themselves under large stones. The chief of that tribe 
would not deal with him last time because he said 
that whenever wagons came to him Masalacatzie knew 
and immediately sent to take away the beads. After 
some time he got him to exchange sixty teeth. During 
one month the Portuguese traders had been twice to 
deal with them. The Bay 41 was eight days journey 
from them. The Portuguese conveyed their goods on 
pack-oxen and never approached the kraal but remained 
in the fields and sent to the people to come. Probably 
adopted to prevent its being known to Masalacatzie 
.. Ngwato. 
.. Kaa, a tribe now living at Shoshong, in the Bechuanaland 
Protectorate . 
., Delagoa Bay. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 43 
that traders had been to barter with them. They 
preferred teeth between 40 and sixty pounds; those 
would not take cow teeth so that the teeth most 
commonly presented to other traders are those of 
females and very large male teeth. The Portuguese 
will not take teeth with broken points. 
Spoors of lions very abundant. Cloudy during the 
whole day with a few drops of rain towards evening; 
dull during the night. 
27 MAY (WEDNESDAY). 
Lunata,48 female: two paps; eyes large hrown; lower 
part of face narrow and elongated, muzzle small, nearly 
so, V ; between limbs covered with a pale rufous hair 
except a narrow vertical stripe down middle; face brown 
black narrowing above and extending upwards between 
horns over eyes to black stripe and a little below eyes 
deep chesnut, 49 sides of upper lip and hair along edge 
of black of face dark chesnut, under lip and chin lighter 
·chesnut; sides of neck and general colour of body rufous 
cream colour; high hump on shoulder; from anterior 
part of hump an irregular vertical stripe, not reaching 
quite so high as hump, extending on front and half 
outside of foreleg and below, forms a complete circle 
round the leg; hinder and lower part opposite knee 
joint, semicircle near base of foreleg, on the outside 
tawny; ·below knee joint rufous tawny; from loins over 
junction of hinder legs and stretching down outside 
to joint rusty grey; in front of leg a tawny colour just 
43 Smith apparently :first wrote cama (Bubalus cama, or 1{ama of 
the Tswana), but altered it to lunata (Bubalus lunatus, the tsesebe 
of the Tswana) . He used the feminine form of the specific name 
because the specimen was a female. 
• Alternative form of "chestnut". 
44 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
seen; the rusty grey extends right round limb near 
joints; below this legs as fore ones; ears rusty chesnut 
without black at point and on each side a short way 
down; top of head brown purple black; below and 
a little in front of inner canthus of eye a portion bare 
about the size of sixpence, with a vertical slit in middle 
discharging a viscous glairy 50 fluid when pressed; 
longitudinal having stripes inside of ears, hair long; 
upper and lower eyelashes chesnut; eyebrows chesnut 
and white; a few scattered bristles on upper lip and 
above upper angles of nose; on upper lip white bristles, 
lower rufous; the hairs under the chin rather long 
and coarse; hairs on middle of face lie upwards, between 
and a little before horns sidewise, rest downwards and 
backwards on body. Height to top of hump 4 feet, to 
base of tail from . . . • 3 [feet J 1 inch; from base of 
horns to root of tail 4 [feet J 8 inches; from between 
horns to nose 15Y2 inches. Under belly towards middle 
yellowish white; hind part of buttocks and inside of 
thighs yellowish white or pale buff. 
Placenta of eland: two arteries and two veins; the 
blood circulated through circular dark spongy bodies 
placed at irregular intervals between membranes, some 
of the spongy bodies about two inches and a half in 
circumference, some very small; membranes also highly 
vascular, spongy bodies dark spleen coloured; vessels 
which carry blood bleached white; liquor amnii glairy 
green-.. yellow; umbilical cord about two inches in 
diameter when flattened. 
Bushman lark (drawing No ..••• ) :51 upper mandible 
dark horn coloured except towards angle of mouth 
where it is light horn coloured; lower mandible purplish 
no See footnote 28 on p. 36. 
11 I cannot identify this drawing. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
white; top of head dark black brown tipt and edged 
with light rufous or rufous white; eyebrows rufous 
white; feathers of upper parts dark black brown finely 
tipt with white or rufous white broadly edged with 
the same colour; shoulder feather, near quill blackish 
broadly edged and ti pt with rufous (bright) ; wing 
feathers brown or blackish brown, the primary nearly 
with the whole of outer vanes towards quill chesnut, 
secondaries black brown broadly edged and tipt with 
rufous white; rump rusty white; tail short, slightly 
forked, outermost feather of each side white, next to 
that white outer vane and inner white towards shaft, 
rest blackish brown; rest of tail feathers blackish brown, 
two centre ones finely edged and tipt with dull white; 
chin and anterior part of throat white; lower part of 
throat and anterior part of breast light tawny white 
with a triangular black brown spot at tip of each 
feather, the base the tip, so, ).. 51* At one of the angles 
the shaft enters which is also brown; belly and vent 
pale tawny white. Legs, toes, and claws flesh 
coloured; ears black feathers slightly edged with rufous; 
length about four inches; eyes clear brown, margins 
of eyelids with some minute downy white feathers. 
Met with on the grass flats near Loklohani 52 ; flies 
in numbers together and always rests amongst the grass. 
When it flies it spreads the tail so as to show the 
white lateral feathers. Claw of hinder toe nearly 
straight. 
Four elands and a bastard hartebeast shot today. 
Two of the former were with young, the latter had 
but lately calved. The men drove one of the elands 
close up to the wagons and then with a shot broke 
"• Thus in MS. 
0 Lothlakane, about 10 miles S. of Mafeking. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
her foreleg. She immediately fell and appeared quite 
exhausted. It was a long time before she recovered 
breath sufficient to enable her to attempt to stand up. 
When she got on her feet she was able only to stand 
for a few seconds; attempted to move but could not. 
Got three young specimens of Oratopu.s bicolor 
jardineii, eyes brown. Maclaniani 53 and Liapeli 114 
went off early this morning to acquaint the Matabeli 
with our approach. Halted today. 
28 MAY (THURSDAY). 
Started about ten o'clock and reached Molopo 55 
after travelling about 7 hours. The :first running river 
we have crossed since leaving the Vaal River. Stream 
very weak where we crossed it which was between two 
beds of reeds; the drift full of rocks and large stones. 
Syme shot a female of the Rhinoceros simu.s and 
wounded the young one whose horns were just 
beginning to appear. Eight or nine lions were seen 
during this day's journey, several of them from the 
wagons. One growled soon after dark quite close to 
the wagons, apparently about the drift where we crossed 
the river. 
The body of poor Baharootse 56 who had for some 
days accompanied us turned back at the Loklahani 
being fearful of approaching closer to the Matabeli 
country. 
Some of the ta~haitsi 117 seen today and it is stated 
11 Matlhanyane. See Vol. i, p. 35'2. 
" Tlhapeli(?). See Vol. i, p. 35'2 . 
.. Molopo River. The Expedition reached it near Mafeking . 
.. Huruthse. 
'" Tal{.ayesi, the Tswana(?) name for the roan antelope or bastard 
gemsbok:. See p. 240. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 47 
they always inhabit the country towards the sources 
of the Molopo. This antelope when approached 
closely immediately lies down in the grass and remains 
there till nearly approached. It then stands up and 
shows a determination to give fight. A blue wildebeast 
which Tennant wounded pursued him twice round a 
bush. The new Pterodes with logwood coloured belly 
first found at Loklohani; resorts to the water to drink 
about 8 and nine o'clock in the morning. The dung 
of the Rhinoceros simus very much re...c::embles that of 
the elephant. 
T·his night we halt where the Matabeli halted with 
Bain's wagons on their return after capturing them. A 
quagga which must have been shot by Maclaniani 
yesterday was found dead near to the road and just 
as we were passing opposite to it without seeing it, 
the grass being so long, a great number of vultures 
pounced down on it and excited our attention. The 
descent of those birds was most extraordinary; there 
seemed to be a competition amongst them who was 
to be first down, and such was the fury of their descent 
that with their blows upon the ground in resting they 
excited a cloud of dust. Though we had not two 
hundred yards to run and saw the first rest yet one 
of the eyes was perfectly taken out before we got within 
distance to make them fly. They appeared all to ·be 
V ultur fulvus. 
29 MAY (FRIDAY). 
The sassaby have no inguinal pores. The core of 
the riet bok horns is slightly porous longitudinally, 
some fine holes, some larger, the finest towards centre 
where they are very numerous. The eggs of Pterodes 
'48 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
with logwood coloured :belly first procured at Lohlakani; 
ground colour light greenish yellow abundantly spotted 
with light brown. An egg fully formed and coloured 
found in one shot 2 7 May. Last night a lion 
approached close to our encampment and growled 
repeatedly hut made no attack upon the cattle; probably 
intimidated by the constant ringing of the bell. 
Towards morning the oxen made a rush from one 
corner of the kraal and several horses broke loose; 
supposed in consequence of another visit. One was 
seen close to the wagons early in the morning. None 
of the Matabeli have arrived though we expected them 
early today. In consequence of the lions being so 
numerous, judged it advisable to concentrate the 
wagons so that the men might sleep •betwixt them. 
Made a kraal on one side for the oxen and placed the 
watch upon one of the wagons with orders to ring 
the bell during the whole night. 
30 MAY (SATURDAY). 
Geko No .... 58 (Drawing .... 110) 
About 12 o ·clock started to visit the sources of thr 
Molopo. About nine started the Litabeli who was 
sent to us at Kuruman, two Hottentots, and a Bechuana 
to go to Mosega 60 as no messengers had arrived from 
Masalacatzie. They met them on the road and 
returned with them early in the day. One chief, a 
brother of Masalacatzie, and two other soldiers 
composed the party. The fifth was sent to state to 
Masalacatzie that we had reached the Molopo and 
would there remain till Monday morning and then 
'" No number given. 
11 I cannot identify this drawing. . 
• The present·day Zendeling's Post, near Zeerust. 
ANDREW ~MITH DIARY 49 
proceed to Mamurie 61 also an order to have milk and 
beer at that stream on Monday. The chief states that 
it is the intention of Masalacatzie to meet us at Mosega. 
Almost immediately the chief arrived he asked to see 
the drawings and upon the first being presented to 
him he regarded it for some time with great admiration 
and then turned it round in order to see if nothing was 
placed on the back of the paper. When he discovered 
nothing his astonishment was expressed more strongly. 
This day, in riding to the sources of the Molopo, 
found on the road a great number of Vidua longicauda 
and Cotu.rnix vulgaris, also bastard hartebeasts and riet 
boks. The Rhinoceros simus generally repairs to the 
same place to deposit his excrement, and after doing 
that generally ploughs up the ground with his horn. 
Nearly a wagon load is to be seen in some places. The 
black rhinoceros generally tosses his dung about, after 
voiding it, with his horn, and ploughs the ground up 
about the place. Several of the N.eophron caru.nculatus 
were seen today and one was shot. Caruncles 62 
larger and fewer in number than those I have seen 
elsewhere. On each side of neck a fold of white skin 
which disappears when the oesophagus is much dis· 
tended. It reaches up as high as the angles of the lower 
mandible; in other respects the same as those met in 
Cafferland.63 Head rose colour; legs and feet bluish 
green; eyes brown. Last night the lion came so near 
that almost the whole party issued out with a blue 
light burning to endeavour to shoot him. 
"' Mimori River, a tributary of the Klein Marica joining it at 
Zeerust. 
a Small fleshy excrescences. 
11 i.e. on Smith's journey in 1824, or on that of 1831-1832. See 
Vol. i of this Diary, p. 14 and pp. 1 f·l6. 
50 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
31 MAY (SUNDAY). 
Six Matabeli arrived today from Mosega with some 
beer. They state that Masalacatzie was expected the 
day they left. Service as usual. 
1 JUNE (MONDAY). 
Left Molopo about :Y2 past ten and reached 
Mirimani 64 about :Y2 past four. On the road were 
met by six Matabeli, two men and four women, with 
beer and milk. Halted near a spring with reeds. 65 
Outspanned on the side of a valley rather high to 
avoid any miasma which might arise. 
A black rhinoceros was shot near to the halting 
place, and a little before it an eland. 
Two messengers arrived from Masalacatzie bringing 
with them some cattle for Mr. Moffat and a message 
that although Maclaniani stated that Mr. Moffat was 
with the wagons yet he could not believe it; he would 
only believe it when his own eyes should see him. They 
further stated that it was Masalacatzie's wish that the 
chief who was with us should conduct us tomorrow 
to Mosega an:d then go on directly to Masalacatzie 
who was towards the Marique 66 and bring him to the 
wagons. The men said he, M., was dancing about 
for joy and that everythipg he did testified his delight. 
He sent word that the traders who were come 
were not to exchange anything till they had seen 
Masalacatzie. 
°' Malmani, a tributary of the Marico River. The farm of the 
late Dr. J. G. Gubbins is at the source of this stream. The Expedition 
must have passed this point. See map. 
• Malmani Oog, on the late Dr. J. G. Gubbins" farm. 
• Marico River. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
2 JUNE (TUESDAY). 
Early in the morning started to skin a rhinoceros 
which had been shot yesterday. It is said to be different 
from either the one of the Colony or the white one. 
Both horns were long, the hinder rather the longest 
and compressed towards the point; colour a dirty 
yellowish white. 
About eleven o'clock started and proceeded towards 
Mosega and about four p.m. reached a small stream 
on which we halted about :five or six miles to the 
northward of where the Baharutsie used to live, or at 
least where they lived with Messrs. Lemu and Rolland 
[who] established themselves there. 67 
Three specimens of Corythaixoides ty picu.s were this 
day procured close to where we halted, and many 
others were seen. Bill and legs black; eyes dark brown. 
During our journey from the western top of the 
basin to the halting place we passed three kraals. All 
the people turned out to look at us and I calculated 
the number of men to be about 100. All appeared 
delighted with the scene. After halting, several 
endeavoured to approach the wagons. They were 
instantly ordered away and some who did not appear 
ready in retreating were pelted with stones by those 
placed as a guard for the wagons, amongst which was 
a relative of Masalacatzie.68 The chief who had 
accompanied us from the :first left us after halting in 
order to proceed to the king and bring him hither. 
A few pots of beer and some milk were brought; one 
pot of the latter was sent to my wagon, and a pot 
.. The French mission to the Huruthse at Mosega was founded in 
1831. 
• Smith originally wrote "brother", but altered it to "relative". 
52 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
of beer was sent to Messrs. Ford and Burrow. At 
night the oxen were sent to an adjoining kraal in 
consequence of Mr. Moffat being determined to send 
his whether I did it or not. This I regarded as rather 
imprudent, as we were putting ourselves by this step 
comp~tely in the power of a fickle cattle-loving 
savage.69 It is true he could, were he determined, take 
our cattle in the day from the herds, but then he would 
incur the danger of losing men and being repulsed; 
but as it now is they may be carried off without any 
risk whatever. 
3 JUNE (WEDNESDAY). 
Started about nine o'clock with Mr. Moffat and 
Mr. &hoon 70 to see the house which was built by. 
Messrs. Rolland and Lemu. It stands about 300 yards 
to the west of the Makama River 71 and under a kloof 
called Mosiga in which the principal part of the 
Baharutse lived at the time they built it. All the 
valleys studded towards their bottoms by the stalks of 
Caff er corn. A great quantity of ground under 
cultivation and they must have reaped luxuriant crops. 
Some of the stalks yet standing measured more than 
seven feet; rather slender. The walls of the house 
rather ruinous; some of the joists still lying on the 
walls. We then proceeded to some of the kloof s, 
Mr. Moffat being anxious to discover timber fit for the 
Kuruman church.72 Found some pretty suitable but 
would be difficult to get out . 
.. Compare Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives of Robert and Mary Moffat, 
London, 1885, pp. 189 and 191. 
'
0 See Vol. i of this Diary, p. 76, footnote 1. 
" Klein Marice River. 
,. Moffat, J. S., op. cit., p. 181, and Moffat, R., Missionary Labours 
and Scenes in Southern Africa, London, 1842, p. 584. 
I 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 53 
Saw several duikers of the species drawn :first by 
Mr. F.73 and also some of the Antelope melampus on 
the sides of a thinly wooded ravine. On the sides of 
one of them some large antelopes which I was 
unacquainted with and some of the party knew them. 
On one of the large trees, which was at least 20 feet 
high before any branch appeared, marks of tigers 
having ascended it. The tiger when he is in a tree 
always springs into a bush when leaping down in order 
to break his fall. 
On our return met a young man who was one of 
six who were sent out to spy the approach of Jan 
· Bloom. They were surprised by his party and not 
being able to fly kept advancing, and :five were shot. 
He then fled. A chief named Macotue 74 visited us 
this afternoon. It is stated that he is in disgrace at 
present. He was the person who used to be the 
medium of communication between Masalacatzie and 
the French missionaries and used to make most 
enormous exactions from them in the name of Masala­
catzie. He also told them that the Wankets 711 had 
murdered white people and no evil had come upon 
them. He also said that Masalacatzie could take 
vengeance if he wished. Perhaps his disgrace may be 
owing to Masalacatzie having been made acquainted 
with these circumstances. No news from Masalacatzie. 
4 JUNE (THURSDAY). 
The Matabeli were employed close to our wagons 
beating out their corn. 76 They prepare a floor by :first 
" George Ford, the artist who was responsible for the drawings 
of animals. 
E 
,. Mokotwe (Makoto), an induna or headman of Mzilikazi. 
11 N gwaketse. 
'" See Plate 2. 
54 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
removing all the grass and inequalities, [and] then 
plaistering it with cowdung. Upon this the heads of 
the corn are thrown in a large heap. A circle is then 
formed round it, sometimes of men, sometimes of 
women and sometimes a mixture of both. Each 
individual has two long karies, one in each hand, and 
with those they commence simultaneously to beat upon 
the corn. They gradually close in towards the centre, 
and in the advance keep constantly kicking up the corn 
with the feet. During this time they keep constantly 
singing together. Each time the women bring basket­
fulls of heads from the :fields, they, on tossing them on 
the heap, scream out something that did not appear to 
be intelligible to our interpreter, at least he said so. 
After having beaten out all the corn they toss the 
heads on one side and generally make :fires with them 
to cook. The women then take the :field with small 
brooms or bunches of the stalks of grass, and sweep off 
all the small portions of the stalks or heads which might 
have been detached during the beating, turning during 
this process the com from time to time to get upper­
most what might have been below. They then with 
the hands take up the corn and let it fall into a circular 
hole which is near the centre of the floor, so that the 
wind may carry away the smaller pieces which the 
broom had left. It is then carried home in baskets. 
About the kraals forked sticks are seen in various 
directions, and at this season upon them are placed 
bundles of heads of corn, baskets with clean com, etc., 
to dry. Every kraal must cultivate a portion of corn 
for Masalacatzie and also some for themselves. The 
chief takes charge of what is cultivated for the king. 
A man was desired by those in charge of the wagons 
to go back. He was obstinate; they persisted and so 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
did he. At last one, our interpreter, got hold of a 
thick stick and beat him terribly. He still persisted 
in remaining and kept vociferating with great 
determination. At last he went off apparently greatly 
enraged. I went to a large party of Matabeli, partly 
men, partly women. After they surveyed me from head 
to foot they began to finger my shoes and looked with 
great surprise at the under part of the soles and 
particularly were astonished with the small iron nai1s 
that were in the heels and toes. Asked what the sole 
was made of, and upon being told that it was ox hide 
they seemed more surprised than before as they could 
not comprehend how and what sort of ox hides had 
iron in them. They then were particularly anxious 
to know if I had toes, and made signs for me to permit 
them to ascertain that. I pulled off my shoe and 
counted them through the stockings. They then did 
the same after me and after a deal of altercation they 
came to the conclusion that I was made like themselves. 
They also examined my hands and counted the fingers, 
then referred to their own which they found to be the 
same. The men who were employed in beating out 
the corn had their faces, armpits, sides,. buttocks and 
hams rubbed with clay, either white or red, in order 
to prevent the chaff adhering to the parts covered with 
perspiration as it causes such itching. 
Mr. Moffat sent a span of oxen and some men to 
bring away one of the beams from the house at Mosiga 
for a disselboom.77 The chief who had charge of the 
house came out as they passed his kraal and told them 
that the building could not be touched without 
Masalacatzie's permission. He said the wood that had 
" Wagon shaft. 
56 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
been taken away Masalacatzie meant to pay to the 
white people when they returned to occupy it. I was 
told he had promised not to sow the ground around 
the house but did not believe it, though it certainly 
was not sown whilst all at a little distance had been 
cropped (sic J with corn. Since I find that he has 
ordered the house to be taken care of there can be no 
reason to doubt of his having also prevented the ground 
being cultivated. 
5 JUNE (FRIDAY). 
Early this morning the chief returned from 
Masalacatzie and stated to us that it was the wish of 
the latter that we should proceed to where he was lying 
which was about two days journey with the wagons 
behind the hills. Got ready and travelled as far as 
the entrance of the poort.78 Before we moved a 
number of men came to the wagons and the chief 
allowed them to come near which had not been 
permitted whilst he had been absent. Another chief 
of inferior rank, Umcotue, who has been already 
mentioned as having been formerly the medium ·between 
Masalacatzie and the French missionaries, was called 
to be present at our interview with Masalacatzie. 
Buff aloes are said to abound in the poort. He has not 
yet sent us any cattle nor have the two men returned 
who went in advance. A large herd of cattle seen 
near to the poort. As far as I have been able to 
ascertain there are about 10 kraals in the Mosiga basin 
and I am convinced none of these contain more than 
fifty men able to use arms. There are a great number 
" N.E. of Zeerust. 
ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 57 
of women and a few children. The women appear 
mostly Baquana and Baharutsi. All those who travelled 
with us were regular Matabeli and two of them near 
relations of Masalacatzie, the one his nephew, the other 
his cousin. 
6 JUNE (SATURDAY). 
Ascended the range to the north of the entrance of 
the poort 79 and on our return breakfasted and 
proceeded towards Masalacatzie. The road was very 
bad and many places were with difficulty passed. 
Before starting a number of women arrived with beer 
and milk from a kraal at a considerable distance. They 
proceeded with us and carried both along with them 
a distance of at least ten miles. Two men arrived from 
Masalacatzie when we were about to halt and stated 
that he was busy in preparing to receive us, and that 
he had sent for fat cattle from the W ankets 80 country. 
Soon after halting a black rhinoceros made its 
appearance and a party immediately went after it. 
After running for some distance it was brought to 
the ground. Many lead balls had been fired at it but 
none of them penetrated the skin, only the spots which 
they had struck were coloured bluish. The head of 
this species is much deeper than the species with equal 
horns. The ears are higher on the head, almost on 
the top, and rather larger than the other species. The 
face, or rather sides of the face, particularly towards 
the eye, is more marked with wrinkles; the snout to 
the upper lip is much shorter. The hinder horn is 
short and conical; the front horn is nearly in shape and 
" Near Kurichani. See map . 
., N gwaketse, whose chief town was Melita, near Kanye in the 
Bechuanaland Protectorate. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
length like that of the other species, and was rent 
asunder towards the point as in it. The general colour 
was a yellowish white with a faint tint of brown, and 
the sides of the head towards the roots of the horns 
and on sides of upper lip rather bluish. The skin of 
the whole body was more marked by fissures, short 
and variously connected, forming a sort of irregular 
network. The neck was also shorter than in the other 
species. Eyes brown, pupil large and blue black, 
circular. No black skin about the joints as in the other' 
species. The legs were longer in proportion than in 
the other; tail blunt at point, and upper and under 
edge furnished with a stripe of strong short black hairs. 
The sides of ears towards tips also edged with short 
black hairs. Hoofs, three, 80* penis directed backwards, 
testes lying close to sheath of penis upon each side 
directed up the groins. A mamilla on each side in 
front of sheath of penis. Length from between ears 
to root of tail along back . . . . ; 81 height about 4 feet 
ten inches. 
The Corathaixoides flies very much like a 'T o~us; 
flaps its wings much, extends its neck and the tail 
appears very long when flying. Perches often on the 
tops of trees; eats berries. Perdix (New pheasant): 
Eyes dark brown; bill orange coloured, shaded towards 
culmen 82 with a little purple brown; greenish towards 
angle of mouth; legs red, with one long spur slightly 
bending upwards. 
Penis Rhinoceri africani: [A:] extremity very broad 
and oval like a thin plate; placed vertical to the 
extremity towards the one end of this plate, behind, 
""* Three·toed. 
11 No measurement given. 
n The median lengthwise ridge of the upper mandible of a bird. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
a small and sort of flattened cylinder sharper on the 
upper edge than the other; this portion is about an 
inch in length, then it thickens very considerably and 
is surrounded by another thin edging placed in a 
slanting direction, and this rim is slightly notched above 
and gradually thickens towards where it is lost in the 
body of the penis. B: the hody behind that is also 
a sort of flattened cylinder, round below and sharpened 
above; a:bout four inches behind that are two flaps, 
one on each side above, which fold towards each other 
and are about an inch and a quarter at greatest width, 
and three inches long. C: the insides of these flaps 
are covered with a sort of ropy 83 glandular secretion 
which appears in the form of little scales easily rubbed 
off; the corpus spungiosum urethrae is small and the 
urethra towards the middle is studded round with 
minute holes and has a :fibrous like texture. This animal 
tosses up dogs or men with his horn. 
7 JUNE (SUNDAY). 
Halted today. Service performed as usual. Last 
night the Mata:beli kept singing till near midnight and 
the words were accompanied with the most hideous 
gestures. In these songs the women joined. The two 
chiefs who were with us went early to sleep and had 
nothing to do in the merriment. 
8 JUNE (MONDAY). 
Started about ten o'clock and reached the Meriqua 84 
about an hour before sunset. This has a very deep 
81 Glutinous . 
.. Marica River. 
60 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
bed and a tolerable stream. Deep pools in some places. 
We had scarcely outspanned when a messenger arrived 
at the wagons and stated that two male buffaloes had 
been shot by Piet and Botha a little way down the river. 
I started for them immediately and found them to be 
exactly the same as those in the Colony. They were 
thinly covered with coarse black hair through which 
the skin was quite visible, and in some places large 
patches of bare skin. On the upper part of the neck 
the hair was longer and coarser than elsewhere. In 
this river the crocodile a:bounds; one carried off and 
swallowed a tracktoe 85 belonging to a trader, and he 
was afterwards shot when it was found entire in his 
belly with the iron rings upon it and it had also a 
dog in its stomach. About ten miles up this river 
Mr. Schoon tells me there is a very broad backed buck 
with a sort of black stripe round its body both before 
and behind and along its sides, its horns bending 
forward. It is found in small herds. The antelope 
taken home by Steadman 86 is found in the mountains 
about Kurrichaine 87 and in the Wankets country. 
Last night the lions kept prowling about the wagons 
during the whole night and were frequently heard 
growling. The dogs were barking nearly the whole 
night. The antelope which is found up the Meriqua 
is tough and by no means good eating. A young 
wildebeast was shot today and a number of others 
(blue) were seen crossing in front of the wagons. 
so Trek•touw, or draught rope. 
• Andrew Steedman, amateur naturalist, and author of Wanderings 
and Adventures in the Interior of Southern Africa, 2 Vols., London, 
1835. 
11 Kurichani, the mountain to the north of Zeerust. On its slopes 
there formerly stood the town of Kurichani, the headquarters of the 
Huruthse. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 61 
The chief who met us at Molopo urges Mr. Moffat's 
going on ahead of the wagons. No cattle have yet 
been sent. The chief intends starting at daylight 
tomorrow morning and we expect to reach his, 
Masalacatzie's, kraal about midday. 
9 JUNE (TUESDAY). 
Started from the Meriqua about 8 a.m. and reached 
a small kraal where Masalacatzie was living about 3 
-f .m. When the wagons approached the kraal he 
appeared outside of the fence with about fifty men, 
part standing behind him and a portion on each side 
of him. A few women appeared behind Mr. Moffat 
who had rode on in front and had been at the kraal 
with him some time. Went up to the front wagons 
and led them to a spot fixed as an outspan. When 
I got up I made inquiries regarding how we were to 
get water and it was found that it was at a great 
distance. We then stated to the chief, who was with 
us to convey us to the place, that it would be 
inconvenient and that we would rather go nearer to 
the river. He immediately went off to Masalacatzie 
and told him; returned almost immediately with 
permission to go where we fancied. After having got 
the camp in order the chief asked if I would not go 
up and see Masalacatzie, to which I said I was ready 
and accordingly proceeded with Mr. M., and the two 
traders who were with us also went in company. 87* We 
entered the gate and proceeded through the centre of 
the cattle kraal to the opposite side of the fence and 
there sat down, he not being there. After waiting 
about ten minutes we were apprised by the exclamations 
11* Hume and Schoon. 
6'.2 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
" Byat! Byat! " 88 that he was approaching from an 
inner inclosure. He soon made his appearance, and 
when he reached the spot where we were sitting he 
put out his hand to me and gave me certainly a 
welcome pinch. Mr. Moffat offered him the chair 
upon which he was sitting which he readily accepted 
and filled it well whilst Mr. M. placed himself on the 
ground. 89 Soon after he arrived a servant carrying 
a large wooden bowl filled with beef steaks arrived 
and in coming forward stooped considerably and placed 
it in front of the king. He asked us to eat, which 
we all did, and it tasted very well. I asked for a 
little water. He ordered some beer and it was brought 
by the same man in a great tin pot. Masalacatzie 
first drank of it and then handed it to me. Though 
it usually does not agree with me I felt it necessary 
to drink of it and then handed it to Mr. Moffat, after 
which it went the rounds. In the meantime we sent 
down for Messrs. Kift, Burrow, Ford and Bell, and 
just as we had finished eating they arrived and attacked 
what remained of the meat. He then sent for beer 
for them also. He stated that he wished to hear from 
me the news. I told him where I had been and why 
I had come to him, and farther, that I should speak 
to him something from the white king that I hoped 
would please him. He said that was very good, and 
said he was glad that we had done as we intended 
and had come to see him, and that we had come in 
safety. I informed him I was much obliged to him 
and I hoped I would be able to tell him something 
that would please him. He replied he rejoiced and 
was glad to see people from the Cape. He made a 
" Bayede, the Matabele royal salute. 
.. See Plate 3. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 63 
number of remarks regarding the subject to his people 
who were sitting at some distance on both sides of 
us. All persons, even his principal chiefs, bend the 
body considerably on approaching him, and no one 
appears to enter his presence without making use of 
some exclamation either as respect or salutation; even 
[in] passing from one side to the other in front of 
him they make use of similar exclamations. I told 
him how well Calepi 00 and the guard sent to us at 
Molopo had behaved. He did not seem to take much 
notice of the information but added it rejoiced him. 
After sitting about half an hour we proposed to adjourn 
to the wagons which he readily agreed to. I offered 
him some snuff, but he told the interpreter to take it, 
and I remarked that he did not use it himself. I 
afterwards asked the interpreter the reason. He said 
it was from its being damp. He however gave me to 
understand that he wished some tobacco to make snuff. 
When we returned to the wagons I was just preparing 
some to send him when the interpreter, the man who 
had been to Kuruman to conduct us said, •• Never 
mind, there comes Masalacatzie to the wagons." He 
first went to the traders• wagons, then to Mr. Moffat, 
and lastly to ours; entered mine and sat down upon 
a box. He made several remarks about articles in the 
wagon and took hold of the mountain barometer and 
wished me to open it. I told him it was broken but 
I would open it tomorrow. With this he appeared 
satisfied. He then went into our tent and appeared 
astonished at it. I showed him some drawings which 
"' Umkhaliphi, one of Mzilikazi's principal induriiu. or headmen, 
and commander•in•chief of the Matabele forces. He had previously 
guided Robert Moffat to Mzilikazi's country in 1829. This ia his 
personal name, and means "Mr. Clever•one", according to Professor 
Doke. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
did not seem to attract much of his attention, though 
he repeatedly remarked he was rejoiced. He then went 
back to the traders' wagons and whilst there a party 
of about thirty men arrived from the kraal and 
approached near to where he was sitting and 
commenced dancing and ejaculating in their common 
strain. This they continued till he got up and then 
they fell in behind the party who was with him, and 
which consisted of about twenty men, and returned 
singing. About half way to the kraal they came near 
to some women who were carrying beer to the kraal. 
These immediately set the beer upon the ground and 
squatted down till he passed. The men also about 
this time ceased singing. He wished Maclaniani and 
Liapeli, the messengers who went in advance of us, 
to go up and sleep at his kraal which they did. The 
oxen were taken up to his kraal in the evening. 
During our journey today we passed a small herd 
of cattle consisting of about fifty and saw a small kraal 
to our right hand. When passing from one wagon 
to another all those whom he passed near saluted him 
and when he stood up to take leave of us at the kraal, 
which he did by shaking hands, they also all saluted 
him. 
Masalacatzie, Mr. M. stated, sent out word to 
Kuruman that he wished to make peace with Barend. 
Mr. M. went on purpose to Bootschap to speak to 
Barend but the latter stated that he could only make 
peace provided Masalacatzie would give back the guns 
he had taken from the commando. Mr. M. explained 
to him on the stoop 91 of the mission house that he 
had no right to expect that and Mr. Jenkins said that, 
91 Stoep, or open verandah. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 65 
had Masalacatzie first made a commando on Barend, 
and he returned it and lost his guns, then he might 
have some reason to expect them to be returned, but 
as matters stood there could be no reason to expect 
that. Mr. Moffat stated that he considered that a 
good remark. Barend or his people at that time also 
intended to go in on another commando to steal cattle. 
Mr. Moffat spoke to him about the intention and told 
him that he should not feel safe in going to the interior 
if he was determined to carry into effect his intentions. 
He replied he would then only make a hunt. Mr. M. 
asked him on what side of the Vaal River he would 
hunt. He said the north side. Mr. Moffat then said 
if he was determined on that he would not venture 
in. Barend upon this went away with Jan Hendrick, 
Peter David, and old Frans, and after consulting about 
an hour he returned and told Mr. M. that they were 
determined upon going to Namaqualand and had 
entirely abandoned their idea of going up the Vaal 
River, so that he might go with safety as far as they 
were concerned. 
10 JUNE (WEDNESDAY). 
Masalacatzie visited the wagons twice during the 
day. He had the cattle which were returned by 
Mohura turned out and after looking at them he told 
the interpreter to tell Mr. Moffat and myself how much 
he was obliged to us for what we had done in the 
matter. He said he could see we supported him and 
then he told him to tell me that he saw I observed 
the king's orders, making an allusion to the message 
I had sent him. He sent us a sheep ready killed and 
skinned, and in the afternoon a calabash of beer. He 
66 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
sent one also to Mr. K.ift, viewing him as a trader 
apart from us. Always, after he repaired to the 
wagons, a party of men arrived to dance and sing. 
The rhinoceros cannot see well in front, but when 
he is approached on one side his sight is very acute. 
He has always to tum his head to get a distinct view 
of any object, [this J arising from the position of his 
eyes which are too deep to admit him to see over the 
bones in front of the eye. 
In speaking to our interpreter regarding visiting the 
source of the Vaal River he asked if I wished to go 
there to see if people ~ould come and live there. I 
immediately explained to him that I had no such 
intention, that I wished to go and see where the water 
came out as I had heard that it boiled out of a large 
hole. Upon asking him what people he thought would 
come and live there he said he did not know, he only 
asked the question. I followed it up lest any idea of 
the kind exist and that he was only re~echoing the 
ideas of Masalacatzie by saying, •• How could people 
come and live there? That was Masalacatzie's 
country.,, He said, " Nevertheless they could come 
and live there.,, They introduced in one of their songs 
that the white people were driving the Amakosa and 
yet the white people were sitting seeing them dance. 
They said, " The Amakosa may come over but they 
shall not get our cattle.,, When they came down 
and danced before M. at the wagons they said, " Kill 
for us; give us flesh that we be strong to tum the cattle 
when Jan Bloom takes them, or when the Damaras 
or Barend take them. People that do not eat plenty 
of flesh are not fat and in a state to retake the cattle 
when they are carried away. Corn is not proper food 
for men; they must have meat." The nation is 
.ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 67 
divided into three classes - am.adodo or amatontos, 92 
machaha 93 and .......... 94 or boys who take care 
of cattle. Tuna 95 is a chief and is always a ringed 
head. The machaha are not permitted to marry. The 
whole force of the nation is called umpagate. 96 
11 JUNE (THURSDAY). 
The Pterodes (drawings 155' and 156) 97 when 
flying cry •• Kanaank - Kanaank . ., During the month 
of June laying; egg represented under drawing of 
female. The new Estrilda, somewhat like the Estrilda 
granatina, and the Fringilla elegans eats the seeds of 
grass. The Cratopus (new) eats grasshoppers and 
insects. A new Perdix was got today; {see drawing 
166). 98 It was with a number of others amongst long 
grass near the river at Masalacatzie's kraal, and flew 
up and rested again on the banks of the river amongst 
the grass. Another, which appears to be a young one 
of the same species, was also obtained. It was with 
many others amongst the grass. Flew up; the rest 
settled again in the grass whilst it perched on a bush, 
( vide specimen marked 166 y) . Another species very 
like the Perdix nudicollis has been procured daily since 
entering the poort, (vide drawing 167.) 99 
" .Amadoda means "men", but amathonto is "sitting on the 
haunches". I suspect that the second word merely indicates Smith'1 
doubt as to the precise sounds that he heard. 
11 
.Amajaha, strapping fellows. 
" The missing word is motsetse. 
11 Induna, a headman. 
•• Umpha~athi, or royal council. 
" I cannot identify these drawings. 
11 I cannot trace this drawing. 
• I cannot trace this drawing. 
6S ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Masalacatzie did not visit us today the weather being, 
according to the account of the chief, too cold for him 
to venture out. In the evening he sent us a portion 
of the hinder part of an ox. I sent him a present 
of some beads, heads of window curtains, etc., with 
which he was extremely delighted according to the 
accounts of the chief who was sent to thank me. The 
latter came rushing down as if mad and sprung into 
my wagon with such rapidity that he nearly fell over 
some articles which were in the bottom of the wagon. 
He appeared scarcely able to speak with delight and 
at last got me to understand that Masalacatzie thanked 
me in the strongest manner and said that now he could 
see that we in reality came from a great king. He also 
said he would be down tomorrow to talk with me. 
12 JUNE (FRIDAY). 
A large fire was seen burning last night to the 
eastward, sometimes in two and at other times in three 
portions. Grass was also seen burning during the early 
part of the day. This evening some of the people 
who had been out hunting stated that the grass had 
been burnt in the direction in which the fire was seen. 
Masalacatzie came down in the afternoon and after 
a long conversation I spoke to him regarding the 
children and wagons which he had taken. He replied 
that they ought to purchase them with oxen; he did 
not say he would not give them up without oxen. He 
was expressing his anxiety that a road should be open 
to the Colony. I introduced the subject by stating that 
the circumstance of his possessing them would be the 
only difficulty, as their country lay between him and 
the Colony. He wished to send persons to see the 
.ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 69 
white king, 100 and he said he would send two oxen 
to him so that he could sleep in peace. 
Female of the . . • • . • ellipsiprimnu.s 101 was this 
day shot. There was a considerable herd of them 
and in it were five males. There is not the slightest 
appearance of lachrymal sinuses or pits. The eyelashes 
are white towards the roots and brownish towards the 
points. The vagina towards the under extremity has 
a thick row of strong brownish hairs on each side 
nearly two inches in length; gets shorter upwards. The 
urethra at the very interior angle. None of the feet 
have any interunguinal sinuses. Nearly about the 
middle of the hack is a whirl 1°2 of hair and all behind 
that along centre of back directed backwards; all before 
in centre forwards. On the neck the hair is long, 
on the upper part directed forwards as far as forehead, 
on the sides downwards, and hangs for some length 
below the throat. On the sides before whirl the hair 
lies downwards and slightly forwards; behind, down, 
wards and backwards. From the appearance of the 
legs of this animal, the body when standing must be 
lower at the shoulders than the loins. 
Chrysopilea 168. [Male: Head above dark green; 
sides of the head and neck greenish blue; about two 
inches behind head above greenish, then pinkish green 
to tail which is a sort of olive green; ·belly pale rosy 
colour with a faint purplish tint; about half. of body 
transverse irregular interrupted black hairs; eyes dark 
brown, pupil with a red margin. Snake long and 
slender. Found near Masalacatzie's residence in an old 
F 
'"' The Governor. 
"'' Kobus ellipsiprymnus. 
"' Whorl. 
70 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
stone wall. Said to occur in numbers.103] In M.'s 
country they call elephants· teeth sea cow teeth, not 
elephants, because M. is called an elephant. 
Many low peals of thunder during the day with 
lightening in the N .E. Towards evening began to 
rain; soon changed to hail, and then again to rain which 
continued during most of the night. Wind, whilst it 
rained, from the W.N.W. 
13 JUNE (SATURDAY). 
Mr. Schoon and his party returned late in the 
evening, having shot three bull elephants and wounded 
two others. In the morning fine and clear, but towards 
midday got cloudy again. In the afternoon clear and 
without clouds; very cold and damp. Masalacatzie did 
not venture out today. A good supply of beer sent 
down from [the] kraal. The whole day women 
passing towards the kraal with pots of beer on their 
heads. 
14 JUNE (SUNDAY). 
W ·hilst Mr. Moffat was employed in the Dutch 
service Masalacatzie arrived at the wagons. He said 
nothing but sat down on a chair and once or twice 
during the service asked questions in a low voice at 
the chief who had ·been at Kuruman. The chief's 
answer was always •• Yes,•• and no more. When the 
congregation stood up for prayer Masalacatzie also 
stood up, and his chiefs followed the example. After 
the service was concluded he made no remarks about 
it. All his conversation was connected with medicine, 
111 These square brackets are Smith's. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 71 
and he displayed such an anxiety to have some that 
I was forced to give him 8 doses of salts. There were 
some masses in the hox and those he seized upon and 
put past.104 He said he wished [for} all that was 
in it and that he would send for an ox and exchange 
for it. Upon being told that it was necessary to keep 
some lest any of our people might get sick he 
acknowledged the propriety thereof, and made no more 
observations relative to getting all. He stopt at the 
wagons nearly the whole of the day, but did not have 
either dancing or singing which always took place on 
other days. Some beer arrived for the people. He 
was much astonished with lucifers.105 
15' JUNE (MONDAY). 
Early in the morning M. arrived at the wagons and 
was soon followed by a number of men who placed 
themselves in a semicircle at a little distance in advance 
of him, he being seated on the front seat of the cart 
and began to sing, vide drawing 80,106 book.107 
Each singer had a stick in the right hand and the body 
was almost in constant motion as well as the arms; 
at times stretching the arms straight out and inclining 
the body at the same time; at another time drawing 
the arms into the body in semicircles, sometimes raising 
one arm with the stick in it and pointing in different 
directions, at times pointing to the ground. Whilst 
they were thus engaged Masalacatzie sat part of the 
time with his elbows resting on his knees and his hands 
upon his cheeks, apparently in ecstasy with their 
'"' Lay by (for future use). 
""'Matches. 
'" I cannot trace this drawing. 
m Charles Bell's sketch book, in all probability. 
72 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
performance. Whilst they were thus engaged three 
persons arrived, one a ring-kop 108 who was walking in 
front, and the two other boys about 16 or 17 years of 
age, one carrying over his shoulder on a stick the paws 
and tail of a lion, the other in the same way the head. 
When they approached within about twenty yards of 
the king they laid them down upon the ground, and 
the ring-kop began to tell his tale. He stood upright 
and during the. relation pointed to the spot where the 
lion was killed; mentioned that he had wounded two, 
one in the foot, the other in the arm. The two boys 
who had deposited their load stood in a bent position 
with their hands resting on their knees, and their eyes 
directed to the king. The tuna, 109 after concluding 
his statement, called out "Byatt," 110 and then retired 
and sat down near the singers. The two boys did 
the same. When they arrive with news they come up, 
tell their story, and after that is done they salute. 
When the men are singing most of them keep looking 
at the king. For representation of the lion story vide 
drawing 79, book.111 Gave the lion's head to me 
at my request; the other parts were carried to the kraal 
after. he retired thither. In the evening fired 8 rockets. 
Masalacatzie, though at a great distance and attended 
by some of our party, retreated when the first went 
up. Upon being asked what he thought of them [he} 
replied, ••What shall I say?" Got letters ready to 
send off to Kuruman with Maclaniani and Liapeli. A 
horse of Hume's and also an ox died today. Heavy 
dews during the night. 
,.. I(li)'l{hehlo., a ringed headman. 
'
00 Induna. 
"
0 Bayede, Hail, King. The Matabele royal salute. 
111 Charles Bell's sketch book. This drawing is reproduced on 
Plate 5'. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIA.RY 73 
16 JUNE (TUESDAY). 
About 8 o'clock a.m. Masalacatzie arrived at our 
wagons and took up his position in the tent and there 
remained for nearly two hours. He pleaded very much 
that we would return soon to him as we spoke such 
pleasant news. He also appeared very anxious for some 
rockets, but he said he would not ask for any as we 
had not many. After returning to his kraal he sent 
down an ox and two of his principal chiefs to 
endeavour to exchange some rockets. I told them the 
r[ ockets} were the property of our king, and that I 
could not dispose of them, that I did not sell what 
I could miss, but had I not occasion for them I should 
give them. They appeared satisfied and took back 
the ox. 
When we were ready [to} start, this being the day 
fixed for starting for the country behind the sources 
of the Vaal River, I went up to his kraal to take 
farewell. When I entered he was engaged regarding 
about 2 5 of his warriors dressed in their tails and 
making all sorts of absurd gestures before him. One, 
the chief of them, was in the middle of the kraal 
speechifying. At first the rest were standing in a 
semicircle with their shields standing in front of them, 
but after a time they all began to capper, dance and 
throw themselves into many ridiculous attitudes, many 
of them representing their gestures in the fight, others 
joined in the dance. The chief looked a fine warlike 
person and was a:bove the middle age and nearly six 
feet high. Upon inquiring afterwards as to these 
warriors was told they were some of the people we had 
daily seen in attendance upon him, and that they had 
come in that dress to show themselves to the king and 
74 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
as flash 112 some few had crane feathers on their heads, 
others bunches of feathers of different descriptions; the 
chief alone had the otter [?] band. Their shields were 
of various colours. Immediately after regarding them 
for a time I went to M. to say farewell. He walked 
with us as far as the gate and there appointed our 
guides. To the one which was present he said, ''Take 
care that no injury happens to the white men; if there 
does you are a dead man as sure as Umcombati 113 
lives •• (a chief who was present) . The other who 
was to accompany us was at the wagon. The two 
principal chiefs were sent down to instruct him; they 
spoke a long time with him. He put their hands on 
their hearts and said it was good. 
We started about half past twelve having been 
delayed by some of the oxen having got out of the 
kraal during the night. M. sent some of his men along 
with ours to look after them. When he came down 
in the morning he had a calabash with beer brought 
at the same time and told us we must drink it; it would 
be the last of his beer which we would get for some 
time. He told us that towards the sources of the 
Liqua iu in the country where he formerly lived there 
were now Mantatees, a bad class of people. They were 
called Matok;1111 [that] they had lately killed their 
m In military parlance a "fl.ash" is a distinguishing mark worn 
by all members of a brigade in the field. 
iu Mncumbati, according to Posselt, F. W. T., Fact and Fiction, 
Bulawayo, 193S', pp. 16S' and 170-171. This Matabele of high rank, 
whose name is also spelled Nombati, Combati, Combatisi, etc., acted 
as Mzilikazi's ambassador to the Governor, and returned with Smith 
to Cape Town, where he signed a treaty on behalf of the Matabele 
king. Mncumbati's portrait appears on Plate 18; he is lifting the 
victim by the shoulders. See also pp. 13•14 and 17·18. 
iu The upper reaches of the Vaal River. 
111 Tlokwa. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 7'1 
king and that they fought with him. The last 
commando of Dingan had them with it. They have 
no cattle and they do not belong to Ciconicele.118 
During the day's journey which was almost east 
along the base of the ridge of hills we passed several 
small kraals. Most of the people appeared to be the 
original inhabitants of the country, having a different 
look to the Mata:beli. They most of them appeared 
in low spirits and as if heartbroken. All wore the 
Matabeli dress, but they had not generally large holes 
in the ears nor did they appear easy like the Matabeli 
in the dress. To each kraal appeared to belong largish 
herds of cattle. At one kraal the cattle rushed forwards 
towards the wagons as if they were determined to 
charge us. Saw several boys about ten years of age 
with tails both before and behind like the men, and 
each with a hassegay or two in their hands. Along 
the side of the ridge of hills near to its base immense 
ruins of stone kraals formerly inhabited by the 
aborigines, principally Bapuroo, a tribe of Baquana.117 
Perhaps Baquana was originally derived from Quana 118 
and implies •• they of the crocodile," or the chief might 
have had his name from that reptile and the people 
were called so as the people of that chief. The kraals 
appear divided into numerous compartments as if each 
family had had their houses and cattle kraal separate 
like the present system of the Batclapins. The day 
before we reached Masalacatzie's kraal we passed over 
the ruins of a large Baquan town which was destroyed 
111 Sek on ye la. 
m In his volume "Africa" I, p. 286, Smith writes: "Batlapi also 
call themselves Bapuroo-hooro, which means 'they of the steenbok'; 
also Bapuroo-chuana." 
"" Kwena. 
76 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
by Buys and his assistant.119 They all fled upon being 
attacked though they had only one gun. 
Last night clouds became very thick and during the 
night occasional drops of rain. Winds from the 
north-west. Not cold. Dogs barked much during the 
night. 
17 JUNE (WEDNESDAY). 
Started at nine and travelled nearly parallel with 
the river till about three o'clock when we crossed and 
halted on the south hank near to a kraal of people 
called Mariutsi 120 whose houses are placed upon poles. 
No kraal passed but on the top of a low hill to the 
left of our road the ruins of [a J stone kraal on the 
very summit and slopes. The people of the kraal near 
which we halted being sent for came and brought with 
them a large pot of beer for sale. They seemed to 
fear tihe Litabeli who was with us. A Matabeli chief 
of the name of Pondi 121 lives to the southeast. 
U mcombati lives under the large hills to the north of 
us and Kabalonta,122 the greatest chief, lives on the 
Meriqua. A few drops of rain after we halted, then 
the clouds began to disperse and before dark the sky 
became quite clear. 
18 JUNE (THURSDAY). 
Last night a hard hoar frost. Went over to the 
kraal to examine tihe houses. Found them upon elevated 
'"' Coenraad de Buis. See Theal, G. M., History of South Africa, 
(1834-1854), London, 1888, Vol. iv, pp. 97·98. 
""' Huruthse [?]. 
111 Mpondi, a petty chief. See _p. 78. 
122 Ugwabalandi. See Posselt, F. W. T., Fact and Fiction, Bulawayo, 
19H, p. 175. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY ,., 
platforms supported by six or eight poles about 8 feet 
high, and to this platform they ascended by means of 
two or three thick poles with portions of the branches 
left. The poles of most of them were so moveable that 
the house could be made to move from side to side.128 
They must have considerable movement during strong 
winds. On the ground scattered amongst the last were 
a number of other houses in which they work during 
the day, those on poles being their sleeping chambers. 
They build them in that way to secure their property 
against dogs and themselves against wolves, lions, etc. 
There was in the middle of the kraal a small, somewhat 
circular, enclosure in which the cattle lay during the 
night. Many of the houses had small enclosures 
within the general one. They keep their com in large, 
somewhat globular, baskets or earthernware vessels not 
burnt. The opening is shut by a stone plaistered round 
and over with cow dung. 'J1he houses on the ground 
have circular cavities towards their centres with a 
raised ring round their circumference in which they 
make fire. No divisions in the houses. Cook outside 
of the house within the enclosure. Have the same 
sort of pumpkin as at Motito; greenish, striped with 
white. Say the elephants have destroyed all their com. 
They have houses also built upon poles placed in the 
com land to keep off game, birds, etc. 
When Masalacatzie arrives in any particular district 
of his country, portions of his subjects repair to where 
he is and demand flesh. After they have danced and 
that is finished then he gives the different parties each 
an ox to kill. When they approach him with such 
an abject they appear in their war dresses, and with 
w Compare Moffat, R., Missi01'UITJ LabouTs and Scenes in Southern 
Africa, London, 1842, p. no. 
78 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
a chief at their head, as happened the morning we left 
Masalacatzie's kraal. The machaha keep by themselves 
and the men by themselves. The last attack that was 
made by Dingan neither party conquered. They 
discontinued fighting of one accord and both repaired 
to their homes. The commando of Dingan was 
composed partly of machaha and partly of men. 
Masalacatzie's was all men. At Mosegha there is a 
kraal principally of women, the mothers of the 
machaha, who are placed there to provide food for the 
machaha. Umpondi, a small chief who lives behind 
the Cashan hills, 124 has charge of 4 kraals. He is a 
minor chief. He lies in the road on which Masalacatzie 
approached his present residence from the sources of 
the V aal River. 
A little before daylight, and for some time till the 
sun gets pretty strong, extremely cold. During the 
night moderately cold particularly when 'hoar frost; 
latent caloric 125 given out and in melting absorbed. 
Towards evening a small herd of elephants seen to right 
of road. Two men absent during the night (Tennant 
and Hastwell). Two rhinoceroses seen standing under 
a tree. 
19 JUNE (FRIDAY). 
Tennant and Hastwell not having arrived before 
1 p.m. we only advanced about three hours. They 
had lost themselves the night before and had slept in 
the fields. As they were approaching the wagons they 
met four lions. 
"' Magaliesberg. 
1
• Latent heat. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 79 
Masalacatzie has two grades amongst his chiefs, viz: 
numzan 126 and tuna,121 the former the highest. Calepi 
is a tuna but he has nevertheless more power and a 
greater command than many of the numzan. He has 
three or four regiments under him. The real machaha 
cannot marry without the consent of the king. They 
are taken when young and ranked as machaha and 
cattle are given by the king to support them. The 
real Matabeli have large holes in the lobe of the ear; 
most of those who have been conquered have not. The 
kraal of women where our oxen were at Mosega 
consists of women, part of them old ones whose 
husbands are dead, others of young women, intended 
for the machaha when they are permitted to marry. 
THREE KINDS OP ANTELOPE. 
1. Like A. ellipsiprymnus in size; dark brown with 
a black stripe along the sides and crossing in front of 
the breast; horns large, lying forward; back very 
broad; inhabits towards sources of Meriqua; Both 
horns.12s 
2. Black buck about size of last; black like a wilde­
beast, below like the bastard hartebeast; horns about 
1 ~ inohes long, slanting slightly backwards; beard 
under chin; three or four stripes on face black and 
colour of belly; all horns; [inhabits} hills east of 
Meriqua; called [by} natives ~lama muchaidi.129 
3. Quagga bok: About the size of a spring bok; 
striped blackish and dull white down the sides. 
,,. Umnumzane, headman. 
,., Induna. 
,.. i.e. both male and female. 
,. Kgama, a hartebee5t; mochosa, a single male hartebeest. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Indubo : no L~e the tyger but smaller and with single 
spots. 
Along this river a species of wild hog with very long 
tusks and of a reddish brown colour; smaller than the 
common hog. 
The A. ellipsiprimnus has four mammae, no inguinal 
pores. A female rhinoceros (black) with a very young 
one seen today, also buff aloes with calves. A box 
tortoise got in the river. 
20 JUNE (SATURDAY). 
Halted during the day in order to ascend the Cashan 
hills. Very warm during the middle of the day. Grass 
burning to the south which obscured the atmosphere 
so that the view from the hills was very limited. Saw 
three Rh[ inoceros} simus on way to hills; one shot, 
a male. Front horn about 1 5 inches long, the largest 
of the three species. Also saw a male of the 
A. eUipsiprymnus amongst the bushes near base of hill. 
On some rising ground observed the remains of 
several stone kraals. The Caffers from the kraal we 
left on the morning of the 18 were all near to us. 
T 1his day employed in drying the meat of an elephant 
which had been shot a few days previous by Mr. 
Schoon' s party. They sang during almost the entire 
of the night. 
A crocodile was shot and also a female and young 
Rhinoceros simus by our party which went down the 
river. Wagon sent for them a little ·before sunset; . 
returned about nine o'clock with both and the head 
of the old cow. The mother first shot; the young one 
,., I cannot identify this word. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY il 
would not leave her but kept butting her with its 
head till shot. Gave all a glass of spirits each and 
settled that a glass should be given to each of the men 
on guard during the night whilst it should last. Some 
in consequence volunteered to keep watch every night 
in order to get the spirits. 
21 JUNE (SUNDAY) . 
Prayers were read by Mr. Bell about 12 noon. 
Wolves and lions heard during the night. 
22 JUNE (MONDAY) •181 
23 JUNE (TUESDAY). 
Required to halt yesterday to prepare the young 
rhinoceros, etc. During last night a few drops of rain 
and in the course of the day some smart showers. Sky 
obscured during most of the day by thick clouds; 
cleared away towards evening. Lightening towards the 
souvh after dark. The crocodile had in its stomach 
a number of small stones and portions of the shell of 
a tortoise and the hoof of an antelope. The Picus with 
red mustachoes had in its stomach ants, etc.; the Otis 
cristata, Kori, 132 (large like Arabs) a great quantity 
of ants. The Estrilda and Cardue1is eat principally 
grass seeds. 
The penis of crocodile single. Croc ..•..... : us 
Length of intestinal canal 21 feet 6 inches; length of 
animal 9V2 feet; liver nearly in two portions, a slight 
"' There is no entry for this date. 
'"' Khohe, the korhaan. 
'"' Name incomplete. 
82 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
connection at lower part under heart; pericardium very 
thick and strong, inside pure white containing a great 
quantity of liquor pericardii; stomach a large roundish 
bag with very thick coats, inside much wrinkled; a 
small sac at commencement of intestines, then four 
folds of intestine closely connected together as 
represented in drawing.134 At the top of the outer­
most, the gall duct opens; the gall bladder lies under 
the right lobe of the liver and is of a pyriform shape; 
duct white and strong; the small intestines are very 
strong, the large intestines short and also very strong; 
the testes of a light red colour and somewhat cylin­
drical, rounded at each extremity; kidneys firmly tied 
down in pelvis and of a reddish black colour; peritoneum 
adltering very firmly to anterior parietes of abdomen 
and also tying the bowels down firmly; the liver firmly 
tied down and enveloped in a firm white membrane; 
stomach loose; trachea runs down nearly in middle of 
oesophagus then inclines a little to the left and after 
that makes a sharp tum to the right, soon after which 
it divides into two principal branches, one turns off 
to the right side and the other goes to the left; towards 
glottis its rings are perfect; before it divides there is 
a vacant space; hinder part of tongue crescent shaped 
and thin, so that when tongue is retracted it lies 
, over glottis. Though killed on t~e c_- t 20 the muscular fibres yet retam 
their irritability and contract forcibly 
, when cut even so strongly as to move 
' the limbs. For representation of 
internal parts see drawing, page 19.135 
,.. I cannot trace this drawing. 
•• I cannot trace this drawing. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 83 
24 JUNE {WEDNESDAY). 
In the large powder barrel in a bag tied with twine 
and containing two small pieces of stick is the heart 
and organs of generation of the crocodile; that with 
the head and eye injured is a male, the other is a 
female. Towards evening caught a young black 
rhinoceros. It was in company with its mother and 
she, upon getting two or three halls, fled and the dog 
turned it. It made several attacks upon the people, 
flew at them with great determination and butted with 
its head violently. It had great strength; carried Mr. 
Bell. Tied it during the night in order to get a 
drawing of it in the morning. 
A part of the road before halting was very bad. In 
the valley between the Cashan hills 136 and the trap 
ridge to the south must at one time have been a very 
great population; every little hillock and piece of rising 
ground in the bottom of the valley appears to have 
been completely covered with stone kraals, the walls 
of some of the divisions at least eight feet high. The 
stones of which they are built are of a rusty colour, 
and when viewed at a distance the masses appear like 
extensive patches of burnt grass. Indeed for such we 
took them till we approached them. The valley is well 
supplied with many small streams of fine water and 
great cultivation. Towards the top of the valley the 
bush gets very extensive and close. In this valley which 
is about ten miles in width the Bacashan 137 used 
formerly to reside. They were destroyed and 
scattered by the Mantaties. 
"' Magaliesberg. 
'"' Bakhashane. The tribe of the chief laiashane, who iave his 
name to the Kashan Mountains. 
i4 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The black rhinoceros (young) rose from his sleep 
very tame. He appeared to have entirely forgot how 
to butt wivh his head and could be approached with 
all safety, and seemed to delight in being scratched and 
petted. He only seemed to think of food and sucked 
the fingers of the party; also ran after any person who 
came near him, to get food. Drunk a considerable 
quantity of water and eat some Caff er com; also was 
observed endeavouring to chew twigs of bushes. 
The road was very bad over large trap masses and 
when crossing one of these ridges the axle of the cart 
broke close to the right wheel. Tied the cart to vhe 
hinder part of one of the wagons and in that way took 
it on to the halting place. A large bok of a yellowish 
colour with indistinct white spots seen towards the base 
of the Cashan hills. 
25 JUNE (THURSDAY), 
Tennant engaged making a wooden axle tree for the 
cart. 8 men went out to hunt the antelope mentioned 
yesterday. A rhinoceros came close to the wagon; dogs 
fell upon him and he retreated. Elephants seen passing 
along the sides of the Cashan hills at a little distance 
from the wagons. 
Botha shot yesterday a vlak vark, No. 188, draw­
ing:188 hair on back of neck and anterior part of back 
long and thick; also rather long and close on anterior 
part of head, and a sort of whiskers along each edge 
of lower jaw; on the body a very scanty covering of 
.. Original drawing and proof of unpublished plate of 
Ph4scochoerus are in the collection of Ford originals in the Library 
of the University of the Witwatersrand. The vlakvark is the 
wart· hog. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 85 
whitish hair, generally short; that on back of neck and 
fore part of back rufous towards base, reddish white 
towards tips; ears within wicli stripes of long white 
hair; eyes brown; eyebrows long and black; eyelashes 
black; whiskers pale rufous; hair of face pale rufous 
white; large callous bare spots on knees; eyes very 
small; front part of body strong in proportion to hinder 
part; head large in proportion to body; under each eye 
a conical cartilagenous protruberance, none in front 
of eyes; between them and teeth a few bristly black 
hairs scattered over muzzle which is otherwise nearly 
bare, only a few white hairs mixed with tihem scarcely 
visible and very short. (A female.) Some long black 
bristles between eye and excrescence, four paps, 
inguinal. 
Jaculu.s, drawing 185: 139 Colour of back greenish 
brown; about six inches from head the scales are 
margined on each side in black so as to give an 
appearance of slightly waved longitudinal black lines; 
the centre row of scales of back lighter than the lateral 
scales so as to give the appearance of a light stripe 
along middle of back; sides greyish green, which is also 
the colour of the dorsal line; some of the scales with 
black specks on lateral angle, the black edgings of back 
are seen but a little way on the tail; back and sides of 
tail nearly the same colour as the back; 'Jlhe first eight 
inches from head no variegations, the form a flattened 
cylinder; the rest of body somewhat or raclier distinctly 
quadrangular; tail flattened, 4-sided towards base, 
rounded during the rest of its length, above neck close 
to head two or three faint greenish transverse lines; 
top of head brownish green; sides the same; greenish 
1
• I cannot trace this drawing. 
a 
86 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
yellow upper lip towards angle of mouth and under 
eye; eyes brown, black pupil with a brown red clear 
ring; under chin white; throat and anterior part of 
belly yellowish white, rest of belly pearly white; hinder 
margins of plates pale buff; along each side of belly 
on plates, a:bout 1 V2 lines from extremities, pale 
greenish black longitudinal line which terminates about 
six inches on the tail, towards point yellowish brown; 
length nearly three feet; caught amongst large stones 
during the heat of the day. 
26 JUNE (FRIDAY). 
Passed out of the Cashan valley where the rivers 
run to the westward and got to another with the river 
running S.E. at :first. 
Yesterday a species of hartebeast shot; much smaller 
than the Colonial one, but from the ridges on the 
horns being so distinctly marked there can exist no 
doubt as to its being full grown. In tthe course of the 
day saw vhree others of the same size, one a male. 
The former appeared to 'have some dark streaks upon 
the sides particularly towards the shoulders; no lachry, 
mal sinus, but under and in front of the eyes a large 
roundish gland with an opening discharging a viscid 
humour which clots the hair tjhat covers it together; 
unguinal sinuses; a broad rufous bar across face just 
below forehead, and bovh above and below that the 
centre of the face is black, the muzzle small and 
somewhat crescent shaped, black tail, reaches nearly to 
houghs, 140 or rather the hair of tail long, the last two 
thirds, and directed backwards and downwards when 
the tail is hanging, so that there appears almost nothing 
1 
.. Hocks. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 87 
on the sides and front of tail, that at ( ti]p the longest; 
inguinal pores .... ; 141 it does not appear in running 
so low behind as the Colonial hartebeast. 
Carduelis, No. 186 drawing,142 eats the seeds of grass 
and is generally found amongst t!he long grass; when 
disturbed flies up and commonly perches upon small 
shrubs or again in the grass. 
The number of kraals seen during the latter part of 
this day's journey not so great as in the Cashan valley 
but still considerable. All situated upon the sides of 
ridges or where there are low hills upon them, and 
built of stone. The population here at one time must 
have heen very great; now not a single inhabitant to 
be seen. The whole of the tract over which we have 
travelled since leaving the kraal where Masalacatzie 
was residing might be thickly colonised. The flats are 
extensive, water abundant, and grass very luxuriant. 
During the rainy season great quantities of rain must 
fall as the flats are much cut by water courses, and 
many hollow places are everywhere seen without grass 
and which must be at times filled with water; also 
over the flats the traces of elephants are deeply 
impressed in the ground which must have been made 
at times when the country was soft from abundance 
of water. If well examined there would be no difficulty 
in finding good roads. Should irrigation be necessary 
for the growth of corn there is little chance of that 
being practicable, at least to any extent. The harte­
beast shot on the 25 is No. 187 drawing.143 
Botha with two others reached die wagons last night 
about ten o'clock p.m., and stated that they had shot 
w. Blank in MS. 
"' I cannot trace this drawing. 
HI I cannot trace this drawini. 
88 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
a female kodoe about 4 miles distance which they 
considered as different to the Colonial kodoe. On that 
account made arrangements to remain here till Monday. 
27 JUNE (SATURDAY). 
Despatched a wagon at an early hour to bring the 
kodoe. During the night wild dogs were heard close 
to our encampment. Tihe lory like Coluis calls '' oua, 
oua " somewhat like the low cry of an infant, but in 
a very soft tone. They collect in parties upon the 
tops of bushes, particularly in the mornings, and often 
many of them together keep repeating these cries at 
short intervals. 
KoooE, DRAWING 189.1u 
The head of this animal, a female, has much die 
appearance of t'he head of the female eland; the neck 
and indeed the general form resembles also the female 
eland; eye large in proportion to the animal and, like 
the eland's, set in the same way; from the top of the 
head between the ears begins a mane of short, reddish 
brown hair which is blackish brown towards its root; 
on the crown it is very short; on t'he :first part of the 
neck it lies a little backwards, lower part of neck a 
little forwards, on the shoulder backwards and out· 
wards; the mane terminates just opposite hinder edge 
of shoulder; neck rusty grey; body pale rusty fawn 
colour, lighter towards and on belly, from knee-joints 
downwards pale fulvous; hind part of bend of knee 
white, also hinder part of humerus white, but between 
these white the colour is same as body, passing in a 
'" I cannot trace this drawini. 
.ANDREW SMITii DI.ARY 89 
broad ring right round the leg; between false hoofs and 
hoof of black brown, which extends under edge of 
hoofs; a sort of short mane of a whiter colour or pale 
rusty white from beginning of throat to commence· 
ment of breast hanging nearly directly downwards; 
insides of thighs white; insides of hinder tibia, etc. 
rusty white; an indistinct whitish mark in front of 
eaeh tarsus and carpus; between each of the false hoofs 
on forelegs black and also a little above them, a tuft 
of long black hair surrounding each false hoof on 
hinder legs; hair on ·hinder and lower part of buttocks 
longer tihan on body, and forming behind a sort of 
fringe pointing backwards and lying over the nates 
which have only a very thin covering of whitish hair; 
colour of skin there blackish brown, upper surf ace 
along backbone to near tail a narrow white stripe and 
from that down sides to near belly eight or nine more 
or less regular narrow pure white stripes; upper surface 
of tail rufous dull, under surface pure white next to 
those, pure black below, brown above, very extremity 
of tail fulvous; upper eyelids white and from a little in 
front of eye a white line extends forwards and down• 
wards, meeting t)he other of the opposite side in centre 
of face immediately over that white mark, and over 
where they meet brown black pencilled with rufous; 
farther up the prevailing tint rufous brown[?], 
between ears lighter, below white mark the same colour 
as immediately over it, getting narrower and almost 
lost before muzzle; over the muzzle blackish brown and 
broad; muzzle black; eyelashes black; sides of head in 
front pale fawn colour pencilled with white; hinder 
parts under ears and eyes greyish white pencilled with 
black; about two inches below the hinder extremity 
of eaeh eye an oblong white spot, and another about 
90 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
two inches below, and a good way in front of that on 
the lower edge of lower jaw; upper lip from muzzle to 
angle white, chin also white; no sinus lachrimae nor 
pores; no unguinal sinuses, no unguinal pores; mammae 
four, two and two; groins flesh-coloured; some long 
hairs on posterior part of belly before udder; length of 
head 16 inches; length of neck 19 inches; height at 
shoulder 4 feet 2 inches; height at rump 4 feet 3 inches; 
length of tail 15 inches; longest hairs 18 inches; length 
from nose to base of tail 6 feet 9V2 inches. 
28 JUNE (SUNDAY). 
Last evening three Matabeli joined us and stated 
they had been sent to accompany us by Masalacatzie, 
one a Bechuana, one the chief of a party to the north 
of the Cashan hills not far from this. Prayers at 
one p.m. 
29 JUNE (MONDAY). 
The tyger [sic J when pursued by dogs prefers to 
retreat to a hole in the ground rather than to a tree. 
When in a hole and a gun is fired into it he immediately 
springs out, and should any person be opposite the 
hole he will fly upon him. Should he have been 
\VOunded by the shot he first bites one and then flies 
to another. He kills small baboons, bites them dead, 
and then suddenly flies to escape the vengeance of the 
old ones. A male ba:boon, if once he gets hold of him, 
quickly bites him to death. He is often pursued for 
a distance by the herd after killing a young one. When 
they go away from it he returns and eats it. He 
sometimes kills his prey, then leaves it lying in the 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 91 
place where he killed it whilst he retreats a little and 
watches what may come to eat of it; that he also kills. 
In this way he has been known to catch dogs, cats, etc. 
by killing a sheep and letting it remain on the spot 
where it was caught. Sometimes he hangs up animals 
which he may catch upon trees, the natives say till they 
stink, and then returns and eats them. The tiger is 
never far from the spot where he has food waiting for 
him. When persons are passing near to him he will 
remain still, neither attempt to injure the person nor 
run away. The lion, on the contrary, generally gets 
up and runs off should he see a man. The lion 
generally remains close to his food when he has killed 
anyrlllng. In this way he differs from the tiger. Most 
of the game in this direction retreat to the hills during 
vhe winter. The footmarks and dung of both old and 
young rhinoceroses were seen on the very top of the 
Cashan hills. Elephants often pass over the tops of 
high mountains. The new species of Bucco with crest 
is pursued by small birds, and like the owl harassed by 
them. Whenever it is discovered it flies always into 
the lower parts of trees or shrubs, etc.; never perches 
on the top. It is an inhabitant of the sides of hills 
and eats berries. 
Travelled about 5¥4 [hours], and halted under 
another transverse ridge Which divides rivers. We 
travelled close to the river which rises under this ridge, 
and had it been otherwise clian we found it to be, wea~ 
in point of water, the flats which are narrow on both 
sides might have been irrigated by the water being led 
out. Before halting the smoak of burning grass was 
seen in advance of us, and towards dusk the flames 
began to spread around us and to roll in one continued 
line along the sides of the hills towards us. I had fire 
9'.2 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
set to the grass around our encampment, and in that 
way we viewed the approach of the opposing fire with 
perfect indifference. Also farther to the south the 
grass had also been burnt; indeed, ever since we have 
left Masalacatzie's kraal there has almost always been 
grass burning around us. The Ma[tabeli} say that it 
must have been set on fire by hunters. 
30 JUNE (TUESDAY). 
After six hours' travelling reached a largish river 
running off to the east. Some bad road. Several large 
springs towards Cashan hills which might be led out. 
1 JULY {WEDNESDAY). 
Anatomy of ellipsiprymnus: Spleen about a foot long 
attached to left side of stomach near oesophagus, about 
a foot long. Five inches at one extremity and about 
4Y2 middle; liver one lobe with indentations; a small 
lobe behind near middle and another behind at right 
extremity; gall bladder near right extremity of liver 
behind of a pyrif orm shape, and contains dark green 
bile; omentum thin, and contains veins of fat; stomach 
large with a deep indentation or pinch at under 
extremity; three stomaeh [ s}; the oesophagus small and 
opens into the large one whose inner surf ace is thickly 
studded with slender papillae, firm and of about two 
lines 1411 in length; the 2[nd) stomach small and very 
muscular, lying to one side of entrance of oesophagus, 
inside with loose folds of inner membrane hanging into 
cavity inner or loose edged serrated with fine hard 
"' A line is one·twelfth of an inch. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 93 
minute papillae and its side rough from minute hard 
papillae; third stomach with thin coats and loose 
membranes like second close to it, but without the 
papillae, contents very thin in this stomach; caecum 
witiliout folds inside; lungs: right one large lobe and 
some lobelli, left with three lobes, one, the lowermost, 
forked deeply; stomach from upper extremity to lower 
two feet, breadth 18 inches, small intestines 60, caecum 
1 'i inches, great intestines 20 feet; caecum smooth 
inside; near to third stomach a swelling in duodenum, 
(vide drawing of abdominal contents); 146 Kidneys 
quite smooth on surface like those of sheep, etc.; 
mesentery ties the intestines firmly together; large not 
much greater in calibre vhan small, more muscular; 
caecum and 'beginning of large thick with coats thin. 
Male: no appearance of lachrymary organs, but near 
angle of each eye in edge of lower lid inside of a small 
elevation of lid a small punctum lachrymae, no inguinal 
pores, but the belly nearly bare in and about the groins; 
scrotum thickly covered with hair; at front of sheath 
of penis some hair prttty thick, about an inch and a 
half long; no inguinal sinuses; hair of neck shorter 
than in female, the general colour much darker, 
particularly on the upper parts; the legs towards feet 
also darker; the edging to hoofs dull white and very 
narrow; a dull white ring surrounds each false hoof. 
Length from nose to base of horns 12 inches. 
Length of horns following curve 2 feet. 
Width between tips of horns 8Y2 inches. 
Width at curvature l1Y2 inches. 
Width at base 2 inches. 
,.. I cannot trace this drawing. 
94 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Length from base of horns to base of tail ~ feet 
6 inches. 
Length of tail to tuft 147 12Y2 inches [?}. 
Length of tuft 7 inches. 
Height at shoulder 4 feet. 
Height at rump 4 feet 4 inches. 
Eears 9 inches long, inside four strire of white hair 
external of each ear .148 
When running holds his head erect, and the 
shoulders are rather lower than hinder parts. A 
number of males found together this day; only a few 
females. Two of former were shot. Flesh good; rather 
hard. Has a strong smell when approached something 
like stale urine, only occasionally felt. Eyelashes: white 
at base, black towards points; eyes large, fine brown 
worked with a darker brown particularly towards 
pupils; tuft at tip of tail of long hair curled upwards; 
t:b.e neck of the male appears shorter than female, but 
much stronger and broader above. The orebi has two 
inguinal pores nearly at junction of hinder legs, and 
each filled with a moderately long yellowish hair 
variously twisted; it has no unguinal sinus, but between. 
fore claws a deep black sulcus 149 which is covered by 
the hair of the lower and anterior parts of the legs; an 
oblique lachrymal sinus, the interior edge being a sort 
of flap or lid, so, ~ Towards morning several lions 
were heard near our camp. 
The riet bok has neither unguinal sinuses 
nor slits; it has inguinal pores, but they are 
much in advance of those of the ourebi, and have no 
hair in them; its head is thick in proportion to its length. 
"' This measurement is illegible. 
"' Thus in MS. 
"" Groove. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 95 
2 JULY (THURSDAY). 
Travelled about 5'Y2 hours and reached the banks of 
a largish river just about dark. Very little wood of 
any description near where we halted; only a few 
shrubs and trees along the banks of the river. The 
water runs strong and in the course of the stream 
numerous deep holes in which live sea cows, crocodiles, 
etc. Last night was very cold; grass burning at a 
considerable distance around us. 
Last evening Private James Terry of the 98 Regt. 
demanded of me if Mr. Bell was to be called during 
the morning watch and without waiting for my answer 
he said: ••If he gets up I will walk off from the watch." 
I told him that was a regulation of mine that one of 
die gentlemen should be called before daylight, and if 
he left his watch on that account he must abide the 
consequences. He replied he did not care, he would 
not continue as sentinel if Mr. Bell was up. Some 
time afterwards I sent for Terry and in presence of 
Lowe told him he must not leave his post though Mr. 
Bell was up. He said he would do so. I then told 
him to take my friendly advice and not do it as he 
would repent it. His answer was he would do it. 
Early next morning Mr. Bell reported to me that he 
had found it necessary to place Bezuidenhout upon 
watch as Terry immediately left ·his post on his being 
called. I requested from Mr. Bell to give in a written 
report of the circumstance which he did, vide report.1110 
In the evening Botha reported that he had shot a sea 
cow close to where we halted, and as it was a favourable 
situation to get the animal out of the water I determined 
to remain next day in order to obtain a drawing of her. 
"" I have been unable to trace this report. 
96 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
3 JULY (FRIDAY). 
Last night hard frost; ice nearly ·half an inch thick. 
About 8 a.m. proceeded to the spot where the sea cow 
had been shot, and in a short time after our arrival a 
span of oxen reached us, and by their assistance we 
got her quickly out of the water, after fixing a catten 151 
round the body behind the forelegs. Mr. Ford then 
proceeded to delineate her .152 She measured from base 
of tail to space between ears 8 feet 8 inches; the head 
from space between ears to centre of upper lip two feet 
two inches; length of forelegs two feet two inches; 
height at shoulder four feet eight inches; height at 
rump four feet six inches; length of ·hinder legs one foot 
eleven inches; length of tail fourteen inches; hide an 
inch and a half thick; colour of upper and lateral parts 
of body and head dark purple brown; belly and inner 
sides of legs rosy pink or flesh colour; sides towards 
belly thinly sprinkled with blackish spots about the size 
of large split peas; hinder part of back variegated with 
smalhubers ua or large granulations of a darker colour 
than other parts of body; a few hairs very thinly 
scattered over body, each side of upper lip fringed with 
short stiff black hairs; centre of upper lip descends 
more than sides; between nostrils and margins of upper 
lip and on front of upper lip a few tufts of fulvous hair 
like slender painting brushes only very long and weak, 
also a few on sides of lower lip; in front a considerable 
quantity of short rufous yellow hair equally dispersed, 
"' Dutch "ketten," a chain . 
.., Original drawing of Hippopotamu.s am.phibiu.s is in the collection 
of Ford originals in the Library of the University of the Witwaters· 
rand. It is Plate 6 of "Mammalia" in Smith's Illustrations of the 
Zoology of South Africa, London, 1849. 
"
1 Swellings. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 97 
but rather close towards angles of mouth on lower lip 
where the hair occurs in the form of brushes; there are 
also single hairs thinly dispersed amongst them, stiff er 
and shorter than those forming the brushes; insides and 
margins of ears thinly covered with short fine whitish 
hair; width of mouth in front 14 inches; depth from 
eyes to ramus of under jaw 18 inches; from top of 
eyebrow to opposite 13 inches, between ears 18 inches; 
ears three inches long; mammae two, small; udder 
small, and shows itself from vagina t.xtending forwards 
between hinder legs; anus small, directly under root of 
tail; vagina little below it appears in a transverse form 
and much wrinkled like radii of a circle some way 
below it; clitoris appears quite external, point bending 
upwards towards vagina and that side all firmly 
attached to parts above, a sort of sheath or prepuce 
surrounds uhe lateral and under parts and with the 
finger can [be] separated from body of organ and then 
there appears a cavity nearly an inoh and a half deep; 
this organ stands upon an elevated oval spot, the skin 
of the elevation whitish red and but little wrinkled, 
round it an edging of coarse wrinkled soft skin having 
the same colour as the other parts of the skin. Lateral 
view ~ vide drawing by Mr. Ford of 
external parts.15' 
4 JULY (SATURDAY). 
Travelled a:bout 4V2 hours and passed to the east· 
ward of the kloof through which Mr. Moffat passed 
'"' I cannot trace this drawine. 
98 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
to visit Ma:salacatzie.155 A short distance to the east 
of where we halted are two small hillocks by which M. 
lived when Mr. Moffat visited him; the remains of 
the kraal yet to be seen. This was the first station the 
Matabeli took up after leaving their own country. 
They passed on their way to this [place] the sources 
of the Liqua.156 They say they emigrated to their 
present country on account of Dingan, and though 
the country about the Malopo 157 is very :6.ne yet they 
do not graze their cattle there fearing Jan Bloom. A 
portion of their people is on the Wankets' 158 side 
where unless after rains there is no water but what 
they get by digging holes, yet they are under the 
necessity of living there as they cannot live in the 
well-watered districts on account of fearing enemies. 
There are immense tracts of well-watered country 
which they might inhabit were they not so harassed by 
attacks from different quarters. 'J1hey have always 
people going about in advance of their country as spies 
and where these see anything they run to the stations 
as quickly as possible. The last commando of Ohaka 
was nearly as soon at the station as the persons who 
ran to give notice of their approach. I told them of 
various ways by which news might be more rapidly 
carried; they said they had no method hut that of 
runners or spies and that was slow. They said their 
spies were liable to be seen by a commando, killed, and 
111 Commando Nek. There is no doubt that the Expedition passed 
through this poort from south to north. Smith's description of the 
stones and bush and of the lie of the ground in his topographical 
re~rt makes this clear. 
Vaal River. 
11
• Molopo River. 
111 N gwaketse. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 99 
then they knew nothing of the approach till they were 
upon them. 
5 JULY (SUNDAY). 
Service about 2 p.m. Thermometer last night fell to 
21 °. Atmosphere very muoh obscured by the smoak 
of the grass which has lately been burning in every 
direction; unable to see any distance. 
A male kodoe and a new species of hawk seen today. 
6 JULY (MONDAY). 
Thermomet.er last night 27Y2· A male waterbok 
shot this morning. 
About 1 p.m. started and returned a short distance 
to the poort which we passed. Road very bad; thick 
bush on northern side to Oli.158* After halting at river 
shot 7 sea cows; those were in great numbers in the 
water which was very deep. Moderately cold during 
the night. 
Had much difficulty in persuading the Litabeli tuna 
to take a letter to Mr. Moffat, he returning from this 
[place] to his king. Says his orders were to show us 
the country where Masalacatzie formerly lived, and 
then when we turned back he was to leave us and 
go on to say when we would be back. Said we could 
get no water more to the east and stated that his heart 
was sore that we did not go directly back. 
7 JULY (TUESDAY). 
Coluber, No. 191: Top of head and upper and 
lateral part of neck immediately at hindhead brown, 
'""• Oori, or Crocodile River. 
100 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
the latter with a mixture of black, from centre of last 
in middle of back a fine black line about Y4 of an in~ 
long, back and sides reddish hrown with a splendent 159 
pearly gloss lighter towards belly; belly pearly with a 
yellowish tint; about 13 inches long; slender in propor­
tion to its length; head very small; eyes dark, small; 
tail pointed, about 2V2 inches in length. Got on 4 July, 
18 3 5, when digging a road across a dry river. 
8 JULY (WEDNESDAY). 
Halted in order to ascend the Cashan mountains. 
Started soon after daylight and on our way thither 
shot an eland. From the top of the Mountains had 
an extensive view to the east and N .E. 
Two lions and numerous hycmas had been to eat 
of the rhinoceros last night. They had effected an 
opening along the course of the backbone. Long after 
we started for the mountains one of our party went to 
the dead animal and there shot a wolf. Before dusk 
another was there and early in the afternoon some 
jackals. The lions ( 2) pa:ssed by before the wolf was 
shot and in sight of the wagons. When the shot was 
fired they issued from their lurking place, a small knoll 
at about the distance of half a mile, to see what had 
happened, then returned again. Saw a large herd of 
bastard gemsboks; close to base of mountains fresh 
footmarks of elephants. 
Received letters from Mr. Moffat and Mr. K.ift. 
The morning and forenoon very cloudy; winds from 
the N.E. and extremely cold. Sun got through soon 
after twelve; clouds dispersed a little and it became 
,. Splendid or bright. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 101 
moderately warm. Masalacatzie's old kraal, where 
Messrs. Moffat and Archbald 160 visited him, lay to 
the west 161 of us where we were upon the top of the 
mountains. 
The Matabeli when they first entered this country 
took a course a good way to the eastward, but finding 
the country badly watered they established themselves 
where Mr. Moffat found them.162 The first battle 
which took place between Dingan's commando and 
Masalacatzie's people was to the south of the range 
a little to the eastward of where we ascended the 
mountains.163 
The leopard when he attacks a flock of sheep bites 
a great number and kills without eating; he catches 
them always by the breast or the lower part of the 
throat. fie kills also calf s of a year old in the same 
way. Piet saw one of the Herpestes pharaonis near 
Masalacatzie 's kraal, only it was a little smaller than 
that found in the Colony. Muishonds are seldom seen 
in this country. 
,. Robert Moffat visited Mzilikazi in 1829, and just before reaching 
the Matabele chief's kraal met James Archbell, of the Wesleyan 
Missionary Society, who was making for the same place, which was 
near Pretoria North. Moffat had travelled from Kuruman via 
Mafeking and Zeerust, but Archbell had proceeded from Platberg, 
near the present Windsorton Road, through Maquassi and along the 
Vaal to oeyond Parys, after which he struck across country to the 
Matabele kraal. See Moffat, R., Missionary Labours and Scenes in 
Southern Africa, London, 1842, p. HO et seq. and also South African 
,!tuarterly Journal, No. IV, July to September, 1830, Cape Town, 
1830, p. 407. 
111 Smith appears to have ascended the Magaliesberg from the 
north a little to the east of Hartebeestepoort. As he faced north 
Mzilikazi's kraal of 1829, which was upon the Entsabotluku or A~ie's River, must have been to the east, and not west. ' 
See Moffat, R., op. cit. p. "30. 
113 i.e. in the direction of Pretoria. 
R 
102 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
9 JULY (THURSDAY). 
Travelled 4V4 hours to the Oli river where it passes 
between some high hills. Several rhinoceroses seen 
during the day, all black ones. Botha shot a male 
kodoe, and it being at some distance from the wagons, 
I sent back four men and one of Masalacatzie's Caffers 
to remain by it during the night. 
Last night thermometer fell to 31; very cloudy during 
the day, and once or twice a very few drops of rain. 
Five Caffers were seen crossing the country towards 
the kraal of Maseli,164 who grows tobacco for Masa­
lacatzie. 
Close and warm in the middle of the day; during 
the two last days the wind has principally blown from 
the N. and N.E. 
A black rhinoceros pursued Hastwell for some 
distance and only ceased following when the latter 
approached the wagons. He was shot at the wagons. 
Several were seen at the old kraals but none could be 
procured. Near to the Oli Mr. Moffat's wagon stuck 
fast in the wet ground. It is almost impossible to get 
wagons over the flats during the rainy season, and 
people can with difficulty walk in low situations on 
account of sinking so deep and the feet getting so 
encumbered with clay. 
Full moon. 
10 JULY (FRIDAY). 
Oxen beginning to appear very lean and the hair 
on many of them standing up. They do not pull the 
'"' Matseli, chief of a branch of the Kwena. See p. 1 H, footnote 240. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 103 
wagons so well as some months ago though they are 
considerably lighter. A few appear to be suffering from 
disease of the hoofs; even those that were not very 
long ago exceedingly fat are now looking lean and 
fatigued. 
VISCERA OF HYRAX WITH BLACK SPOT ON BACK. 
Liver four lobes, the 3 of drawing, 165 deeply divided 
in front and unless examined it looks like two lobes. 
That marked No. 1 has at the left side of its base a 
long narrow and loose lobe on the concave surface; it 
ha:s no gall bladder but a variety of gall tubes which 
unite in one which lies closely attached to concave 
surf ace of liver and opens into the small intestines about 
2 inches from pylorus; a yellowish thick bile. These 
ducts, the single one as well as the ramifications, were 
filled with 'T aeniae with a globular head and pointed 
joints at the lateral and hinder edges. The colour a 
dark reddish black, all the lobes. Spleen dark red, 
finely freckled with white dots; very thin one edge, 
the other considerably thicker. Kidney very flat where 
it lies on sides, slight convex side covered by intestines; 
flat the outer curve instead of convex. The intestinal 
canal: length from pylorus to 1 colon, 8 feet eleven 
inches; length of first colon 6 inches; length of 
intestines between 1 and 2 colon, 21 inches; length of 
second colon, 'i inches and a half. At the upper 
extremity of 2nd colon two divergent caeca 3V2 inches 
long one at each side like two horns, long, conical and 
sharp at point, but without any glands; inner surf ace 
quite smooth. Length of intestines from 2nd colon 
'"' Perhaps Plate 4 of Smith's Illustrations of the Zoology of South 
Africa, London, 1849. Hyrax is the Rock Rabbit. 
104 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
to rectum, 3 feet two inches; rectum 4 inches. The 
last 3 feet of intestines from 2nd colon to rectum in 
a healthy state seem to contain knotty faeces, the 
first two feet faeces as in other parts of bowels. All 
the smaller intestines very delicate and thin. The 
2nd colon also thin, but thicker than the intestines. 
Stomach from one extremity to the other six inches 
and a half. The pyloric extremity the largest. The 
oesophagus and duodenum are but about 1 inch and 
a half apart. The smaller or oesophagal extremity is 
stronger and firmer than the other extremity, the inner 
surface finely marked by irregular rugae, some longi· 
tudinal some waved and some transverse of a harsh 
feel. A little below where oesophagus enters, a crescent 
of the internal coat projects slightly downwards or 
towards the greater extremity of stomach, its loose 
edge semicircular concave. This valve, as it may be 
called, divides partially the stomach into two cavities, 
[or] at least contracts its caliber very much; its loose 
edges are slightly jagged or serrated, the teeth very 
close together, probably glands; their points rounded 
and their entire form somewhat cylindrical. The 
greater extremity of stomach from this has its inner 
coat fine and soft, almost approaching to villous; like 
the inner surf ace of the intestines it is without any 
rugae. When the stomach contracts above this valve 
the valve will almost shut the pylorus, as it lies 
close to it when the greater extremity contracts; if 
partial the valve will be pushed back towards the other 
opening and the contents of the stomach will be forced 
into the duodenum. The first three feet of small 
intestines is delicately villous on inner coat; in the rest 
the villi are scarcely perceptible, [there] being a soft 
slippery surface about this place. There appears a 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 105' 
quantity of thln reddish-white fluid in the gut. The 
stomach represented was completely dilated with food 
(grass), and when cut open the food had a glutinous 
coating on every part of it which peeled off in strips 
when taken hold of by the fingers. The first colon is 
large, and by projecting internal bands is formed into 
three distinct cells. Where the small intestines enter 
there is one in a somewhat longitudinal direction, but 
short, immediately under opening, and there under 
the entrance of that gut forms a small cell more towards 
the under extremity. Where the continuation of the 
gut goes off there is a transverse one, nearly extending 
as high as half the caliber. Inside would appear so: 
The intestines between this colon and second are fine 
inside and resemble the lower part of small intestines. 
The first colon has coats rather stronger than the 
intestines. The second colon is throughout thin, 
delicate without rugae or villi, the continuation from 
it the same. The coats of rectum stronger. The upper 
part of duodenum also contained a great quantity of 
T aeniae. By mistake it is mentioned that the ventri• 
cular valve lies close to duodenum; it is a considerable 
distance from it and could not by any means be made 
to shut it; correct the statement. The testes lie inside 
of the abdomen, some way below the kidneys, under 
extremity largest; from upper the seminiferous ducts 
106 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
arise, they turn down and as far as lower extremity 
of testes lie in contact with them, so: 
The vesicula seminales lie on each side of 
neck of bladder, tortuous and kept close 
together by membrane. The penis resembles 
more that of a baboon than of any other 
animal I know. Its sheath is loose and 
detached from abdomen, and glans projects 
readily from it. 
Thermometer in my wagon at Y2 past three p.m. 81. 
Outside cold wind. 
The dassie chews the cud. Two more obtained 
today, both with the black mark on the back, one a 
young one. 
Whilst the people were proceeding this morning to 
the spot where the kodoe was shot, they met two 
Bechuana men and one woman, who stated that they 
were on their way to a kraal to the westward to get 
com. Towards dusk one of them came to the wagons 
to get fire, and stated that they were by the rhinoceros 
which was shot yesterday. They belonged to Maseli' s 
tribe, but he being dead, the people are now under 
charge of his brother. This man wore the Mata:beli 
tails, etc., but in great numbers in front so as completely 
to conceal the organs of generation. I have always 
noticed that the Bechuanas who have from necessity 
been forced to adopt that portion of dress use much 
more tails than the regular Matabeli. 
A buffalo, crocodile and young sea cow shot today. 
Tihe men who went last night to watch the kodoe 
reported that they saw no animals of prey approach 
it during the night. The Caff er who came in search 
of fire appeared quite terrified when I came up to the 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 107 
fire. I told him to return tomorrow morning and we 
would kill some game for them. 
11 JULY (SATURDAY). 
About 14 Caff ers came to the wagons this morning 
partly Bapoo 166 and partly Baquana. Several of the 
latter yet wore the Bechuana covering for the genitals; 
others had the Matabeli covering. The Bapoo had it; 
they are nearer to the Matabeli kraals under Umpondi, 
a tuna living on the west of the Oori and on the north 
of the Ca.Shan mountains. It was difficult to get 
anything out of them; they seemed to fear the Matabeli 
who were with us and it was impossible to get an 
interview with them without the others being there. 
The moment I called the interpreter one of the Matabeli 
also followed; they must have been instructed to 
perform that duty. Towards evening they brought 
several loads of rhinoceros flesh close to our wagons 
and there hung it on trees, ma:de a fence near it, and 
there took up their a:bode. 
Elephants have young during the summer, also 
buffaloes. The rhinoceroses have young during the 
whole year. One shot t'Oday must have been only a 
few days old (black). The Baquana say that two 
kinds are only in this country. The black, which they 
call mu.chli 167 and the white mohohoo.168 
During this season the male and female of the rooye 
rheebok are generally apart in small trdops; the same 
generally with the A. ellipsiprymnu.s. Sometimes a 
considerable herd of males with one or two females. 
, .. Po, a branch of the Kwena. 
'"' I cannot identify this word. 
, .. Mogohu. 
108 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Animal has a strong smell of urine which seems to be 
restricted to the skin. 
The same sickness that has been so fatal in Masala, 
catzie's country has also prevailed in this country, and 
has carried off many. It commences in the head and 
extends to the whole body. The people are so stupid 
that it is quite impos.sible to get any account of its 
symptoms. 
The Baquans say that there has been very little rain 
here last year; they never saw so little water in the 
Oori. When they succeed in getting crops they are 
very abundant. The natives found here appear the 
most ignorant and stupid I have yet met with. They 
say they don't know to almost everything, but whether 
that is really the case or if they are induced to make 
such answers from fear of Masalacatzie is to me 
doubtful. They are much more attentive to the latter 
when they address them than to our interpreter when 
asking questions by my direction. They invariably and 
obstinately listened to the common remarks of the 
Matabeli though called upon to attend to the questions 
I put to them, which annoyed the interpreter not a 
little. Their dialect is different from that spoken by 
the Buchuanas at Kuruman, and particularly the names 
of animals. Oftentimes the interpreter found consider· 
able difficulty in rendering himself intelligible, and 
frequently, without a good deal of tautology, he could 
not understand their replies. They seldom laughed 
unless when in conversation with the Matabeli, and 
nothing but short remarks could be got from them 
unless when they observed the Matabeli entering into 
explanations regarding the subjects proposed. They 
would then dilate a little and speak regarding the points. 
They say they see snakes occasionally, but when they 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 109 
see them they go off and never kill them. The puff 
adder is occasionally seen here, but they have never 
seen any very large snakes. 
Piet shot A. melampus, female, with much milk in 
the udder; supposed to have had a young one. The 
males and females of this species at present live 
principally apart. 
The Baquana here have the same sort of knives as 
the Batclapin and hanging round their necks in the 
same way. They also have claws of tigers, lions, 
etc. attached to strings round the neck like them. The 
lobe of the ear is pierced with a small hole only, and 
some have in them small pieces of wood like the thorns 
of the Mimosa. 
They break in pieces the heads and porous portions 
of bone, lay them on the coal for a few minutes, and 
then chew them. The marrow and oily parts liquified 
by the heat flows out and is swallowed. The bony 
part they reject, usually giving it to dogs. When they 
have been eating meat, etc. which was fat they generally 
rub their hands dry on their limbs or with a little ashes 
or cow dung. 
They seem to pay but little attention to their hair; 
they generally have it rather long and dishevelled. 
12 JULY (SUNDAY). 
Had service about 1 p.m. Three Baquana attended 
and appeared surprised. They came and seated them­
selves previous to the assemblage, and surveyed with 
apparent suspicion the different people as they seated 
themselves around them. After service I caused the 
interpreter to put several questions to them touching 
the Divine Being. They said they did not know the 
110 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
meaning of the word moremo; 169 that they know 
nothing but game. They had not even vague notions 
about the origin of man; they said they only saw men 
and that they were all the same. One of them who 
appeared to be a:bout forty years of age said their 
principal king, Matseli, 170 died when he was very 
young; he had never seen him; that ever since he can 
remember they had been without cattle; those had been 
taken from them during wars. They said rain and 
thunder came of themselves. Many instances occurred 
during this short conversation of different words ·being 
used by them from those employed by the Buchuanas. 
Tobacco they call machuque.171 They say they eat 
no roots but only berries from the kareehout 172 when 
they are ripe. They trust for food entirely to game 
and com. They dig very deep square holes by the 
sides of rivers and waters for the game. They bury 
their dead in a sort of bent position ( vide drawing) 178 
and fix them in a kaross. They always lived in this 
part of the country. They never go near the Matabeli. 
Matseli died of sickness long before the Matabeli were 
seen. They say they do not fear the Matabeli. The 
natives with us place the twigs or slender trees intended 
for the handles of hassegays in the fire for a time till 
they get in a measure burnt in order to get them easily 
to peel. They also place them in the fire for a time 
to get them, when bent, into a straight form. Some 
of the natives puncture their ears higher than the lobe 
opposite to the tragus, but few of them have anything 
hanging from the ears. They make the sheaths in which 
""'Modimo. 
"° Chief of a branch of the Kwena. 
111 Moco~o. 
11
• Rhus lancea, or karreeboom. 
111 See Plate 16. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 111 
they place their knives of leather. Their karosses are 
of all kinds of skin; whatever game they can procure 
they seem to convert the skins into karosses. The 
handles of their hassegays are eight or nine feet long, 
and strong. The spear at the extremity is of consider­
able size and with these they kill game. They are 
always looking out for flights of ass vogels, 174 and when 
they see them alighting in :fields they instantly repair 
to the spot, and if flesh be there they deprive them of 
their prey. 
13 JULY (MONDAY). 
Thermometer last night 24. Grass burning again in 
all directions. Atmosphere beginning to be obscured. 
A female rooye rheebok, head and greater part of neck 
dull rufous; a deep inguinal pore in each groin inside 
of thighs on sides of anterior mammae; mammae four; 
no inguinal sinuses or lachrymary organs visible; an 
oval bare spot under each ear (large), tail bushy, 
principally white, centre above toward root same colour 
as body; vagina with a small projecting point at inferior 
extremity; some small white hair on and alongskle of it; 
vagina vertical. · 
Passed over a country thickly wooded; passed the 
remains of two Zoola kraals which consisted of nothing 
but ashes, it being their custom to bum the walls of 
their kraals and their houses before leaving the spot. 
In the bush a great number and variety of birds, 
and at least forty or :fifty rhinoceroses were seen, many 
of them quite young, but those of different ages. Some 
appeared not many days old; others must have been 
many months. Two of the species with the horns 
'" Aasvoels, or vulturei;. 
112 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
nearly of equal length were seen together, one large, 
the other about half grown. They have a much bluer 
colour than either of the others. Elephants seem here 
also to abound. We reached the outspan place a little 
before dark, and it was with considerable exertions 
that we succeeded in getting a kraal made for the oxen. 
The Baquana accompanied us with the hopes of getting 
such game as might be shot. The Matabeli, before 
emigrating so far as their present country, were 
dispersed over this country. Ka:balonta 175 lived by 
some small ·hills to the east of our present statior.t on 
a small stream which disappeared in the sand soon after 
it left the spring. Calipi lived nearby where Umpondi 
now does. 
A black bird smaller than a crow was this day seen 
amongst the bushes. 
14 JULY (TUESDAY). 
Water standing in front of the wagons froze during 
the night; very cold early in the morning. Travelled 
three hours along the banks of the Oori River in one 
of the dry channels which carries water to the Oori 
during the wet season. The disselboom of one of the 
wagons broke; repaired it with expedition and 
proceeded. Kindled a fire to warm the bolt there being 
no borer [?} sufficiently large for the bolt; cooled the 
bolt by digging a hole in the sand where it was a little 
damp and covering it up. 
During this day passed two deserted kraals, one in 
a romantic situation amidst huge masses of bare granite. 
The houses in this kraal were mostly raised upon poles. 
The other hatl been one of Masalacatzie • s posts; it was 
"" See note '4 on pp. 2'42·24'4. 
.ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 113 
nearly entire, many of the houses standing and on the 
floor of some a.S'hes and pieces of wood half burnt; also 
abundance of corn pitchers and broken pots. This 
post was abandoned at the time Dingan's commando 
attacked the station more to the eastward, and probably 
in the hurry the articles mentioned were left behind. 
Walls of bushes, the cattle kraal in the centre and the 
houses in a circle round it. Great quantities of bones 
of animals they had killed; near to it a very extensive 
thorn hedge made for enclosing game. The footmarks 
of elephants, rhinoceroses, sea cows and a great variety 
of other animals fresh on the sand which margins the 
stream below where we encamped. Wolves heard at 
night. The newborn(?) young of the white rhinoceros 
brought by Botha, taken from the mother. A number 
of cameleopards seen today with some very young ones. 
15 JULY (WEDNESDAY). 
Typhlops, No. 199. Caught amongst earth when 
cutting bushes to make a kraal last evening. Colour of 
back bluish pink with a purple tint; the greater portion 
of each scale rich brown, so that it has rather 
a mottled appearance. The brown of centre of scale 
in a transverse stripe. each scale has one beneath the 
same only the ground more of a flesh colour and the 
brown in crescents instead of directly across. One 
large somewhat oval scale on top of head; others 
smaller, narrower, and dispersed obliquely round i~ 
anus close to tail, the latter with a strong, short and 
sharp aculeus, with which it assists itself in its motions. 
Eyes dull red, pupil circular, black. Eyes look very 
dull, nearly all of the same diameter. Point of tail 
rounded. Head a little depressed, mouth a little behind 
114 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
nose, formed ~ ; the scales of head all descend 
to edge of fore lip, nostrils under fore lip. Length 
13 inches. 
Travelled three hours and a half, principally along 
the banks of the Oori River through thick bush; saw 
abundance of rhinoceroses, etc., some with young ones. 
Killed a young ox, not having been able to procure any 
game during the day. 
16 JULY (THURSDAY). 
Thermometer during last night fell to 41. In the 
sun this morning at 10 a.m. 83; in the shade 62. 
Tennant shot a small Accipiter, black. Herpestes 
No .... 178 : spleen shaped as in drawing, page 31,177 
light red, clouded with darker red. Lung right side 
four lobes, left side three. Kidney rather flat posterior 
surface, anterior convex, outer crescent-shaped, interior 
side nearly even with a small hollow for ureter and. 
vessels. Lungs light flesh colour, trachea imperfect 
behind. Liver dark red, lightest towards edges. 7 lobes 
on lung[?] under concave side near root. Gall bladder 
lying about an inch and a quarter from pylorus. Length 
from pylorus to caecum 22 inches; length from caecum 
to anus 6Y2 inches. Length of caecum nearly one inch, 
contracted and :firm at apex. In the small intestines 
circular patches of small glands like small seeds one 
6 inches from pylorus and the second about 8 inches 
from that. The apex of caecum glandular, the caecum 
very thin. The large intestines thin, small, :firm; 
stomach with strong longitudinal rugae, most marked 
towards lower or 178 convex side. 
11
• No number given. 
111 Of George Ford's sketch book, in all probability. 
11
• MS. has "on". 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 115 
Last night a herd of buffaloes approached the river 
near our camp. They appeared like a large herd of 
cattle; some had no hair upon them which they say is 
a mark of age. They are not so savage here as in the 
Colony. In the herd were two calves, one apparently 
a few days old. It could not keep up with the herd 
when they were flying from the hunters; occasionally 
the bulls returned to it and kept it up. During ~he time 
they were shooting them, many were cohabiting. The 
females keep always in front, the bulls behind. The 
hunters estimated that there were at least 30 179 bulls 
in the herd. They shot two and wounded several 
others. During the night lions roaring in various 
directions round our encampment, also towards 
morning. Nothing had been to the buffaloes though 
they were not above a mile from our camp. 
17 JULY (FRIDAY). 
Ascended a small conical hill near to where we halted 
last night to see the spot where the battle between the 
Griquas and Matabeli was fought.180 It was upon a 
low ridge between two slight valleys near to the 
Clabalican 181 River. In one of the valleys were a few 
bushes closely set on the ridge and a few scattered bushes. 
All the cattle were crowded together upon that ridge, 
and according to the account of the Matabeli who were 
with us there must have been an immense number. 
The Griqua commando was divided into small portions 
and encircling the cattle; they were sleeping in parties 
'" Perhaps rn. 
'"° Moordkop. See map. 
111 Hex River. Harris called it the Machachoc;han River. See 
Harris, W. C., 'The Wild Sports of Southern Africa, London, 1839, 
p. 233. 
116 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
by the small bushes. When the attack commenced 
they were all divided. Their loss was very great, arising 
in various ways. The greatest number were trampled 
by the cattle which scampered off in all directions as 
soon as the Matabeli commenced. Others were killed 
by the Griquas themselves who fired without showing 
consideration, and others were killed by the Matabeli. 
The horses were tied fast and almost all of them were 
killed. In consequence of the Matabeli appearing to 
wonder why I was desirous of seeing the spot, I 
determined upon giving up the idea of visiting it as 
was my intention. I however desired one of the party, 
a man whose statement I could depend upon, to take 
it in his course and get the interpreter and the Matabeli 
to accompany him. On reaching the spot he did not 
require to be told that he was now upon the scene 
of action; the number of bones told the tale. He says 
skulls of men and horses and bones of different parts 
of the bodies of both lay so thick that they could 
be distinctly seen from a distance. In one place a great 
number of bones of horses were almost in a line which 
probably was one of the places where they made them 
fast. Upon looking round they found broken stocks 
of guns, flaps of saddles, stirrup-irons, old clothes, hats, 
balls, powderhoms, etc. in abundance. He picked up 
the lock of a gun, but without cock. So certain were 
the Griquas that night that no danger awaited them 
that they actu;illy stript to go to sleep. 
The proceedings of this commando illustrate correctly 
the character of the Hottentot; when they have been 
engaged in any evil act they fear for the moment, but 
if what they suppose a time for danger passes without 
anything occurring, they never after fancy that it is 
possible for anything to take plac.e. The delay of a 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 117 
few days is certain to enable their opponents to take 
them by surprise. Any that spoke of danger that night 
and suggested caution were designated as cowards and 
ridiculed. 
A party ought never to attack Hottentot plunderers 
the night after the crime is committed as they possibly 
may be on their guard; but leave two or three nights 
to pass and then they go to sleep as satisfied as if at 
home. I have often been told when questioning them 
that •• We were in a place of danger and nothing 
happened, therefore why should we now fear." 
At the time that the commando attacked the 
Matabeli, Calipi was absent with the machaha to 
retake cattle which Ratsipip 182 had taken from 
Ramabutsetsi.188 The Matabeli commando was in 
charge of a commoner and not of a tuna. The 
commando that attacked the Bastards, Peter David, 
etc., was under a tuna who has since been killed for 
witchcraft. He had washed himself with medicine in 
order to injure the king. They say he was a rascal. 
The Matabeli say all the hills seen to the N .E. of 
us are infested by the flies which destroy cattle. 
A herd of bastard hartebeasts was seen, amongst 
which were several young ones some months old, 
perhaps six or seven. The males were very bold; always 
remained behind or on the flanks and when they got 
behind bushes one or two of the males invariably moved 
to one side to keep in view the wagons and people. 
A solitary gnu was with the herd and they fled from 
place to place together. The game here appeared 
particularly tame, permitting the wagons to keep within 
182 Rathsibi, a Tswana chief. See P·~ 170, footnote 273. 
111 Ramabutsetse was a Mantati, or Tlokwa chief. See pp. 119·120 
and p. H6. 
I 
118 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
gunshot of them. Hedges for intrapping game were 
here and there seen on the sides of our road. In the 
course of this day's journey observed young grass 
shooting out about the roots of the old. Hot during 
the day. 
18 JULY (SATURDAY). 
Thermometer last night 39. Travelled 5'% hours 
and before sunset reached one of Masalacatzie's 
outposts where were a great number of cattle, 
principally cows, in charge of a few young men, the 
ring .. kop who had the ohief charge of the post being 
absent on a visit to his wives. They say that a portion 
of the ring .. kops are detached in this way in charge of 
posts whilst their wives are at their regular kraals, and 
that whilst on this duty they can from time to time 
either go and see their wives or their wives may visit 
them, but they never reside at their kraal. From this 
sort of arrangement generally half of the married men 
are living apart from their wives; [they J say it is the 
custom. I explained to them that Dingan was in the 
habit of punishing his married men by causing them to 
live apart from their wives, with a view to ascertain 
if such a plan was also practised by the Matabeli. They 
replied by saying they never did so. When they put 
a man to death they put their hand on the chin whilst 
the body is kept fixed and twist the head round. 
A small party of Bechuanas passed near to the wagons 
on their way to their kraal which was towards the 
Oori River. Most of them traded with watermelons 
which they had brought from a kraal on the Klabalican 
River. They were very much delighted to hear that 
a rhinoceros had been shot by our party and was close 
to where we met them; they immediately repaired to 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 119 
it. The party that was with us some time ago cut 
all the rhinoceros meat into narrow strips and dried it, 
hanging it on branches of trees. As they got game, 
they prepared it in that way, and left it at different 
places to take it up on their return. 
It appears to me that Masalacatzie must have been 
suspicious of us from our insisting to visit the country 
towards the sources of the Liqua, and that probably 
induced him to send the tuna who joined us on the 
road. Fear of our intentions probably made him 
determine upon moving after we left him; it is possible 
he might suspect that we had some understanding with 
Dingan or the Griquas. 
During the day we fell in with three cameleopards, 
two rather small and one very large; their heads were 
distinctly seen much above the bush though that was 
rather ·high. I pursued them on horseback but could 
not get close to them; th~y did not appear to go fast 
and yet they kept leaving the horse. It was not possible 
to get them off the wind, for though I made various 
exertions to turn them and though at times they 
appeared inclined to tum, they always sided back again 
to the wind. Whilst running they kept constantly 
moving their tails from side to side gently, their heads 
always directed slightly towards me, their necks slanting 
upwards and forwards. The large one was finely 
spotted. They appear as if sliding themselves forward, 
seeming to raise the fore and hinder foot of the same 
side at the same time. 
Ramabutsetsi was a Mantatee chief who had the 
charge of a post of Masalacatzie • s cattle towards the 
Marique. He is no longer with Masalacatzie, nor do 
they know where he is. Ratsipip fled as the Matabeli 
commando approached and left the cattle. He was a 
120 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Bechuana. They don't know where he is but said he 
is far to the north. 
During the day passed several deserted kraals and 
saw some at a distance close to the base of the range 
equally without inhabitants. Though I was told that 
it was the Matabeli custom to burn their kraals on 
leaving them, those were entire with the exception of 
the houses, and therefore it is not improbable that those 
we saw burnt had been from Dingan's commandoes. 
They seem generally to place their kraals upon the 
ridges or bases of hills on the slope in order to be able 
to see the cattle grazing during the day. They often 
place them near to little hills in order to have a place 
to ascend and enjoy an extensive view. 
19 JULY (SUNDAY). 
Last night thermometer 31. Eight Matabeli boys 
visited our camp about 9 a.m. and brought some milk 
for sale. Two young women were with them, one 
with the mammae very large and pendulous like a 
woman giving suck. All the men declared that she 
was but a child and had no husband. There are, they 
say, no women with husbands at the kraal. These 
young women are with them to cook for them and 
bring water and :firewood. 
Thermometer in the sun at noon 84; in the shade 72. 
Service at 4 p.m. 
20 JULY (MONDAY). 
The lory begins to fly very early in the mornings. 
It perches upon the tops of trees and cries like a young 
lamb, only not so sharp, •• Mea, mea, mea ,. ; sometimes 
only once at a time, at other times it repeats the sound. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 121 
On the 18 July two Oryx typicus were shot, one 
beginning to get his summer coat. On the rump of 
one a few red feathers appearing, and about the sides 
of breast just at the bends of the wings, as well as on 
the flanks, some black ones. The bill was of a reddish 
flesh colour. 
The greatest difficulty is experienced in keeping the 
people in a state in which they would be ready to 
act promptly at a moment's notice. Though I have so 
often desired that no man shall sleep without his shoes, 
yet this morning I discovered seven without them. 
One of the number replied to me when I admonished 
him, ••But you know, Sir, I knew where they were 
and could have had them on at a moment's notice." 
Had we been attacked in the night, that moment's 
delay might have cost him his life. 
The thermometer in the sun at 10 a.m. 110; last 
night 42. The wind this morning at and about sunrise 
very cold; the thermometer was sheltered from it in 
the shade at the same time with sun 68. 
Travelled about 6 hours through a close thorn-bush 
requiring much attention to keep the wagons from 
getting entangled. We saw several small kraals to the 
north of us, and towards dark reached one of some 
size in which were two tunas and about 2 5 men with 
a proportion of women considerably greater than the 
men, many of them unmarried, and with very little 
clothing, some of them only with a small rag of skin 
in front, nothing behind, others with the regular Zoola 
waistbelt as got at Dingan's. Several neat head 
ornaments procured composed of the skin of the tail 
of a small Herpestes. The tunas seemed very pleased 
to see us and immediately brought me a full supply of 
milk and beer. In the kraal were a tolerable number 
122 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
of houses thatched with grass to the very ground and 
much crossed by grass cords, the doors made of wicker 
work. In the kraals numbers of elevated platforms 
upon which they store pumpkins, etc; also over many of 
the doors of the houses cattle horns. Sent the cattle 
to the kraal it being too late to make a kraal for them. 
Got a supply of firewood from the chief. 
21 JULY (TUESDAY). 
Another supply of milk and beer was brought me 
this morning and both the tunas appeared extremely 
anxious for beads. Many of the women were this 
morning occupied outside of the kraal in making grass 
mats to sleep upon. They bind the grass together by 
means of grass cords. 
I made many inquiries today regarding the present 
residence of Masalacatzie, but could learn nothing, 
their policy evidently being to keep his dwelling plac~ 
unknown; though our guides know where he is they 
will not tell. Early this morning they turned out our 
cattle and about eight o'clock they turned out their 
own and drove them immediately to the water. After 
they are in the field they are divided into smaller herds 
and with each several boys of 16 or 17 years of age 
proceed to the fields. They are armed with hassegays 
and small shields. Cattle watching appears to be the 
duty of youths of that age. The whole care of the 
men seems to be turned to the cattle, and their minds 
entirely engrossed in them. Every herd that passed 
from the water formed a subject of general remark 
and both the tunas gave numerous instructions to the 
herders relative to them. All the cattle appeared in 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 123 
good condition, and many of them were springing about 
as they left the kraal gate. When that was observed 
there was an address uttered by someone or other to 
the animals and the herders following them kept 
screaming aloud till too far to be heard. 
Some pumpkins were offered for sale and as soon as 
it became generally known in the kraal that we were 
buying them, almost every woman flew to her store in 
order to be in the market and get a few beads. After 
twelve were purchased the chief prevented any more 
being sold. The women that came afterwards he 
ordered away, and upon their showing some reluctance 
to turn off he began pelting them with cow-dung. 
Cuetaili, 184 who was with us, took those which were 
placed on the ground after the order and tossed them 
away, by which several were broken to pieces. Last 
night and also this morning we had examples of the 
little feeling they had for their women. When parties 
of them came to our encampment to look on, the chief 
as well as the others immediately ordered them away, 
and when they showed any reluctance to leave they 
sprung up and threatened them with the sambuc.1815 
At these times men and boys were permitted to mix 
with our people and gaze about as they chose. On 
visiting the chiefs in the kraal I saw some very aged 
women within the fences also employed in making mats. 
They begged snuff and beads. I had only a few in a 
paper and two nearly equally old asked for them. I 
made them draw straws who should have them; the 
plan and result amused both as well as the lookers-on 
very much. 
'" Kwatale (?) . 
•• Sjambok, or riding whip of hide. 
124 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
One of the tunas was engaged in preparing medicines 
for sick people. He had a leather bag in which small 
roots of various descriptions seemed to be mixed as 
also pieces of skin, etc., and he was breaking to pieces 
with a stone a large root or piece of wood to mix 
with them. 
Thermometer 31 in the night; in my wagon at 
10 a.m., 70. 
22 JULY (WEDNESDAY). 
The axle of the cart was again broken today, having 
caught against a portion of projecting wood. Passed 
several kraals wioh abundance of cattle but very few 
men; a great number of women and children. One 
kraal consisting of machaha was passed; only a small 
number. Towards evening reached two kraals near 
the point of a hill where there were several springs, 
one very large in the flat and the soil all round a perfect 
quagmire so that clie oxen are very apt to get fast, 
which happened to one of ours. The tuna of one of 
the kraals was very friendly and brought us abundance 
of milk, beer, some pumpkins and beans. 
Ever since the last commando of Dingan when the 
men of Masalacatzie gave up and did not hold on after 
the others ceased fighting, their wives have been 
separated by the king's order and at present they reside 
in kraals by themselves, but permission is given to them 
to visit their wives for a time when they are inclined. 
The machaha were absent on a commando at the time 
Dingan • s men arrived. Several married women were, 
however, seen in all the kraals which we visited. 
ANDREW SMITii DIARY 125' 
23 JULY (THURSDAY). 
Started about 12 o'clock and travelled to near the 
kraal where we left Mr. Kift and the wagons. In the 
afternoon the disselboom 186 of Ishmael's wagon broke 
again as we were passing a small stream with a very 
deep channel and steep banks. Repaired it with riems; 
left the bugel 187 out. 
Whilst engaged in repairing that our guide arrived 
and stated that Mr. Moffat had returned to the kraal 
where we left him and Mr. Kift, that he had come on 
horseback and that Masalacatzie was behind. This I 
expected would be the case as I have had reason to 
think that he still looks with suspicion upon us and 
that he would not return to the same kraal lest we 
should have been showing the road to a commando. 
Passed some small kraals to the right of our road 
and were visited by several men and a few machaha. 
The whole surf ace of the country looks black, the 
grass having almost everywhere been burnt since we 
left this part of the country. At the kraal from whence 
we started this morning the people were very annoying 
with their clamour, particularly the women and 
children. At last, on my complaining of it to our 
guide he flogged them all away and laid the sambuc 188 
also acros.s the shoulders of several of the men. None 
of them resisted; flight was the order of the day. Most 
of the women were much afraid when I approached 
them, apparently dreading the beard. Several of the 
young men and also some old ones followed us for 
several miles begging tobacco, or rather snuff. A 
''" Wagon shaft. 
"' Beugel, or iron shackle of the disselboom or shaft. 
iu Sjambok, or riding whip of hide. 
126 ANDREW SMITII DIARY 
bastard hartebeast was shot and four Matabeli carried 
it to the wagons. I gave them half of it which 
delighted them very much; they showered praises in 
abundance upon the white men. 
24 JULY (FRIDAY). 
The days are getting very warm and the nights are 
now temperate. Started about ten a.m. and reached 
the kraal where we left Mr. Moffat and Mr. Kift 
a little before sunset. 
Just before starting a troop of Baquans arrived near 
to our wagons. They stated that they had been living 
far to the N .E. and that they were on their way to 
Mosiga. There were five or six machaha with them 
in their war dresses; one of the latter was driving a 
few half starved cows, and the others appeared in 
charge of the Baquans and seemed to direct their 
advances and halts as military officers direct the 
movements of their troops. They seemed to treat them 
with great hauteur and when questions were asked, 
or they were by them otherwise addressed, they often 
treated them with the utmost indifference, not 
condescending to make a reply or even evince reason 
for them thinking that their words were heard or 
attended to. They kept pace with the wagons till 
near the kraal where we were to halt, and there they 
left us for one of the adjoining kraals. The women 
were all heavily loaded and had in their load all their 
cooking utensils, skins, etc.; some of the men also 
carried corn and hassegays of the large description such 
as we had already seen with the poor people for ki1ling 
game. Mr. Moffat met us some distance from the 
wagons. We found all to our great joy well and 
during our absence no untoward occurrences. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 127 
25' JULY (SATURDAY). 
Engaged during the day making arrangements for 
our farther operations. A quarrelsome appearance 
shown amongst some of the people and some symptoms 
of an inclination to fight with each other. A good deal 
of jeering and remarks which I could not well compre, 
hend. Cautioned them as to the bad effects of such 
conduct. 
26 JULY (SUNDAY). 
Mr. Moffat heard either Syme or Botha, both of 
whom arrived before the wagons, remark that their 
time was up and that they were determined upon 
leaving provided I was intending to go further inland. 
From two others I heard that such was the conversation 
of several others of the party and that dissatisfaction 
existed in the party on the subject of proceeding and 
that a bad feeling prevailed which was chiefly 
occasioned by their dislike to one of the corporals. I 
determined upon opening my mind to them on the 
subject and admonishing them as to the impropriety 
of such conduct. Monday morning I fixed upon as 
the period to do that, but finding that Mr. Moffat was 
determined upon leaving us at daylight of that day I 
thought it desirable that ·I should be acquainted with 
the state of feeling previous to his leaving. I therefore, 
against my inclination, decided upon doing that 
immediately. · With that determination I had every 
member of the Expedition before me and told them 
in a few words what I had seen and what I had heard, 
and also how sorry I was that now, when we were 
on the eve of finishing our journey, a spirit should be 
128 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
evinced quite contrary to what I had formerly seen. 
I therefore requested that all those who were disposed 
to stand by me and act with me in prosecution of 
my intention, which was to go farther inland, should 
move to one side, and that those who were disposed 
to abandon me should stand fast. Not one kept his 
place, though a few seemed rather sulky, amongst 
which were Botha, Syme and Philip. The first I have 
always looked upon as the worst man of the whole 
party; he is a person who will endeavour to urge others 
to evil, whilst he will, by his cunning and address, give 
the uncautious reason to think he is one of the best 
characters. I was told by some good men of the 
party that a man was the prime mover in whom I 
appeared to have great conndence. I demanded who 
he was and upon being told I explained to them that 
it was quite the reverse of what they believed. I had 
no confidence in him; it was true they had never heard 
me reprove him on the road, but that arose from his 
having given me no occasion as far as I could discover, 
but that I was not unheedful of him, and was never 
without my suspicions which led me to watch 
attentively his conduct. They appeared satisfied, 
saying that they thought it was proper to put me on 
my guard as to him and that they were glad I was 
not ignorant of his real character. This man 189 was 
a convict at Cape Town for murder, where I took 
much trouble and got him freed from his punishment. 
He came to my house, took me by the knees, and 
bent down saying he would never think he could be 
grateful enough to me or serve me sufficiently. 
181 Andries Botha. See Vol. i of this Diary, p. 33. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 129 
27 JULY (MONDAY). 
Mr. Moffat left us about 7 a.m. on purpose to 
return to Mosiga where Masalacatzie and his wagon 
were. I gave him some notes of matters I wished should 
be explained to Masalacatzie, and also letters for the 
Colony. The people all appear in good humour today. 
In relation to the execution of ten persons which 
took place at the kraal where we left the wagons and 
Mr. Kift, Andries, who remained with Mr. Kift, states 
that on Tuesday morning, whilst he was standing in 
the door of the kraal, 13 men entered with their shields 
and hassegays as they go on a journey, and when inside 
went and sat down on the right hand side after 
saluting the king who was sitting in the upper part 
of the kraal. He did not speak to them but spoke 
with his tunas. Some time after this he sent his 
servant to tell Andries and Pickene [?),190 who were 
still standing by the door, that they must not remain 
there; they must come and sit by him. They went. 
He said through the interpreter to Andries that he 
was not a Coranna, a Bastard, or a Hottentot, but 
he was a white man; and then continued to speak with 
his tuna. Then Combati 191 spoke to the accused. 
There was one ring-kop amongst the number, an old 
man. Then he stood up and spoke for a long time, 
then went again and sat down. Then the man, who 
was killed behind the kraal by Umcotue 192 as will 
be afterwards mentioned, stood up and spoke; whilst 
speaking he wept much. After speaking a long time 
Combati waved his hand at him, upon which he went 
100 Piekenier (7). 
111 Mncumbati. See p. 74, footnote 113. 
,.. Mokatwe. He was an induna of Miilikazi. 
130 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
back and sat down. Then a young man stood up and 
spoke; he spoke about ten words when Mas. waved 
his hand and he held his tongue. After this the man 
that wept stood up again and spoke for some time but 
scarcely intelligibly, he was weeping so; then Mas. 
waved his hand and he went and sat down. Tohen 
a long black man got up and spoke for a short time. 
When he had done Mas. pointed to him to take his 
seat apart from the party, which he did by going to 
the left side of the kraal door. Then an old man 
stood up, a Bechuana with a grey beard; he was the 
chief of the party and had excited them to murder 
the men by administering poison in beer. He denied 
the charge. Mas. pointed out to him to retire to the 
same place. Then the young man that was accused 
spoke for a long time. Mas. showed him by 1his hand 
to go back to the party. Then Masalacatzie got up 
and retired to his house. Andries and Piquenr [?] 193 
went with him to his house and he gave them beer, 
and then they got up to go to the wagons. When 
they came out they were still sitting, the accused and 
the one apart as mentioned already. In the evening 
Masalacatzie was sitting outside the kraal, with all 
his people and the accused also, holding court. [He] 
did not go there. 
On Wednesday, about 10 o'clock, [he] went up to 
the kraal. They were then trying cases. Those that 
spoke yesterday also spoke this day, but little. The 
tunas spoke with them and, he supposes, were 
delivering their sentences. Andries and P. got up and 
went away, so did Masalacatzie. Then the accused 
got up and walked out of the kraal and sat down 
111 Piekenier (?). 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 131 
outside of the kraal gate and there continued all the 
day. No people sat with them. Combati, soon after 
they entered the kraal, left from Mas. and came down 
to the party and spoke to them, not as if angry. None 
of them said anything. He then returned to Mas. and 
sat down. Whilst the old ring,kop was speaking he 
was constantly walking. This ring,kop was the person 
in charge of the party and not one of the accused. 
None of the others had rings. The ring,kop always 
remained with them. On Thursday, about midday, 
whilst Andries was returning from the bush with wood 
and passing behind the kraal, Umcotue came from the 
kraal preceded by the man that cried so much. When 
they came near to an aardvark hole Umcotue said 
something to him and he immediately laid himself 
down upon his belly with his hands crossed under his 
forehead; so as he got in that position the other with 
an axe gave him a cut in the back of the neck which 
separated the vertebrae. Bled much. He then took 
the kaross, pulled it up under his head, turned him 
over, and then pushed his head into the hole. The 
right leg he bent inwards, the left being a little bent. 
He then took a thick sharp stick and pushed it up 
his anus and left about six inches out. The stick was 
about two or three feet in length. He pushed the stick 
with great violence into the body, then took up the 
axe and returned to the kraal. He had the stick, axe 
and hassegay when he came from the kraal. Umcotue 
did not appear to do it with sorrow or reluctance. He 
wiped the axe before he returned to the kraal on the 
grass. Some time after Andries had returned to the 
wagon and got tea for Mr. Moffat and Mr. Kift, 
Masalacatzie came down to the wagons where he 
remained a short time; then he stood up and called 
132 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Combati, Umcotue and Calepi, and with them he went 
behind one of our wagons and talked for some time. 
Then he returned to the people and shortly after got 
up and with Umcotue and Calepi walked away 
towards the river. He and they then stood by a bush 
whilst his servant went and called Combati who was 
at the river washing. Then they all together went up 
the river a little way and then Combati returned to 
the kraal. Then with a party of several people they 
came down to the wagons, and whilst there one of 
the young men intended to be drowned went and asked 
the shield of one of the men left in charge of the 
wagons who gave it to him. Immediately Combati 
spoke to him and he turned back and gave it up to 
its owner. From the wagons they proceeded to where 
Mas. was standing; the other men also went, and when 
on the bank all sat down. Then Combati went to 
Mas. and talked for a time. Calepi then came and 
took him by the hand. He stood up and he carried 
him away in front of the others to Mas. Calepi then 
made fast 1his arms against ·his sides. He then lay 
down on his side and Combati fastened his legs together 
below the knees. Then Calepi fixed a riem round his 
neck, whilst Umcotue brought a long stone which they 
fastened by the riem. Then Combati took him by the 
legs, Calepi by the shoulders, and threw him from the 
bank into the water.193* They stood for some time and 
then walked off. His limbs and body continued for 
two days above the water; ·his head was under. Mas. 
with his four tunas returned to the wagons. The 
other men went off to the river and washed themselves. 
Combati, when he went past the wagons, had a 
'"'• See Plate 18. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 133 
hassagay, a karrie and riems in his hand. None of 
the others had hassegays, only each a karrie. He was 
condemned for having connection with a young 
unmarried girl; one of the ring-kops caught him in the 
act. 
On Friday Andries was out shooting and he came 
upon the body of another dead man, rather aged, a 
short yellow man; his head was also in a hole. This 
man was anxious to have the wife of a Matabeli hut 
he could not get her, so he got from the old grey 
bearded man medicine to kill her. He could see nothing 
about his body but the stick up his anus; his head 
was in a hole. 
On Monday afternoon, walking up the side of the 
river to shoot, he saw a woman lying on her back 
with her hands crossed upon her belly, her head in a 
hole with the kaross under it and a stick pushed into 
the organs of generation. She was a young woman; 
no marks of having been strangled, quite naked. [He] 
did not hear why she was killed. The man said that 
Masalacatzie shall not live long; that they must take 
care of his cattle and stand by him in commandoes, 
yet he every day keeps killing them. This was not a 
Matabeli. If they ask wives from ·him then he kills 
th~m. Andries was also told by one of his men that 
he had also killed at that time his brother's wife; 
that man hated him. This same man had a sick ox 
in his charge, and that was killed by a wolf. He sent 
for a tuna to come and see it; he came and skinned it 
and carried off all the flesh. The man says there will 
be a court on him and he does not know what will 
become of him yet. They punish a man for such 
misfortunes. 
J 
134 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
28 JULY (TUESDAY). 
Started about twelve o'clock and travelled about 
three hours to a Bechuana kraal where there were a 
considerable number of cattle belonging to Mas. The 
·people appeared very miserable and not in good spirits. 
Their houses were built somewhat like the Bechuanas 
at Kuruman, only the thatch came much lower and 
some of them had a second wall of about a foot or 
a foot and a half in height between the posts which 
support the roof. 'fihe inside walls [are] of clay and 
the thatch, about halfway up, rests upon the top of 
the wall. Hollowed out circle inside for fire-place. 
No division inside. Thatch collected together at the 
top into a cylinder which is flat at the top and :fixed 
with a cord. Each family has its houses in little 
separate groups more or less surrounded by fences 
formed of twigs neatly fixed together about a foot thick 
and four or five feet in height. The master of this 
kraal had a great number of bones strung round his 
neck but no beads or other ornaments. They wear 
the tails but none of them have rings on their heads. 
Many of the original natives have rings on their heads. 
About 11 a.m. letters arrived from Mosega and a 
message from Masalacatzie, the purport of which was 
to dissuade us from going to the Bamangwato 194 
country as the sickness was so severe there at present 
and recommending us to return to Mosiga. I sent 
off messengers immediately with a letter to Mr. Moffat, 
and requested him to explain that we would not go 
to where the sickness was severe, that we could not 
be long absent but that we could not return to our 
•N Ngwato. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 13i' 
country without having attempted to penetrate further. 
I besought Mr. M. also in the most urgent terms to 
endeavour to get Mas. to give us the corn we had 
bought from him on the Marique, 195 where we would 
be this evening, adding that if he could not deliver the 
full quantity rather than go without some we would 
take the half. I entreated Mr. M. if possible not to 
leave Mosiga before he heard from me and found that 
the com had been given off, as if future arrangements 
were to be made ·between Mas. and myself through 
verbal messages carried by Matabeli we would never 
come square. Calepi sent for some tobacco. A small 
piece sent to him. 
'J1he young kodoe about six months old nearly three 
feet and a half high, the mane on shoulders long and 
very distinctly margined with white. The horns 
about three inches long, quite straight and pointed, 
cylindrical, and loose upon the forehead. Between the 
horns in this young male the ·hair was parted to each 
side. The natives here who are living under the rule 
of Masalacatzie have goats and sheep, also the Matabeli 
have the same. The sheep have long thin tails, not like 
those of the Colony. 
29 JULY (WEDNESDAY). 
After travelling about 21/2 hours we reached the 
Merique River and crossed it. Ford good, but descent 
to it very irregular and rather steep. Two wheels 
fastened; no accident. Encamped on the banks of the 
river with a view to wait the result of the letter to 
Mr. Moffat. A male Estrilda granatina shot today 
changing colour; the new colour from new feathers. 
'"" Groot Marico River. 
136 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The Bamangwato separated many years ago, and the 
portion to which Molemo belonged lived near the lake 
where he was bom.106 Ramabutsetsi lives now upon 
the lake.197 He is a Mantatee, and while living there 
Sebatwani 198 was also one of the chief Baquana and 
Bacompa 199 lived to the north of the lake, also 
Macaugana. 200 The 2nd had beads of a large size. 
Does not know where they got t:hem. No clothes. 
A tribe called Macalaka 201 which, he heard, live to 
the west of the other Bamangwato who continued in 
their country. What he saw was blankets and hand­
kerchiefs. They had a piece of skin bound round the 
body and a piece of rag hanging before the privates. 
They had hassegays and shields so as the Bechuanas. 
Says there were poor Bushmen between his tribe and 
the Bawankets 202 like those that live in the mountains 
near Kuruman. They had the bow, arrow and poison 
like them. They were of the same colour as our 
Bushmen [and} speak a similar sort of language. 
[They} had no cattle, stole from the other tribes, often 
made commandoes and killed them when they stole 
their cattle. They had (the Bamangwato) sheep and 
goats, the latter very small. The river Bokitele 203 runs 
,,. Lake Ngami. The Ngwato chiefs name was probably Moremi. 
101 Ramabutsetse, whose tribe was called Maphatana by the Tswana. 
108 Sebetwane, a chief whose people originally formed part of the 
Mantati horde, but who, after their disruption, formed his own force of 
warriors, chiefly Fokeng, and attacked and overcame Makaba, chief 
of the Ngwaketse. For an excellent resume of his history see Ellen· 
berger, D. F., and Macgregor, J. C., History of the Ba$Uto, London, 
1912, pp. 30M30. 
lllll Professor Schapera suggests that this tribe may have been the 
Makoba. Compare Vol. i, p. 35'4, footnote f . 
100 I cannot identify this tribe. 
201 Makalaka (?) . 
20
' Ngwaketse. 
20
' Botletle River. See Livingstone, D., Missionary 'Travels and 
Researches in South Africa, London, 18f7, p. 62. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 137 
to the eastward. To the east lived a tribe called 
Bokitele 204 who were dressed like the Makalaka and 
they were white. The Bamangwato once went to fight 
with the Bokitele. Half of them had hassegays and 
shields, the rest had bows. They were the colour of 
Hottentots. They had beads of a large size; they had 
no blankets nor handkerchiefs. They had a riem round 
the body and a piece of ox-skin hanging from it in front. 
The Bacompa dressed like the Bokitele. 
Notes of Mr. Kift in relation to executions, etc. 
On Tuesday, 31 June, about 150 men arrived from 
a distance and it was stated that they had brought 
prisoners. It was stated that one had put blood in 
one of his houses and that another was accused of 
not inclining to conform to the customs of their fore• 
fathers. Peete hoes 205 were held soon after. On 
Friday went up to the kraal and saw a black bull 
slaughtered in the usual way. We were prevented 
going near a small kraal in which the calves stood in 
the night where Mas. was engaged with the doctor. 
'Jihe tunas prevented them; only went between them 
and the kraal and made signs for them to go to the 
other side. There did not appear to be a fire in the 
kraal and [he} thinks only Mas. and the doctor were 
there. He was there about a quarter of an hour before 
he came out and sat down for about five or six minutes. 
He did not appear in a good humour. Then he got 
up and went into the little kraal again. After the 
bull was killed and whilst Mas. was sitting, his boy 
cupbearer went to it and cut off with a small knife a 
little from near the point of the horn, some hair from 
the tip of the tail, a portion of the skin from the top 
,.. Botletle. Ibid. p. 63. 
"'" Pitso, or meeting. 
138 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
of the head between the horns, a piece of sinew from 
the right hinder leg above the false hoofs and a:bout 
8 inches from the back of the neck about halfway 
between head and shoulders. All these were collected 
in the hand and carried into the kraal. As soon as 
that was done Mas. followed. He remained in about 
20 minutes and then returned. [He) appeared to have 
been washing his hands. All the people looked 
uncommonlf grave; no singing nor dancing. They 
returned to the wagons and some time after he came 
down with his chiefs. After several private conver' 
sations they walked off towards the river. Previous 
to that [he) appeared anxious that Mr. Moffat should 
leave and go to a small spring at a little distance. Did 
not hear the dance nor song that night. Mr. Moffat 
informed me that two of his own brothers were put 
to death because they had been working with medicine 
to cause his death. They had said that Dingan killed 
Ohaka and they had as much right to govern as he 
had. The mother and a servant woman were also 
executed as having been engaged in the plot. He said 
ten were executed. For the method vide drawings 
No. 25' and 26.206 
Where we halted on the evening of the 28th the 
people used boards coarsely formed to close their doors, 
and they were pushed in between posts on each side 
of the door and the walls of the house. Every 
opportunity we have of witnessing the conduct of the 
Matabeli to the aborigines goes to prove the dreadful 
state of subjection in which they are kept; they are 
ordered about like dogs and if they wish any peace or 
favour they are necessitated to supplicate young 
200 Possibly Nos. 128, 129 and 130 of Bell's originals. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 139 
Matabeli in a most humiliating manner, to exihibit the 
most supplicating looks, employ the most humiliating 
gestures and give utterance to the most endearing and 
at the same time most submissive expressions such as 
" Baba kosi " 207 etc. 
The aborigines call the mountains of Kurichane, 
Chinyane. 208 All the machaha in this direction and 
towards the W ankets' country are under the orders 
of Kabalonta; those of Mosiga and the hills to the 
north under Calepi and those to the eastward where 
we were, under Umbati.209 ~hey say that when 
Umbati goes to the Cape his office for the time will 
be assumed by his brother who is a tuna. Where 
Kabalonta lives there are no rivers; the people and 
cattle drink from puts.209* There are tunas amongst the 
machaha who are also unmarried and without the ring; 
one visited us today who is master of all the cattle posts 
in this direction. 
30 JULY (THURSDAY). 
A man with two attendants arrived this afternoon 
and stated that he had come to deliver off the corn 
but it was at the kraal where we halted the night 
previous to reaching Mr. Moffat and Mr. Kift. He 
said we were to get part there and the rest he would 
give us when we returned to Mosiga. He was still 
urgent that we should return to Mosiga, but after I 
stated the impossibility of doing that the man said then 
we must go on to the other place. 
'°' Baba, nl(.osil Father, chief! 
208 See p. 60, footnote 8'7. 
- Mncumbati. 
-• Wells. 
140 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
31 JULY (FRIDAY). 
Mr. Kift remarked that in skinning the black bull 
which was killed as already mentioned they did not 
perform that in the usual way. They first cut out a 
large oval piece of the skin from one side about the 
size of a shield and then turned the animal over and 
cut a piece of the same size from the opposite side. 
Mr. Moffat put several questions to Monahaing,210 the 
interpreter, as to what they were going to do with 
the pieces they cut off. He answered that he was not 
permitted to put those questions to Masalacatzie. 
Very cold during the past night, much colder than 
in the early days of July. Could the burning of the 
grass have not tended to make the temperature •higher? 
Yesterday afternoon Piet and de Toit shot two buffaloes 
{cows), and in the evening the wagon went and 
brought home the meat. Halted in the afternoon and 
made a kraal upon the banks of the Merique nearly 
opposite a small Matabeli kraal. Several of the men 
and women visited the camp towards evening, and the 
machaha tuna, who had been with us the evening 
before, came here and presented us with a calabash 
of beer. He said he had nothing else to offer, that 
this was not the place where he lived, and that there 
was scarcely any milk, the cattle here being principally 
oxen. One of our party lost himself and was brought 
to the wagons about ten p.m. by two Bechuanas to 
whom 1 gave some beads. 
1
'" Monaheng. See Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives of Robert and Mary 
Moffat, London, 188~, p. 192. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 141 
1 AUGUST (SATURDAY). 
Mr. Kift with a wagon and three of our party 
proceeded about eight o'clock this morning together 
with the tuna sent by Masalacatzie to get us the corn 
which had been sold to Mr. Kift whilst we were absent 
on the other side. Early this-morning he requested to 
know from Mr. Kift what quantity he was to receive 
as he had only one bunch of beads. Mr. Kift told him 
ten bags of the size he showed him. He made no 
remarks. The circumstance of the tuna saying he had 
only one bunch of beads gave us to understand that 
his majesty had meant the corn to be purchased, anc1 
though the farce of buying might be gone through yet 
it will neither be a voluntary sale nor will the price 
in any way be regulated by the inclination of the sellers. 
He will just order out corn and give what he is inclined 
to those who produce it. This tuna, when Masalacatzie 
was driven from his native land, received ten wounds, 
several on the arms and two or three near the pit of 
the stomach. He was left for dead and it was not 
before a long time that he recovered. He says 
Masalacatzie has much respect and love for him and 
that he cooks meat for him. I found on inquiry that 
Calepi does so also; therefore it is probable that at 
whatever kraal he resides the chief whose oxen are 
killed superintends the cooking for the king. This 
may arise from their being supposed to have his interest 
more at heart and therefore not so likely to injure him 
by poison or such like. This man is the chief of one 
kraal, Umcotue of two kraals, and all the kraals to 
the west are under Calepi. 
142 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The country from this towards the poort 211 was in 
early days inhabited by the Bamaleti 212 and Poe, 218 
their king, lived between the poort and the Marique. 
They also lived on the east of the Chinwayne 214 hills. 
The Baharootzie lived on the west of these hills and 
amongst them about the hills called Kurrichani, which 
lies behind and to the west of Chinwayne. 
Saw two men who said they were Backloqua 2111 and 
that their tribe lived a little to the eastward of where 
we found Masalacatzie. They always wore the 
Bechuana dress, and their tribe was broken up by 
Sebatwani, a Mantatee chief, before Masalacatzie was 
known to any of the tribes in this direction. They 
said that they had no knowledge of people called 
Baquana, so that the only tribe I have yet found who 
acknowledge that name was to the east of the Oori, 
who said that their chiefs name was Matseli. Saw 
a Bechuana at Thaba Unchu who had been to school 
in England.216 He said that the boys who were well 
bred used to call him •• Master so and so,.. but those 
that were of the opposite description used to call [him] 
••black kettle, black pot, chimney,"217 etc., etc. He 
had at the time a round black beaver hat, a kaross 
round 'his shoulders and leathern trowsers. 
About 1 p.m. Sikanelo 218 arrived from Mosigha with 
a letter from Mr. Moffat and also a message from 
Masalacatzie. The latter was still, in pursuance of his 
'" The poort to the northeast of present•day Zeerust (?) . 
• ,. Lete. 
111 POwe. 
"' Chwenyane, a small baboon. 
•
11 Tiokwa. 
'" This native was a Rolong, who was probably taken to England 
by the Wesleyan missionaries. 
m Possibly "chimney sweep". 
•
11 A Tswana messenger. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 143 
former recommendations, filled with accounts of the 
horrors and dangers of the Bamangwato country and 
advising strongly that we should return to him. He 
sent me word that Mr. Moffat was now going away 
and that his heart was very anxious to see me again 
as he would be quite alone, but he added if I was 
determined to go farther I must go and Sikanelo must 
go and take care of us. 
The change of wives is so common amongst 
Hottentots that a common remark amongst Colonial 
Hottentots is '' de vrouw dat jy noch habt of is dat 
de yonge vrouw dat ,hi van leva habt of de kraai dat 
hi naderhaand habt gevat." 219 The majority of them 
seem to think nothing of turning away one woman for 
the purpose of taking another; that is what they call 
" lat stand.,, 220 The women are equally indifferent 
to such proceeding. They readily remark, when quarrel 
or discord arise between her and her husband, " Ik 
sal ein ander man vat." 221 
The black bird with red bill like the vink generally 
keeps company with the buffaloes, eats insects from 
their backs, flies up when they take to flight, flies in 
~ tr?Op high above them but constantly keeps them 
m view. 
One of our party surprised one of the machaha who 
was in charge of the Bechuana emigration seen the day 
previous to reaching the kraal where Mr. Kift and Mr. 
1
" "Die vrou watJ"y no{ [noul het, of is dit die jong vrou wat 
hy vanslewe [geJha [hetj of die kraai wat hy naderhand gevat 
het?" 
"[Is that J the woman that you still have, or is that the young 
woman you formerly had, or the crow [skinny thing) that you took 
later on?" 
,.. "Laat staan", desert. 
"' "Ek sal 'n ander man vat," "I shall take another husband." 
144 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Mo ff at were. The man appeared perfectly indifferent 
on the subject; the woman showed signs of shame. 
2 AUGUST (SUNDAY). 
Moderately warm during the night. Sky much 
clouded in the morning. Clouds began to disperse 
about midday. The cattle guard discovered the head 
of a man near to a hole in which he had been buried 
quite fresh and with large holes in the back part of 
the skull. 
Service about noon. The Matabeli attended and 
showed considerable respect for the proceeding. 
3 AUGUST (MONDAY). 
Many Bechuanas visited the camp with milk and 
other articles for sale, also some Matabeli women. 
Towards evening Mr. Kift with the wagon and :five 
sacks of Caff er corn arrived. The man who had been 
sent by Masalacatzie stated that he was ordered to 
:fill 5 and that we would receive the rest on our return 
to Mosiga. The kraal they went to for the corn was 
situated in a valley between hills and appeared to be 
the residence of an agricultural population. There were 
very few cattle there but a large store of corn which 
was beneath the cattle kraal, and into it a woman 
descended and handed up the corn in baskets. Vide 
drawing in Mr. Bell's book 96. 
The Corythaixoides ty picu.s eats berries and termites, 
both being found in abundance in their stomachs. The 
red-billed starling which follows the buff aloes eats 
berries and insects. The Natal pheasant is very 
common here [and is} to be seen running about the 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 14S 
banks of the Marique in the evenings and mornings, 
and when disturbed flies to the thickets edging the 
stream. The Corythaixoides abundant and tame. In 
the mornings [it] sits upon the tops of trees, basking 
in the sun, often many on the same tree, generally on 
the very tops of the trees. During the day, when 
feeding, [it] flies into the thicker parts of the trees. 
The Coracias caudata eats termites and often perches 
on the ground for that purpose. The inside of 
Ichneumon taenionotu.s is in the :first used powder 
barrel, and has a piece of stick in the bag marked with 
XXX. The Estrilda granatina of last year beginning 
about this time to acquire the full plumage (males) ; 
all the young like the females for the first year. The 
Oryx ty picu.s also beginning to get the summer 
plumage. Buffaloes, wildebeasts, steenboks, etc. in 
abundance in this direction. 
When the Bechuanas are softening skins they keep 
constantly grunting by a sort of spasmodic expiration 
somewhat like the faint dull grunt of a pig. 
[Travelled 4 hours and a half alongst the banks of 
the Marique River. Delayed about half an hour to 
pack up a buffalo which Piet had shot. Here are great 
herds of those. Passed on the southeast of the ruins 
one small kraal with Bechuanas having cattle of 
Masalacatzie. On the road a poor Bechuana ran up to 
the wagons. ] 222 A Bechuana offered an ostrich feather 
for sale. One of the Matabeli with us took it from 
him to ornament his own head and as a reward flogged 
him and drove him away to 1his kraal. This furnishes 
an additional example of the miserable condition of 
the aborigines residing with the Matabeli. The poor 
m These square brackets are Smith •a. 
146 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
man with us, the servant of one of the Litabeli, scarcely 
ever speaks; his look is that of a man heartbroken. 
He is advanced in age and ought to be the father of 
the youth who orders him about without mercy. Today 
he made him carry an old gun which he had got from 
Masalacatzie previous to his rejoining us. 
4 AUGUST (TUESDAY). 
In consequence of the number of birds which were 
shot yesterday it was found necessary to rest today. 
Early this morning dispatched a letter to Mr. Moffat 
to inform ·him of our partial success and to state that 
we could now proceed with some hopes of having a 
supply of food for some months. The tuna who was 
sent to deliv~r up the com stated to me that he was 
to return to the kraals in the vicinity of the one where 
he got the com in order to examine into the state 
of their stores, and that he would be employed in that 
work four days after which he would return to Mosiga. 
I stated to him the necessity of making Mr. Moffat 
acquainted with what had occurred before that time, 
and demanded from him two men to take a letter as 
Mr. M. was only waiting for information from us in 
order to start for Kuruman. He urged strong objec­
tions to sending men, [and] stated that he must in 
person inform Mas. of his having given us the corn, 
etc. I persisted in telling him the necessity of the 
case, and asked him if I must then believe that a white 
man cannot get a man in all Masalacatzie' s country 
to carry a letter. What would the white king think 
of him if he heard that we had been so disappointed? 
This rendered him passive, and after remaining still for 
a few seconds he said he would see and get [that J 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 147 
which I required tomorrow. Early this morning he 
made his appearance behind my wagon and stated that 
he was himself going to Mosiga. Got a tolerable supply 
of milk every day in consequence of orders left by the 
tuna who was with us for two days. 
5 AUGUST {WEDNESDAY). 
Started about 11 a.m. and travelled four hours 
alongst the bank of the Merique. Road tolerably 
good. Abundance of grass, quite dry. One of our 
oxen rather sick; eat little or nothing and constantly 
lying down. Many of them looking very thin and 
weak. We were a little delayed on the road loading 
the flesh of a buffalo which Piet had shot. On the 
S.E. of our road passed a small Bechuana kraal where 
were a few cattle belonging to Masalacatzie. Near 
the banks of the river not far from this kraal a number 
of women [were] engaged digging the ground for next 
years crop. No means of irrigation. 
Got five specimens of the new species of Bucco and 
several of the long-tailed green spreu. Also a new 
species of pheasant (Francolinu.s), drawing 229,223 
very wild, found (?] in the grass alongst the sides of 
the river. Also a species of Tu.mix, drawing 228. The 
Lanius melanoleucu.s very abundant here; also Cratopu.s 
bicolor, which has a harsh note and [is] very noisy, 
flies in little flocks amongst the trees similar in manner 
to the new species. The Psittacu.s meyerii also common 
02
' Among the Ford originals now in the Library of the University 
of the Witwatersrand is a drawing of Prancolinu$ gariepensis, numbered 
in pencil 299 [sic}. But Francolinus pileatus, the original of which 
is also in the collection, and which was reproduced on Plate 14 of 
Smith's Aves, is the only bird of that genus which Smith secured 
on the Groot Mari~o River. 
148 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
here. Near where we halted [was) another Bechuana 
kraal, but on the opposite side of the river; on the side 
we halted some very extensive enclosures of thorns for 
catching game. The Cqrythaxoides typicus common, 
also Antelope melampus. A small herd of kodoes seen 
amongst the bush near the river; several young ones, 
no male with the herd. 
6 AUGUST (THURSDAY). 
Travelled five hours and forty minutes along the 
banks of the Merique nearly directly north. Road good. 
Passed many herds of Masalacatzie's cattle and at the 
least saw 3000 head. In some herds young cattle of 
a year old; in others nothing but oxen, those in charge 
of a few young men, principally Matabeli. The kraals 
at a distance from the river where the cattle only 
repair to drink. Much more tame than the Colonial 
cattle; do not fly for people. On the opposite side 
of the river the hunters state that they also saw 
abundance of cattle. One large herd of blue oxen with 
the horns turned down on the sides of the heads. 
Several buffaloes seen during the day, also some elands 
and a few kodoes. A. melampus in abundance during 
the night on stagnant ~ater with little depth. Thermo­
meter in my wagon about half-an-hour after sunrise 30. 
Nevertheless the night to the feeling was mild. Very 
warm during yesterday. An ox very sick this 
morning. 
The Bechuanas make a sort of bird-lime from a 
parasitic plant which grows on thorn-trees and work 
it round several small twigs which they place upon 
bushes, and when birds settle upon it they are held fast. 
The Matabeli do the same. The latter entrap the 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 149 
Coracias cau.data by fixing stones so that when the 
birds go in to feed a stone falls and secures them. All 
the birds of this description they skin and carry to 
Masalacatzie who uses the long tail feathers as head 
ornaments. 
We took advantage of one of the thorn enclosures 
used by the aborigines for catching game to form a 
kraal after having asked permission. The enclosure 
is somewhat funnel shaped with a deep hole at the 
extremity. The inner edge of this hole is margined 
with a few twigs and the other three sides with arched 
piles of branches or trunks of trees laid transversely 
to prevent the animals springing out when once they 
have fallen in. The arms or wide fart of the funnel 
is wide, and the grass leading [to it and in it is burnt 
to entice the game to go on in the direction of the 
hole. The end of each wall forming the funnel is 
strongly supported by upright beams. The small 
portion or neck is about 30 yards in length, narrow 
and neatly formed by branches of thorn trees set 
upright. When the entrance to the neck is approached 
the opening at the other extremity can just be faintly 
seen and the greenish twigs lying on a slight embank, 
ment on the inside are placed nearly horizontal so that 
there is but little leap, vide plan.224 
It was easy to perceive yesterday the di:ff erence 
between the way in which our guides use the 
aborigines and those of their own nation. 
7 AUGUST (FRIDAY). 
This morning two or three Matabeli arrived at the 
wagons with milk for sale and upon being asked by 
"" See Plate 22. 
K 
150 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
the guides if no more men were coming with milk they 
replied, no, there were no more men at the kraal, the 
half were gone on a commando to the northward. If 
this be true it will account for Masalacatzie's 
reluctance to permit us to proceed in that direction. 
Our interpreter, who informed me of this circumstance, 
was desired to make every possible inquiry relative to 
the subject of 225 some Baharootzie who were with the 
wagons at the time provided he could get a favourable 
opportunity, but I desired him particularly to make 
his questions appear as comiqg from himself, and by 
no directions of mine. He said he would endeavour 
to get them alone, but that would be difficult as the 
Matabeli were always on the alert when he was 
speaking or walking with any Bechuanas. He 
succeeded in getting them off to hunt with 1him, and 
then he gradually introduced the subject. They 
evinced no reluctance to telling him all that they knew, 
and the tone of their feeling indicated extreme aversion 
to the Matabeli. In reference to the commando they 
stated that a party had been out to attack some tribe 
in the N .E., and that they 'had been defeated and 
nearly all their men killed, that the portion of them 
which returned had been ordered out again and that 
if they returned unsuccessful then a larger commando 
would be sent out. He said that the Matabeli were 
almost extinct. The late sickness had killed a great 
number of them and now there were but a mere 
handful. They are in the habit of going about in small 
plundering parties attacking wherever they can find 
the aborigines and killing them sometimes, at other times 
being satisfied with taking off their beads, hassegays, 
,,. MS. has "at". 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 151 
karosses, etc. He said that they would not have 
escaped in the way they have done today had not the 
wagons been with them. They would doubtless have 
seized their hassegays though they were in the service of 
Masalacatzie. They would above anything wish to 
escape from their present situation, but they see no way 
of accomplishing that. 
If an ox gets sick whilst under their charge they 
invariably attribute it to some witchcraft on the part 
of one or other of them and to a certainty someone 
must die for it. They say that the late sickness has 
been occasioned by the working of the aborigines, and 
many have suffered death from such suspicions. 
Sometimes ten are put to death at one time. 
Tennant observed about twenty or five-and-twenty 
Matabeli with large shields and hassegays pass near to 
our wago,ns. After having got some idea of the state 
of affairs from various quarters, I commenced a delicate 
investigation of the subject with our guides. I enquired 
what men those were which passed our wagons last 
evening with shields and hassegays on their way 
towards Mosiga. They at first declared they knew 
of no men going to Mosiga, but after some conversation 
one with the other, they returned for answer that they 
must be a portion of the party which was defeated some 
time ago by some Bechuanas who lived to the eastward 
and who had carried off a post of cattle belonging to 
Masalacatzie. They and another party had been sent 
to retake them and the Merique commando had fled. 
In consequence of that they had been ordered to pay 
to Masalacatzie as a disgrace and as a proof of 
penitence. A man had lately been sent to receive the 
payment, and they were on their way back to their 
kraals. They state that no parties will be sent out with 
152 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
a view to retake the cattle as the country where they 
now are is so thickly covered with bush and they are 
divided into so many small parties that they never 
could find them. They say this is a sort of punishment 
which is inflicted upon men that fly from an enemy, 
and if they have no real property, even their sticks, 
etc., are taken from them as payment. They seem to 
understand that it is more intended to mark their 
disgrace than to furnish any profit to the king. Cloqua 
or Clock 226 was the name of the person deputed by 
Masalacatzie to receive the payment, and he is gone 
back with what has been furnished him. 
Kama was a Bamangwato chief.227 Pelanie,228 the 
• chief of the Batklaka,229 has left his country, and a 
portion of his people are now enrolled with the 
Matabeli and have charge of cattle-posts. The 
Moharootzie who spoke on the subject of the commando 
says that at most of the posts there are not more than 
one or two Matabeli. Of course he spoke of the posts 
in this direction. One of the machaha told me that 
in the kraal to which he belonged fourteen men 
(soldiers} died, some after one day's sickness and others 
after two or three. A great number died amongst 
Kabalonta, s men which are in the W ankets' countJiV. 
It was not so severe on the old men as on the young. 
The Matabeli say that the tribe who stole the cattle 
lately live on hills, and on each hill are two or three 
houses, so that they cannot get at them except by great 
labour. On the occasion on which the commando 
attacked they were assembled. The second party 
124 Probably Tlokwa, the name of the tribe to which the man 
belonged. 
'"'Khama. 
n• Pilane. 
211 Kgatla. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 153 
caused them to fly and they have been consequently 
crowned with laurels. Mas. is always upbraiding the 
aborigines wit~ being persons who fly from him upon 
every opportunity and join other people who come 
and take his cattle. This is an excuse for destroying 
numbers of them from time to time. Travelled 4 hours 
and 50 minutes, generally near to the river, and passed 
one or two kraals on our right. Few Caffers seen 
during the day. The Matabeli say that the Bapire 230 
are now poor; they stole a quantity of Mas.' cattle and 
a commando went out, retook them, and also carried 
off their cattle besides. They have always an excuse 
at hand for attacking a tribe. They throw 231 baits 
in the way by exposing a portion of poor old cattle in 
co11venient situations and almost without herds. Such 
is too tempting for natives to observe; they seize upon 
them and there is a reason for a commando. 
8 AUGUST (SATURDAY). 
Started about 11 o'clock and about 4 p.m. halted 
on the banks of the river after it had crossed the first 
range of hills. When near to the range Combatisi232 
arrived on horseback and a man followed him with a 
letter from Mr. Moffat. In consequence of the road 
being extremely bad and rugged in consequence of the 
number of stones which had been detached from the 
hills the. distance travelled was hut short. Latitude 
of our halting place 24.50. Combatisi stated that 
he was sent by Masalacatzie to see if all was going well 
with us, and as soon as he had ascertained that, he was 
2111 Phiring. 
211 MS. has "through" . 
... Mncumbati. See p. 74, footnote 113. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
then to proceed to Schoon and Hume 233 and ascertain 
how they were getting on, then return with the news 
to Mas. 
9 AUGUST (SUNDAY). 
Early in the morning three other men arrived with a 
Manis 234 which had been sent by Mas. It was alive 
when they started but from the cold died the night 
before. Service after midday. Very cold during the 
night; ice in a dish in the tent. 
10 AUGUST (MONDAY). 
Started about eleven and after travelling about two 
hours along the banks of the river the entire of the 
spokes of Mr. Kift's wagon gave way and the wheel 
fell off. The ends which were in the nave without 
exception were perfectly rotten. Five of the wagons 
proceeded towards the edge of the river in order to 
outspan, and that being accomplished a fore wheel was 
sent back to enable the other wagon to be brought on. 
Several Bechuanas came to the wagons immediately 
on their halting and stated that they were of the 
Bakatla tribe and were going to join some of their 
nation who were living to the westward in charge of 
a post of Mas. cattle. They said Pelani their king had 
fled in consequence of some Matabeli having told him 
that they, Masalacatzie's people, were to be ordered to 
attack him. They said that half of their cattle had 
... The two traders had left on an independent hunting exl?edition 
to the north. See Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives of Robert and Mary 
Moffat, London, 188,., p. 193. 
* Scaly ant•eater. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 155' 
been taken from them By the Bapiri 235 and concerning 
the other half they were perfectly silent, which induced 
me to believe that Mas. had possession of them. The 
Bakatla formerly lived on the hills which were to the 
north of us when we left the Oori River for the 
kraal where Mr. Kift remained, and where Unnum· 
bati 286 with a portion of Mas.' nation now lives. One 
of them says the Baquana were divided into three 
parties, one Bahama,237 chief Kama: 238 Bamatsili,239 
under Matseli: 240 and the third Bamatan,241 under 
Cashan. 242 A man of the Bapoolo states that his tribe 
was from the Bamatsili. 243 The Bapoolo resided 
on the hills to the south of where we found Mas. and 
near to the kraal made of stone. 
The bastard gemsbok again seen here in little herds. 
Soon after we halted an herd of buffaloes were 
discovered proceeding towards the river to drink. A 
party went after them, and after firing several shots 
drove a female, a male and a calf down close to the 
wagons, out of which two, the cow and the calf, were 
shot. Botha shot another at a little distance, wounded 
''" Phiring. 
.. Mncumbati. 
'" Ngwato • 
.,. Khama . 
... A Kwena tribe. 
"'° According to Smith himlldf, this chief was living with his tribe 
"a little to the N.N.W. of our encampment of the 8th." He was 
the "highest chief of the Kwena. Now the vassal of Mzilikazi." 
See Smith, A., Memoranda, M.S. notebook marked "A." See Vol. i, 
Introduction, p. 12. 
""Taung. 
'" Khashane, chief of the Taung, who gave his name to the Kashan 
Mountains, or Magaliesberg. He was also called Pulane. Khashane 
was driven by the Matabele into the Orange Free State, but later 
returned to Potchefstroom district. See Transvaal Native Affairs 
Department, Short History of the Native 'tribes of the 'Tra11St1aal, 
Pretoria, 1905', p. 20. 
"" See footnotes 239 and 240 on this page. 
156 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
a bastard gemsbok and killed a male rooyebok. Road 
extremely bad. This day nothing but irregular lime­
stone rock. 
11 AUGUST (TUESDAY). 
Very cold last night. People actively employed in 
repairing the wagon wheel. The inside of Manis 
temminc~ii 244 contained in fir& powder barrel with 
a piece of wood inside marked with xx. The 
cartilagenous sternum attached by membrane to the 
pelvis and a muscle which is inserted between its 
branches extends from tongue. The attachment and 
a portion of the cylindrical muscle is left with the 
skeleton; rest seen in preparation in spirits. Stomach 
contained a considerable quantity of small stones and 
comminuted ants. Tongue of a pinkish colour, palest 
at point. Drawing 233.245 Female buffalo and calf. 
The horns of latter straight and slightly inclined out­
wards. Hair very long, particularly on back ancJ 
towards flanks. The horns of the cow not swelled up 
on middle of forehead as in the bull and level with the 
forehead between them. Horns vertically thin and 
upper and under surface irregular transversely. Fore· 
head often without hair from rubbing; spots wanting 
on other parts of body. Hair black, skin through it 
blackish grey. Four paps. Nose broad. 
The Bapiri according to the statement of a Mokatla 
wore steenbok skins for covering the nates and organs 
of generation; they were freed from the hair and then 
fixed on the girdle behind, and a triangular point was 
,.. Scaly ant-eater. 
"' I cannot trace this drawing. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 15'7 
drawn through between the legs and made fast to the 
same girdle in front. 
When an animal is killed its immediate visitors are 
here the Vultu.r fulvus, V[u.ltu.r] oceipitalis, and 
Neophron caru.ncu.latus; first however the common 
white headed crow and the Bu.corvus. The vultures 
are much tamer here than in the Colony. Some, indeed 
many, of the occipitalis are seen without the secondaries 
white, with the crest formed of brown down and the 
extremity of the bill very red. They generally perch 
upon trees close to the dead animal when they are 
disturbed in devouring it. They are seen the moment 
an animal is killed, and the instant daylight appears 
they are on 246 the spot in immense numbers. The 
common Dicrurus with a whitish cast to the wings, 
and which is common in the Colony, is also abundant 
here towards the banks of the river. When the grass 
is burning they assemble in great numbers near to where 
the flames are raging, in order to catch whatever may 
fly up. During this time they are seen making all 
sorts of circuitous and twisting movements in their 
flight. The Coracias caudata also resorts to similar 
places and catches what may endeavour to escape from 
the fire. 
12 AUGUST (WEDNESDAY). 
Last night thermometer fell to 24. This morning 
sent for some of the Bechuanas who had been halting 
near to us in order to get their assistance towards 
getting the flesh of a huff alo to the wagons. They 
refused, saying that they wished to proceed on their 
journey. In every instance I have found them much 
... MS. has "to". 
15'8 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
disinclined to assist even when they were promised 
payment. After they once get what they desire they 
show not the slightest inclination to gratitude by any 
act, let that be ever so trifling and ever so easily accom· 
plished. 
The hyaenas were in great numbers around the 
wagons last night. The dogs barked almost incessantly 
till the moon rose; after that but little. 
The Bechuanas were particularly noisy in our neigh­
bourhood, and furnished sufficient proof that they had 
gorged themselves with animal food as at other times 
they never are so noisy. The foot marks of great 
numbers of lions were seen yesterday by Piet and 
Botha a little down the river. 
Parus afer and Pterocles bicinctus obtained today; 
first marked 234. 
13 AUGUST (THURSDAY). 
Lions roared much around us last night about nine 
o'clock. Thermometer last night 19. The wagon 
wheel was 247 yesterday put together and this morning 
the band 248 put on, and also a new long way 249 was 
fixed in one of the wagons. 
About 12 o'clock left halting place to cross the ridge 
still to our north. That we were able to accomplish 
with much difficulty in consequence of the rocky 
surface over which we had to pass and not without 
travelling in a most tortuous direction. In the valleys 
of this ridge met with several buff aloes, rooyebok, etc . 
.. , MS. has "way" . 
... Tire. 
"' Dutch "langwa"; the pole: connecting the front and back wheels 
of a waggon. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 159 
After getting over the hills we were necessitated to 
travel a considerable distance to the westward in order 
to reach the river which crossed to the west of us. The 
tent sails of several of the wagons were much torn by 
the trees which .grew so closely together that we were 
unable to find open roads amongst them. The bows 
of one of the tents were also broken. 
About dusk one of the men who was behind with 
the loose oxen arrived with all but one; that one, he 
stated, had got so tired that he would not proceed. He 
was sent back to tell the others that they must allow 
him to rest a little and then bring him on. He returned 
soon after, stating that he had heard something rustling 
in the grass and approaching him which he knew to 
be a lion. About nine o'clock sent up a rocket to show 
them where we had halted and about half past ten they 
arrived with the ox. Another ox got tired in the 
yoke and could scarcely be got to proceed. The sun 
being under before we reached the river, there was 
but little time to get up the kraal. 
14 AUGUST (FRIDAY). 
Ice formed on the water about the wagons during 
the night, but much thinner than the last two nights. 
About nine o'clock this morning lions were heard 
roaring down the river and their traces everywhere to 
be seen. The bird entered as Corvidae and which was 
got at Langeberg catches insects on the wing somewhat 
like the Dicrurus. It flies upwards from the side 
branches of trees upon which it usually perches, or else 
to a side turns in the air 250 and appears catching 
insects. 
,.. Thus in MS. Smith probably meant "turns aside". 
160 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Piet and Jantjie went a great distance down the river 
and reported that they fell in with a great number of 
sea cows, but that they were very wild and once they 
got under the water they did not come up again for 
a long time. They saw two large crocodiles and one 
small one; the latter was lying upon a rock a long way 
under water. They got a fine species of Gala.go, two 
in number. They were feeding on the ground towards 
dusk, but when they saw the men approach they 
instantly fled to a tree where they kept jumping about 
and playing with each other. They got also two 
specimens of a squirrel. They were also generally on 
the ground, but when disturbed they fled to trees and 
stretched themselves out upon the branches. The 
Ca:ffers say that they live in decayed trees. The natives 
of the country call the Galago baowhili, 251 imputio­
voy 252 of the Matabeli; the Sciurus Ciccura the 
Matabeli no~agit.253 The Matabeli say they never saw 
the animal in the hand, but they see occasionally the 
skin in the possession of the doctors, who use it in the 
cure of diseases, but how they employ it they don't 
know. The bagre 254 the same as that found in the 
Orange River inhabits the Marique; one, moderately 
large, caught today. 
Piet brought three Ca:ff ers this morning to the 
wagon; they were Bechuanas in the service of Masala­
catzie. Several kraals were seen in the course of the 
day, all well supplied with cattle but with few men. 
All the men spoke the Matabeli language, and like all 
the others appeared to regard our guide in order to 
111 Maholi [?). Galago maholi is the Bush Baby or nag-aapie. 
'" I cannot identify this word . 
... I cannot identify this word . 
... Barbel. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 161 
ascertain what kinds of answers they were to give to 
my questions. They also, like those near Oori, very 
often answered by saying they did not know. One 
old man upon being asked if a particular species of cat 
was an inhabitant of this country said he did not know; 
he did not take care of those things, he was a herder of 
cattle. They had left the cattle when Piet met them 
in order to repair to a spot where they had seen some 
vultures flying but he stopped them. They appeared, 
according to his account, very doubtful in accom­
panying him . 
.A monkey which today fell into the river swam 
across with facility and ascended a tree on the opposite 
side. Thermometer in my wagon today at four 
p.m. 100. 
15' AUGUST (SATURDAY), 
Thermometer last night fell to 30; in my wagon 
today at 2 p.m. 80. Several Bechuanas from neigh­
bouring kraals arrived at the wagons today all with 
hassegays fixed in very long handles purposely for 
killing game. Some of them belonged to the Bakalite. 
Mas. seems always to place those whom he has 
:onquered at a distance from their native country, 
:hough several exceptions to this rule are met with. 
They state that Kama, a Baquan chief, with his tribe 
lived originally a short way to the north of us, and 
that the Bamangwato lived still further to the north 
immediately beyond the Baquana . 
.A :fish with four palpi to the upper lip was this day 
caught in the Marique nearly if not the same that 
occurs in the Orange River. It appeared thicker in 
proportion to its length than those of the last named 
162 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
river. It was of a :fine green colour, the scales edged 
with golden yellow; belly and chin white; under lip 
yellowish white; eyes silvery, clouded in some parts 
with bronze, and a :fine bright golden yellow ring 
margined the pupil; :fins greenish, pectoral ones purplish 
at base on outer scale; upper lip pale yellowish green. 
Today the lens of Galago white like a person affected 
with cataract; both the same. Galago, drawing 241. 
Top of head, back, sides, and base of legs witQ.out, 
:fine mouse grey; lower parts of legs with a faint rufous 
yellow tint; upper part of cheek white, faintly tinted 
with grey; lower parts of cheeks, chaffron to muzzle 
from forehead, chin, white; throat and breast with a 
faint rusty yeliow, but belly and base of insides of 
hinder legs pure white; rest of insides of hinder legs 
very faintly tinted with a rusty tint; hinder (eet and 
toes pure white; tail dark purplish grey flattened 
towards base, rounded towards tip; eyes :fine bright 
brown; ears veyy large, bare both without and within, 
pale purplish inside, outside purplish brown; round 
eyes black, and surface of toes pale bluish white, a large 
cartilaginous tubercle inside of thumbs between them 
and first :finger. 
A man visited us today who stated that he belonged 
formerly to a tribe of Bechuanas called Machuaroo 2115 
whose chief was called Napo.256 They lived to the 
N .E. of this, and used to wander during the rainy 
season, but during the dry season they lived upon the 
Marique close to the Baquana. The Baquan king was 
called Matchela, others called him Matseli, 2117 which 
... Tlharo (?). 
'" Napo is the name of the legendary ancestor of the chiefs of 
most Sotho tribes. Probably the local chief bore the ancient name. 
11
' Matseli, chief of a branch of the Kwena. See p. 1 H, footnote 240. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 163 
is evidently only a difference in the pronunciation. 
I have always heard that he was the great Baquan 
chief. 
Two Bastards travelling between Thaba Unchu 
and Phillipolis fell in with a lion just about dusk, and 
whenever they attempted to proceed he made motions 
as if he would spring upon them and growled. They 
were in consequence forced to stand still during the 
whole of the night, and when the day began to break 
he took himself off. It has been observed by persons 
who have seen much of lions that they always delight 
to take up their position during the day amongst grass 
which is nearly of the colour of their hair. When a 
lion sees a man and observes that he retreats but yet 
keeps occasionally surveying him or the place where 
he is secreted, he always starts off as if he was fearful 
that the man was endeavouring to approach him in 
some other direction to kill him. 
Piet and Baba 258 shot a quagga amongst some long 
grass between Sitlaholi and Molopo. The animal had 
scarcely fallen and they had just left the spot when 
one of the poor Gaffers approached in order to get 
some of the meat. He observed the lion, but proceeded 
towards the spot and then beat the ground with his 
kaross and screamed. The lion went off and he 
advanced and secured part of the flesh. The lion is 
very partial to the eland, and when he happens to have 
killed one and is discovered, he leaves his prey with 
great reluctance. Today the Gaffers had robbed a lion 
of a bastard hartebeast. The sea cow, when dogs swim 
... A native trader, who acted as interpreter to Smith and also to 
Harris and others. A short sketch of his life appears in Methuen, 
H. H., Life in the Wilderness, second edition, London, 1848, pp. 
193-194. Harris calla him a "converted Bechuana." 
164 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
after him in a river, keeps still under the water till 
the animals reach close to where his head is; he then 
shakes it suddenly up in order to seize them. The 
dung of the sea cow is similar in form and character to 
[that of] the rhinoceros and elephant, only the balls 
are rather smaller. 
A number of young of the Antelope melampus seen 
today about half grown; along with the females a young 
ram which was shot had the horns quite straight and 
diverging a little towards the points. Several of the 
same age were seen with a herd of females; the markings 
on the body the same as in the old ones. 
The rain begins to fall here about October, and it 
sometimes rains for three days in succession; the flats 
are quite covered with water but there is seldom much 
sickness at those times. The same sickness which was 
so severe this year amongst the Matabeli also prevailed 
here but nobody ·died of it. The river is sometimes 
very full. 
16 AUGUST (SUNDAY). 
Thermometer last night 31. Several Gaffers arrived 
at the wagons with the hunters, all natives of different 
parts of this country. Early this morning four arrived 
with the common jackal; they skinned it immediately 
and eat it. The Matabeli will not kill of cattle taken 
in war till the owner (chief) is dead; hence they are 
so anxious to get hold [of] Sabaqua 259 as they have 
so many cattle belonging to him. Baba has heard from 
many of the natives that almost all the Matabeli have 
been killed. They never acknowledge their having been 
beaten but that often happens, particularly when they 
118 Sebego, son of Makaba, chief of the Ngwaketse. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 165 
make their attacks during the day. When they go out 
and are repulsed in the day they make an appearance 
of returning home, and after going a certain distance 
they tum back and attack the party during the night. 
When Milne 260 was lying a little higher up on the 
Marique and Baba was with him, a commando returned 
from the Bawankets. 261 Almost all of them had died 
from thirst and th~ that came back were miserably 
emaciated and the eyes sunk in their heads. They got 
no cattle. 
About the time Milne was in Pelani 262 and his 
brother Kotamashua 263 had been fighting, the latter 
was overcome and had fled to the Matabeli. Pelani, 
fearing the Matabeli, soon afterwards fled more inland. 
At that time he was living by the hills which we saw 
to our north after turning out from the Oori. Milne 
went a considerable distance beyond them to the N .E. 
and there met several poor Caffers with oval shields, 
steenbok skin fixed. over the nates and drawn between 
the legs, hassegays like the Bechuanas. They also spoke 
the Bechuana language. They had no cattle. There 
were only small hills and low ridges in that country 
and here it was that he lost all his cattle from what 
the natives said [was} •• the flies." 20• They got back 
to the Oori and there died. Milne returned to Kuru, 
man for other oxen. At Pelanfs kraal one Bushman 
Hottentot died and the day after the party got with 
the wagons to Mosiga where Mas. was lying. Milne 
complained of headache. He and another Hottentot 
,,. Hugh Millen, the trader-mason of Kuruman. See Moffat, J. S., 
'The Lives of Robert and Mary Moffat, London, 188S, pp. 138-139. 
,.. N gwaketse. 
'"' Pilane, chief of the Kgatla. 
... Kgotlamaswe . 
... 'Tsetse. 
L 
166 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
died on the road to Kuruman.2611 Baba says the country 
is covered with bush in that direction exactly as it is 
here, and that there is one river which appears to run 
towards the Marique bqt not quite so large as it which 
is called the Clacla. 266 
When the wind blows from the east and the N .E. 
it is generally cold at this time of the year. 
Service about 4 p.m. Several of the poor Bechuanas 
present; they did not sit down amongst our number 
like those which were sent with us hy Mas., but 
remained perfectly motionless at a little distance and as 
if much surprised with our proceedings. I questioned 
some of them relative to the existence of a divine being; 
all appeared perfectly ignorant of any power or influence 
beyond that of man. They usually made use of the 
term morim or morimo 267 for me, but they only meant 
thereby to express a great or hig~ person. 
17 AUGUST (MONDAY). 
Last night thermometer fell to 30; at 1 o'clock 
yesterday in the sun 101, in the shade 80. 
Lions in numbers this morning near to our encamp­
ment; roared much immediately ·before and after 
daylight. 
After travelling this day about 4Y2 hours we arrived 
at some hills where the Marique takes a turn towards 
eastward and here is the last Matabeli kraal in charge 
of a tuna. Near this are abundance of cattle, prin· 
cipally oxen . 
... The tragic death of Hugh Millen is described in Moffat, J. S., 
op. cit., pp. 181·182. 
* Tlatla. I cannot identify this river. But see Smith's sketch maps 
on_pp. 217 and 224. 
Modimo means God; but medimo, according to J. Tom Brown, 
is a demi•god. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 167 
A great number of Bechuana huts were passed this 
day on the west side of the river, not in regular kraals, 
only in little detached clumps. These people live under 
the sway of Mas. but do not reside at his kraal. He 
is, however, very anxious to keep them amongst his 
people. They have all a great anxiety to get away but 
state that they see no way of effecting their escape, as 
if they fly they are immediately pursued by a commando 
and if caught are put to rleath. They all complained 
of hunger and stuck fast to our wagons; many of them 
took up their position alongside of the bird skinner 267* 
and carefully collected all the bodies that were thrown 
away without any regard to what the birds might be. 
Several small fields were seen on the side of the river 
which had been cultivated for com. All have the 
Matabeli tails; the women continue to use the Bechuana 
dress. Two of our party walking alongst the banks 
of the river fell upon a python measuring 9' 11" which 
I secured by placing a noose over her head. She was 
close to an ant-hill and into it was a large hole where 
it was supposed she resided. This species, a female, 
had a small spur slightly bent on each side of the anus 
( vide drawing), and behind the anus or just in a line 
with the posterior edger a small elevated papilla and 
a sort of tubercle, from an opening in which a thick 
somewhat amber-coloured substance was discharged 
upon pressure. From the papillae nothing could by 
the strongest pressure be made to exude. The pupil 
narrow, vertical. 
•• Probably John Mintern, Smith's soldier·servant, whom he had 
previously trained as a taxidermist. 
168 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
18 AUGUST (TUESDAY). 
The state of the oxen required us to remain. One 
very lame, having cut the hoof on the limestone hills; 
several can scarcely walk. The cattle of Mas., which 
are at the posts about this, are in good condition. 
A poor Bechuana came and stated to the interpreter 
that the back-bone of the bastard hartebeast which we 
had given him yesterday together with the flesh had 
been taken from him by the Matabeli; says that if they 
possess anything which the Matabeli covet they take it 
immediately and opposition is in vain. 
Kama, one of the Baquan chiefs, was in charge of a 
post of cattle belonging to Mas., and last summer they 
hung him up in the kraal with two of his brothers and 
two of his wives. Informant knows of no reason which 
was assigned. About February last a number of the 
aborigines made their escape towards the N. or N .E.; 
soon after, a commando followed which has not yet 
returned. They went off, the commando, alongst the 
river; [they} were to proceed to the eastward or rather 
the N .E., and should they not discover them in that 
direction then they were to repair to the Bamangwato 
country and attack that tribe. One of the men which 
escaped was of that tribe. He left here behind him 
a brother who was a shepherd of Mas., and they have 
ordered him before Mas. and it is stated that he will 
doubtless be put to death, such is the policy. 
Last night moderately warm; heat today great. 
The name of the Matabeli chief who was driven 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 169 
away by Matuan 268 was Pagazita.269 I questioned the 
Matabeli relative to Kama, etc. They said that he was 
poor when Masalacatzie first knew him. He took him 
and gave him cattle, but he killed the cattle for the 
people and also permitted some people who were 
enemies to the Matabeli to come and reside close to him. 
He afterwards fled, they have heard, in the night. 
They are always endeavouring to show that Mas. has 
never injured any of the people; that they were always 
poor and that when he took them he did it out of 
kindness. The brother of Pelani who fought with him 
and afterwards fled to Mas. was Cotclamashue.270 
The Matabeli must think us very ignorant if they fancy 
that we cannot discover how Mas. has acted towards 
the captives. I find it necessary in order to get at 
some knowledge of their proceedings to pretend to 
think that Mas. has done nothing wrong; then they 
talk freely on the subject. 
19 AUGUST (WEDNESDAY). 
Mild during the night. Travelled about four hours 
down the river to where three seacows had been shot 
yesterday. On our way we passed the last Matabeli 
kraal. Saw many women but only a few men in 
proportion; many of the latter followed us knowing of 
the seacows having been shot. A number of poor 
Caff ers were also waiting our arrival expecting to share 
in the spoil. After halting and getting the kraal in 
,.. Matiwane, chief of the Amangwane, a Nguni tribe. See HistoT'y 
of Matiwane and the Amangwane tribe, Native Affairs Department, 
Ethnological Publications, Pretoria, 1938, passim. 
• Mpanga.zita, chief of the lilubi, another Nguni tribe. See op. cit., 
passim. 
111 Kgotlamaswe. 
170 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
order the people proceeded to cut up the animals and 
as soon as they had secured what was required, the 
Caffers flew upon the cows like vultures and carved in 
every direction without respect to fingers, hands or 
limbs, and in a very little time every atom of meat was 
off the hones. The bowels, etc. were secured; indeed 
nothing that could be eaten was left behind. They 
brought loads of it up and suspended it upon the trees 
in the immediate neighbourhood of our kraal as well 
as upon the walls of the kraal. During the time that 
they were frying and eating scarcely a whisper was to 
be heard; but the moment they had :6.lled themselves 
then their tongues began to work, and it was absolutely 
necessary to order silence. Not a word could be heard 
in our camp in consequence of the noise from without. 
By some caution I got, whilst all the people were about, 
a little information from an old Baquan who was one 
of the party assembled. He said that the father of 
Kama was named Monamets, 271 and that this was 
originally their country. He says they were attacked 
by Ramabutsetsi, 272 then by Rasipip, 273 and afterwards 
by Sebitwani; that they repulsed them all, but fled on 
the approach of the Matabeli. He said Kama had been 
taken by Mas. and was lately killed by the Matabeli. m 
There were other Baquana living to the east of the 
Oori, but they belonged to another family. The 
Bamangwato were distinct always from the Baquana. 
Found here a Backloqua.273 He said his tribe used 
formerly to live in the country where we halted the 
"" Monametse. 
"'' A Mantati, or Tlokwa, chief. 
"'' Rathsibi, chief of a Phuthing tribe . 
... See Harris, W. C., 'The Wild SpoTU of Southern Africa., London, 
1839, pp. 244·24,-. See also pp. 188·189 of this volume. 
111 Tlokwa. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 171 
second night after reaching the kraal where we found 
Mas. on our return from the Oori. He says that he 
has heard from his forefathers that a portion of the 
tribe emigrated in former times to the Liqua but he 
does not know where they are at present. They may 
probably be the tribe now called Backloqua in that 
direction and to which Ciconiale 276 belonged. The 
old Baquana said he did not_ know if any commando 
was out to the north, but if there was he should not 
know. He 277 seemed to dislike Mas. 
Rasipip 278 attacked Pelanie 279 and took half his 
cattle. In his attack upon the Baquans he also took 
half of their cattle. When the Matabeli arrived they, 
the Baquans, had still a considerable number of cattle. 
At :first the Matabeli lived on friendly terms with them, 
and when they fancied there were no suspicions they 
attacked them in the night, killed as many as they 
could and took off their cattle. The man who gave 
this information belonged to Pelanie. He is very 
anxious to escape hut does not know in what direction 
to fly. He says that when men run away the Matabeli 
follow their footmarks and take much trouble to find 
them; if they succeed they immediately put them to 
death. He says if he flies to the north they will 
immediately pursue; if he flies towards Kuruman side 
he may perhaps, from not knowing the Matabeli posts, 
stumble upon some of them. Lately a man who was 
a cowherd was put to death because one of them died. 
Mas. said it was him that killed it. The Matabeli often 
take away their young children from them, and when 
1
" Sekonyela. 
m MS. has "that". 
211 Rathsibi. 
210 Pilane. 
172 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
they get them home they tie their hands behind their 
backs and a Matabeli gives them milk and also medicine 
in order to wean them from thinking about their 
parents. The young women they take away; the old 
they permit to remain. They say that sometimes when 
they least expect it a commando surrounds them in the 
night and puts them all to death. The policy of Mas. 
is to endeavour hy civility, etc. to gain the confidence 
of persons they wish to destroy and then they fall upon 
them. 
20 AUGUST (THURSDAY). 
A female of the Sciurus was procured yesterday: 4 
ventral teats, two pectoral; hair longer than in the 
male and of a more reddish yellow tinge. Thermometer 
in my wagon at l/2 past 2 p.m. 98. 
After they were :first attacked by Jan Bloom they 
had a song in reference to him, also one a:bout Barend; 
they have now forgotten those as they sing them no 
more. They still sing songs about Chaka. They invite 
him in their songs to come. They will follow him to 
Makabi 280 (his sister), and they will follow him to 
Clomanclu, 281 which they say was his residence. The 
machaha do not go to fight with Ohaka's people because 
they always expect that his commando will come 
through and arrive at the residence of the machaha. 
The amadoda must fight with Dingan's men. 
During the early part of last night very warm; cold 
in the middle of the night and towards morning . 
... Compare Arbousset, T., and Daumas, P., N:arrative of an 
Exmoratory 'Tour, etc., London, isn, p. 226. 
Ngomankulu. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 173 
21 AUGUST (FRIDAY). 
Occasional gusts of a cool wind from the N .W. 
Thermometer in wagon at 1 a.m. 81. Felt a slight 
pain in the region of the liver yesterday; nearly gone 
this morning. Very warm during the day. 
After travelling % of an hour one of the wagons 
in passing a deep water course had its tang broken 
which rendered it necessary that we should immediately 
outspan. Cut a piece of thorn tree to make a new 
one, and in some holes of it were found several 
specimens of a tree frog, No. 2 '5 '5. They were in a 
torpid state and covered with a black, viscous matter 
which emitted a very unpleasant odour. Road pretty 
good and along the river banks moderately free from 
bush. 
On the return of the hunting party we heard that 
two Matabeli from Kabalonta had been to an adjoining 
kraal of poor Caff ers to require them to move to his 
district to take care of cattle. Some of those with us 
belonged to the kraal and they left us immediately to 
obey the summons. Baba carried off with him three 
natives who had always lived in this country. They 
.;tated themselves to be Baquans and to have passed 
their lives upon this river near our present situation. 
They know of no waters to the N. W. of the river, 
but stated that when they went on that side to hunt 
they always returned to the river to drink. During 
the rainy season there is water everywhere. They seem 
to have been poor Baquans who never had cattle and 
who lived removed from the principal kraals in order 
to enjoy a better opportunity of obtaining game upon 
which they have always lived. They state that they 
are not permitted to sow much com. If they have 
17-4 ANDREW SMITII DIARY 
much growing the Matabeli take possession of it. Every 
tribe seems to have a class of poor who live on the 
outskirts of the nation and subsist almost entirely by 
hunting. 
22 AUGUST (SATURDAY). 
Early this morning just as the day was breaking a 
tree fell with a loud crash near to the river. Last 
night some strong gusts of wind passed down the river 
making a great noise. Temperate during the night. 
The carpenter employed in making a new tang. 
This morning the coloured people received their 
allowance of tobacco for a month and the white people 
up to the 7th of October. Beyond the Clatcla 282 live 
a tribe called Babariri. 288 They possessed a considerable 
number of sheep and goats and the Matabeli went and 
plundered them. They had some round shields and 
steenbok trowsers. Ratsipip belonged to the same 
nation as Abiti; the tribe was called Bampootoom.284 
They had round or oval shields and the same trowsers 
as the Bechuanas only the hair scraped off. The lnyoka 
River 285 was called by the Bechuanas Noch; 286 it 
empties itself into the Mariqua after it is joined by 
the Oori. 
The Matabeli, when they go on commando, advance 
during the night and that with great rapidity, going 
a very great distance partly half-running and partly 
... Tiatla River. See p. 166, footnote 266. 
'"' Possibly the Babadidi. 
,.. Dr. N. J. van Warmelo suggests that this tribe may be the 
Transvaal Ndebele tribe known as Manala, because their totem is 
Mbudumo, the gnu. As they were Nguni, they would have oval 
shields. 
• Smith seems here to have misunderstood his informants. Jl{o~a 
is the Tswana word for river . 
... J\{o~a. a river. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 175 
walking quick. [They] say that it is impossible for 
a Bechuana to keep up with them. They go on in 
a string one after the other, and if a Bechuana happens 
to be with them and is tired or wishes to go on one 
side they say he must be killed. When going out on 
commandoes and they fall in with parties of Bech [ uana], 
they surround them in the night and kill them; not 
one must escape. They attacked Pelanie and took 
away his cattle; he fled to the interior and after a while 
returned. His brother and him then fought; the latter 
fled to Mas. After this Mas. gave Pelani cattle to 
take care of, but soon after he heard from some 
Matabeli that there was an agitation to kill him. He fled 
upon hearing that and they pretend at least that they 
don't know where he is. Their reason for being so 
severe upon those who run away is they fear that they 
will describe the state of the country to the tribes they 
may join, and by their knowledge enable them to carry 
off their cattle. 
When they happen to get game in the pitfalls they 
must either keep away from the kraals and consume it 
or must give a portion to the Matabeli. Sometimes 
they cut it up and dry it in the fields, then take it into 
their homes at night; and as they dare not cook it 
during the day they prepare it in the night. The 
Matabeli sometimes go round into the different huts 
and if they find any employed in cooking they take 
their food from them and also sometimes punish them 
besides. 
Between the Baquans and the Bamangwatos resided 
a tribe called Bacas 287 whose chief was called Shue.288 
.., Kaa, whose headquarten1 were at Shoahong, in the Bechuana· 
land Protectorate. 
• Suwe. 
176 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
They formerly had cattle but lost them through the 
attacks of Ramabutsetsi and Sebitwani. The Bacas live 
at their old kraal and have now cattle of Mas_ to herd. 
The water they drink is obtained from springs and 
puts.288* The late king of the Bamangwato was called 
Kama. Upon his death Takoma his son succeeded to 
the chieftainship.289 He is a young man. A tribe of 
Bechuanas lived on the other side of the Oori near to 
Pelani called Bamahakla; 290 their king was Bogos. 291 
Another tribe not far from them, Bamooricail,292 whose 
chief was . . . . • 293 They were emigrants from the 
Bakala 294 who lived more to the east. Pelani is gone 
to the Balaka. The Babariri had sheep and goats. The 
first river that enters the Marique after its junction 
with the Oori is called Maclamatsi, 295 the next 
Clacla, 296 and on the other side of the latter reside the 
Babariri.297 It has a channel like the Marique but less 
water. 
23 AUGUST (SUNDAY). 
Very warm during the day. Service towards 
evening; all the Caff ers attended. One of the Matabeli, 
111
* Wells. 
... Professor Schapera suggests that this was Sekgoma, son of 
K~ri, and brother of Kgama II of the Ngwato. 
Bamafatlha. 
•• Bogori. The word means "chieftainship"; but it seems here to 
have been the name of a particular chief. 
• Bamodikele. According to Smith this tribe resided to the east of 
the Oori or Crocodile River, "not very far from Pelani. They were 
a portion of a tribe which resides farther to the east, called Balaka." 
Smith A., Memoranda, M.S. notebook marked "A." See Vol. i, 
Introduction, p. 12. 
111 No name given. 
,.. Possibly Smith intended to write Balaka (Bagalaka). Seep. 190, 
footnote 34~. 
• Matlaba's River. 
- See p. 166, footnote 266 . 
.., Babadidi (?). 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 177 
a relation of Mas., appears always extremely thoughtful 
during service; the other has generally a smile upon his 
face during the time. 
24 AUGUST (MONDAY). 
The tang of the wagon was finished early this 
morning and the wagon was repaired and packed by 
midday. Travelled along the river 3 hours and 20 
minutes. 
Sicheli 298 was accused by the Matabeli of having 
stolen some of their sheep and found that it was their 
intention to kill him. He fled towards the Bakas 299 
and the commando that went after him did not find 
him. Another commando is expected soon to go in 
search of him. Kama, the Bamangwato chief, died of 
sickness. Last year the Matabeli collected all the young 
boys of the poor Caffers on this direction and carried 
them off and formed a new post for them. 
A young python about five feet long was this day 
shot by the hunting party. Baboons common along 
the banks of the river and reside upon trees. Piet 
and Joremius [?} 800 say that there are two kinds of 
baboons in the Colony, one with a short muzzle and the 
other with a very long one. The last is much larger 
than the other and is said to inhabit the Karoo and 
other fl.at countries. The Cratopus bicolor associates 
in small flocks. It is very noisy like the new species, 
flies off altogether and generally settles together. Most 
abundant on the banks of rivers. Often feeds on the 
... Sichele, chief of the Kwena, whose headquarters were near 
Molepolole, in the Bechuanaland Protectorate. 
• Kaa. See p. l 7S', footnote 287. 
• Probably Jeremias. 
178 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
ground. Monkeys abundant and the Natal pheasant 301 
seen today in great numbers. 
The copper and iron is got at a place called Chocun 302 
about S.S.E. from this; there Matabeli live. 
25 AUGUST (TUESDAY). 
The place where Sabique 803 used to live was called 
Quaqua.30' 
During yesterday passed many of the fences of the 
natives formed for catching game; they were principally 
near to the lakes. 805 
About evening last night a very strong N.E. wind 
sprang up and continued to hlow nearly the whole 
night; very warm during the night. About 4 in the 
morning clouds began to form but they again 
disappeared about ten this morning. 
Where the grass has been burnt it always begins 
to get green first round the edges of the burnt place 
near to the grass which continues standing. When 
the old grass is cut the young is found to be shooting 
out rapidly. Country very dry . 
.. , Natal Francolin. 
• There are a number of old mine workings in the W estem 
Transvaal. The mines may have been in the Witfonteinrand (N. of 
Rustenburg), or in the Elandsberg (N. of Brits). The general 
direction of these places from where Smith was is S.W. 
"' Sebego, son of Makaba, the chief of the Ngwaketse . 
... Quaqua, or Kwekwe, is near to Kanye in the Bechuanaland 
Protectorate. It was visited by Robert Moffat in 1824. See Moffat, 
R., Missionary Labours and Scenes in Southern Africa, London, 1842, 
p. 396 et seq. 
• In his geological and topographical Diary, Smith refers to the 
many lakes seen to the right of the road at this point in the journey. 
He also notes in the same place that the river was virtually a chain 
of lakes. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 179 
Some of our people were dancing and waltzing to 
a very rough-made violin.306 I asked the Matabeli 
whether their dances or our people's were prettiest. 
They said the latter was but play; theirs was fine. 
They said their music performed upon a reed was much 
the hest. 307 
When the Bechuanas get the game within the 
spreading branches of the snare they then surround 
that part and drive them through the neck so as to 
force them over where the hole is. They have no 
other way of catching game. 308 
26 AUGUST (WEDNESDAY). 
The Macroscelides which is in spirits in the same bag 
with a snake was laUed yesterday on the flats. The 
Maclamatsi 309 has water only near its origin; it is dry 
towards the Marique. The poor people in this direction 
say that a commando will soon be out to clear this 
part of the country, and that more in advance, as 
Masalacatzie says that the men living about in the bush 
go to Dingan and advise him to send commandoes 
against him. Last year a commando went out against 
the Babariri, but Pelanie had been with them before and 
.,. The Hottentots frequently made violins in imitation of those of 
Europe. They were of hollowed wood covered with skin, and were 
usually called "velviol". One of Burchell's Hottentots had such an 
instrument. See Kirby, P. R., The Musical Instruments of the 
Native Races of South Africa, London, 1934, pp. 246·247 and 
Plate 71. 
.,. I cannot be certain which instrument is intended, since Smith 
saw several varieties, all made from reeds, as the drawings of them 
by Charles Bell bear witness. It may have been either the umqangala, 
a stringed instrument played by girls, or the umtshingo, a reed•flute 
played by boys. I favour the latter. See Kirby, P. R., op. cit., 
pp. 220·225 and pp. 111-120. 
• See p. 149 and Plate 22. 
"" Matlaba's River. 
180 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
told them that a Matabeli commando would soon be 
there. They made beer, put medicine, etc. in it, fled, 
and left it standing, and from their drinking that when 
they arrived the sickness, they believe, arose. They 
went to take anything from these people they could 
find in their possession. 
Melita 810 lived formerly low down on the Molopo. 
There was no nation between the Bawankets 811 and 
the Bamangwato. 312 The natives say that Buys 813 
went off in this direction and proceeded to the north; 
they know not what became of him. They never 
heard that he returned. 
The Matabeli when they arrive early at the neigh· 
bourhood of a kraal they intend attacking wait quietly 
as long as any people are awake, and when all are 
quiet, perhaps about the middle of the night or about 
daybreak, they commence their attack. Throughout 
the thick bush in every direction, but at a little distance 
from the river, spots are seen where the poor Gaffers 
must have had their dwellings. 
None of the people with us ever heard of Cowan 
and Donovan's party.314 They say that to the east 
of the Bamangwato country towards the Marique the 
flies which destroy the cattle also exist. They kill dogs, 
horses and homed cattle; sheep, etc. are not affected 
by them. 
Our small shot ·being nearly finished, most of the 
party were today employed in beating out balls and 
cutting small shot. 
"'" Chief of the N gwaketse, and father of Makaba. 
au N gwaketse. 
112 Ngwato. 
111 Coenraad de Buis. 
"' See Vol. i of this Diary, p. 406, footnote 3. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 181 
Several small lakes alongst the opposite side of the 
river which we passed yesterday. Jantjie saw a 
crocodile today; they watch there the game which visits 
them to drink. 
27 AUGUST (THURSDAY). 
The wings of the undermost . • • . . . 315 almost 
as long as the tail. The drawing [is] of a male. 
The guinea fowl got yesterday had small feathers in 
the ear opening and reddish hard caruncles at base of 
upper mandible above; legs very long. The Laniidae 
best procured by :fixing one, if not shot dead, to a tree. 
The rest come in great numbers round it and appear 
very fierce. 
One extremity of a bastard hartebeast which was 
yesterday obtained and hung upon a tree was carried 
off during the night. The traces of a lion seen under 
the tree. 
About nine a.m. a strong wind came up from the 
north. During the night sky much clouded; clouds 
dispersed between eight and nine. Two small white 
feathery clouds seen to the N .E. last night. 
Whilst Piet was shooting today he fell in with six 
poor Bechuana men, two women and three children. 
They appeared very much afraid when they came upon 
them and immediately sat down by the river, they 
having been there to get water. They were all much 
emaciated and appeared in a state of extreme starvation, 
more especially the young boy. The two which he 
afterwards induced to accompany him to the wagons 
.,. Words indecipherable. 
M 
182 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
would not at first approach him and the others which 
were by the water. Botha at this moment shot a 
bastard hartebeast and they gave it to those who were 
at the water and desired them to go and call the other 
two which they did. They had much difficulty in 
getting them to come with them to the wagons and 
carry the flesh of a rooye hok which they afterwards 
shot. On their arrival they looked quite confounded and 
terrified, and upon my causing them to be questioned 
by Baba 316 they scarcely could be brought to fix their 
attention sufficiently to render regular answers. J\.t 
this time they had not seen that we had Matabeli 
guides, but upon their discovering that they appeared 
dreadfully uneasy. They sat at my request by the fire, 
but I could easily see that it was no position of comfort 
to them; their attention was continually distracted, and 
they had the appearance of men that were momentarily 
expecting to breathe their last. The Matabeli who 
spoke the Sechuana, originally one of the conquered 
tribes, began asking them questions as to who they 
were and where they lived. They said they were 
Masalacatzie's men. He immediately replied ••No, if 
you were one of Masalacatzie's men you would not 
have appeared so terrified when you saw us. You must 
be spies who go and tell other nations a:bout us and 
then they form commandoes and steal our cattle." They 
held their tongues and made no replies. He demanded 
of them if they were afraid of Piet and Botha when 
they met them. They said "No." "Then," he said, 
••why are you afraid of us? If you were Mas.' men 
you would be glad to see men of your own nation and 
would not fear them." It was melancholy to see the 
1
" The Tswana interpreter. See p. 163, footnote 2S'8. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 183 
devilish expression in the faces of the Matabeli when 
they were hearing the statements of these unfortunate 
beings; one could just fancy that they inwardly felt 
that they would have more pleasure in spilling their 
blood than in hearing them open their mouths. The 
one, Umcloculo,317 listened with great attention and 
eagerness; the other knit his brows and looked like 
what one would fancy a fiend would do who had 
escaped from the ' infernal regions and who was boiling 
with anxiety to commit some horrible deed. The last 
has certainly one of the most abominable tempers that 
man could easily possess, and he performs his duty to 
his tyrant king with great exactness. 
Weather very sultry today, and clouds began to 
form after midday and towards evening got thick and 
black, somewhat like thunderclouds. 
28 AUGUST (FRIDAY). 
The two men who visited the wagons had the 
· Bechuana trowsers and long handled hassegays for 
hunting. When they appeared so terrified and had 
no appearance of getting over it I desired the interpreter 
to state to them that I could easily see they were under 
the infl.uepce of great dread hut that they had nothing 
to fear from us. We were friendly men, and if they 
would continue with us for a few days and assist in 
carrying what was shot to the wagons, I would take 
care that they should not want food; they should always 
have flesh enough to eat. They urged that they had 
left their kraal to hunt and did not like to remain absent; 
they also appeared to foresee our object in having them 
and declared they did not know the country, that they 
1
" Umhlokulu (7). 
184 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
were Bakatlas 318 and did not even know where the 
Oori and Marique joined. [I} then patted the oldest 
on the shoulder and told Baba to tell him to rest easy; 
he was whilst with us in perfect safety, but if he still 
was in doubt they could, if they were inclined, leave 
us and go off to their homes. They replied they heard 
what was said. 
Having reason to believe that a party of poor Gaffers 
resided near to two small hills I determined this-morning 
upon visiting them. I informed Botha where he must 
go to wait till I arrived, and he was to take Baba 
with him as if they were going to shoot game. I then 
made an attempt to proceed about an hour afterwards 
in a different direction with Piet. I had scarcely left 
the wagons when three of the Matabeli followed me. 
I went as far as the river, then turned up alongst its 
banks and left them standing watching me at the spot 
where I descended. 
Road today extremely bad and the oxen very much 
fatigued. Still, according to report, a considerable 
distance from the junction of the Marique and Limpopo, 
or Oori. 
29 AUGUST (SATURDAY). 
A kraal of poor Baquans was this day discovered 
by Baba and upon questioning them they stated they 
belonged to Kama and when the Matabeli killed him 
they fled. They could no longer live there on account 
of hunger; they have been residing here ever since. 
They are generally much emaciated and appear to have 
but a very scanty supply of food. They state that 
they cannot keep their children. The Matabeli carry 
811 Kgatla. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
them off and those which they cannot get away or 
who are not considered :fit they cut the ears off or 
cut them so that only a small attachment continues and 
in that state leave them. They sometimes put out 
their eyes or cut off one of their lips. Baba saw a 
woman whose upper lip had been cut off by the 
Matabeli and also one without an eye. They say that 
high up in the Maclamatsi 319 live a tribe called 
Mooricail 320 and there the flies exist; one of the men 
with us had his dog killed hy them whilst he was there. 
This little community :first fled to some of the Bakatla 
who are living higher up on the Oori, hut there they 
could not exist and from hunger moved to the Marique. 
They state there is no water on either side of the river 
during the winter, else they would not live on the 
river which is in the course of the commandoes. During 
the summer, when there is a little water in different 
situations away from the river, they always retire 
thither to be out of the way of the Matabeli. 
This part of the country even when peace prevailed 
in the land was never thickly populated in consequence 
of the scarcity of water; it was generally only inhabited 
by poor people who lived on one side of the tribes 
who possessed cattle. 
In consequence of having found the space along the 
sides of the river so thickly studded with small thorn· 
bushes that the oxen could not pass amongst them or 
rather over them, we were forced to try more amongst 
the high bushes and then we found the road moderately 
open and hard, much differing in that respect from the 
flats nearer to the river. 
"'" Matlaba's River. 
"" Bamodikele. See p. 176, footnote 292. 
186 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
About 3 p.m., after travelling three hours and a 
quarter, we reached the spot where the Limpopo and 
Marique join and there halted in front of the junction. 
Early this-morning several Bechuanas, Baquans, came 
to our encampment. They walked boldly in though 
they saw the Matabeli, saluted all the white people with 
" Moron " 321 and then went towards the Matabeli 
fire. One who appeared to be a principal man amongst 
them walked up without any appearance of fear and 
seated himself by the fire apparently at ease. They 
treated him with civility and the rascal Moleoog 322 
did not begin as on former occasions to question him. 
They accompanied us and served as guides to conduct 
us to the junction of the rivers. Whilst the principal 
man and a few others went off at my request with 
Baba under pretence of shooting game, he told Baba 
that a commando is now out after Pelanie and another 
went down the opposite side of the river. Neither, 
as far as they know, have yet returned. They say 
the latter is out for the purpose of destroying all the 
poor people they can find. 
Piet and Botha discovered a kraal about half an hour 
above the junction on the east side where were a 
considerable number of people, several [being] very old 
men [with} perfectly white hair. The bush on both 
sides is full of poor people; they live upon game and 
roots. Cicatsali 823 says that when he returns he will 
tell Mas. that those are the people that steal cattle. 
Grass here much worse than a few hours farther up 
the river; little or none amongst the thick bush . 
.,, Morena, master. Compare Vol. i, p. 332, footnote 1. 
"' Mmoaloge. 
at Sikatseli (?) . 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 187 
The Bakatla had four divisions, and each of them 
had a different name; all the four stood under Pelanie. 
From this division of tribes more independent ones are 
fancied to exist than actually do exist. Since Pelanie 
has fled the Matabeli have put his brother to death. 
This seems their policy; they immediately avenge them• 
selves on the relatives who are amongst them when 
any fly. 
A Baquan aged about 30 years of age states that 
in the time of Mutchaceli 824 there used to be parties 
of Bushmen who occasionally visited him and brought 
him berries. He did not know exactly where they 
lived, but says it was to the north of the tribe. He 
describes them as small men of a red or yellowish colour 
with very flat noses, small eyes and high cheek bones. 
They spoke a language which consisted almost entirely 
of claps 824* and quite unintelligible to them. Their 
weapons were bows and arrows, such, according to his 
description, as are in use amongst the Bushmen towards 
the north-eastern boundary of the Colony and between 
the Vaal and Black Rivers. Any animal wounded with 
these arrows died, even elephants. Does not know what 
they put upon them. The men wore pieces of steenbok 
skin drawn between the legs, the women small pieces 
of skin in front. They were called Masaroowa. 8211 
Molimo, who belongs to the tribe of Bamangwatoes 
which fled to the great lake, 826 states that on the south 
and west of where they lived there were also hordes of 
men like those described by the Maquan. They had 
the same kind of arms and mode of dress. They used 
116 Motshwasele, chief of the Kwena. See Vol. i of this Diary, 
p. '406, footnote 2. 
"'• Clicks. 
,.. Bushmen. Masarwa is the common Tswana word for them. 
"" Lake Ngami. 
188 ANDREW SMITH DIARY' 
to steal cattle from the Bechuanas and then they made 
commandoes against them. Their language consisted 
of a series of claps, and they had pieces of wood stuck 
through the septum of the nose. The others described 
by the Maquan had the same. Each party had its 
master. They did not reside constantly in one place 
but wandered from spot to spot in search of game, 
fruits, etc. They had no cattle. They used occasionally 
to resort to their tribe when they were hungry; at other 
times they lived apart. 
They did not inhabit the Kalahari. There were 
Bechuanas who lived in it called Bakalahari. 827 On 
the other side of this tribe of Bamangwato 828 lived 
another tribe who spoke a language somewhat like the 
Corannas. They were tall men of a similar colour 
to the others but had hassegays and not arrows. Part 
of them lived on the south of the lake and part on the 
north. Many of them spoke the Bechuana language 
from associating with the Bechuanas. They could 
understand only a part of what the Bushmen with 
arrows spoke. They had the same name as the last, 
viz. Masaroowa. 329 
The Maquan 380 states that he has heard long ago 
from his forefathers that a portion of the Baquan 
emigrated towards the south under a chief of the name 
of Moolobi. 831 When Kama returned to his post after 
having been absent digging ground for corn the 
Matabeli followed him and when they arrived they 
stated they had come to see the cattle he had in charge. 
m Kgalagadi . 
.,. Ngwato. 
""' Masarwa, or Bushmen. 
130 Kwena. 
111 Molobe. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 189 
They, however, soon seized him, cut off his hands and 
feet, then put a riem round his neck and hanged him. 
When dead they took him down, forced a stick up 
through his body and cut off his scalp. The body they 
left lying where the act was committed; the scalp they 
carried off to show to Mas. At the same time they 
performed the same ceremonies upon three of his 
brothers, an uncle and three of his wives; the fourth 
wife succeeded in escaping. They are not aware of 
any cause why he should have been thus barbarously 
murdered. 
Pelanie 332 was the great chief of the Bakatla 833 and 
the four following divisions were considered as 
Bakatla; Bamaricale, 384 Baanco, 335 Bamahatla, 336 
Bapoola.337 Pelanie's father was called Mooliha,338 
and Mooliha's father Petoo.339 
The Baquana was attacked by Sibitwani 340 who 
succeeded in taking his cattle. He was afterwards 
repulsed by them and the Bamangwatoes, and then went 
and attacked some tribe near the Bakaliti 341 and got 
their cattle. He then returned towards the Baquan 
country and passed to the north, and he says he has 
312 Pilane. 
131 Kgatla . 
... Bamodikele. See p. 176, footnote 292. This tribe and the three 
following ones were said by Smith to be Kgatla. 
.. I cannot further identify this tribe. 
.. Smith states that "The chief of this tribe was called Bogo. 
They lived to the ea.st of the Oori [or Crocodile]." Memoranda, 
M.S. notebook marked "A" • 
.., G. W. Stow notes a Tswana tribe called Bapula, men of the 
rain. The Native Races of South Africa, London, 190f, p. 409. 
• Molefi (?) . 
.,. Phetoe, chief of the Kgatla. See Transvaal Native Affairs 
Department, Short History of the Native Tribes of the Tramvaal, 
Pretoria, 190f, pp. 27·28 and p. 30. 
... Sebitwane. 
IN1 Possibly the Bamalete (Lete) are meant. 
190 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
heard that he is now living by a place called Maiora so 
which is at a great water where the opposite side cannot 
be seen at all places. He says when he was a boy he 
has heard Matchasili 343 speak of some plates, etc. which 
he got from some white people who passed down the 
Marique with :five wagons, and who gave them to him 
that he might show them to white people who should 
afterwards visit him to prove to them that white men 
had previously been with him. Ever since that time 
they have considered the white people as baremo and 
they regard a white man as a maremo.344 He says 
Matchasili said they could make everything, and since 
[then} they have been in the habit of saying when they 
had pain that they would go to the white people. 
Perhaps this may have had its origin in Dr. Cowan·s 
having relieved some of them who might have been sick 
when he passed. The chief of the Balaka 345 is called 
Mapeli; they point to them as living far to the north 
and they say they use bows and arrows. These were 
the people who defeated the commando of Mas., vide 
page ... ,346 when we saw them after them after 
passing. Another commando is out after Pelanie but 
has not returned. This is one of the two mentioned 
some days ago. The other has gone to the eastward 
to attack the Hamacila 347 whose chief is Coquan.348 
This tribe some time ago fled from Mas. towards 
Dingan, but by promises were lately induced to return. 
They are now off to destroy them. The Maquan has 
"" I cannot identify this place. Lake Ngami was, however, known 
as Mampoor as early as 18:;4. 
""' Motshwasele. 
"" Modimo, a demi-god; plural, bodimo. 
"'" Most probably the Bagalaka, or Balaka of chief Mapela . 
... No number given. 
"' Bagamotsile, the people of Motsile . 
... Kokwane. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 191 
heard that in old times they were attacked by the 
Bawankets and more lately by the Balaka who use 
bows and arrows. 
30 AUGUST (SUNDAY). 
Extremely cold last night. One of our oxen unable 
to stand up this morning, and in spite of all our 
endeavours to put him upon his feet he continued in 
the lying position in the kraal during the whole of 
the day. Many of the others have also a very 
exhausted appearance. He was fed with grass and a 
dose of salt and water administered. 
Service towards evening. All the poor Baquana 
attended and after it was finished I asked them if they 
knew in what we were engaged. They immediately 
replied •• no ". I then put a variety of questions to 
them relative to their ideas of how the world and all 
that they see was made and as to the state after death. 
They showed perfect ignorance on the subjects and said 
at once that they had always understood since the five 
wagons had passed that white people made all these 
things. They have not the most distant notion of 
anything greater than a white man. They used in 
former times when a man was sick to express their 
wonder from what it could have arisen and they say 
they used to kill oxen or other cattle but with what 
intention they profess to be ignorant. 
31 AUGUST (MONDAY). 
Next month the rains begin to fall; about the month 
of December there is abundance of grass all over the 
country even amongst the thick bush. The cattle of 
192 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
the Baquana, when the tribe was rich, used to feed all 
along the banks of the river in this direction. 
In consequence of the state of the majority of the 
oxen it was found impossible to proceed farther with 
all the wagons. I therefore determined to make an 
attempt to reach the Tropic and leave all the wagons 
excepting one at this station. I had two spans of the 
best oxen selected, and with a little com and some 
small portion of bedding we started at 12 o'clock to 
make the attempt. Took with me Mr. Burrow, ten 
of our men, and the interpreter. After travelling 3 
hours through a thick bush we turned to the river and 
there rested for the night. It was found necessary to 
travel at some distance from the river to avoid the 
thickets of small thorny shrubs which line the 
immediate banks of the stream. 
1 SEPTEMBER (TUESDAY) • 
Wherever we travelled yesterday crowds of poor 
Baquans approached the wagons, most of them in a 
starving state. All complained bitterly of hunger, and 
many ran the whole day with us, and when antelopes 
were shot and the entrails pulled out to make them 
easier of transport they picked up even the smallest 
morsels and greedily devoured them. Nothing whatever 
that could be used as food was cast aside. I directed 
the people to kill as much game as possible in order 
that the poor creatures might have something to eat. 
A large party of them took up their abode during the 
night outside of our kraal. 
Travelled ; hours ;o minutes also at a little distance 
from the river for the same causes as mentioned 
yesterday. When we halted three respectable looking 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 193 
Baquans came to our camp and gave a most pitiable 
account of their tribe. One of them was an old servant 
of Kama's, another the son of a brother of Mataceli,349 
and the third . • . . . . . 850 The latter was in the 
ha:nds of the Matabeli at the time they murdered Kama 
but by strength and agility he made his escape. He 
wrested himself out of the hands of those who had 
charge of him, sprang over the kraal hedge, and whilst 
in the act of doing that he was wounded in the leg 
by a stick thrown by one of the Matabeli. They say 
there are a great number of people in the bush, mostly 
consisting of those who fled at the time of the murder 
of Kama. In former times, when they were rich, blacks 
used to visit them for purposes of trade, called 
Malaquini, m who spoke a language different to the 
Sechuana. They had the penis sheathed in a sort of 
basket of a cylindrical form, the distant extremity fixed 
up to the loins. A line of tattooing from the hair on 
the forehead to the point of the chin and without 
karosses. They carried the beads which they had for 
trade in sacks, and to purchase cattle the ·beads were 
principally large, blue or pale milk colour. They have 
not lately been with them; they lived at a great distance 
and came up alongst the Marique. 
They got their metal for ornaments, etc. from a tribe 
called Bakalaka 352 or Makalaka who lived low on the 
''" Motshwasele. 
'"
0 No name given. 
•
1 This name suggests that of the Mohalakwena River, a large 
tributary of the J.:impopo. Smith may have misunderstood his 
informants. But Stow, in his The Native &ices of South Africa 
(London, 1905, p. S47), mentions the fact that beyond the Kwena 
there lived "a tribe which they called Magalatzina, from whom they 
and the other tribes obtained articles of clothing and beads of 
European manufacture, that they were of a brown complexion and 
had long hair, and that they used buffaloes to draw carriages." 
'"' Bagalaka. 
194 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Marique and who also used to trade with them and 
visit them; they took in return cattle. The Bak.ala 
brought them also beads, not like those of the 
Malaquini, but generally smaller, cylindrical (and] 
with truncated extremities; principal colours red and 
white. 
One had an ear ornament of thin copper, which 
appears to be common to all the Bechuana tribes, vide 
specimen; also rings for the arms of a whitish metal 
and of thin circles of copper of about a line 3113 in 
breadth twisted round the hairs of the camel, 354 vide 
specimens. Also copper and iron rings. One man 
had an ear ornament of the same shape as that 
mentioned above only of thin plate iron drilled full of 
holes in regular lines. Some of them had rings formed 
of camel hair encircled by thin, very narrow portions 
of brass wire, which they wore round the legs just 
under the knees; these were all bought from the 
Bakalaka. 
Heard the night-hawk this evening for the first time 
since we have been in the country. Last night 
moderately warm. All the natives carry hassegays with 
moderately large blades fixed in long and strong sticks; 
used for killing game. None of them which we saw 
appeared to have any adapted for fighting. Got a 
Batabariri 8 55 shield which is of a circular form; it is 
also the form of the Bakala shield as well as of a portion 
of the Makalaka. 
Many describe the covering for the loins etc. of the 
Bakala as being formed of steenbok skin and others as 
calf skin. Some of the old Baquans speak of a small 
... One•twelfth of an inch . 
... Giraffe . 
.. Babadidi (? ). 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 195 
race of men which were scattered over the hush to the 
north of their old residence, and who used occasionally 
to visit Mutchasali 856 and bring berries for him. They 
were of a copper yellowish colour with flat noses, high 
cheekbones. [They) used bows and arrows, the latter 
very short and poisoned, the points formed of iron. 
They always carried them in the hand. The women 
had pieces of wood stuck through the nasal septum. 
They had small pieces of skin hanging in front. The 
men had [skins J similar to the Bechuanas only formed 
of the skins of game and they were similarly fixed. 
Their language consisted of a sort of clap which was 
uttered almost incessantly. They never continued for 
any time in one place; they were always wandering 
about from one place to another in search of game. 
They often resided in situations where there was no 
water and they then bruised a sort of plant and there· 
with quenched their thirst; 857 they also eat various 
roots. They had also hassegays. 
The crocodile when in the water, and an animal 
approaches to drink, often seizes it with his teeth by 
the flank and immediately twists its tail round one of 
the limbs. When it catches a large animal by the leg, 
it often escapes, if he cannot use the tail, by the loss 
of the portion below the part, 358 the animal biting it 
off. The instant it succeeds in pulling the animal to 
the ground, it drags it into the water and there devours 
it. They say it is more abundant towards the sources 
of the river than lower down, which may arise from 
... Motshwasele, chief of the Kwena. 
•
1 The tsamma, or melon (Citrullus wlgaris), which is re&'IJlarly 
so used by the desert dwellers of the Kalahari. 
•Thus in MS. 
196 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
the water being deeper and the channel not so filled 
with sand. 
The clear spotted Muskaliat Kat 309 inhabits this 
country and skins of them are often seen patching the 
karosses of the natives. The F el is f earonii also occurs 
here often near the banks of the river but also scattered 
over the whole country. Here is also a small sort of 
cat of a pale ochry yellow ground colour with longi­
tudinal black stripes. The tiger also inhabits this 
country, and likewise several kinds of jackals. 
They put a sort of medicine in their whistle and with 
it they whistle when they drive the game into the holes 
or pitfalls; they say it inclines them to run to the holes. 
The Baquana used to live formerly to the north of 
their late station; no rivers, only puts. A division of 
Baquans emigrated long ago towards the south under a 
chief named Macopa. 360 They were called . . . . . 361 
Melita and Mutchaceli, according to the statement of 
one man, were two brothers. Others say they were 
not brothers by one father, but Mutchaseli being the 
highest tribe they are hence called brothers, and they 
also say Melita left the other. The Bamangwato also 
in former days were a portion of the Baquan. They 
emigrated to the N .E. and went to a country 
uninhabited except by Masaroa. The Baquana formerly 
had a chief named Maquana. 
2 SEPTEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
Travelled 7¥2362 and crossed the Motwan 363 close 
to its junction with the Marique. In its channel were 
... The genet, a carnivore allied to the civet . 
... Mangope. 
1111 No name given. They were Huruthse. 
812 Hours (?). 
,.. Notwani River. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 197 
a few small pools of water, the margin of the water· 
course edged with a thick fringe of reeds. We 
travelled too much inland this day in consequence of 
the river taking an unexpected turn to the east, so 
that when we turned southerly to approach it again, 
(the wagon must have been within a few miles of the 
Tropic.) 364 
A large species of fresh water shell was found in 
the mud of the Motwan where the pools occur, vide 
specimens. 
The natives dig holes in the sand of the channel 
of the Marique in order to get cold water to drink. 
This day many Bechuanas, all Baquans, poured out 
from the bush as we travelled along; all united in 
asserting that there was no water but that of the river, 
and we could see from far in the bush the footpaths 
of game proceeding in right 365 lines from all parts 
towards the river. Where we turned out they were 
just as much beaten as where they reached the water 
so that they must have extended much more to the 
north. 
Most of the natives have their shins covered with 
scabs and also their thighs, particularly on the outer 
sides, which they say arises from their scorching them• 
selves by the :fire, being forced to keep close to it 
during cold weather, having so scanty covering. Three 
of our party and a Bechuana were absent tonight. 
3 SEPTEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Early this morning the three mentioned as having 
been absent arrived. They had slept near to the banks 
... The words within brackets were subsequently crossed out by 
Smith. 
""" i.e. "straight." 
N 
198 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
of the river, being afraid to travel after nightfall in 
consequence of the number of lions they saw and 
heard. One of them saw four just before dark, and 
they kept following his course. Soon after they arrived 
a party of Baquans, whose abode was about a mile 
lower on the river than our halting place, arrived and 
stated that they had heard our shots last night and 
were proceeding towards us when night closed in, and, 
from being uncertain as to where they might :find us, 
they laid themselves down, kindled a fire, and went to 
sleep. Soon after a lion arrived and carried off one 
of the party. This awakened the rest and they 
continued awake during the rest of the night. Shortly 
after he had carried off the man he was returning as 
if for more, when those that remained commenced 
making a noise and thereby induced him to go off. 
They say that within the last few weeks he has taken 
out of their kraal five men and one woman; he springs 
over the hedges which they make around their sleeping 
places and pounces upon his prey, uttering at the same 
time an hoarse sort of growl. With his prey he then 
springs over the fence again, delaying a very short time 
in the kraal. He was heard roaring close to our halting 
place during the whole night, sometimes two at the 
same time. The cattle were very uneasy and did not 
lay themselves down during the whole of the night. 
They state that there are two lions which plague them 
so much that they know them well. They say that 
some lions kill game but others seek only for human 
beings. Probably the flesh is more palatable to them, 
and from the circumstance of the poor not burying 
their dead the animals get familiar with the taste of 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 199 
human flesh. Thus by that act of disrespect they bring 
a punishment for themselves. 
Formerly when the Baquana killed men on a 
commando they could not go near their houses, kraals 
nor cattle till they had been cleansed, which was 
performed by doctors; and the ceremony consisted in 
washing the body with water in which some of their 
medicine was mixed. The Baquans lived formerly one 
day to the N.W. of the last Matabeli kraal. One old 
man says they have a tradition that men in the :first 
instance came out of a hole in the rock to the north 
of their old country; he says that they have heard 
that the Baquans in very old times lived further to 
the north. 
Small pox have made their appearance thrice in the 
tribe within the last 30 years; many died. Last year 
they suffered severely from a sickness characterised by 
severe pain all over the body, which carried off many. 
During the times the Baquan tribe were rich and 
powerful there were poor Bechuanas called Balala 866 
belonging to them; many of those we have lately seen 
were of that class. They always lived alongst the 
banks of the Marique and existed principally by 
hunting. They had no cattle. The tribe had cattle, 
sheep, pumpkins, beans, etc., and were very rich. 
In the interior of the bush the Columba bicincta, 
Columba capensis [and] 'To~u.s (common) are the 
most common birds. Nearer the river the Lanius 
melanoleucu.s, Laniidae, 'T o~us, lrrisor capensis and 
various of the small Fringillidae abound, also V ultu.r 
occipitalis, Percnopterus carunculatus, Corvus dauricus, 
etc. 
,.. Balala, or poor Tswana. See Moffat, R., Mission4ry Labours 
and Scenes in Southern Africa, London, 1842, pp. 8·12. 
200 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
About ten p.m. started with a view of advancing 
another day, but after proceeding about an hour down 
the river we found it to turn off to the S.E., and that 
we would increase our distance from the spot we wished 
to reach should we continue in that direction. I there, 
fore resolved to return to our halting place and next 
morning start through the bush to reach the Tropic. 
Very warm during the day. 
4 SEPTEMBER (FRIDAY). 
As the day began to break Tennant, Piet Botha and 
myself, together with two Bechuanas, proceeded 
towards the Tropic, and after travelling directly north 
we halted, all the party beginning to suffer severely 
from thirst and from the great heat which was felt 
in the thick bush and accumulated in the deep sand 
which formed the surface. From the top of a tree 
elevated about 40 feet I obtained a rather extensive 
view; the country nearly fl.at and everywhere covered 
with bush. 
Halted during the day. About midday all the 
Baquans from the kraal lower on the river arrived, 
men, women and children flying on account of the 
lions. They had last night paid them another visit, 
sprung into the kraal, but the people being not yet 
asleep he appeared rather frightened and seized upon 
the head of a buffalo which was lying close to some 
of the party and leapt over with it in his mouth. He 
gave a hoarse growl when he flew at it. They stated 
their wish to remain during the night near us. I told 
them they might make a fence alongside of ours and 
if the lion should come as they appeared to expect, 
we would endeavour to shoot him. They say he 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 201 
follows their footsteps and in that way often actually 
hunts them down. The woman which the lion some 
time ago devoured was taken out of her house. 
The Baca 867 hills are situated about three days 
from this for a Bechuana on foot, suppose him walking 
20 miles daily; those must have been the tops of hills 
which I saw directly north from the top of the tree. 
They say they can only visit that country during the 
rainy season as there is no water between them and 
the river at other times. In those hills iron is obtained, 
and it is got from the ore by smelting with the 
assistance of ·bellows. The Bacas formerly made axes 
and travelled round amongst the adjoining tribes to sell 
them for beads, com, etc. They say there is a small 
hill lying about one day's journey on this side of the 
· Bacas. 
The man that was caught the night ·before last by 
the lion did not call out. 
The Makalaka when they move from one place to 
another go in a string, a man, an ox, a man, an ox 
and so on, till all have arrived at their destination. 
Many of them also use the springbok skin as a covering 
for the middle, fastened by means of the feet behind. 
They have articles of European clothing such as spotted 
handkerchiefs, forcets,868 etc. Their language is quite 
different to the Bechuana; words short and uttered 
quickly. They used to bring beads for sale to the 
Baquans and took karosses, com, etc. in return. They 
have game in their own country, with the skins of 
which they might make karosses, yet nevertheless they 
trade for them. Colour very black. 
"" Kaa. The hills were near Shoshong, in the Bechuanaland 
Protectorate. 
• Voorschorts, or aprons. 
202 ANDREW SMITII DIARY 
Many confu-m statements about Masaroa; aeu they 
used formerly to bring game to Mutchasili 870 when 
he lived towards the sources of the Motwan. 871 They 
lived to the north; and [they} lived also to the north 
of the Bawankets. 872 
Kama 873 was killed because he had a large party 
of people about him. 
The Mata:beli go on commandoes to kill the old 
people and carry home the youths for cattleherds and 
machaha 374 whenever in want of such. They go out, 
being ordered to do so by Masalacatzie. 
The Ba[ma}ngwato formerly left the Baquans. The 
chief that went with them was called Motibe.87G He 
had a son named Kama who was afterwards king. The 
Bakas afterwards separated from the Bamangwato. 
Their chief is called Sibelooni. 376 Some time ago a 
commando consisting of 39 Matabeli went against the 
Bacas, but the latter heard of its approach and fled. 
It went for the purpose of destroying the chief; it 
returned without accomplishing anything. 
When a Baquan dies they either place the hands 
up to the chin as [the} Batclapins l do} or crossed 
under the knees, and the face is placed in the grave 
either to the north or east. [They} take the dead 
body out of the house through an opening made 
behind; [they} say that a dead person must not be 
taken out by the door through which living people 
enter and go out. When persons are sick no visitors 
,.. Masarwa, or Bushmen . 
.,, Motshwasele. 
111 Notwani River. 
111 N gwaketse. 
111 Kgama. 
rr• Ama;aha, strapping fellows. 
111 Mothibi . 
.,, Lebelwane, chief of the Kaa. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 203 
are admitted; they say it would make the sick worse. 
The Babariri used to cover their middle with steenbok 
skins, fixed behind after being drawn between the legs. 
Round shields. They spoke the same language as 
Bechuanas. Between where we turned back and the 
Bacas [there is] a small dry river which joins the 
Marique called Soraruma.877 The poor used formerly 
to sow corn; now they do not, as they have no chance 
of reaping it, being so constantly disturbed by 
commandoes from the Matabeli. They scarcely make 
their usual sorts of snare as they are also almost 
constantly destroyed. They do not now circumcise, 
having no fit place nor time to accomplish it. They 
only flog the youths severely and then they are 
reckoned men and women [sic J. The poor expose their 
dead in the fields to be devoured by wild animals. 
5 SEPTEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Started at daylight and breakfasted at confluence of 
Motwan and Marique. Afternoon rode to old kraal 
where we halted. 2nd night after starting followed by 
a great number of poor hungry people. They eat roots 
and a species of bulbous plants, the former after 
boiling, the latter after being roasted. The latter has 
a highly constipating effect. After eating of it without 
other sorts of food they cannot have evacuations 
without the assistance of pieces of wood introduced by 
the anus. Wherever a poor Baquan evacuates there 
is always to be seen the wood he has found it necessary 
to employ. Mirimitsan 878 was the name of the chief. 
11
' Serurumi River, in the Bechuanaland Protectorate. It joins the 
Limfopo, not the Marico. 
11 Modimosane. 
204 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The nation was called Booroa. 379 Commonly they 
begin to get rain towards the end of [the} new moon, 
this being full, and in two months after all looks green. 
The crocodile is very troublesome during the hot 
weather. When the rains are light they generally last 
for three or four days; when very heavy or only 
thunder showers [they are] soon over. The 
pronunciation of a [ + J as in black, a [ - J as in 
amicable. 879* They have ears to their karosses like the 
Bechuanas and they made them formerly of game and 
also of the skins of black cattle. The Baquans give the 
following names to animals [etc.] : 380 
waterbok litoo maoha duiker pooti 
kodoe to lo rhinoceros choocooroo 
A. melampus paala black rhinoceros oorila 
steenbok pooroohooroo white rhinoceros mohoroo 
eland poofo Galago moholi 
buffalo nari Sciurus cepapi 
lion tau python quari 
wolf piri crocodile quana 
tiger unqui shield ta bi 
hass~ay lirumo Corvus dauricus ma~aiabi 
bree es tsiha tortoise (water) ~aroo ani 
armlets ooritsi whistle nal{ana 
fish bat 
sea cow 1tooboo Lanius 
melanoleucus .... 
elephant Pelis fearonii lichlotsi 
camel wagon coloi 
hare mootela Manis 1taha 
Otis cristata maquabe or Cat with black 
mooshilishili stripes tari 
guinea fowl l{al{a monkey 1taboo 
"" Barwa. Or Smith may have intended Boora,Modimosane, which 
is i.ossible in Tswana. 
• Smith has used plus and minus signs over the letter "a" in the 
following lists to indicate the nature of the vowel sound. I have 
omitted them. 
• The names, in modem spelling, with the omissions filled in, as 
far as possible, are as follows: 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 20f 
In the old times the Bawankets and the 
Bamangwatoes made commandoes against the Baquans, 
the Baquans also against the others. Those who 
def ended themselves at home generally conquered; 
those who attacked were generally defeated. The 
Mata:beli attacked the W ankets before they attacked 
the Baquana. The W ankets, having heard of the 
approach of the commando, sent off the cattle, and the 
Matabeli, when following the traces of the cattle, came 
in contact with the men and they fought. The Matabeli 
conquered, but many men were lost on both sides. 
The battle took place during the heat of the day. When 
Sebitwani and Ramabusetsi first arrived in this country 
they fought with the Baquans and succeeded in taking 
off a good number of their cattle. They still, however, 
had a considerable quantity. The arrival of the 
Matabeli deprived them of all. The Baharootzie 
fought with the W ankets during the reign of 
Macabba; 381 the latter overcame them and drove them 
waterbuck 
koodoo 
A. melampus 
steenbok 
eland 
buffalo 
lion 
wolf 
tiger 
assegai 
breeches 
armlets 
fish 
sea cow 
elephant 
camel 
hare 
Otis cristata 
guinea fowl 
duiker 
311 Makaba. 
tumogo 
tho lo 
phala 
phuduhudu 
phohu 
nan: 
tau 
phiri 
nl{we 
lerumo 
? 
? 
ti ha pi 
kubU 
tlou 
thludwa 
mmutla 
l{hohe 
l{gaka 
photi 
rhinoceros chukudu 
black rhinoceros boreli (Matabele) 
white rhinoceros mogohu 
Galago moholi 
Seiurus cepapi 
python tlhware 
crocodile l{wena 
shield the be 
Con1w dauricus magakabe 
tortoise (water) kgadu1ane 
whistle nal{a 
hat mamathwane 
Lanius melano• motsiloli (?) 
leucus 
P di$ f earonii 
wagon 
Manis 
Cat with black 
stripes 
monkey 
lichlotsi 
koloi 
Jigaga 
tadi 
l{gabo 
206 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
away from Chinyane 382 to Mosiga. The tribe which 
Buys 383 attacked was called Bamaliti. 384 Their chief 
was Poi; 385 his grandfather·s name was Monohain.386 
The Bamahaitla 887 was one of the minor divisions of 
the Bakatla 888 tribe; their principal man was called 
Bogos.389 They used round shields like the Babariri;300 
lived to the S.S.E. of where we turned back on the 
Marique. 
6 SEPTEMBER (SUNDAY). 
Rested today. Sent out Piet and Botha contrary 
to established custom to endeavour to get some game 
for the number of starving Caff ers that were with us. 
They shot several rooyebok. Botha in crossing some 
reeds near the edge of the river after a wounded buffalo 
started four lions, two females and two small cubs. 
Very warm during most of the day. 
7 SEPTEMBER (MONDAY). 
Started at daylight and travelled about three hours. 
Where we halted (we] found a great number of sea 
cows. Several shot but all disappeared; desired the 
Caff ers to take them when they floated and bring us 
the teeth. At this same pool Piet shot one as we went 
off and requested the Caffers to secure a portion of 
112 Near Zeerust in the Transvaal. See map. 
... Coenraad de Buis . 
... Lete . 
... Powe. 
"'Monaheng . 
.., Bamafatlha of Bogosi. See p. 176, footnote 290. 
118 Kgatla. 
811 Bogosi. See p. 176, footnote 291. 
,.. Babadicli (?). 
'ANDREW SMITH DIARY 207 
the flesh and the teeth for us. Crowds of Caffers still 
with us, and today we were joined by an old man with 
a tigerskin kaross who had formerly been the head 
servant of Kama. He desired the interpreter to tell 
me he had a good deal of ivory but was afraid to 
bring it. I arranged with him how that was to be 
done. He is now the principal man amongst the 
disorganised tribe and has the charge of Kama's mother. 
All disputes, etc. are submitted to his decision. In 
the afternoon [we J proceeded as far as the station 
where we halted the first night after leaving the 
wagons. There is a considerable quantity of water 
in the Motwan 391 towards its sources, principally in 
pools. On one of its principal branches, the 
Mitats [?}, 392 a party of Masalacatzie's soldiers lie 
with a post. There is also much water in the 
Maclamatsi 393 towards its sources. The Clacla 394 
always runs. 
The Baquans 395 eat the wolf and say it is good. 
They do not eat the lion because he devours human 
flesh. However [they J eat the young ones, and the 
flesh of one which we killed was all taken away by 
them; even the smallest portions which were cut off 
the head and leg bones in cleaning them were carefully 
gathered up and eaten. They eat the guana, as we 
saw, having obtained a specimen. They do not eat fish 
because they are ugly and resemble the crocodile which 
they also leave untouched. They do not eat crows but 
they eat the tiger. Their selections show that they are 
'"' Notwani. 
... Molatsi (?). 
,.. Matlaba's River • 
... See p. 166, footnote 266 . 
.. Kwena. 
208 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
simply regulated by caprice in what they eat, and not 
by any well,grounded principle. 
The Baquans, when they perform any feats of what 
they consider importance or prowess, compose a history 
of the circumstances and introduce a number of facts 
or supposed facts bearing upon the points. These they 
recite on various occasions, either when alone or in 
company with their comrades or at pechos. 396 When 
they dispute with each other, they often settle their 
quarrels by a recitation of all their compositions. The 
drift of many of them are difficult to comprehend, and 
the sentences are so unconnected and apparently 
obscure, that I have been under the necessity of setting 
many of them aside, after having obtained what was 
said to be a translation of them. The great warriors 
and hunters are generally most ready with such 
speeches, and give utterance to them with the greatest 
glee and force. Their custom in their disputes is to 
make the contending party repeat the speech, and that 
is done alternately. First one speaks, and after it is 
repeated; then the repeater ·begins his, and the late 
speaker repeats it. The following are a few of them. 
SPEECH OF A BAQUAN APTER KILLING A RHINOCEROS 
WHICH WOUNDED HIM DREADFULLY IN THE CHEEK. 
The old tree of the commando ( 1} has lost a portion 
or branch of him which he lost because he was angry 
(brave}. The tree must go to Molooi ( 2.) 397 • 
'" Pitso. or meetinr . 
., Moloi. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 209 
Do. OP THE SAME, AFTER KILLING A LION. 
A cow that men milk in the night is one that 
bellows. That which I milk is the black-spotted one 
of Maloosa ( 3) . 398 I turn round and throw the lion; 
he bites me. I kill him. Let it be made known to 
Sihoolakali ( 4) 300 that the one with durtraxels 400 
with horns; if he will buy him he must send cattle. 
Cattle are sent; he is gone to another chief, being angry. 
Get him from Ramishana (5').401 He will not part 
with him; he will say he cannot give other men's wood 
away. The man-eater of Kasikatima ( 6); 402 he that 
has been so injured and wounded by game and by men. 
Do. BY A FAMous HuNTER. 
Thick, thick neck; the neck sinews have also horns 
(are like horns). Men that bear shields must be of 
one cast (character) . He must expose himself openly 
that men may see him. He must expose himself (or 
exposes ·himself) before his father; his father is delighted 
with the spectacle [and] says, •• That is not a child 
of mine, that is God." My bones are as strong as 
wood. When I guided them to the precipice I was 
as an ostrich that flew; I was like an ostrich that breaks 
the leg. Ask him if that is the precipice where he 
seeks dung to make fire, black watcher of the lambs. 
'"' Moalosi, or Molese. 
'"' Selokolela, near Kanye in Bechuanaland Protectorate. This is 
the place to which the Ngwaketse retreated after the death of their 
chief Makaba in the war with Sebetwane. 
... Doortrek:r;eels, or traces; part of the harness. 
••• Ramoswaana . 
.,. I cannot identify this place. 
210 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Do. BY THE SAME. 
I hunt the game and throw at them. The bu:ff alo 
of the son of the huntsman will again turn back from 
him because he hears that his father is angry. 
Ramaquapin (7) 403 speaks as a man had no speed 
he has conquered the hard runner of his sister. The 
rhinoceros runs back with his feet, the rhinoceros of 
mashonia's wife (8).404 A shield with barbs is the 
king; the one of mashonia's (9). 
( 1) Meaning himself, which he figures as a tree; 
[he} had in his younger days been a great warrior. 
(2) Kama's brother. {3) Name of his dwellingplace. 
( 4) A chief. ( 5') His chief. ( 6) Brother. (7) Father 
of the speaker. (8) Mashonia is a large ant. (9) 
Intended as his mother. He first compares himself to 
the thick ant, and then the thick ant he compares to 
the rhinoceros.405 
Do. BY THE lsT. SPEAKER AFTER A COMMANDO 
HAD ATTACKED THE BAQUANA. 
Stand up and return to Matloquan 406 (a division 
of [the} Pelani tribe who came to them to steal cattle). 
You looked back. You twist the necks of the children. 
Your children shall say, ••Ye come on with a black ox; 
ye return not with cattle. Thou art dead." Though 
ye continue to look, your father shall not come; he 
is dead, he returns not with cattle. The last 
- Ramakwapeng. 
'°' Choshwant:, the white ant . 
.. Note added by Smith. 
• Motlokwane. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 211 
Malachahi 407 has eaten him up. The wood, the son 
of Mooripi.kail 408 (speaker's father). The cattle that 
came home bellowed. 
Do. AS SPOKEN BY THE HEAD SERVANT OF THE LATE 
BAQUAN KING KAMA. 
The Bawankets are not near; they are far from the 
Baquans. Makabba 409 does not hear that they 
(Wankets) cry; he does not hear that Sihooharo 410 
(speaker) wounds men's heads. Does Makkabba not 
hear that the chaka 411 makes noise. Sihooharo strikes 
men's heads; the heads of the men of Monghala 412 
(Makkaba's grandfather). Why strike them still? 
They are dead. Go away! Let them rest! Let us 
sing! The men they come with shields. The plumes 
are swift. Siesho 413 (a Baquan) comes and says the 
Wankets come on. Makkaba had many men; he has 
Bacloqua 414 and Baharootzie. He came on a com­
mando against the Baquans; they said they came to 
drive away the Baquans. The man of Mooroa 4111 
(speaker's grandfather) drove the commando back. 
He :first killed one man, then another, and let another 
escape. He with red blood fled (being wounded). 
Fly, Monghala's men, and when you reach home you 
must speak of yourselves; you must tell Makkaba, 
Simela's 416 father. You must say we could not outrun 
•or Molatlhegi. 
'°' I cannot identify this name. 
- Makaba, chief of the Ngwaketse. 
"" See footnote 408. 
ru Battle•axe. 
'" Mongala. 
"' Seiso. 
'" Tlokwa. 
"" See footnote 408. 
""Semela. 
212 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
them though you see us here; Sihooharo let us 
purposely escape. Men threw at me with hassegays, 
they threw at me with large knives. We fought 
together with hassegays on account of oxen; on 
account of large oxen we fought. We fought over 
the large oxen of Sihalinian 417 (speaker's wife). I 
break the heads of Ramulishani 418 (Bawankets) and 
scatter their brains, ye men that escape, ye that outrun 
me, ye that outrun Sihooharo, that can outrun the 
wolf, ye that were eaten up by Lokoritschi 419 (his 
name). The cold of the wind of · King Kama the men 
eat up. When we go out to surround the game I 
am always the foremost, I that am as the worst of 
the cattle that leave the kraal. Like the elephant when 
he screams is the killer of the men (speaker) ; he it 
is that hunts with the large dogs. As men drove the 
cattle past the baboons, (town) Sihooharo cannot pass 
the cattle unless to kill the men. He will not give 
off his father's cattle. He will not have his cattle go 
to another land, and there their breasts be eaten. Had 
he many cha~as, when one was tired and would no 
more wound, he would take another and keep on 
killing the whole day. The hard runner, he that daily 
kills men, that destroys men's old places and carries 
off their cattle and herders, as he gets the cattle he 
cries,•• Hoe! I am the hard runner of Maloosa! Hard 
runner, trust not the tiger; hard runner, trust not the 
tiger's skin, the crocodile of the sheep eaters!" As 
the crocodile will catch men, he looks from below his 
eyebrows; he drinks water, washes out ·his mouth (he 
means to represent himself as the crocodile) . His 
"' I cannot identify this name. 
•
11 Ramodisane. 
"' Legwaritse. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 213 
mouth looks within like that of a lion; my mouth is 
like a lion's as he runs hard. He is the child of the 
river Mupapa 420 (in Baquana·country). You must 
not throw at the rhinoceros (himself). They curse 
him when he screams over them and catches them, men 
with chin hair(?). The Wankets' women cry; as they 
cry they speak of the Baquans. They think about their 
children's foreheads when they cry; they break beads 
and aU. When he kills men they cry, ••You must 
not kill us; take us and then hear." The little Captain 
of Kama and Mutchasili 421 makes their heads hang; 
he will not hear. What must I ask you? You have 
destroyed me. I am like an animal of the game kind 
with strong limbs like wood, legs like those of jackals, 
like those of [the] rooyecat, Ramashuana, 422 that 
carry home only red cattle from commandoes. My 
cattle furnish plenty of milk, Ramuchana. I milk for 
the men that are in the kraal, those that give much 
milk. I know, and as I take cattle I tum them out. 
I take those that fill a bambus. I take the red with 
white rump. As I say •• hoi" they stand for the child 
of the cattle. The cattle think of the other cattle that 
remain in the kraal. As they run hard I call to them 
that I bring them to the rest. I see the kraal of the 
cattle and go and take them. I am also of Maloosa. 
Before yesterday I killed none. I threw at the one 
which the men had killed, then, said the others •• How 
is it that you have not killed any today?" I would 
not take the man from you. The lion told me he must 
not be shorn of his hair. From the beginning the lion 
was not to be deprived of his hair; he has much hair 
""Mopape. 
"' Khama and Motshwasele . 
... Ramoswaana. 
0 
214 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
on his breast and shoulders. The lion• s hair was cut; 
Sihoharo cut the lion• s hair. The lion said to him 
he must cut his hair. The lion then said ••You have 
struck me." You said I must cut your hair; the knife 
will no longer cut. You must not approach nearer; 
he will kill you. I came nearer; I stood close to what 
bites. I threw and did not miss. How could I miss; 
I was close. I threw [?] in the lion's mouth. I went 
as an arrow into the lion's mouth. Men shall be 
destroyed as they engage with me; men shall come as 
close as you do. We mock you. 
A small Baquan chief states that in former times 
there was war between the different members of the 
tribe; that he was absent from home when it 
happened, and on his return, finding that to be the 
case, he fled to the Bamangwato, and upon their being 
attacked by Ramabutsetsi and Sibatwani, he fled farther 
and reached the Bakalaka. He describes that as a very 
large tribe. The portion next to the Bamangwato tribe 
wear a dress like the Bechuanas. The others have 
calf skins fixed round the loins hanging down on the 
sides of the thighs, and pulled through between the 
legs and fixed behind. That portion have circular 
shields and hassegays with handles about the length of 
those of the Matabeli, but the iron much larger and 
stronger. The King's name was Toli.423 The people 
are blacker than the Bechuanas and speak a perfectly 
different language which the Bechuanas cannot under­
stand; it is short and sounds harsh. He says it resembles 
tutiluti. They have also bows and arrows. The women 
have a skin twisted round the loins, and [which] 
reach [es] to nearly the middle of the calf of the leg . 
... Tuli. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 215 
They live on the north of where the Ramaquaban •u 
joins the Marique and on both sides of the latter. The 
latter about that place he describes, as far as can be 
understood, as running considerably to the north of 
east, saying that the sun always rises considerably to 
the right of the line of the stream. Their country is 
hilly, with bush, but the latter not in the quantity 
which occurs here. It is large bush. [They} do not 
pierce their ears. [They J construct their houses like 
the Bechuanas, [and} have small short legged cows, 
sheep and goats. Several of them have the regular 
Bechuana shields. States that some time after 
Sibatwani attacked the Bamangwatos, they together 
with a portion of the Baquans made a commando 
against Sibatwani, and went as far as the large interior 
water, which he says is called Booclaiteli.425 Did not 
reach it in less than six weeks, though he says they 
travelled every day. This time they overcame 
Sibatwani and took off his cattle. He made an attack 
upon them afterwards and retook all. Rasipip 426 
fought with the Baquans when flying from the 
Matabeli. They, the Baquans, were separated at first 
by the Matabeli. Secheli, son of Mutchasili and 
nephew of Kama, fled to the north. 
The Bacas 427 live about three days to the north 
of where we turned back amongst some hills. [There 
is J a series of pools in the hills like an interrupted river. 
The waters do not extend beyond the hills. When 
they are attacked by the Matabeli they :By to a precipice 
... The Ramaquabane River is, however, a tributary of the Shashi, 
which flows into the Limpopo from the north . 
... Possibly Batletle. See Livingstone, D •• Missionary Travels and 
Researches in South Africa, London, 18~7. pp. 62-63 . 
... Rathsibi. 
m Kaa. 
216 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
where the former cannot injure them. They sometimes 
think of always residing there. After the commando 
which is now after the Bahamacili, 428 a tribe living to 
the east of the Matabeli, they intend, it is said, trying 
once again against the Bacas and keeping them on the 
precipice and seeing if they cannot starve them. The 
chief of the Balaka's name is Mapeli. His father's 
name was Laka. 429 They have the Bechuana dress. 
The tribe lies to the east of Pelani's old country. The 
old man reckons distance according to the following 
scale: two days from junction of Limpopo and Marique 
to the junction of Motwan and Marique. We travelled 
that distance with a wagon in 14 hours, so that they 
may travel about 25' miles daily. 
The Bamangwato live three days on the other side 
of the Bacas. When they intended to destroy Kama, 
two men were sent on in front of the commando 
dressed in their war accoutrements to state that a 
commando was going out to the north, and that they 
would soon be at the place. Lo and behold, it soon 
arrived and began its labours, the people being quite 
at ease from believing the report. This seems to be 
the policy on all occasions to free the persons they 
intend attacking of all suspicions previous to the blow. 
Their mode of warfare must tend to make their 
warriors cowards, as they never place them on an equal 
footing with their adversaries, and hence give them no 
opportunity of increasing their natural courage by an 
artificial one. Their work is simply murder, without 
danger being encountered in effecting it. 
When one of their commandoes returns, the doctor 
boils milk and puts medicine in it; then all who were 
... Bagamotsile, the people of Motsile. 
... See p. 190, footnote 34f. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 217 
on it swallow of it by taking it up in their hands. 
When they go on commandoes they employ great 
quantities of bewitching matter. 
Mirimitsan 430 was the name of the chief of the tribe 
and the name of the tribe was also Mirimitsan. The 
Baquan used to call all the little tribes which inhabited 
the country where we first found Masalacatzie, 
Booroa, 431 not knowing the individual names. 
The Baca hills are of great length, very high, and 
full of precipices. The Bacas live three days from the 
Bamangwato, because they are enemies and :fight; there 
are many small rivers between them. Mootachooan or 
Mootachoosan 432 is a large river beyond the 
Bamangwatos, which always runs; it joins the Marique. 
There is another river beyond it called Shasha, and a 
smaller one, Shashani; the Shasha [is} about four days 
beyond the Bamangwato. The Bamangwato get water 
from several small rivers which all unite and get lost 
'" Modimosane. See p. 203, footnote 378. 
'"' Barwa. See p. 204, footnote 379. 
"' Machokwanc River. 
218 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
before it reaches the Marique; they are probably 
mountain-streams. 
There came no more men out of the cave ( vide 
Baquana); from all having come out of one cave, they 
say they are all children of one father. Speaks of two 
sorts of ·black rhinoceros under the name of booreli 433 
the one with two horns of equal length, which they 
call the large sort. They never associate with those 
with one horn short. They always prefer living at 
a little distance from water, so that they may not 
prevent the game resorting thither, particularly at 
night. . 
Siliqualala 434 was the residence of Makkaba. 435 
About west from this or a little to the southward, 
Kori was a post of the Bawankets, Mooroolani 438 a 
series of pits. 
When a portion of the Bakatla fled from 
Masalacatzie, they betook themselves to the sources of 
the Motwan 487 and there Sibiqua 4311 fought with 
them. There were guns with him which they say 
belonged to the Baharootzie. [The J first time he 
... Bodiie. 
"' Selokolela, the old capital of the Ngwaketse, not far from Kanye 
in Bechuanaland Protectorate. It was visited by Andrew Gedde! 
Bain in 18 26 . 
.. Makaba, chief of the Ngwaketse . 
.. Morulane. 
'" Notwani River. 
'" Sebego, son of Makaba, chief of the Ngwaketse. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 219 
fought, the Bakatla beat him off; next time by the aid 
of guns he overcame them and took all their cattle. 
The Bamangwato country is hilly and they get their 
water from small streams. Water abundant. 
An old servant of Kama says that about 30 or 40 
years ago a white man with a wagon passed them and 
went down the Marique; that the ·next white man 
they saw was Buys, 489 who visited them from the 
W ~ets country. He returned to that country and 
afterwards fought with the Bamaliti.440 
During the late sickness at Kama's mother's place 
near this 47 persons died, and everywhere the 
mortality was nearly in the same proportion. Many 
of the Matabeli, Bamangwato, Bacas, etc. died. About 
five years ago there was an equally severe sickness. It 
did not extend to the Matabeli; they had at that time 
the small pox. Gibson, 441 this man says, together with 
the entire of ·his party are dead. He went first to the 
Bacas, then to the Bamangwato, then to the hills on 
this side of the Bacalaka, 442 and there was taken sick. 
He gave beads to Mootchunis,443 a brother of the wife 
of the Bamangwato king, to give him medicines. After 
the whole of the party died the man named brought his 
oxen to the Bacas and said he would not keep them, 
lest he might be blamed concerning his death. The 
Bacas divided the cattle and have ikept them. It was 
told to them by some of the poor Caffers that we were 
on our way down the river to seek his property, and 
upon hearing that they immediately fled to the hill. 
The last Matabeli commando were forced to return, 
,,. Coenraad de Buis . 
... Lete. 
"' See Vol. i of this Diary, pp. :!>28·:!129. 
"' Bagalaka. 
... Motshwene. 
220 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
they having previously fled to the same hill. This old 
servant says it is false what we have heard concerning 
Kama. They made him fast with rims, 444 pulled his 
head down between his legs, [and} thereby broke his 
back and then fastened him to a tree. They did the 
same to an uncle. It is possible that no one knows 
correctly how he was put to death, all having fallen 
except those who fled. 
9 SEPTEMBER (wEDNESDAY).ut• 
The Matabeli always attack in the night. When it 
is a large place they mean to storm they remain at a 
distance till late in the night, then approach and 
surround it, observing the most profound silence till 
about daybreak. When they make the attack during 
the dark of the night they kindle fires a little distance 
off in order to see who may attempt escape. When 
they begin sticking, they give utterance to sounds like 
ho-hoo; after every time they make a plunge with the 
hassegay. No screaming nor whistling. They say they 
have a number of elephant's teeth but they are afraid 
to bring them for sale as the Matabeli will not have 
that they should buy beads. They bring them to a 
distance and there sell them to us; also bring them 
when it is dark. All cows which they killed last year; 
they attempted to kill one bull and in the attempt two 
men lost their lives. 
The remains of the Baquans are now an extremely 
timid class of people. They, since their dispersion, seem 
to regard even the wind as their enemy, [and] fear 
evil consequences from everything. A boy wished to 
go with me and when his father heard of it he was 
"'Riems. 
«•• Smith did not give a separate entry for 8 September (Tuesday). 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 221 
averse to it. The interpreter told him to go and say 
so; he would not, but fled off to his house. He did 
not appear to have an idea that speaking would be 
of the slightest service, nor even that he had a right 
to speak. [He] probably looked upon us as he does 
upon the Matabeli, and [thought] that if he urged any 
objection it might cost him his life. I sent for him and 
told him I would not think of taking the boy unless he, 
the father, was willing; he appeared unwilling. Then 
I told him the boy must remain. A few days ago an 
ox fell into a pit,fall and was killed; all that were with 
the wagons immediately fled, thinking they would be 
blamed. 
10 SEPTEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Found the Ploceu.s with white eyebrows very 
common in the bush where we turned back from the 
Marique; beginning to build. 
Some of the statements contained in yesterdays notes 
corrected. 
The Baquans when they have not seen each other 
for a long time take a little clay, place it on the fingers 
near the points, and then apply it to the forearm of 
the other a little above the wrist, he doing the same to 
the other; each then pulls his fingers down towards his 
acquaintance's hand and thus smears the wrist with it. 
They do this before speakin_g in order that when they 
converse they may not get headaches. At our 
encampment three did it with dung. Pulling of noses 
is also common amongst them. They praise when 
visiting at pechos 445 or at home. The Baharootzie 
are a higher nation than the Baquans because they first 
... Pitso, or meeting. 
222 .ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
came out of the hole. [The} Mootoochuan Ho lies 
between the Bacas and Bamangwato. It does not run. 
Everywhere there are springs where there is always 
water. It empties itself into [the} Seroi,H7 and [the} 
Seroi into [the} Mitsimashau; Hs then [it} ceases to 
be a river, but the continuation is a valley that extends 
to the Oori. They call the river above its junction 
with [the} Limpopo, Marique; under, Oori or Coori, 
and that name it holds at least as far as the other side 
of the Bakalaka. Shashi runs and falls into Oori, 
Shashani also; they are close together. Clatcli Ho is 
:five days walk beyond [the} Bamangwato; from 
Clatcli to Ramaquaban one day. Shashi three days on 
the other side of the Bamangwato. Mariquaban dries 
in the winter. 
The Bakalaka are Bechuanas; have Bechuana hair, 
not as stated yesterday. On the other side of them a 
tribe called Mashoona,450 and are the people who are 
mentioned in ~sterday's notes with round shields; they 
are under a different chief. My narrator says they 
are in the habit of calling them all Bakalaka. They are 
the people that stick 460* and the right Bakalaka are 
much afraid of them. Ratsipip 451 took the cattle of 
the Makalaka; the Matabeli then took them from him 
and the rest of the cattle of the Makalaka. The 
Bakalaka and the Mashoona speak a different l~nguage 
to the Bechuanas, and both have the hair cut as 
described. The true Makalaka have a skin drawn 
"' Machokwane River • 
.. , Serowe River, which joins the Machokwane . 
... Metsimachwen River, N. of the lastnamed river. Smith, obtaining 
this information from natives, appears to have reversed it. 
- See p. 166, footnote 266 . 
... Mashona. 
400
* Stab . 
.., Rathsibi. 
ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 223 
between the legs and [a J narrow portion hanging down 
between the thighs. Both men and women cultivate 
the ground with picks broad at front and made of iron. 
To the east of the Bamangwato which live on the 
lake lies a tribe called Baklikli.'112 They inhabit the 
islands of the lake, have canoes, and carry their sheep 
over in them; their cattle they swim over. They have 
doortraxels 4113 with pieces of skin hanging down 
between the thighs like the Bakalaka; cut their hair 
like them and the Bechuanas cannot understand them. 
Speak somewhat like Masaroa or Corannas. [They J 
have hassegays and arrows. Their karosses [are J light­
coloured outside and [they] rub fat in their hair. Some 
say they do not pierce the ears, others that they do. 
[They) use the same picks as Bechuana and their 
hassegays are like the Bechuanas', al.so their shields. 
They form their houses of mats and reeds; they are 
of a long form and round on the top. Very large. 
The Baquans form their houses like Baharootzie. The 
Bakalaka in making their houses place poles in the 
ground; [they] are of a circular form and fl.at above; 
[they] use planks for doors which are (made] so that 
a person goes in at them half stooping. [They] have 
the same sort of corn as [the J Bechuanas. They are 
far from the great water. Says it is ten days from the 
Bamangwato to the Baklikli, and Molemo says [that J 
from that tribe to the residence of the portion of [the] 
Bamangwato who fled to [the] lake it is ; days. From 
the Bamangwato which remained in their own country 
to the others on [the} lake one must go directly to 
where the sun sets. The Bakalahari speak a di:ff erent 
... Batletle. See Livingstone, Mission4TJ TT411c:ls 4nd Rese4Tches 
in South Afric4, London, 18,.7, p. 62-63. 
... Doortrekzeels, or traces. 
22-i- ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
language to the Bechuanas, but there is some resem, 
blance. To the north of [the] great water live Baquans. 
They are said to have left Kama's Baquans by Kama's 
people. 454 They speak the language of the Baquans 
and cut their hair in the same manner. They call 
themselves Baquans. Their hassegays [are J like 
Bechuanas, but [their J shields [are J different, the 
horns standing upwards and downwards ( vide 
specimen). [They] have also cha~as and pierce the 
ears. Same colour as the Baquans. 
(The] Chinyane hills extend to the north of (the] 
Wankets' land. [The] Wankets' land lies W. true 
from this. The Baquan W. by N. real.455 On the 
north of sources of [the] Motwan country, hill[y]; 
more to northwest, flat. Poor Gaffers lived on the 
flats and also Masaroa. "56 Only one place where they 
could get water. There is bush in that country, but 
not thick as here. The Babariri 457 also are called 
Bakalaka; they however speak Sechuana. The Matabeli 
went last year on a commando against them and took 
their sheep away . 
... Thus in MS . 
... Thus in MS . 
... Masarwa, or Bushmen . 
.., Babadidi (?). 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 225 
Kama once thought that the Matabeli intended to 
kill him. He fled. A commando went after him, 
brought him back, and told him he must live as one 
of them. He then got charge of a post of cattle and 
continued in the charge till he was killed. 
ANOTHER SPEECH. 
Windpipe of the lion. The lion (himself) eats men 
between the rocks; between the large rocks the lion 
calls hou. and again ho. Did he see the black buck 
(enemy)? Whose child did he see? His feet made 
a noise in search of men. Whose child did he see? 
Where shall his mother find him? When he ascended 
the tree he missed the branch, he lost himself. The 
rhinoceros he comes out of the thick bush. Borili 4118 
(he) comes first and uses his horn to kill men. The 
hassegay is too light. He will stick with the horn, that 
rhinoceros of Kabararaka. Stand, stand, Borili, let 
your nose rest! The wind of the rhinoceros goes to 
the place of Bohachua 459 (a part of a tribe that fled to 
Sibitwan). Why fly you so much, you men of 
Bohachua? You fly and leave Bohachua's son behind. 
If you pass Bohachua, where will you get food? Know 
you not that I am master for him? I hunt him with 
the feet of a rhinoceros. [The] rhinoceros has feet, 
the rhinoceros of the clan of Malita 460 (Kama's 
... Bordi, or black rhinoceros. 
... Bogachoe, chief of the Tlok.wa, Rustenburg district. See Trans• 
vaal Native Affairs Department, Short History of the 'Native 'Tribe1 
of the 'TTo.mvaal, Pretoria, 190~, p. 40. In Smith's time this tribe 
was living on the farm Doornhoek 134, on the Eland's River. Ellen• 
berger gives the chief's name as Bogatsu. See Ellenberger, V., "History 
of the Batlok.wa of Gaberones," etc., in Bantu Studies, Johannesburg, 
1939, Vol. xiii, No. 3, p. 171 et 1eq. 
- Moleta. 
226 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
brother) . Call your wind out, Borili of Linguani 461 
(a small vley), you must speak so that the pack oxen 
shall not pass (means, so that the thieves may hear 
and fly) . You must not pass the cattle, son of 
Dihoocha 462 (speaker's father); they are the life of 
men, hard runner who drives men past the cattle 
(causes them to fly) . Son of Kama, who is strong, he 
gave out the lion of Maloosa (himself) to go on the 
commando. The god of the place sent the men out 
(Mutchasili); he allowed Kama's son to go. The lion 
breaks the head of Moolishani 463 (a man speaker 
killed), so that the brains are scattered. I asked the 
great men of the Baquans whose cattle they were; that 
they had no fixed abode. Cattle are not certain food; 
they bring enemies on who have tiger karosses, who 
stand up in the morning from amongst the grass. As 
they stand up they say .. ho," and tum the cattle. Then 
fly the cattle herds; they fly to the house. Then can 
men see the great rascals (the cattle so reckoned because 
they cause war; they bring men). The cattle walk so 
pretty as if they had love for man. The kaross of a 
rooyekat and a tiger stop in the fields; they rest there. 
He shall be killed (himself) ; the Baquans shall see him 
no more. The head must be hard that you depend 
upon. The children they go through the river; they 
are not strong. A child if not strong cannot go through 
the river, the strong shall eat him up; the child of the 
red spotted shield shall eat him up (he) . Men cannot 
eat men. Men are bitter. You must not give of (the} 
dead men for me. The lion (he) runs quickly through 
"' Dinkwane . 
.., I cannot identify this name . 
... Modisane. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 227 
the great bush of Marooa 464 (a vley) ; he sticks the 
men, and leaves it for others to kill them, telling them 
to destroy their life. When the commando started I 
eat medicine. Masali 465 {Baquan doctor) gave me 
the medicine to eat; he knew that I would kill men. 
Cool breeze from northward most of the day; sun 
warm. 
11 SEPTEMBER (FRIDAY) • 
Started about ten a.m. and travelled about 4 hours 
up the river; halted rather higher on the river than 
we did on the evening of the 28 ultimo. When we 
travelled on the 29 to the Limpopo not a thorn-tree 
was observed in flower, and to-day almost all of two 
species were covered with flowers. One had flowers 
without leaves, in the other it was green with leaves, 
and the flowers were yellow like the Mimosa of the 
Colony with globular flowers. Several of the poor 
Baquans still followed us. During the early and middle 
part of the day a light cool breeze from the westward 
of south; towards afternoon it abated and the heat of 
the sun was very oppressive with heavy clouds to the 
N .E. Before dark, wind varia:ble; after dark, set in 
from the E.N .E. rather fresh and very cold. The 
young grass coming out wherever there is any moisture 
in the soil. 
SPEECH BY ANOTHER BAQUAN. 
I burn(?} the lion. The lions call Umpooro·s 466 
(his brother) son. The lion rises out of the vley. The 
... Possibly maro~wa, bushy country. 
''" I cannot identify this name . 
... I cannot identify this name. 
228 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
lion of Moramo's vley stands up. Run quickly, strong 
[one} of a light colour like the earth (speaker light 
coloured) ; light coloured man of the scrapers, yellow 
man begat by Ramalipa (speaker's father)! 
12 SEPTEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Very cold this morning with the appearance of rain; 
wind about E.N .E. and stripes of dark clouds in the 
sky, rather horizontal. Wind soft. 
A species of necklace consisting of a few scales of 
the Manis 467 and the base of the seed vessel of a Protea 
obtained from a woman. 
During the whole day the clouds continued to 
increase in size and -blackness. Wind cold from the 
E.N.E. Towards evening they began to thin off, and 
about dusk were all gone. Two rhinoceros shot and 
several others seen, also buffaloes. 
A number of Baquans still follow us and encamp 
outside of our kraal. Though we give them meat they, 
at least the majority, never attempt to assist in making 
the kraal, unless requested to do so; they are like all 
other barbarians, thoughtless and lazy in the extreme. 
They are very unceremonious in their conduct; plant 
themselves down at the fire of any party without regard 
as to whether they are an inconvenience or not, and 
even rub against one without any consideration. They 
seem never to think that one does not wish to be 
covered with the vermin so abundant upon them. The 
only instance of good breeding to be seen in them is 
[that} they will never keep in front of one. 
"" The scaly ant-eater. 
.ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 
13 SEPTEMBER (suNDAY).468 
14 SEPTEMBER (MONDAY). 
229 
After travelling about 5 [hours we} reached the 
kraal where we halted on the night [of the} 26 ult. 
Rather sultry during the middle of the day. 
Mimosa (No. 1, Botany) flowers orange yellow, 
rather more than hemispherical, always rising from 
axilla of thorn; thorns in pairs, joined at bases where 
they are very thick and with a large bulge; short, few 
exceeding an inch and a quarter in length; smaller 
branches reddish brown, larger and trunk blackish 
brown; flower stalks light green, a single flower on each, 
cylindrical, leaf stalks nearly cylindrical, or only very 
slightly compressed; they also arise from axilla of 
thorns along with florets, opposite, sometimes four, 
sometimes only two on one leaf stalk, the leaves set on 
stalks without footstalks,469 ten or twelve pairs generally 
lying close together not expanded, slightly curved and 
rounded at points, light green, stigma very small. This 
tree grows to the height of ten, twelve or fourteen feet 
and generally spreads out at the top like an umbrella. 
Flowers come after leaves. This is nearly green the 
whole year. 
A crocodile was this day shot and was lying by the 
wagon. A Baquan came up to the spot where the 
party was engaged looking at it; the moment he saw 
[it} he spit upon its head and then knelt down and 
... No entry under this date, which has been inserted by Smith 
between the entries for 12 September (Saturday) and 14 September 
(Monday), the latter having been originally headed 13 September 
(Sunday) and subsequently altered. 
• Pedicels. 
p 
230 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
rubbed his forehead against it. When asked why he 
did so he said it was the Baquan's law in order that 
they should not get sore eyes. They will not generally 
go near it but when they do they perform this ceremony. 
They say it is their father, and if it breaks wind in 
the water and they are to leeward it makes them so 
sick that they almost die. They have some tradition 
about this animal connected with their origin, but it 
is now so obscure that one cannot ascertain anything 
correctly about it. 470 
When the Baquans go on a journey, In. order to 
ensure food for the men whither they go they take a 
stone and lay it on the road, or on one side of the road, 
and sometimes they place a portion of a twig under it. 
The clouds which had been so dense for the last two 
days, were entirely gone this morning. The atmosphere 
rather clear and last night a light dew. 
15' SEPTEMBER (TUESDAY). 
Mild last night. When the Baquans perform the 
ceremony formerly mentioned of smearing each others' 
wrists after not having seen each other for a long time, 
they use whatever is at hand, sometimes the contents 
of an animal's stomach, other times dung, other times 
clay, or they sprinkle with a few drops of water. It 
is a custom amongst the Matabeli not to drink milk 
at a kraal from which a brother or other near relation 
may have taken a wife. After travelling 3 hours 40 
minutes halted at the kraal where we passed the night 
of the 24 ult. All the poor Baquans who had been 
with us since the 2 5 left us this morning, and the old 
•io The crocodile (1{wen11) was the st?bo'l{o or totem of the Kwena 
people. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 231 
man and his wife gave up the boy who accompanies us. 
Before starting, I gave him quietly about 6 pounds of 
beads; he seemed quite delighted with them. He gave 
his son a hassegay before leaving him and was busily 
engaged part of the morning in putting the handle right. 
He seemed sorry at giving up his son, but said as his 
inclination led him to prefer going to the land of the 
white men he would not prevent him. I told him he 
was to recollect what I told him before; that I would 
not take him if he was disinclined. He replied he gave 
him off to me. Several of the oxen rather lagging 
again. 
16 SEPTEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
About two o'clock reached the kraal where we rested 
for some days to repair the tang of the wagon. Saw no 
Caff ers. Piet reported that all the •kraals which were 
in the neighbourhood, and which were inhabited when 
we passed, are without inhabitants. At some of them 
he saw pots on the stones with roots, etc. halfcooked, 
and wooden bowls with roots which had not been 
subjected to the process of cooking, also some of the 
roots lying stamped and horns of cattle which they are 
in the habit of using to carry water from the river. 
The cause of this state of things is yet in obscurity. 
Appearances would lead one to suppose the people had 
fled suddenly from some cause or other. It is not likely 
that the Matabeli would have disturbed them whilst we 
were in the country. It is therefore possible that they 
may have left in consequence of a visit from lions, 
especially as the traces of those animals with a great 
number of young ones are very numerous along the 
river close to the abandoned kraals. The same person 
232 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
saw the spoor of two Gaffers which had come a certain 
way towards our present halting place, and then turned 
back. Some sea cows seen a little farther up the river, 
and one of them is supposed to have been shot. 
17 SEPTEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Family Ge~idae (drawing No. 272): Colour dark 
brown black with a reddish longitudinal stripe on each 
side of hack and along the middle of back a line of 
small reddish yellow points, also some points of a lighter 
colour in the course of dorsal lines; the lines not distinct 
on tail, but it is variegated on the sides and in some 
places on the middle with similar colours; twists its 
tail round bodies; colour, at least variegations, change 
very much at times; variegation visible sometimes, at 
other times invisible dorsal stripes begin behind or at 
eyes; last joints of toes nearly circular, nails retractile, 
thumb very small, under last joint two series of plates 
divided in the middle, of a white lead colour, point of 
claws of the same colour; pupil circular, eye yellow 
and black, meatus externus 471 small, open; thumbs 
small, not dilated at tip, with indistinct nails; almost 
rudimentary the thumb and close to other toe, fixed as 
it were obliquely into its root. When handled loses 
its rich brown black colour [and} becomes a dirty 
light colour; the dorsal stripes get an obscure dull white 
with a black band above and below it near to the head, 
the centre of back and the top of the head in this state 
finely variegated with zigzag lines of black, faint. 
Caught on Marique River under the bark of a decayed 
tree. 
'" External openini: of the ear. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 233 
Tree, No. 2 botanical drawing (vick specimens, 
dried). Branches: round, extreme ones [spines) like 
thorns of Mimosa, not very sharp at point; upon the 
branches the flowers and leaves grow; the colour of 
bark livid ash but dark; leaves: small, ligulate, the apex 
rounded, and just at termination of centre vein a 
minute aculeus,472 leaves much veined, dark green, no 
f ootstalks, set sometimes on one side of a bud, the 
flowers on the other, five or six leaves together in a 
little cluster all united at base; flowers short, peduncles 
cylindrical, six, seven or eight from one point, no calyx, 
corolla light green, quadrifid, or rather with four petals, 
stamina six or seven, commonly seven antherae; 
receptacle globular, style very short, both dark green, 
the latter cylindrical, truncated at point and slightly 
cleft, the style light green, the receptacle dark green 
and globular. This tree grows in the forests of 
Marique. Stem short, sometimes very thick. When 
it begins to branch it spreads very much and the 
branches lie close together, so that when covered with 
leaves it looks like an yew tree. About 12 feet high is 
the usual height. Where the buds and leaves of the 
former year had been there are small nols 478 or some· 
times cavities. The branches look as if they were 
covered with hard pimples. 
The Geko, No. 272, has the head and make of a 
lizard (Lacerta), the former being not larger behind 
than the body and is of a lengthened form like 
Lacertidae. The pupils are also circular. In other 
respects it resembles the Ge~idae. Tail cylindrical, 
beneath it is pale yellowish white, faintly sprinkled with 
dark minute dots. [It] adheres to substances very 
.,, Needle. 
"' Knolls, or pimples. 
234 ANDREW SMITI:I DIARY 
firmly by means of its toes and even from the smooth 
surf ace of a piece of polished tin it is with difficulty 
separated. Its pupil is not much affected by bright 
light, hardly contracting when exposed to the strong 
rays of the sun after having been for a time shut up in 
a dark vessel. It runs quick and is extremely active. 
During the heat of the day its colours are more vivid, 
but they do not seem to fade when shut up in a dark 
cool place. They change more according to the state 
of the animal's feelings. When roughly handled the 
:fine colours nearly entirely disappear, but when left 
at rest and undisturbed they return again, and continue 
vivid and perfect so long as [it is] left quiet and at 
ease. 
Halted to-day to rest the oxen, the journey from this 
to our next halting place being rather long and heavy. 
Precautions were taken last night to be ready should 
any lions visit us; none however were heard. 
18 SEPTEMBER (FRIDAY). 
Mimosa, No. 3 b[otanical] drawing. Branches 
covered thinly over by tubercles, somewhat scaled from 
last and former years; out of these grew the flower 
stalks and leaf stalks, both out of the same and in 
contact with each other, one or two principal leaf 
stalks and five, six or more flower stalks; the principal 
leaf stalks about an inch long, then goes off the leaflets 
which are truncated and opposite or in pairs without 
any footstalk or simply a rudimentary one; one side 
of leaf stalk deeply channelled, other side rounded, light 
green, as are also the leaves; on each leaflet from 8 to 
12 leaves opposite; they are of an oval form or nearly 
of the same size at both ends, and generally shut 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 235 
against each other; flower stalks light green, cylindrical; 
flower white, or with a faint tint of yellow, antherae 
orange; flower nearly globular, calyx light green, no 
general calyx; thorns in pairs from most of the tubercles, 
dead white, straight and not separate at base, but they 
have not the great swelling of No. 1; the branches are 
of a reddish brown colour, and the flowers and leaves 
originate from the very thick branches as well as from 
the small ones; towards the tips of the small ones the 
leaves are later in appearing, and they are often covered 
with flowers and buds before any leaves are to ·be seen. 
This does not send off such numbers of branches as 
some of the other species, so that it appears a thinner 
foliage. One in full flower was met on the side of the 
porphyritic ridge this day; no others seen in flower. 
The tubercles somewhat like the calyx of a thistle or 
cone of a 1ir in axi11a of thorns. This tree grows to 
12 or 14 feet high. 
No. 2 b[otanical] d[rawing]. Leaves when full 
grown much longer than young ones ( vide 2 branch 
of drawing); calyx th.in, quite green; seed vessels 
supported on a long footstool 474 (in drawing is a 
representation of a flower and leaf double its natural 
size) ; the leaves actually rise as well as the flowers 
from the very stem of tree close to ground. The leaves 
and flowers when full blown form almost a complete 
covering to branches and are of a very dark green 
colour. Tree usually about ten or 12 feet high. Seems 
to delight in dry situations. Not found near to the 
river; usually on the ridges where rocks reach or nearly 
reach the surface. No. 1 branches not so thick as 
'" Smith probably meant to write "footstalk." The tree may have 
been a Maeru4. 
'.236 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
No. n 5, therefore tree appears thinner. Saw 
tcxlay the :first kuikenduif.476 
The cattle which were here when we passed have 
been removed to another post in consequence of the 
want of grass. The country very dry; several posts 
to the west have from necessity been abandoned, the 
water drying up. The river appears here also rather 
smaller. 
19 SEPTEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Started from near ridge No. 3 (Geology, page 
86),477 and reached close to No. 2 about 2 p.m. 
Matabeli complained that they had this evening not 
enough flesh to eat, and said they would die of hunger. 
It was necessary to be sparing of the meat as we had not 
sufficient [for} Sunday were it served out in a greater 
proportion. This is quite characteristic of savages, 
never to think of tomorrow nor of how food was to 
be procured; they must have enough. Great rejoicing 
towards evening when it was known that a sea cow 
had been killed. 
20 SEPTEMBER (SUNDAY). 
Very warm during the day and clouds began to form 
towards evening, which by dusk were very dense and 
nearly continuous. Much appearance of rain during 
the early part of the night; cleared off towards morning. 
The Litabeli took a different position to-day during 
service, at least those that had got clothes; formerly 
"" Blank in MS. 
•
11 Chicken thief. 
•n Geological Report. Not reprinted in this publication. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 237 
they used to sit by themselves, but to--day they seated 
themselves amongst our people. They are the only 
Caffers I have yet seen who show a great desire for 
clothing and who appear to fancy themselves quite 
superior persons when they are dressed. They say 
they wish to be dressed like white people so that they 
may not be known when they go home. Masalacatzie 
has also shown great pleasure in seeing any of them 
clothed. He invariably sent his thanks to me when 
any of them went from us to him with anything of 
European clothing upon them. 
21 SEPTEMBER (MONDAY), 
It having been ascertained that a large sea cow and 
a smaller one were dead, a wagon was dispatched this 
morning at daylight to convey the flesh of the former 
and the other if possible entire for preparing. A 
crocodile which was also dead was to be brought for 
a skeleton. No clouds this morning; winds strong from 
the N .E, Rather warm. 
Mimosa, No. 4 bot[anical] drawing. Bark ashy 
green; thorns in pairs, short and crooked towards root 
or downwards; flowers generally cylindrical and rather 
oblong, in some instances roundish or spherical, stand 
in pairs, the footstalk short, nearly round, light green, 
and placed between the thorns which are separate at 
their bases; leaves: stalk[s] rather longer, and are also 
in pairs between the thorns; on leaf stalk on each side 
without flower stalks.478 Calyx of a single leaf lying 
round base of corolla; each floret separate; when turned 
back it is found to be open at one side; it is faintly five 
,,. Mr. H. B. Gilliland, to whom I referred this passage, found it 
unintelligible. 
238 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
toothed and of a faint greenish tinge; corolla five toothed 
rather deeply; the tip of each tooth purple, the rest pale 
greenish yellow; seed vessel supported on a small light 
green stalk, the former rather scymiter-shaped,479 
and of a deep purple; pistil light green at apex, bifid, 
one tooth a little reclined; buds oblong, and each floret 
less close to the others than in other species of Mimosa; 
dark green colour; does not get the leaves till after the 
flowers are passed; leaves very small, judging from some 
few of the ones of last year which I have been able to 
procure adhering and which are represented in drawing; 
generally placed upon the common footstalks in pairs, 
but not like the other Mimosae; each pair has a short 
footstalk which stands upon the large one and opposite 
to another; the principal footstalk is divided near to 
termination, and the two divisions bear each a pair of 
leaves; the leaves are not quite a quarter of an inch 
long, and the breadth nearly half the length; somewhat 
oval, only more convex on the sides which are most 
apart; generally six pair of leaves on each principal 
footstalk. Often a tree is fourteen, fifteen feet and 
even more in height, even 2 2, and with a stem as thick 
as a man's body. More generally as very high bush 
with a number of small stems shooting out from the 
ground and from one root, often in clumps so closely 
set that it is impossible to pass between them; like a 
fir plantation where the seed had been sown and not 
yet thinned. 
The Sciurus 480 eats bulbs, etc. The guinea fowl 
also eats bulbs. [They] roost together on trees at 
night, and when asleep may be approached by a person 
with a light and caught. The natives are not versed in 
'"' Scimitar. 
'"" Tree Squirrd. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 239 
this peculiarity of these birds and consequently do not 
practise it. The crocodile shot on Saturday had a 
rooyebok entire in its stomach. 
Dark clouds formed in the afternoon towards the 
northern horizon. The wind abated and there was an 
appearance towards the south as if rain was falling. 
Towards eight p.m. a few heavy drops fell at the 
wagons. The skeleton of large crocodile, a female; 
of small, a male. 
22 SEPTEMBER (TUESDAY). 
Yesterday during most of the day thermometer in 
my wagon 91. Road very bad over limestone rocks 
nearly the whole day; a skane 481 of one of the wagons 
broke several times. Before halting it began to get 
good. Rested at a kraal where there were about six 
men and a very large herd of cattle, principally cows. 
There were many young calves, but they said they had 
but little milk, as their law was that they could not 
milk the cows till the calves were a month old. 
The Cora.cias indica eats insects. A bastard gem&' 
bok shot near to the river; sent three men and three 
Caffers to remain near it during the night. Very 
warm during the day. Put our oxen in the Caff er 
kraal. The people, all Bechuanas, build their houses 
according to the Matabeli form, carry their milk in 
calabashes and small earthen pots, [and] have also the 
Matabeli dress and shields. Seem quite satisfied with 
their present situation. Very anxious for animal food. 
••• The scheen (shin) was an iron reinforcement of a wooden axle. 
See Van Rooyen, G. H., Kultuurs~atte uit die Voome~~ers CZ"ydper~. 
Kaapstad en Port Elizabeth, 1938, pp. 26•27. 
2'40 .ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 
23 SEPTEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
The Agioceros 482 was this morning brought to our 
camp. Has no inguinal pores, four inguinal mammae; 
penis loose about an l;,4 [inch] at tip which is covered 
by very short hair, at very tip some few long haira. 
Scrum(?)483 short hair; muzzle very small. This, by 
a portion of the natives, is called lita~a or litaah, by 
others tahaitsie.484 Says the male and female have 
both horns. Delights in rugged broken country where 
there are ridges or small hills. The skin of this animal 
adheres very firmly to the body, having the cellular 
substance very dense. The flesh coarse-grained and 
exactly like the flesh of the waterbok. The firmness 
of the skin is also like the waterbok. The skin of 
this species is extremely thick under the throat. The 
eyes look quite black and the pupil has a greenish tint. 
Travelled about four hours, nearly due west, and 
about dusk reached one of Masalacatzie's own kraals 
where he frequently resides. Here are a number of 
his wives. With some difficulty I procured some wood 
from the inhabitants, it being too late to get any by 
other means. Piet ·killed two specimens of a new 
species of partridge. Cattle placed in the kraal. 
24 SEPTEMBER (THURSDAY). 
This kraal consists of about 120 houses. Those of 
Masalacatzie [are] very neatly built with rings to the 
top. The houses are placed in a circle between two 
412 Aigeceros. 
481 Possibly Smith intended to write 'scrotum'. 
... The animal was the roan antelope. The first name was that 
given to it by the Matabele; the second may have been the Tswana 
name. See p. 46, footnote '57. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 2-41 
hedges; within the inner hedge is the cattle kraal. The 
houses are not disposed regularly in some parts of the 
kraal. There is a raised edging in front of the houses 
like a box border round a flower bed that is not 
continued round the entire of the kraal. A similar 
edging in a half-moon shape is also to be seen in front 
of some of the houses. Most of the houses have reed 
fences in front of them, the doors very low and the 
arch formed of a thick band of grass neatly wrought 
and of a cylindrical shape. The thatch [is) kept in 
situ by rush cord perpendicular and across, forming 
sometimes squares [and) at other times diamonds. 
Sometimes a house has a back yard, sometimes three 
have only one; the latter may be when all the three 
belong to one family. In it are deposited upon sticks 
their ham bus, 485 skins and cooking utensils hung up. 
They have generally circular holes behind on one side 
of their houses into which they throw rubbish of all 
kinds, ashes, etc. The outer as well as the inner fences 
are very bad. Each family has besides a small fence in 
some position or other in which are contained their 
corn vessels which consist of grass wrought together 
like the Caffer baskets, narrow at the neck and covered 
by a stone plaistered round with cowdung. For ground 
plan and illustrations vide drawing.486 Last night in 
the dark many ornamented bambuses were brought for 
sale. They seemed to wish it not to be known that 
they had sold them; probably Masalacatzie or rather 
the tuna 487 may exact a tax from the returns. Masala­
catzie's wife was very anxious to sell also and offered 
- Wooden vessel for holding milk. 
... Probably that numbered 13 5 by Bell, and entitled "Matabeli com 
store." See Plate 20. 
"' Induna, or headman. 
242 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
some inferior articles which of course I purchased from 
her, though of little value. 
After travelling 5 hours 10 minutes reached Kaba­
lonta' s kraal.488 An ox lay down in the yokes and was 
with difficulty got up; this was from natural weakness 
and exhaustion. Masalacatzie was born in Kabalonta's 
kraal, but in his old country; he has therefore a great 
regard for this chief. He is said to be the greatest man 
next to the king in the country. Masalacatzie often 
lives at his kraal. I remarked at the kraal we left 
yesterday that there was a small one a little way from 
the other and that the tuna came from it to say fare­
well; he probably lives there. On the southwest side 
of the kraal was a row of stones (small) placed close 
together slightly curved and the eastern extremity more 
removed from the kraal than the other; the last about 
30 yards distant, the other about forty, and all along 
that row was strewed a little ashes. This is a means 
adopted by the doctor to drive away sickness. When 
that prevails much at a kraal, the doctor does that; 
bums medicine and the ashes seen amongst and on the 
stones are those of the roots and medicines which he 
bums. Rather cool during the night. 
2) SEPTEMBER (FRIDAY). 
The ox rather more lively this morning. About 
ten a.m. had a visit from Kabalonta. He made his 
approach to the wagons in kingly style attended by 
most of the men he could muster which were not more 
than twenty. All the people from the neighbouring 
kraals visited us in the course of the forenoon, and I 
may safely say that not more than forty men appeared. 
- See map. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 243 
They were, with a very few exceptions, married men. 
The number of women were out of all proportion to 
the men, nearly seven or eight for one. There were 
also a considerable number of children. A young boy 
of ahout twelve years of age was presented to me by 
one of our guides and upon asking who he was, I was 
told the son of Masalacatzie who would succeed him.489 
He has a fine, mild, goodnatured·and expressive coun­
tenance, and upon my taking considerable notice of 
him he appeared much delighted and remained close 
to the cart or wagons during the rest of the forenoon. 
He appeared to know his standing, and whilst the other 
boys of his age were running about playing and amusing 
themselves he remained grave and indifferent. Were 
he to be well educated he would doubtless far surpass 
his father. He has a well-formed head and, it is said, 
a good temper. Kabalonta made many fine speeches 
and expressed his pleasure that he had seen me, 
regretting that his cattle were so distant that he could 
not get a fat ox for us in time. He brought men with 
him carrying milk, beer and one with a live sheep, all 
of which he presented as food. Several times during 
the conversation he regretted not being able to show 
his heart by giving us an ox. I told him he must not 
think about that because I could understand a man's 
heart as well from his behaviour and words as from 
presents. He said his heart was good and satisfied with 
the visit. He said he was glad that I had seen the 
Matabeli. Now I could tell the white king the truth. 
They never troubled anyone, but Jan Bloom and others 
.. This was probably Nkulumana, who was the rightful heir. He 
was so named in honour of Robert Moffat, the missionary of 
Kuruman. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
were always fighting with them. Just the ....• ·m 
of Masalacatzie. Said they had never followed Jan 
Bloom because they said they thought he lived with 
the white people. 
I explained that fully to him and told ·him he might 
rest confident that no person who lived with the white 
people would be permitted to rob and steal like Jan 
Bloom, and moreover that should any of the persons 
belonging to the white king attempt such a thing and 
the Matabeli should kill them, the white king would 
be pleased and would send word to Masalacatzie that 
he had done well. This seemed to please him much 
and to impress him very much with the justice of the 
white people. He was very anxious to see the drawings 
and expressed great surprise with everything. He has 
an imperious manner with the people, and in his face 
and actions there is more of the savage than is to be 
seen in any other of Masalacatzie' s principal men. He 
is a man that I should fancy was an active agent in 
exciting the commandoes, and one that would in my 
opinion be very savage and barbarous in his conduct 
to those he might attack. The men did not seem, 
however, to attend much to what he said. The fine 
mild Calepi, who met us at Molopo, appeared to be 
much more respected than him hy the people. I could 
discover no marks of wounds upon him. The ox that 
gave up yesterday and another were from necessity 
left on the road, ·being unable to proceed any further. 
I gave them over to our Matabeli guides and told them 
to get some of Kabalonta's people to endeavour and 
get them back to the kraal; if they could not go back 
to have them killed. About sunset halted. No water; 
"' I cannot decipher this word. It may possibly be 'story'. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 245 
country extremely dry. Oxen all very weakly; fear 
the result. 
26 SEPTEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Started at daylight and travelled about three hours 
when we found the oxen much exhausted, and that 
it was necessary to halt in order that they should be 
refreshed by water. We were still at a considerable 
distance from it, but it was absolutely necessary that 
they should obtain some, and they were therefore sent 
off with four men and hrought back about four hours 
afterwards. We then started and proceeded to near 
a kraal at about three miles distance, where we again 
halted. Soon after outspanning, the interpreter came 
up and stated that he had just heard from a servant 
of Kabalonta that a commando had been ready to 
attack the Baharootzie, but had been delayed in conse­
quence of a report having reached Mas. that Dingan's 
commando was approaching. The cattle, it was stated, 
had been withdrawn from the outposts in that direction. 
As he, in my opinion, had always shown suspicions 
as to the object of our party in visiting his old 
country,491 I felt a doubt as to how he might view it 
now provided a commando did arrive, and therefore 
judged it necessary to mention the circumstances to 
some of the party that I could best trust and desire 
them to be on their guard, and anything they might 
hear or observe either hy day or by night must be 
immediately reported to me. I, of course, also made 
all the gentlemen acquainted with what I had heard 
and requested them when they should awake in the 
night to look out and see that all was right. Under 
.. , In the Pretoria district. 
Q 
246 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
[the J circumstance[ s J I didn't conceive any further 
precautions yet necessary. Two men took the Matabeli 
on one side this forenoon and had a long conversation 
with them. The mac~ha are in the habit of changing 
stations; they then only take their war dresses and 
implements. Their karosses they leave behind them 
saying that the people of the kraal whither they go 
must find them in karosses. Many of the springs in 
this direction dried up. The information relative to 
the commando was obtained from a Baharootzie who 
was of old acquainted with one of our Bechuanas. 
More than 2 / 3 of Mas.' people are the remains of the 
tribes he has conquered in this direction. They appear 
to be of two classes. The one has approximated much 
to the Litabeli in dress, cleanliness and spirits; the other 
consists of poor who have the appearance of Bechuanas 
with a dress and deportment not suited to them. The 
former are principally or indeed entirely those who 
reside amongst the conquerors in the same kraals who 
are more esteemed, better treated and have more food. 
The other generally live apart in small kraals, have 
little food except what they obtain by hunting or from 
a few cows which may be handed over to them, and 
they are chiefly employed in working the ground and 
reaping the corn. The former are pretty stationary, 
the latter are much moved about. There were two of 
the machaha in their uniforms passed us today when 
halting; they, we were informed, were changing their 
residence. 
27 SEPTEMBER (SUNDAY). 
The Agioceros 491* (bastard gemsbok). The right 
horn with two rucks on the fourth ring in front, the left 
.. ,. See p. 240, footnote 484. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 247 
with one; (left is also written on it towards point). 
Warm towards evening. Many of the Matabeli present 
appeared much surprised (and) kept silence. Cool 
during the night. Colds prevailing amongst the party. 
28 SEPTEMBER (MONDAY). 
Clouds rose thickly in the N.W. in the morning; 
cool wind. About midday the clouds began to 
disappear and the weather became sultry. In the after• 
noon a cool breeze from the N .E. Started about four 
o'clock and travelled nearly two hours. Halted at 
sunset. All the inhabitants of the two kraals turned 
out when we started and I reckoned about twenty 
men. Let the oxen feed till near ten o, clock, being fine 
moonlight. All the men at these kraals appeared much 
afraid of :firearms and fled when any :firing took place. 
29 SEPTEMBER (TUESDAY). 
At daylight started and after travelling about three 
hours reached the base of Chinyane 492 where we halted 
near to a small stream of water which 493 flows along 
a kloof that extends up towards the highest point of 
the hill. On arrival we were informed that Matclaniani 
had arrived at Mosiga and that eight wagons were 
at Molopo. Soon after another man stated that they 
had reached Mosiga. Immediately dispatched a man 
to Masalacatzie to demand news and to see if there 
were any letters for us. Most of the inhabitants of 
the three kraals which are situated in this kloof are 
of the conquered tribes. Evening very warm. Adam 
... The mountain close to Zeerust, on the northeast of the town . 
.. , 'From' in MS. 
248 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
again sick, complaining of severe headache and pains 
in different parts of his body. Several of the wheels 
of the wagons very loose, requiring to be put in water 
to keep them together. _ 
30 SEPTEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
Started an hour after sunrise and advanced a certain 
distance through kloof s of Chinyane, our intention 
being to pass through the mountain range, it ·being 
according to the statement of the natives quite 
practicable. At a distance we saw after travelling 
about an hour a narrow pass through which our guide 
stated the wagons must proceed. Deeming it likely 
to be very difficult to travel along it, I halted and sent 
on four men to examine it; they returned in about 
an hour and stated that the road was good. In the 
afternoon we travelled about three hours through 
·valleys of the Chinyane hills and then reached a kraal 
where we halted. The cattle here were in very bad 
condition. Almost no grass. On the road we met the 
men which I dispatched yesterday and they brought 
us a parcel containing a few letters and some news· 
papers. In a letter from Mr. Hamilton dated Mosigha 
he mentioned that he would be able to send us a span 
of oxen or two to assist us in getting there. 
Immediately sent off the man who brought us the 
package to say that if we could have them it would 
be of the greatest assistance to us because should we 
be forced to depend upon our own oxen I did not know 
when we would get there. Another ox gave up during 
the afternoon and one when we halted appeared as if 
mad, threatening to run at any person who approached 
him. Violent trembling of the whole muscles were 
observed in this animal and spasms of the abdominal 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 2-49 
muscles. All endeavours to get him to remove from 
the halting place were in vain till towards evening, 
when, by bringing the other oxen to the place, we 
succeeded in getting him to the water but he would 
not drink. A strong dose of salt and water was 
administered after he was brought to the kraal.'93* 
About 7 p.m. a man arrived from Masalacatzie and 
stated that he had been sent to ascertain where we 
were and that he would return to Mosigha tomorrow. 
Very warm in the evening. 
1 OCTOBER (THURSDAY). 
Passed yesterday a small kraal in a kloof with a 
number of cattle under the care of some of the 
aborigines. Saw some people which have lately been 
taken from the eastern boundary of the Matabeli 
country and placed here to take charge of cattle and 
prepare corn ground. A Baharootzie stated that lately 
five of that tribe had run off; a commando (ollowed 
them, caught them [and} brought them back. Four 
were put to death and one allowed to live. Says they 
are necessitated to fly as they are starved. They are 
afraid to fly in twos or threes because unless the entire 
leave the kraal at the same time those that remain are 
put to death. Hence there is a difficulty in effecting 
escape, that, without considering it, there would not 
appear to exist here, [they] being so near where the 
remains of the tribe are living independent. The 
circumstance of the[ir} vicinity to that portion of their 
countrymen appears to render the captives of that tdbe 
his worst subjects. The others, which are to a man 
living with him, makes them appear more satisfied and 
.... Compare Plate 21. 
250 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
induces them to submit to more hardships than the 
others. The interpreter informed me that a Mohurootzie 
had informed him that a Matabeli spy had arrived from 
the Liqua 494 with some information relative to a kraal of 
Griquas or a hunting party, and that a commando had 
been immediately got ready and was just on the eve 
of starting when Matclaniani arrived at Mosiga with 
the news of the approach of the wagons from 
Kuruman, which put a stop to its going out. 
The high hill to our left on crossing the range is 
called Chinyane and that on our right Currichaine. 495 
In the valleys between the hills of the latter were 
situated the principal town of the Baharootzie at the 
time Mr. Campbell visited them!96 I have not been 
able to ascertain the import of the word. Chaine 497 
means baboon, and at that time there were a great 
number of these animals about the hills. The range 
that runs off to the north was known by the name 
of Kotla,498 which is a stick. At the time Mr. Campbell 
visited the Baharootzie the head chief was Liookoolin. 499 
He was requested by the Baperi 500 which lived about 
where we found Masalacatzie to assist them against 
the Mantatees, and on that commando he was killed. 
The Bamaliti was an independent tribe in those 
... Likwa, or upper reaches of the Vaal River. 
... Chinyane and Kurichani are the two mountains near to Zeerust, 
on the northeast. See also the entry for 29th September, 1835, 
on p. 247. 
• Camf.bell, J., 'Travels in South Africa (Second Journey), London, 
1822, Vo. i, p. 222 et seq. 
• Chwene. 
... Kgotla means a meeting•place; but l{gotla also means to push a 
thing off with a stick. Smith may have mistaken the meaning in this 
instance. 
• Lekweling, regent to Moiloa, young chief of the Huruthse. See 
Campbell, J., op. cit., Vol. i, p. 226 et seq. 
,. Pedi. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 251 
times, but informant states that the Baharootzie were 
higher than them. The outposts of the Baharootzie 
stretched as far as where Kabalonta now lives. To 
the north of Currychaine resided some Bakatla which 
separated from the other Bakatla more to the east. 
Their king was Koinkli. He was killed by the Matabeli. 
He has heard that that tribe and the Baharootzit; 
formerly fought together. The Baharootzie in old 
times lived at Mosiga and afterwards moved to 
Currychaine; [they J were not driven there. Started 
about 2 p.m. and rode 2Y2 hours through the winding 
valleys of the Currychaine 'hills. In almost every one 
beds of dry rivers or small streams; water slightly brak 
in some. About 6 p.m. four spans of oxen arrived 
from Mosigha with Frederick and two Bechuanas. 
Clouds began to form towards the afternoon and rain 
appeared to fall to the west of Mosigha. Evening 
again clear but warm. Wind strong from the N.W. 
and soft. 
2 OCTOBER (FRIDAY). 
Heavy thunder early in the morning and two or 
three light showers; some heavy drops. Last night 
about dark the wind subsided but this morning about 
eight rose again. About eleven started and towards 
dusk reached Masalacatzie's kraal where we met with 
a kind reception. He was when I visited him seated 
on Mr. Hamilton's bed. He ordered us a few 
calabashes of beer and we saw no more of him for 
the evening. Two oxen left behind from weakness. 
252 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
3 OCTOBER (SATURDAY). 
Had three visits from Masalacatzie during the day 
one late in the evening. He came to take supper with 
us and see the rockets sent up. Eat of our bread and 
drank of our tea; that he would not do when we first 
visited him. He was always constantly tormenting me 
for snuff. Before, when I gave him some, he took it 
but gave it to other persons who were around him. 
He kept constantly declaring his heart was white, his 
heart was glad, and that he was delighted with our 
visit and hoped I would speak in favour of him to the 
white king. He kept constantly repeating that which 
he did before, namely that he troubled' nobody and 
yet they were always making commandoes against him 
and stealing his cattle. · · 
4 OCTOBER (SUNDAY), 
Yesterday morning early Masalacatzie sent me a 
message that I must not expect to see him soon, he 
·being going out with his people to hunt. Shortly after­
wards Calepi visited us and did not appear to know 
that Masalacatzie was going with them as he said he 
would soon be with us. Scarcely had he said that 
when Monohaing 501 came into the tent and said that 
Masalacatzie was with the people, or at least following 
them. I requested Calepi to tell him I would be but 
a short time here and therefore if he wished to say 
much to me he must not lose time. He sent word 
he would soon return. The men went out principally 
with hassegays and karries; some few had shields. They 
were in no regular order on leaving. At a little 
'"' Monaheng. See Moffat, J. S., The Lives of Robert and M11ry 
Moffat, London, 1885', p. 190. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 2B 
distance they seated themselves on the ground and 
waited till he got up to them. They then set off as 
the others Caffers forming a sort of ring. About an 
hour after they returned. He was in advance of them 
and came to the wagons. The people seated themselves 
about 300 yards from the wagons. He moved about 
from one place to another and [seemed} almost to 
be observing if we were prepared to def end ourselves. 
He then got into my wagon and shortly afterwards 
sent off a message to the people. They got up and 
passed by to the kraal. Our party was so disposed 
that he might readily see that we would have been 
ready for him had he intended anything against us. 
It was probably a plan to see if we understood matters, 
but I have no idea that anything beyond that was 
intended. 
A·bout 11 o'clock Mr. Hamilton performed divine 
service at our wagons and towards evening when I 
was sitting with Mr. H. at their wagon Mas. made 
his first appearance that day. He came up to us and 
after some conversation I went off to our wagons. He 
soon followed and took up his position in my wagon. 
Shortly afterwards three men advanced in line from the 
kraal gate vociferating most tremendously.501* Their 
step was measured and slow and with the sticks they 
held in their hands they at one time pointed to the 
heavens, at another time to the ground, and also at 
times to the interior and to the Kuruman. I was told 
they were saying that he was higher than the skies; 
he was greater than God, he was God. It was his 
greatness that had brought all these white people here; 
he must bring more; he was greater than all and so on. 
Before they arrived close to the wagons they appeared 
.,. See Plate 6. 
254 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
quite hoarse and the perspiration was running in 
streams down the face, neck and chest. They appeared 
in a state of intoxication and towards the end in great 
exhaustion. They probably smoaked dakka 502 before 
they made their de'bu.t. When they finished they 
walked off to the kraal. He soon after followed and 
then dancing commenced which lasted till dusk. He 
joined in the dance and by those who were present 
he was said to have performed his part better than 
any of the others. His wives also joined in the dance. 
About dusk the large dance consisting of 179 men broke 
up, but small parties continued to sing and praise him 
till about midnight. The moment Mr. Hamilton began 
his service the three also began praising in the kraal. 
I was told this morning that he never had dances when 
commandoes were out. 
William says that immediately after Mr. Moffat left 
they had great washing and dancing. They went 
several times in the day to wash and then cattle were 
killed and the fat was mixed with medicine by the 
doctor, and the heads and chests of the men were rubbed 
with it. A medicine was also prepared by the doctor 
and of it each was required to drink; those that rejected 
it were set apart. This ceremony was going on when 
William 503 went to bed and early next morning there 
were only a very few people in the kraal. He fancies 
that a commando is out from that circumstance. He 
cannot surmise whether they are gone. From its being 
reported that Dingan's commando is coming on it is 
probably out in that direction. William confirms the 
,.. Leonotis leonuru.s . 
... In all probability the cousin of Triiey, daughter of Peter David 
of Lishuane. The pair had been captured by Mzilikazi. See Harris, 
W. C., 'The Wild Sports of Southern Africa, London, 1839, pp. 
14"'146. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 255 
statement of Molemo relative to the fate of the party 
that went some time ago against Sibiqua; he, 
M[olemo}, says that Sibiqua is the toughest fellow he 
has met with but adds he will yet master him; this 
remark he made to Arend. About dusk he arrived 
at our tent followed by a man with an immense dish 
containing about half a sheep stewed; this he presented 
to me. We had just :finished eating. I ordered some 
tea to be made for him and set the meat on one side. 
Shortly after he said he wished to eat. It was placed 
upon the table and a plate a knife and a fork before 
him. He did justice to it and used the knife and fork 
not without some dexterity. He also eat bread and 
drank the tea. After :finishing his supper and sitting 
some time he said he would go home and wished we 
might sleep well. 
5 OCTOBER (MONDAY). 
Early in the morning we commenced loading the 
wagons having told Mas. that we would start today. 
He paid us an early visit whilst we were at breakfast 
but refused to eat because he had not yet washed. 
After sitting some time and talking to me about what 
he wished from the Cape he went off and said he would 
soon return. When the oxen arrived to inspan he 
returned and was followed by a man driving some 
young oxen. He desired him to drive them on one 
side and then he ordered Calepi to give one of them 
to Mr. Ford, one to Mr. Burrow and one to Mr. Bell; 
the remainder, 8, he ordered him to give to me, not 
doing it himself though he was sitting with me in the 
wagon, and at the same time said he loved me much, 
my heart was white, good, etc. All being ready he 
256 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
got into the cart and rode with me a short way, then 
got out together with myself to say farewell to Mr. H. 
and Mr. E. 504 • He then walked with us for some 
distance up the hill, making great professions of love 
and friendship for us, and told me I must soon come 
again and he would give me 4 brothers. After turning 
back the whole of the people to perhaps the amount 
of 100, who followed close to him, squatted on the 
ground. He took those destined for the Cape ~ 05 on 
one side and conversed with them till we were out of 
sight. Very few men in the two kraals we passed 
after leaving his. A:bout sunset reached Mamoorie. 506 
Botha was absent and about dusk a Matabeli boy 
brought his gun to the wagon. I made inquiries about 
him when I heard that he had found him asleep about 
300 yards from the wagons and had awakened him, 
upon which he told him to take his gun to the wagons 
and he would follow. Immediately ordered out some 
people to seek him and also the boy. They had 
scarcely left the wagons when they called, •• Come, 
more people with your guns.,, A party immediately 
left, and on finding Botha he was much mangled by 
a lion which had just attacked him. All last night and 
today he was in a state of stupidity from drinking beer, 
though I endeavoured by all possible means to prevent 
him getting it. He is a very deceitful, savage bad 
man. Whilst occupied with him three women and 
two ma.chaha together with our gold guides arrived with 
thrE;e large wooden bowls filled with cooked pumpkin 
and com as a present from Masalacatzie and also with 
"' Messrs. Hamilton and Edwards, of the London Missionary 
Society. They had come from Kuruman to obtain timber for the 
church. See Moffat, J. S. op. cit. p. 197. 
• They were Mncumbati and Mohanycom . 
... Mimori. See page 337, footnote 4. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 257 
a message that more food would arrive tomorrow 
morning together with the two oxen he spoke to me 
about previous to leaving. 
6 OCTOBER (TUESDAY). 
About ten o'clock ten women arrived with bags of 
corn and four with calabashes of beer. The corn was 
presented to Mr. Burrow with the exception of a 
portion which was for Combati. I took as much of it 
as I could, put it in the wagons, and returned the rest, 
telling Mas. that he was so good that he had actually 
sent us more food than we could carry away. He 
sent at the same time two oxen, one for myself and 
one for Mr. Burrow; also two others, one for Baba 
the interpreter and one for Molemo, who went with 
Maclaniani when I sent him from Kuruman. He also 
sent nine to Combati; one of them was for Mr. Moffat 
and one for Waterboer. 507 He said he wished to send 
food for us to Lothlakani. 508 I sent him word he had 
already given us so much that we would be in no want 
till we reached Kuruman, and as the weather was so 
warm he must not think of sending more after us. 
About one p.m. spanned in and travelled nearly half· 
way to Molopo, where we halted for the night. 
7 OCTOBER {WEDNESDAY). 
Started at daylight and reached the Molopo about 
Y2 past nine a.m. Very warm during the day. Two 
buffaloes shot. Three poor Baharootzie seen down the 
river. No difference in the quantity of water since we 
passed. Chilly last night. 
'°' Andries Waterboer, the Griqua chief. 
"' Lothlakane, about 10 miles S. of Mafeltine. 
258 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
8 OCTOBER (THURSDAY). 
In the forenoon two men arrived with letters from 
Mr. Hamilton. Clouds began to form after midday 
and towards evening much appearance of rain to the 
southwest. Thunder at a great distance to the south, 
east. Very cloudy during the whole of the night of 
7th and chilly wind; during the day soft. 
Two Baharootzie women arrived at our encampment; 
mere walking skeletons. The Matabeli told them they 
must go with them and be servants. They readily 
agreed, and afterwards told our interpreter that they 
were necessitated to go because they could no longer 
exist in the fields being almost famished with hunger. 
Their husbands were dead. 
Fine grassy country between Mosigha and Molopo, 
nearly flat, with strips and clumps of thorn trees, which 
gives rather an interesting appearance to the country. 
These strips and clumps most abundant towards 
Mosigha. Trees very green. Game in abundance. 
[They J repair to the river to drink. No lions have 
been heard; some seen by the hunters, very wild. 
9 OCTOBER (FRIDAY) • 
Early in the morning the wind began to blow strong 
from the N. W. Thick clouds began again to form, 
and continued during the day. About 12 o'clock left 
the Molopo and about Y2 past five reached Lohlokani. 
Two oxen unable to proceed were left on the road. 
10 OCTOBER (SATURDAY). 
Very chilly last night and cold during the day, with 
a strong wind from the southeast. About 3 p.m. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 259 
Botha died. Previous to his death [he} was delirious 
and spoke much about beer and Caff ers. Ordered a 
grave to be dug for him in the evening. Several of 
the oxen in the course of the <lay got fast in the mud 
which is near to and under the water. The two which 
remained behind yesterday were this <lay brought up 
in a very exhausted state. 
11 OCTOBER (SUNDAY). 
Had service early in order to have Botha buried 
before the heat of the day. Combati was very uneasy 
about the death of this man, and seemed to fear that 
it would be injurious to the cause of the Matabeli. I 
explained to him that there were no grounds for his 
being uneasy; that no blame could be attached to any 
person, as the misfortune was entirely attributable to 
the indiscretion of the deceased. This appeared to give 
him great relief. 
Baba1109 says that when Milne's 1110 oxen died he and 
some others went to Masalacatzie to ask the assistance 
of oxen. There was a Matabeli with them. When 
they got to a considerable distance from the kraal they 
halted, and the man went on to report their arrival. 
Another man was immediately sent to take care of them, 
and to say that Masalacatzie was coming. They were 
suffering much from thirst and wished to go to the 
river but he would not permit it. Soon after 
Masalacatzie arrived and they delivered their message. 
He made no reply, but told them they must remain 
for the night, and he left a man in charge of them 
009 Smith's interpreter. He also acted in that capacity for W . C~ 
Harris and H. H. Methuen. See the latter's Life in the Wilderness, 
London, 1848, pp. 193-194. 
"° Hugh Millen, the mason-trader of Kuruman. 
260 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
who took them from one place to another till dark, 
never permitting them to move any distance at once. 
When it was dusk they went to the river to drink. 
Next day a tuna was sent to bring them to the kraal 
where they remained outside the whole day. They 
then started to return to the wagons without any 
satisfactory answer. Baba is of opinion that the 
intention at first was to kill them. When Masalacatzie 
came up to them they took one of their guns and fired 
it off. Before they left for the interior he argued much 
for Baba to remain with him but Milne would not hear 
of it and Baba himself was equally averse to it. He 
appeared displeased, and told Milne that he told him 
nothing but lies. He was in the habit of seizing upon 
anything he wished and never waited for its being given 
to him. He used also to take whatever beads he 
wished. Says his showing no disposition to act so with 
us arose from fear. 
Though Combati says they know that nobody can 
make rain it is nevertheless not the belief of the 
Matabeli. They think that rain comes from Mas.' 
order, and the day the oxen from Mr. H. arrived at 
our wagons there was much appearance of rain and 
the machaha who brought them kept talking about it 
and saying it was Masalacatzie's rain. 
12 OCTOBER (MONDAY). 
Started at daylight and rode an hour. Halted for 
the day and sent the oxen back to the water. Combati 
says that Chaka 1111 sent word to Masalacatzie whilst 
he was yet in his own country that he must come 
111 Tshaka, the Zulu tyrant. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 261 
and live with him. He would not do that, knowing 
that he would kill him and take his people. Soon after 
he sent a commando which carried off all the cattle. 
Upon this they fled. Chaka sent afterwards another 
commando to the river to which he fled, which was 
in the country near where he formerly resided. This 
commando killed many of Mas.• wives and friends. 
After that he fled to the Liqua. 
Since Dingan was king only one commando has been 
against them, which was at the time Maclaniani was 
in. Whilst on the Liqua the Matabeli were attacked 
by parties from the Griqua country, particularly by 
Jan Bloom and Mulitsani. 512 The first commando 
consisting of these two attacked his uncle's post which 
was on the south of the Liqua, carried off a post of 
cattle and killed two young men. About 5 513 months 
afterwards returned to the same place and carried off 
another post of cattle. Two ring·kops 514 were herding 
them; they fled almost immediately. After that the 
commando returned and carried off some more cattle, 
whilst the two .herders fled. No horses nor guns with 
this commando. These three commandoes went against 
his uncle who then fled to Mas. who was living to the 
north of the Liqua. Whilst still near the Liqua another 
commando from Mulitsani carried off a number of 
cattle. Also whilst there a commando attacked them 
with seven guns and some horses, carried off half the 
cattle they got possession of in the first instance and 
killed 15 men. At the same time they attacked another 
kraal, killed three men, took 4 prisoners and carried 
off cattle. Soon after this another commando took 
•a Molitsani, chief of a clan of the Bataung. 
111 The number appears to be 5', though it might be 6. 
11
• Wearers of the isicoco, or head-ring. 
R 
262 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
cattle and cut the throats of two boys who were 
herding them. Another arrived at the same place, killed 
4 herders and took cattle; another killed 4 ring-kops, 
two young men and six women partly by arrows and 
partly by hassegays. After this he fled inland to the 
situation where Mr. Moffat found him, and where 
Dingan's commando attacked him. Soon after that 
Jan Bloom's commando attacked him again, on which 
occasion they fought for the first time. Many were 
killed on both sides so that they could not number 
them. Most of those killed were machaha. The tuna 
was also killed. Also many of the ring•kops were 
killed, and two of their tunas carried off half the cattle 
they first took. Some time afterwards another com· 
mando under Jan Bloom attacked them on the Kyno 515 
and then again they fought from before sunrise till 
dusk. Many men were killed, also one wife of 
Masalacatzie and a child. Got off a number of cattle; 
at first they took nine posts. Those were all before 
Barend went in. Since that Jan Bloom has only made 
one commando. Last year took cattle from behind the 
Mosigha hills; got some of them away. Fought again; 
four machaha and one ring•kop were killed. Barend 
had the entire of the cattle which was in the country 
together. The machaha were absent. The ring-kops 
attacked them in the night; many were killed on both 
sides. 
111 A small sketch map by Smith in his Notebook "A" (see Vol. i, 
p. 12, No. 12, Memoranda) shows that the Kyno was a tributary 
of the Vaal River, on the right bank. Arrowsmith's map of 1842 
shows a "No" River on the right bank of the Vaal, and this stream 
was apparently the Bamboes Spruit; but Smith's sketch suggests that 
the Kyno entered the Vaal not far from the Namahari, or Eland's 
River, and to the west of it. It may~ therefore have been one of 
the rivers between Vereeniging and Klerksdorp. But in any case 
the district in question was the southern border of the Transvaal. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 263 
Piet Barend (Bain's) 1116 took one post of cattle from 
near the place where the last attack was made by 
Jan Bloom. A party followed him whilst another 
proceeded from Mosigha towards the wagons; in the 
skirmish there three men were killed and three 
wounded. Evident that Masalacatzie fears Jan Bloom 
greatly, though he pretends the reverse. 
About sunset started and just at break of day reached 
the Meritsani after travelling ten hours. Water scarce. 
Rather warm during the night. 
13 OCTOBER (TUESDAY). 
Cloudy during the day. Towards evening a strong 
wind from the S.E. and very cold; lasted during most 
of the night. Several natives visited us. One, a 
Baralong, says he has always lived in this part of the 
country, and that he prefers game and the fruits of the 
·ground to any other food. Will not go to Kuruman 
with letters. 
14 OCTOBER (WEDNESDAY). 
Three of our oxen fell into pits formed by the 
Gaffers for entrapping game; one was slightly wounded 
by one of the perpendicular poles. They were placed 
in the opening of a hedge, so: - o - o - o -. 
Floating clouds during the day. Thermometer at 
3 p.m. 88. The natives went off last night when I 
pressed 1117 them to go to Kuruman and have not 
returned today. 
11
• Bain hired two men named Barends, one Barend (not the 
celebrated individual of that name) and the other Hans. 'Piet' is 
wrong. See Steedman, A., Wanderings and Adventures in the Interior 
of Southern Africa, London, 1835', Vol. ii, p. 230. 
"" This word is by no means clear; but the meaninit of the passaie 
is obvious. 
264 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The Bechuanas sometimes call the direction of the 
wind after the people which are known to live in the 
direction from whence it blows. 
Macroscelides with the letter H marked on a piece 
of stick was caught at Meritsani. 
15 OCTOBER (THURSDAY). 
Started last night about dusk and rode nine hours 
to Sitlaholi. Found several Caff ers, partly Baralong 
and partly Baharutsi. Trust for existence to game and 
the fruits of the ground. Water in several places but 
so mixed with the sand that it was necessary to clear 
the latter away. Water always occurs in this river let 
the season be ever so dry. The southeast and north­
west winds prevail about this season, the former very 
cold. Both strong. The northerly winds generally with 
clouds. 
16 OCTOBER (FRIDAY). 
Started a:bout 8 a.m. and travelled about 1 Y2 hours 
up the river. Halted till dusk so that the oxen might 
feed and drink. 
17 OCTOBER (SATURDAY). 
About 5 last evening started and about 2 a.m. this 
morning reached the Great Choai.518 Water scarce. 
Chilly during the night, warm during the day. No 
natives visited us. Grass good, much new amongst the 
old furnishing good feeding for the oxen. 
111 Stella P. 0. See map. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 265' 
18 OCTOBER (SUNDAY). 
Strong N .E. wind, chilly with dense clouds and a 
heavy bank to the northward. Started a man to ascertain 
if there was water at Manapani.519 The Matabeli 
chief, apparently frightened, came to me this morning 
to say that Masalacatzie said that he would give off the 
Griqua children 519* when he, Combati, returned from 
the Cape. I could see that the statement was made 
under fear. Told him that was good and that I had no 
doubt but all would turn out well. He seemed satisfied 
and relieved. 
19 OCTOBER {MONDAY). 
Rested during the day at Choai. About sunset 
started and travelled eight hours, halted 5 hours and 
then proceeded to Loharon. 520 Here we found a 
tolerable supply of water and grass good. 
20 OCTOBER (TUESDAY). 
Soon after halting some Bechuanas arrived with a 
package from the Colony. A number of poor Gaffers 
visited us and brought some milk for sale, which they 
obtain from goats they possess. Two of them had 
Bushman features and were evidently of mixed breed. 
21 OCTOBER (WEDNESDAY). 
Thermometer at midday 84. Strong wind from 
N.W. Much lightening both to the north and south 
,,. Madibang Spruit, due north of Stella. It is the Monapanee of 
Arrowsmith's map of 1842. 
,,.. William and Truey. Compare p. 2S'4, footnote S'03. 
'"' See map. 
266 ANDREW SMITII DIARY 
of us close to horizon; sky clouded during much of 
yesterday. Towards the end of Sept. the southeast 
and northwest winds begin to prevail in this country 
and to the east of Mosigha, generally strong and cool. 
22 OCTOBER (THURSDAY). 
Before sunset started and travelled till 2 a.m. of 
Friday. On the road passed a span of oxen sent by 
Mr. Lemu 621 to assist in conveying our wagons to 
Motito. 
23 OCTOBER (FRIDAY). 
Travelled from Choai to Mushana River 622 8 hours. 
Halted there for a few hours and then proceeded to 
Motito.623 
24 OCTOBER (SATURDAY). 
25 OCTOBER {SUNDAY).624 
26 OCTOBER (MONDAY). 
Some Batclapins have stolen cattle from the 
inhabitants of Motito when Mohura 625 left [and) 
threatened to set the Bushmen against the people of 
the station. One of the men who assisted in stealing 
the cattle was also an active agent in the murder of 
111 Rev. Prosper Lemue, of the Paris Evangelical Mission. 
m Mashowing River. See map. 
111 See map. 
"" There are no entries for these two days. 
19 Mahura, a Tlhaping chief, and brother of Mothibi. He 
orieinally lived at Kuruman. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY 267 
Towan's son.11211 He belongs to the brother of Mohura, 
Kanikamora. On Friday evening a sheep was stolen 
out of the kraal of the missionary and the traces of 
the thief were discovered in Molala's [?} kraal. 
Micuara or Moochuara, 527 a Baralong chief, says 
that he has heard formerly that the Masarua were first 
in the world. [They J drink water out of damp places 
with reeds in the Kalahari. The Masarua 528 [are J 
probably older than Colonial Bushmen as they have 
more of the savage customs than those near the Colony. 
[They put a} stick through the septum nasi, [and} 
have only small skin karosses hanging in front. Some 
of the Bushmen about Kuruman have the septum 
pierced. [They J kill many elephants with hassegays. 
They have broad hassegays like the Damaras. The 
Masarua cannot make hassagays; they buy them 
[from} Bechuanas that come to them. [They} make 
no holes to catch game. Damaras have a softened skin 
bound round the belly. 
A considerable time ago a party 529 with about 6 
wagons went to the interior; some of them had red 
jackets. Says that Machablie said that they stole his 
sheep and they wished to fight with them hut were 
afraid. They passed on to the Baquana. When they 
arrived at Muchuara's residence there were four 
wagons. One turned back, a Griqua wagon; the 
other three went on. Griqua Town was in old times 
the residence of Corannas. The chief was called 
Motaka. When he died the Bechuanas called it 
Mataka. The Corannas fought together. One party 
•• Tawane, a Rolong chief. 
"' Mutswara, chief of the Ratsili, a Rolong clan. 
''" Masarwa, or Bushmen. 
•n Perhaps this was the expedition of Cowan and Donovan. 
Z68 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
conquered, and the conquered fled to the Batclapi who 
were at Nokunning.530 [They} afterwards left them 
and went to near Blink-klip, 531 where they returned 
and fought with the Batclapi. The Corannas 
conquered them and they fled to Kuruman. [The] 
Batclapi only fled to Griqua Town when they were 
overcome by Baralong. There were Corannas there 
at that time and they were also on the Vaal river. 
The Llhoya 532 :first came from Whiteberg 1133 and lived 
with the Batclapin; a part remained behind. Same 
dress as the Bechuanas; war weapons the same. The 
Bechuanas save their corn in dung and earth pots and 
did that always. [They} had always wooden bambus. 
The Masarua have no bambus; [they} had never grass 
baskets like the Machinhobi (?} 1134 
27 OCTOBER (TUESDAY). 
The Masarua live by the Bamangwato; also have 535 
women with the elongated nymphae of [the} Hottentot 
about 2V2 or three inches long. The Bechuana women 
have not the elongations. They steal cattle, live in small 
parties here and there, [and} have always been the 
hunters of the Bechuanas. Some of them speak the 
Sechuana language. Make no houses; only a few 
bushes for shelter. Live apart. Assemble when they 
will steal cattle. Corannas • women [are} made like 
Bushwomen . 
.., Nokunning, about 20 miles due east of Old Lattakoo, or Takoon. 
It is the Klein Chowing of to-day. See map. 
an Near Postmasburg. 
"" The Bataung. 
•a Wittebergen Range, between Ficksburg and Bethlehem in the 
Orange Free State. 
"" I cannot trace this tribe. 
111 This is the only adequate interpretation of two words which 
are indecipherable. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 269 
28 OCTOBER (WEDNESDAY) • o3o 
29 OCTOBER (THURSDAY). 
Last night about 10 o'clock a tremendous screaming 
was heard in one of the villages close to Mr. Lemu' .s 
house, which upon inquiry we found was in 
consequence of the women and children believing that 
the principal woman was dying. Some were calling 
•• What shall we do if you leave us? We shall die. 
Whither shall we go? " Others, •• If you leave us, 
the wolves shall eat us up, etc." I went to see what 
was wrong, and on approaching the hut found several 
men outside. Upon asking them what had happened, 
they said they did not know. The people inside were 
angry; they could not go in. Mr. Lemu and myself 
went in, and found them supporting a woman in a 
sitting position who appeared dead. Upon examining 
[her} I found she had fainted, threw a little water 
on her face and caused her to be placed in a horizontal 
position. She soon recovered. That being known the 
crying ceased. The husband during the time was sitting 
by the fire with almost apparent indifference. When 
ordered to move in order to assist he showed much 
indifference, and in no way appeared more active than 
on common occasions. Talking with Mr. Lemu after• 
wards on the subject he gave it as his opinion that he 
felt more than he appeared to do, and that such was 
their manner, nothing almost rousing them from their 
indolence. About sunset left Motito. 
•• There is no entry for this date. 
270 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
30 OCTOBER (FRIDAY). 
About half past eleven last night reached 
Dornf onteyn, 1137 where we halted for the remainder of 
the night. A Bahurutse boy, a slave to Monahein,538 
ran away soon after we left Motito. His relations are 
in this part of the country. The Coast Caffers 539 
differ in the colour of their karosses. The Bechuanas 
have knives, the others not. The former make their 
karosses of ox hides, the others of skins of game 
principally. The karosses for the loins of the women 
also differ; Matabeli one piece, others sometimes one, 
sometimes two, rounded in front, Matabeli square. 
Different mode of storing corn, of dressing hair, etc. 
31 OCTOBER (SATURDAY). 
At sunset yesterday started, and about two o'clock 
in the night reached Matluare River. 540 At seven a.m. 
started and reached Kuruman a:bout ten. 541 The 
wagons arrived in the middle of the night. 
1 NOVEMBER (SUNDAY). 
2 NOVEMBER (MONDAY). 
3 NOVEMBER ( TUESDA y) . 542 
'"' See map. The position is approximate. 
'" See p. 2 5' 2, footnote 5'01. 
•• Nguni (Zulu, Xhosa, etc.) . 
"' Matlaring River. See map. 
"' Smith, of course, rode on horseback. 
... There are no entries for these three days. The party was at 
Kuruman. 
.ANDREW SMITH DIARY ~1 
4 NOVEMBER {WEDNESDAY). 
This day questioned one of the Bakalahari 543 relative 
to his nation, etc. He has long resided at 
Lehootitoon. 544 Sibiqua with his people left that place 
about 6 months ago to live with Towan 545 at the great 
lake. Basarua live in the Kalahari with the Bechuanas. 
They regard them as their servants. The chief of his 
tribe {The Makalahari) was called Minua Tau. The 
Basarua live in considerable numbers near Towan. 
They have small pieces of skin in front of the body; 
the women wooden pins through the nose. Their 
language is like that of the Bushmen. Sometimes live 
in society, at other times scattered over the country. 
They do not circumcise, but they have certain 
ceremonies on initiation into manhood, consisting of 
dancing, eating, etc. The flesh to be eaten cannot ·be 
handled by persons not belonging to the party to which 
the youth belongs. The skins which hang in front are 
of steenbok and jackal. Calls the lake Macori 546 from 
the name given to the boats. On the other side of 
the lake live also Basarua which according to his state· 
ment have no covering to the organs of generation. 
Says the women have the elongation of the nymphae 
like the Hottentots, about 2 or 3 inches. 
A man of Towan's 547 who is acquainted with the 
Corannas says those in that part of the interior 
resemble the Corannas and their language is similar. 
They have hassegays but no shields; the former they 
141 Kgalagadi. 
"'' Lehututu, in the Kalahari desert . 
... Tawane, a Rolong chief. The "great lake" was Lake Ngami • 
... Equivalent to Setswana mo1<,oro, a boat . 
.. , i.e. on the lake. 
272 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
purchase from Towan, s people. Formerly they used 
to have very poor hassegays. Have neither cattle nor 
chiefs, cut all the hair off, use red clay, have no fixed 
residence, make skerms 548 under a bush. The Baclama 
are black like the Litabeli. They make wooden frames 
for houses like Corannas and cover them with skins. 
[They} wind a rim 549 round [the} body, attach a 
piece of skin in front, and raise the organs of generation 
and fix them in it. Say they kill all visitors who 
approach them. The Bakalahari is a dialect of the 
Sechuana, thus: 550 
water madzi s. milk mo gaga 
head ~00~0 t. milk ma turn 
nose inc o milk morishu 
ox mpoie tuna (?) 
cow moinu magashMi 
sun liachi 
mouth molomo eye maalho 
tooth meno come here! mitaltanu 
moon quari 
blood mari 
thunder tari inioungue 
lishumi lichaoe 
six tetani 
shield tebi ten ear 
hassegay Jeni.mo knife mhaM 
... Screens. 
... Riem, or rawhide thong . 
... In Setswana the words are: 
water 
head 
nose 
mouth 
tooth 
thunder 
ten 
assegai 
s. milk 
t. milk 
metsi 
thlogo 
n1(.o 
mo lo mo 
leino (pL minoJ 
tumo ea maru 
leshome 
leru.mo 
milk ma&hi 
eye leitlho 
breeches, as Bechuana 
come here tla 1(.wano 
three raro 
ear tsebe 
knife thipa 
ox Jc.gomo 
cow 1<.gomo e namogadi 
sun letsatsi 
moon 1(.gwedi 
blood madi 
six thauro 
shield ihebe 
breeches boroltgwe 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 273 
The Basarua make fire like the Bechuanas. 
5 NOVEMBER (THURSDAY). 
6 NOVEMBER (FRIDAY) • 551 
7 NOVEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Last evening about sunset left Kuruman and at day 
this morning reached Koning. 552 Soon after halting 
about six Bushwomen visited the wagons but no men. 
8 NOVEMBER (suNDAY).553 
9 NOVEMBER (MONDAY). 
The Bushwomen, when the men will not go out to 
steal food, deprive them of the privileges of husband; 
in this way they are often driven to steal against their 
own inclinations. When they have obtained a quantity 
of cattle by thieving the women as long as they exist 
appear perfectly naked, even without the covering 
which at other times modesty induces them to employ. 
When the men are engaged in war they never use the 
small skin which is employed at other times. The 
Bushmen are gradually diminishing in numbers. 
10 NOVEMBER (TUESDAY). 
11 NOVEMBER {WEDNESDAY). 
12 NOVEMBER (THURSDAY).554 
'" There are no entries for these two days . 
... About 18 miles south of Kuruman. See map. 
"" There is no entry for this date . 
... There are no entries for these three days. 
27'4 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
13 NOVEMBER (FRIDAY). 
A Bastard states that most of the people of Phillipolis 
are discontented to have Abram as chief. They say 
the youngest son has more of the Hottentot character 
and is therefore desirable. Most of the people state 
that another year will entirdy ruin them and that they 
must either emigrate to some other part of the country 
or endeavour to return within the boundaries of the 
Colony. They are much dissatisfied since Andries' 
return and are, according to their own account, looking 
out with great anxiety for evil consequences. They 
suppose Govt. wish to take their children. I have just 
heard that it was determined at Phillipolis that if old 
Dam should return having made a like agreement to 
Andries that they would all leave him and repair to 
Peter David. 
The eggs of Caprimu.lgus pectoralis are light yellowish 
red freckled with brown, particularly towards the large 
extremity. Lays two in the month of November, etc., 
near to Kuruman in a hole in the sand on side of 
Kuruman hills. 
Female kodoe: length of head 17 inches; length of 
tail 19 inches; length of ears 6 inches; length from 
between ears to root of tail 5' feet 5' inches; height at 
shoulders 3 feet 8 inches; height at rump 3 feet 
10 inches. 
Forehead and above white triangle rusty grey, tinted 
towards triangle with darker brown; muzzle, small, 
black, sides of upper lip white, sides of head rusty grey, 
centre of chaffron 5rsrs from triangle to muzzle rusty 
brown; ears rusty brown outside; inside inner edge 
111 A coarse dark patch of hair on the forehead, like a mask. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 275 
co:vered with long coarse white hair; mane from top of 
head to over shoulders, some of latter long, colour dirty 
rusty brown, lightest towards apex; from shoulders a 
narrow white line along centre of back to root of tail; 
8 vertical stripes from hack lines; back and sides of neck 
rusty grey or roan colour; lower part of sides of neck 
and throat yellowish white or sort of pale cream colour; 
the hairs along the throat longest; upper part of back 
rusty brown pencilled with rusty; lower parts grey with 
a pinkish tint; fore thighs pale rusty brown; fore part 
of last joints pale rufous, behind knee joints white, also 
inside of thighs near breast and inside of hinder legs; 
each false hoof behind half surrounded by long black 
hair, the upper and hinder part in the portion 
surrounded, spurious hoofs of fore legs not surrounded; 
tail blackish brown at point, white inside to base, outside 
brown with a rufous cast. Outsides of hinder legs 
towards hips greyish brown, towards hoofs a rusty 
cream colour. 
Male: horns 3 ft.; mane from between ears to hinder 
part of shoulder thin and scattered, about 3 Y2 inches 
long, of a rusty brown colour; head in front of hams 
brownish grey, brownish towards triangle and brown 
with rusty speckles between that and muzzle; upper 
lip white; chin, lower lip and beginning of throat white; 
from about middle of lower jaw to between fore legs 
long hair about 10 inches long, black at base, reddish 
white in middle and black and rusty at tip; sides of 
neck rusty blue grey; sides and back rusty indistinct 
brown; lower part of sides rusty grey with a pinky 
tint; outsides of thighs pale roan grey, of fore legs pale 
fawn colour; tail as in [fe ]male; neck very thick; white 
stripes not so distinct as in female; an indistinct white 
blotch on each side of head under horns; length from 
276 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
between horns to base of tail about 7 feet; height about 
4 feet. 
14 NOVEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Yesterday about 4 p.m. started and after travelling 
about 14 hours reached a small spring where we halted 
till nearly dark. Soon after starting passed a deep 
hole in a conglomerate which is called Daniel's Kuyl.556 
The original name of the place is Kaup. Here are 
several men of Waterboer's who have removed from 
Griqua Town to this place to sow. There are also some 
of Barend's men here and the principal spring which 
is very strong is said to belong to Barend. Some 
disputes have arisen concerning this place and it is 
yet doubtful to whom it in justice belongs. There is 
much more ground [that) might be cultivated than 
the people belonging to Barend now resident here are 
able to cultivate. 
15' NOVEMBER (SUNDAY). 
About 12 o'clock last night reached Campbell. 
Attended service today. Mr. Bartlet 1157 preached to 
a very small congregation. 
16 NOVEMBER (MONDAY). 
17 NOVEMBER (TUESDAY) • 558 
... About 5'0 miles south of Kuruman. See map . 
.. , John Bartlett, of the London Missionary SocietY.. See Lovett, R., 
'The History of the London Missionary Society, London, 1899, Vol. i, 
p. 5'63. 
118 There are no entries for these two day8, 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 277 
18 NOVEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
About 12 o'clock started for Griqua Town. At a 
small spring about two hours to the west of Campbell 
we halted for two hours, and then travelled further 
north to Griqua Town, where we arrived about 12 p.m. 
19 NOVEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Early in the morning had a visit from Mr. 
Wright 559 and Waterboer. The former pressed me 
to take up my residence with him during my stay at 
Griqua Town. Waterboer had the wagon immediately 
moved up to Mr. Wright's house, and soon after 
breakfast I paid him a visit and had some conversation 
with him regarding the state of the country and the 
Bushmen, etc. He appeared rather reserved at :first 
and was cautious in answering questions. In a short 
time his manner changed and he communicated freely 
on every subject upon which we entered. He 
complained bitterly of the treatment he had experienced 
from the other chiefs and attributed it all to the 
inclination which he and his people felt to live as 
regular well-behaved members of society. 
Met here with a Gaffer belonging to one of the tribes 
which wore the Mantatee dress. He enumerated the 
following as having worn the same. dress. 560 
... Peter Wright, of the London Missionary Society. See Lovett, R., 
op. cit., Vol. i, p. 5'91. 
.. I have not been able to identify with absolute certainty all of 
these tribes, nor have Dr. N. J. van Wannelo, the Government 
Ethnologist, and Professor Schapera, of the University of Cape Town, 
to whom I submitted them. 
s 
278 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
Bahatoa 
Bamalapo 
Batatau 
Baputing 
Bacoloqua 
Bapaholi 
Ba ti bang 
Bacloqua 
Machabana 
Sibitwani 
Mooclomalo 
Clabi1i 
Ratabi 
Pulani 
Umtorani 
Ramanwani 
Ciconiale 
Ramabutsetsi 
King; 
do. 
do.1111 
do .... 
do .... 
do .... 
do ... 
do.• 
do.1111 
Ramangwani was father of Sibitwani. 
Says that originally there was a little difference in 
the dress of Moshesh • s people. The name of their tribe 
is Bamonahaing. The Matabeli apply the term 
Bashutu 1168 to all black nations not of their description. 
Mulitsani was one of the chiefs of the Batau.1169 The 
Bapiri 570 were Bechuanas who lived on the Oori. 571 
They wore as coverings for the loins, etc., steerrbok 
skin pulled over nates and between legs. They had 
round shields like the .•.. 572 Besigha 1178 lived far to 
the eastward chief Tabis. To the east of the sources 
of the Orange River lived the Barutsana 574 who wore 
buckskin trowsers cut so the lower 
margin edged with beads. CJ The Bapiri 
and Barutsana had long, ha n cl 1 e cl 
h a s s e g a y s, c ha k as (b[ attle} 
axes) like Mantatees, red karosses outside in spape like 
1111 Tau . 
... Phuthing . 
... Tlokwa (?) • 
... Baphosodi. 
"" Batbibane. 
'"'Tlokwa. 
""' A branch of the Tlokwa. See also p. 136 . 
... Sotho • 
... Tau. 
110 Phiring. 
I'll Limpopo or Crocodile River. 
"' Blarik in MS. 
"' I have not been able to identify this tribe. 
"' See footnote 5'73. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 279 
Bechuanas, with a tail behind at neck. The other tribes 
had black karosses. The Bapiri and Barutsana shaved 
their heads like the Baralongs; {circle round head over 
ears) . Says that he has heard formerly that all the 
above tribes wore the same dress as the Batalapins. 
Backloqua 1175 use four or five karies 576 when engaged 
in war, Matabeli one or two. The Mantatee tribes 
throw the karie overhand, also the Matabeli, the 
Batclapins, etc. underhand. The Mantatees cut with 
the cha~a 577 and also endeavour to throw it round the 
neck in fighting. They do not trust very much to 
throwing hassegays but employ •.•• 578 Mokaile Wa.8 
the great chief of the Batau. The Mantatees have no 
baskets for water or milk; [they J use earthen pots. 
Bushmen lived high up on the Liqua; the tribes called 
them Baraoa. [They] had no cattle. When a kraal 
of guilty Bushmen is discovered no one of them will 
inform upon the guilty lest vengeance fall upon them. 
20 NOVEMBER (FRIDAY). 
21 NOVEMBER (SATURDAY) ,579 
22 NOVEMBER {SUNDAY). 
Considerable congregations thrice in the course of 
the day. Several children previous to the commence­
ment of the morning service repeated several of the 
psalms with much correctness. 
11
• Tlokwa. 
"" Kerries. 
"" Battle-axe. 
''" Blank in MS. 
''" There are no entries for these two days. 
280 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
23 NOVEMBER (MONDAY). 
Infant school well attended, and the children 
appeared to relish the work in which they were 
employed. [They] repeated several English hymns 
with ease and also the multiplication table according 
to the English form with accuracy. The reading and 
writing school also well attended but not so many 
children as generally in consequence of the hooping [sic] 
cough being very severe at the station. Many were also 
absent at the farms, tending the corn. Several read the 
Bible and Testament with facility. Waterboer takes 
much interest in the school and invited me to visit it. 
About 3 p.m. started for Campbell. 
24 NOVEMBER (TUESDAY). 
Reached Campbell early this morning and about 
sunset started for the Vaal River. 
2 5 NOVEMBER (WEDNESDAY), 
About 8 a.m. reached the Vaal River where we found 
men ·belonging to Kok of Campbell and Waterboer. 
No grass except what was close to the margin of the 
river and that was scarcely accessible in consequence 
of the mud. Four oxen got fast, 580 and before they 
could be extricated they were so benumbed that I found 
"'° Apart from the mud, they had no great difficulty in crossing 
the Vaal. Mrs. Moffat, who with Hume crossed it at about the 
same time (having left Kuruman on 19th November) wrote of it 
to her father thus: "Robert accompanied me to the Vaal River, over 
which we walked dry shod." See Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives of Robm 
and Ma-ry Moffat, London, 188S', p. 206. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 281 
it necessary to leave them in charge of one of Water­
boer's people. 
26 NOVEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Started about 5 p.m. for the Salt Pan. Road heavy 
and sandy; oxen la:boured much. 
27 NOVEMBER (FRIDAY). 
After halting four hours in the course of the night, 
we started and reached the spring near to the Pan 
about 8 a.m. Some dry grass, hut the oxen would 
scarcely drink, the water in it being bitter and tasted 
of sulphuretted hydrogen gas. 
28 NOVEMBER (SATURDAY). 
Four Bushmen visited us this morning; said they and 
the farmers were always on bad terms because the 
latter treated them so ill and flogged them whenever 
they caught them. I enquired at them several words, 
such as: 1181 
Bwhman. Griqua. Coranna. 
sun l{ona sorep same 
moon quaru l{aa same 
star g:l{an l{ame same 
caw rmash same 
bull f ooa aramap same 
horse ara1{a 'haap same 
tooth l{uai l{ongup same 
l{ongl{u-teeth 
nose nu tu nuep same 
ingwantu 
nangl{u-ears 
ear naup same 
eye itsaho moop 04 kai 
penis l{ana haa oa 1{ai 
111 A discussion of these words is beyond the scope of a footnote. 
I have therefore placed the remarks of Miss D. F. Bleek and Professor 
L. F. Maingard in Appendix II, p. 314. 
282 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
The Griqua and Goranna languages are nearly allied, 
but in some words there is considerable difference. The 
Bushmen here use the same word for '' three " that 
the Corannas do. The Bushmen here say that should 
they come together with the Bushmen about Daniel's 
Kuyl they would meet as friends, hut they would not 
comprehend each other. An old man says that in old 
times Bechuana Gaffers came from the eastward into 
this country, and after living some time a war arose 
between them, and the Bushmen, which were very 
numerous at that time, drove the latter back in the 
same direction. Amongst the Bushwomen it is a very 
rare thing for one to have a child before marriage; if 
she has one they invariably kill it. The Bushwomen 
of the Modder River attach stones to the nymphae 
to lengthen them. Some have them six or eight inches 
long, others quite down to the knees. One portion 
permit them to hang when they are walking; others :fix 
them up to a band which surrounds the waist. I have 
seen some instances of Bushmen ·being circumcised, but 
they say their ancestors did not practise it; they adopted 
it from the Bechuanas and regretted extremely that they 
had done so. Those at a distance from the Gaffers 
do not practise it, nor do they appear to know anything 
about it. The Bushmen never had com nor cattle. The 
Corannas till lately had neither, that is when they were 
living on the river below Griqua Town. The 
Hottentots in the Colony had formerly no corn. Upon 
asking a Bushman why the moon got small and then 
large again, he said a hare and the moon once fought 
together; the hare said the moon must cry, but it would 
not; the hare, angry, took up some sand and threw 
it [at] the moon, which gives it the clouded appearance. 
Upon this the moon struck the hare on the lip, which 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 283 
caused the cleft. Ever since that the moon has got 
small and then large again. 582 Bushmen call the Caff ers 
oo, 588 the Corannas call them bree, 58" the Griquas 
briqua.s. 585 The Bushmen had no chief in old time8. 
The Bushmen used formerly to wear sandals, and 
springbok and hartebeast karosses. In old times when 
the years were good they used to get game and honey 
enough to subsist upon. A species of Euphorbia is 
used in making their poison, also the poison of the 
Capil. 586 Mentions a man who shot a springbok in 
the breast and eat the breast; he nearly died. Use a 
stone to give weight to a stick in digging; make the 
hole :first by another stone and then by the axe.587 
They bury their dead. The Bushmen called the Black 
River, mai, the Vaal River, cuoa, the Orange River, 
ol{a. The Corannas call it cu.a, Vaal River, hy gariep, 
the Black River, nu gariep. Hy is Vaal,588 nu Black. 
Griquas are ai. Man (Griquas) 1<,au 1(,aip; men, 1(,oi·c. 
1. Arrow, qui aap 
2. do., l{aam Oalta 
Namaquas 
father, aboup 
Griquas 
Corannas 
ta tu 
woman, taraques; women, taracoidi 
rain, toop, thunder, gooruJtuJtu 
lightening, tabacocu 
kai quaip, a good man 
l{ai quin, good men 
Griquas 
ta tu 
... Compare Bleek, W. H. I., and Lloyd, L. C., Specimens of 
Bushman FolJtlore, London, 1911, pp. 56-65 . 
... u . 
... Biri. 
085 Brikwa. 
181 Cobra da capello . 
.., Kibi. 
811 Rivers. 
284 ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 
Jtai haap, good horse 
~ai haan, good horses 
ga guaip, a cunning man 
ga liaap, a cunning horse 
one, cui 
two, 1{am 
three, gona 
four, hal{a u 
five, J{oro 
six, qw.ne 
seven, hungon 
eight, J{Ni 
nine, quisa 
ten, deci.., 
Uithalder,1190 a Hottentot, who always lived between 
Hanglip 1591 and Lagullas 592 [?J where there were 
Hottentot kraals so late as the taking of the Cape. The 
name of his tribe was Kaya or Hoyman Hottentots.1198 
They lived also in Hottentot Holland 594 and Hout· 
niqualand. 5911 Keis was the chief of the Hoyman. Also 
Zwartland 596 near Zout River was inhabited by the 
Hoymans. Sly 1197 was a Hottentot Corporal belonging 
to Keis and he lived near Cape Town. Captain Keis 
used to live in the Castle during the Dutch time. Says 
that the following Boors: Buys, Skipper, 1198 Rolph 
Camphor,599 Cobus van Balen, Piet van Balen, Bark· 
housen, 600 Van Staden and Hendrick Waggoner 691 
""" See p. 281, footnote "81. 
... One of Bell's drawings is entitled "Old Uithaalder, a famous 
Hottentot, telling his adventures at the battle of Muizenberg, with 
many excuses for his terror when the English made their attack on 
that position." 
111 The rocky promontory which forms the termination of Hottentots 
Holland Mountains on the eastern side of False Bay. It is more 
pr~erly spelled Hangklip, an overhanging rock. 
Cape Agulhas, formerly called Cape Lagullas. See Arrowsmith, 
J., Map of the Cape of Good Hope, London, 1842 . 
... See also p. 288 et seq . 
... The mountain range running along the eastern side of False Bay. 
'"' The name given formerly to what is now known as the George 
district in the Cape . 
... Malmesbury district in the Cape. 
""' Possibly Slier. 
... Scheepers . 
... C~pher. 
- Barkhuizen. 
""' Wagener. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 285 
came to their kraal, took away their cattle [and] killed 
some of the people. Dirk Botha's were also there. 
They used to complain but nothing was done. This 
was long before the Cape was first taken. In that time 
they must pull the hat instantly from the head, and if 
they did not they were immediately beaten with the 
stick or tied to the wheel and flogged with the sambuc. 
••Now," says I, ••the time is come when I may milk 
my cow. .. 
In early times it was said if a Hottentot had a cow 
he is not a man who ought to have such, then was it 
taken from them. Had formerly in those days the 
common jackal apron, a cap of skin with bead 
ornaments and a tail covered with beads :fixed to the 
top, [and a] kaross of sheep skin ornamented with 
beads. They had sheep with the large tails; those the 
boors took from them. The women had a dress like 
those which I purchased. They had an under-apron of 
young lambskin under the upper. They, the Dutch, 
caused the Hottentots to pull a cannon with a rope 
and when they were pulling fired them off.602 When 
they saw the Dutch corn they went and dug at the 
roots but could get nothing from it. They then turned 
the cattle in it. This was in the beginning and was 
done through ignorance. The Hottentots had never 
corn, therefore they thought the corn was grass. [They] 
lived upon milk, uintjies [and] honey; [they) had no 
pumpkins, melons, mielies nor calabases also. [They] 
used to make skin sacs for to hold milk. In those days 
a Hottentot used to marry two sisters. If they took 
.. Compare Maingard, L. P., "Studies in Korana History, Customs 
and Language," in Bantu Studies, Johannesburg, 1932, Vol. vi, No. 2, 
pp. 108·109. 
286 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
others of different families, then they used to quarrel. 
Each wife used to have a house. Never circumcised. 
When they make a man they call it doro.603 When 
the ceremony is to take place they make a small fence 
a little distance off from the kraal by the old man who 
then take him; then they put him down and then urine 
upon him, then rub his head with buchu., 604 kill cattle, 
and the great men and him eat of it. They take the 
cattle to the fence, throw them down, then with a 
knife make a wound under the breast ... bone, introduce 
the hand and tear the large artery. At other times 
they cut the throat immediately before the breast. At 
times when they perform that ceremony, they kill the 
sheep in the same way. When they kill sheep for 
other purposes they stick in the back of the neck so 
that they may have the blood. They say that this 
makes them good and prevents them stealing. Some• 
times it continues for a fortnight, at other times a 
month. When he wishes to go out he must be carried 
out, and brought in again and placed upon the skin. 
He must not take meat himself, nor water. He is not 
allowed to use his hands; one man is always hy him 
who cuts meat and puts it into his mouth, also water. 
He has a jackals· kaross on his body hut no apron. 
As 605 it is over the first day 7 men go with him to 
the water. Then the man that always gave him food 
and water goes before with a stick and as they arrive 
strikes the water. Then the young man lies down on 
his belly and drinks. That being over, he is taken to 
the herd of cattle and left there to take care of them. 
Then the old men come with tortoise shells. Part go 
.. , Compare Maingard, L. F., op. cit., pp. 137-140 . 
... An aromatic powder made from certain dried herbs. 
'"''When. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 287 
to the house where he is to sleep, and which is made 
new for him, and sprinkle his skins. Others go to him 
and sprinkle his shoulders and neck, others his head. 
When the ceremony is going on they surround his 
neck with the inside fat of sheep, then when all is 
done a party carry him home if he lives at another 
kraal. That being finished, some others proceed to 
undergo the like ceremony. [They} usually send ten 
oxen and ten sheep to kill, also milk cows, which must 
always feed by themselves. No women nor children 
can be present at that ceremony, nor persons. 606 
After having undergone the ceremony and he is on 
a journey he must not take food from a young man 
who has not been under the ceremony. He must not 
use his knife nor pipe. He must not use food offered 
to him by a woman that still bears children nor from 
young women, but from barren women or from others 
that have ceased to bear children he can take food. 
If he goes by a young woman without its being known 
to the old people and she be pregnant, the old men 
assemble together and. ask him why he did so, and 
then tell him if he wishes to eat with them again he 
must call the friends of the woman together and kill 
for them and take the woman to wife. He must keep 
the fat round the neck, and when others kill who have 
also been operated upon they go together and bind 
always more fat on the neck. If a young man who 
has undergone the ceremony kills game in the field, 
he must not look at [it} but come home and inform 
the old men who proceed thither with a pack-ox and 
pots, cut the animal up and cook it, then bring it 
to the kraal and the longissimus dorsi 607 must be 
... Thus in MS. 
""' The muscle along the back. 
288 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
given to the man who killed it to eat. They, in cutting 
it up, take out the principal arteries of the legs and 
forelegs, roll them and bind them round the wrists. 
[As regards] the inside fat the man who killed it must 
have the fat round the neck; and if no fat then an 
artery round the arm. The women get the hinder 
legs after the artery is cut out. The skin of the neck 
the mother must make into rings and put on her right 
arm, and if a man comes to marry her daughter she 
shows them to him and says •• So many my son has 
killed; you must also be a good hunter for my 
daughter.,, 
The elongations of the nymphae also occur amongst 
the Haymans, sometimes eight inches long. Barrenness 
[in a woman J is a great source of depression amongst 
the Hottentots, and many methods are adopted to make 
her otherwise. A doctor is often employed to rub 
her all over with fat, and then it is generally understood 
that she cohabits with him and if pregnant there is 
great joy. 
The Haymans were also called quai~uip, 608 but 
this word appears to be used as a general term to 
indicate all of that class of people. Each tribe there 
has its separate title. The Haymans extended in old 
times to near the Camptoos River 609 and as far as 
the Oliphants River. During the late years so many 
commandoes have gone out and so many men have 
been killed that the number of women is remaining 
[as it was,] that they are without cattle and means 
of subsistence, and therefore they are forced to have 
recourse .to whoring, etc. for subsistence, hence these 
sort of houses are got up. When the cattle come to 
... I cannot :find out the meaning of this term. 
000 Gamtoos River. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 289 
the house and the men who have slept with such women 
do not kill for them, the women go into the kraal and 
twist the forelegs of the sheep out of joint, and stick 
the cattle with the hassagays. There is an over 
proportion of women. 
When the Bushwomen heard that the men were to 
be hung, they threw themselves on their hacks and 
threw their forescots 610 away and exposed their 
privates with the intention of saying, •• These are what 
gave birth to them; they are now [taken] from me." 
The Bushwoman, if one of her children he heaten, will 
go to the person who has beaten it, throw herself on 
her back and show her privates, which is as much as 
to say •• These parts gave it birth and it is only I who 
have a right to beat it." The Hoyman Hottentots 
never permitted promiscuous intercourse like that 
sanctioned hy the Corannas. 
HOYMAN MARRIAGE 
After having asked the consent of the parents, the 
bridegroom drives out a quantity of oxen and cows, 
perhaps 1 5, and the same number of sheep, and takes 
them to the kraal of the woman. Then he goes into 
another house and some of his friends go before the 
house of the bride and kill an ox and a sheep in the 
same way as when they make men. 611 Then the 
relatives, uncles etc., of the woman bring also cattle 
and kill. After all have come and eat and evening 
arrives, they drive the cattle into the kraal, and then 
the bridegroom sends a cow and calf to the mother 
of the bride. After that about ten married men go 
••• V oorschort, or fore•apron: 
111 Compare footnote 603 on p. 286. 
290 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
to the house where the man is, bring him to the house 
of the bride, and one man takes him by the hand, takes 
him into the house, [and} the rest stand before the 
door. Then the man places him upon the bed which 
is prepared for the woman and makes him sit there. 
When that is done the guide goes and places 
himself on the opposite side of the :fireplace. The 
married women then go and bring in like manner the 
bride. All the women go in, one leading the bride, and 
place her on the bed by the man. Then the women 
with the exception of the guides go out. The two 
guides remain; they must be cousins, the bride and 
guides. A:bout dark they, the two guides, go out, 
leaving the two. It is mistake.612 Next morning he 
takes a cow with a calf and gives it to the bride's 
mother. This is milk for the mother. The bride's 
uncle comes then and takes away the bedclothes and 
collects the cattle together, and all those which grunt, 
are without tails, [or} have the points of the horns 
broken off [are} driven out, also the calves with 
deformities, thick legs, etc. (He} drives all pretty ones 
out and the sheep and gives them in place of what he 
takes away that is ugly. Also all the things must be 
new; new bedding and mats to make a new house, 
(a} new pack ox, etc. Now the next day she goes 
home, :first going to the mother's house where they 
get (a} new sac 618 and bedding, etc. They make their 
house by the oldest brother's place of the man. The 
portions of the two are driven together; the bride also 
gets cattle. They could not take wives from another 
kraal. The old people connected by marriage then 
make their kraal together. In this way the kraal must 
.,. Thus in MS. 
••• Milk-sack. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 291 
be all connected by blood. Cousins [may he] married. 
[A man may) marry the wife of a deceased brother. 
During the day of the marriage the people dance, 
the women clap their hands, and one woman beats on 
a pot covered with skin. 614 The left hand strikes the 
skin with the thumb, the other strikes with the points 
of the fingers. The women sit together in a row 
clapping the hands and singing, whilst the woman who 
plays sits about the middle of the rank. The men stand 
in front dancing; as the men dance they beat with the 
hand also. 
When thunder [was] very loud they used to make 
large fires by the kraal and then it lessened. When 
persons are killed hy a kraal all move off, leaving the 
dead body buried; the property of [the] body, if any 
of it be taken, they sprinkled 615 with buchu. They 
then build a new kraal and when that is :finished the 
old chief men kill for the friends of the person killed, 
the great women for the females, and then some 
principal men rub all the other men over with fat of 
the breast of cattle mixed with the fat cooked out from 
the pelvis, which is broken in pieces; old women do 
that for women, then have a rejoicing. Then the chief 
men kill and they dance and sing for two or three 
weeks. A woman must stop 3 years before she can 
marry. When a man wishes to marry a widow he 
must 'kill an ox for her, then wait three weeks and 
then kill again; then they are married. Old women 
used to assist women in childbed; cut the navel string. 
Sometimes [they] sat on the knees, other times lay 
"" The /~hais, or pot drum. Compare Kirby, P. R., 'The Musical 
Instruments of the Native Races of South Africa, London, 1934, 
p. 18 and Plate 6.A (a picture drawn on Smith's Expedition). 
""' There is an 'it' in the MS. after 'sprinkled.' 
292 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
on the ground with women holding her fast by the 
head, loins, legs, etc. As a child is born deformed, 
they permit it to live if it will. 
The chief of a kraal is buried in the cattle kraal. 
His karrie and all what was on his body is buried 
with him. The brothers take all the property excepting 
the cattle; these belong to the wife and children. The 
grave is round. His legs are drawn into the buttocks 
and his hands under the chin crossed, his face directed 
to the rising sun. He is buried with the sandals on 
his feet, rolled in his kaross. In throwing the ground 
on, every man, woman and child throws a handful of 
earth in the grave, and when done all wash their hands. 
Then are three cattle killed and all go and eat. They 
remove the house; remove him out by the door. In 
old times they had hassegays, but they got them with 
oxen. They never had horses. The Hoymans had 
about 8 or ten tails made of beads and hanging in front 
of the legs and fixed to the lambskin kaross. Also made 
hassegays themselves; got iron from ships. Had no 
arrows. Had hand bellows like the Caffers; no wooden 
mouth, only opening sufficient for the :fingers to enter. 
Wrought with stones. The Hottentots that used to 
live about Graham's Town were called Gnutumah, 616 
with longer and :finer hair like tow. [They} were 
driven by the Caffers to the Hoymans about 30 
years ago. Kanka 616* was the king of the Caffers. 
Lambi 010t was also a chief of the Caffers. Chief, 
Gausa; chiefs wife, Gauphais. In old times the 
Hottentots would not eat the hare; they said it was 
a• This tribe cannot now be identified. 
"'• Kongo. 
~ Thlambi. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 293 
a man. The porcupine also; they said that was poor 
people's food. 
29 NOVEMBER (SUNDAY), 
Yesterday a:bout 11 a.m. Mrs. Moffat and David 
Hume arrived.617 About 4 p.m. we started and before 
midnight reached Louie Kop 618 where we found rains 
had lately fallen and water was abundant. Several 
wagons and quantities of sheep were discovered to the 
east of the road near some hills. In the course of 
the day we were visited by eight or ten farmers, who 
stated that they had left their places in the C.Olony 
in search of grass and water, but having reason to 
believe that it had rained in the C.Olony they were 
anxious to return, but were at the moment unable as 
the Black River was full. Service towards evening. 
30 NOVEMBER (MONDAY). 
Early this morning I rode to the river with one of 
the farmers and found it moderately full. Nieukirk, 619 
who came to the drift 620 when we arrived, stated that 
he thought we would be a:ble to cross next day. Near 
halting place some good grass for the oxen. Very 
warm during the day and a bank almost jet black 
rose in the N.N.W., and when it reached our wagons 
a most violent thunderstorm commenced and shortly 
afterwards it rained in torrents. Mrs. Moffat and 
Hume had again joined us. Every valley was filled 
with water and the flats appeared like lakes. 
'" On the advice of Dr. Smith, Mrs. Moffat had left for the 
coast with Hume, the trader, who was going to visit Grahamstown. 
111 Leeuw Kop. See map. 
111 See p. 302, footnote 63 2. 
• The drift was at Hopetown. See map. 
T 
294 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
1 DECEMBER (TUESDAY). 
Early this day we heard that the river was again 
on the increase. Mrs. Moffat and Hume started for 
Zoutpans Drift, but as here there was good grass for 
the oxen and at the drift just named there was none 
I determined to remain till I should see some prospect 
of being able to pass the river. 
2 DECEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
Started two men to ascertain the state of the river. 
They found it still high, hut beginning to subside. 
Nieukirk wrote me that he would take us across on 
a float; sent us also a loaf of white bread. 
3 DECEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Thunderclouds came early up and in the afternoon 
we had some heavy showers, and towards evening a 
light but constant rain with the wind from the south· 
east which continued nearly the entire of the night. 
4 DECEMBER (FRIDAY). 
Small streams of water flowing this morning in most 
of the valleys and water courses. Grass beginning to 
shoot out all over the country. In many places a green 
colour begins to take the place of the red or brownish 
black coat which prevailed everywhere when we arrived 
here. Even when the country is at its worst in this 
direction there is always a tolerable supply of grass 
upon the sides and tops of the hills. In these situations 
the soil is more clayey than on the flats where it is in 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 295 
a great measure sand or sandy clay, and in it the grass 
roots get so burnt up that nothing but heavy rains 
can reanimate them. The hardness of the under strata 
also will not permit any slight quantity of moisture to 
penetrate to the roots, whilst on the hill the soil is 
loose and scattered amongst the stones, so that the 
moisture which the hills also attract in greater quantity 
has greater effect. The character of the rock is also 
different, being trap in the hills and porphyry in the 
plains, both much mixed with iron. 
5 DECEMBER (SATURDAY). 
About 3 p.m. started with the wagons for the river, 
having heard that the water was falling quickly. Left 
the spare oxen in charge of Andries at the Hottentot 
kraal where was abundance of fine grass. Reached the 
outspan place about dark. Nieukirk told the men who 
arrived before the wagons that he should try if he could 
ride over to us on horseback next day, and if he could 
accomplish that then we should be able to cross. 
6 DECEMBER (SUNDAY). 
Nieukerk found it impracticable to cross on horse· 
back. The river subsiding slowly. The oxen sent back 
at daylight in the morning with Piet and Syme. Service 
towards evening. As we neared the river we found 
that in some places no rains had fallen since I last 
visited the river. 
7 DECEMBER (MONDAY). 
Heavy thunderclouds in the southeast and much 
lightening. Very warm during the day. The clouds 
296 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
seen in the northeast formed towards evening a 
dense black bank which gradually neared us and at 
last spread over the whole heavens, and was accom· 
panied by a perfect hurricane which carried along 
with it much clouds of dust and sand that made the 
wind and deep darkness still more horrible. The wind 
almost overturned the wagons, and the dust entered in 
quantities at every crevice. 
8 DECEMBER (TUESDAY). 
About ten a.m. it was discovered that the river was 
rising again, and by evening it had deepened nearly 
7 feet. Sent for Nieukirk and asked him what was 
now for us to do. He stated that we must be satisfied 
with lying still, and that as soon as it should be possible 
he would prepare a raft and take us across. He said 
that could be done with perfect safety. He also stated 
that perhaps it might continue full for six weeks or 
two months; that it was now swelled by the waters of 
Starrenberg Spruit 621 and the higher parts of the river; 
that hitherto it had been by the rains which had fallen 
nearer to us; that he knew hy the colour of the water. 
First the near waters are of a yellowish colour, then 
the distant waters are dark coloured so as now. 
Determined to attempt the making of a boat. 
Sent three men up to Zoutpans Drift to ascertain if 
there was grass there for the oxen in the event of 
determining to move to it. 
9 DECEMBER {WEDNESDAY). 
Men returned and stated there was in places grass, 
but not to any extent. Water has risen . about 8 feet 
w I have not been successful in identifying this stream. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 297 
since yesterday morning. .A'.bout noon began to subside 
again but slowly; had lowered about 4 inches by dark. 
Employed in preparing knees, 622 etc. for the boat. No 
clouds today in any direction; but little wind. Very 
warm; thermometer about noon 96 in the shade. 
Weather looks settled. 
10 DECEMBER (THURSDAY). 
The ancient Hottentots had four kinds of musical 
instruments, viz. sous, gora, ~as, goutsi.623 
1. sous.624 This instrument was generally played 
with an accompaniment. It consisted of a thick piece 
of wood slightly bent and connected by the extremities 
in the manner of a bow. The connecting string was 
formed of the intestines of a sheep twisted in the same 
way as a violin string. When played, the performer, 
always a woman, squatted herself on the ground, placed 
one extremity of the bow upon a soft cushion, the other 
extended obliquely upwards on her left side and was 
kept in that position by the left hand. The right leg 
was then laid across the string 625 which by its weight 
022 Knee-shaped pieces of wood used for strengthening the ribs of 
a boat, or for serving to brace the sides of a flat•bottomed boat. 
Smith apparently built a proper pontoon, not a mere raft. The Boers, 
who crossed higher up, built a raft of willow wood. Mrs. Moffat and 
Hume crossed the river on this raft. See Moffat, J. S., 'The Lives 
of Robert and Mary Moffat, London, 188S, pp. 206•207. 
""' ll{hais, gora, f{has. !gutsib. These were Korana musical instru• 
ments. Smith's descriptions, though excellent, do not 6.t. He 6.rst 
wrote down the four names, but it would seem that his informant 
altered their order when describing the instruments, and Smith did 
not realise this . 
... This description is of the l{has. See Kirby, P. R., "The Music 
and Musical Instruments of the Korana," in Bantu Studies, Johannes• 
bu!I, 1932, Vol. vi, No. 2, pp. 192·194, and Plate VI. 
Not across the string, but the stave of the bow. This is a pure 
slip on Smith's part. 
298 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
gave it a slight bend and increased its tension. In 
the right hand she had a delicate reed and with that 
she struck the string between the limb and the cushion, 
quickly or slowly according to the character of the 
tune. This was always played by a person who sang 
at the same time. Close to her was placed another 
woman who had a cala:bash, covered at one extremity 
with fine lambskin and [the] other, which was rounded 
and uncut, was fixed upon the centre of the chest whilst 
she kept time with her :fingers by beating upon the dried 
lambskin which was stretched across the other.626 
This the Hottentots say furnished delightful music, and 
was always played by women when singing their 
hunting or love songs. Often they used to assemble 
together in parties during the evenings aside from the 
men and amuse themselves with music and songs. 
When all went on prosperously with them, and no 
dread of external enemies existed, there is reason to 
believe that the Hottentots led a simple and a pleasant 
life. 
2. gora. This instrument was formed as follows. 
A portion of a quill of some of the larger birds, about 
an inch or an inch and a half in length, was cut open 
and wetted, then by means of pressure rendered flat. 
A fine hole was then made at each extremity and 
through each was passed a piece of slender string 
formed from the bowels of a sheep and fixed. A piece 
of wood, which could be bent into the form of a bow, 
was then taken, and the strings were fixed to the 
extremities whilst the wood was forcibly bent so that 
when it was permitted to recede the string would be 
""' ll{hais, but made from a calabash instead of a pot and held 
against the chest instead of being placed on the ground. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 299 
moderately tight. The part of the string formed by 
the quill was then placed against the teeth 627 and blown 
against, which gave a sound that by proper management 
formed in their estimation tolerable music. 
3. goutsi.628 This was played by a woman generally, 
and was the favourite instrument at their dances. It 
consisted of a common earthenware pot, the opening 
being covered by lambskin stretched over it when wet, 
and which when dry becomes very tense. With the 
thumb of the left hand and the :fingers of the right 
she beats upon the skin so as to produce a loud and 
drumming noise. In playing, the performer is seated 
on something soft with the legs drawn in and nearly 
vertical, and between her knees the pot stands as 
represented in drawing. 629 
4. sous.630 [T:his is) formed of a calabash [which) 
is covered with lambskin as in the first instrument, and 
to one side of it is fixed a piece of wood which extends 
in a horizontal direction like the handle of a violin. 
Three strings of sheep gut are then stretched from one 
extremity of the instrument to the other like violin 
strings, and are by pins tightened as in the violin. 
Then these three strings are struck with the :fingers 
as in the guitar . 
.. , The quill must never actually touch the teeth. See Kirby, P. R., 
'The Musical Instruments of the Native Races of South Africa, London, 
1934, pp. 171·192, for the history and technique of this remarkable 
instrument. 
128 This description is of the /~hais, not of the !gutsib . 
.,. A drawing of this instrument by Bell is reproduced in Kirby, 
P. R., op. cit., Plate 6A. 
... This description is of the !gutsib, not of the lkho.is. It is the 
instrument often known as the "ramki", ,and it appears to have been 
of Malay origin. A drawing of this instrument by Bell is reproduced 
in Kirby, P. R., op. cit., Plate 73A. 
300 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
River running about 4 miles per hour. Subsided 
between 5' p.m. of yesterday and the same time of 
today 19 inches. Thermometer 96 shade, 3 p.m. 
Thunder clouds rose to the north in the afternoon. 
Very violent wind from the N .E. about dusk. 
11 DECEMBER (FRIDAY) , 
At three p.m. thermometer [in} shade 97; sultry 
wind from the N .N. W. Thunderclouds over the 
whole sky early in the afternoon. 5' Boors arrived 
wishing to cross into the Colony. Much fine clay left 
on the banks of the river as the water subsides. The 
paucity of secondary and tertiary formations in South 
Africa proves it to have been a country with but little 
water in [the} rivers or lakes. River subsided [in} 
24 hours 17Y2 inches. 
12 DECEMBER (SATURDAY). 
River subsided 1 5' inches. 
13 DECEMBER (SUNDAY). 
River subsided in 24 hours 11 Y2 [inches}. 
14 DECEMBER (MONDAY). 
River subsided in 24 hours 7Y2 [inches}. 
1 5' DECEMBER (TUESDAY). 
River subsided in 24 hours 7Y2 [inches}. Boat 
launched. 681 Went across and had some conversation 
with Nieukirk . 
.., See p. 297. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 301 
16 DECEMBER {WEDNESDAY). 
At daylight in the morning commenced conveying 
over in the boat the contents of the wagons and by 
dark got all across with the exception of the wagons. 
River subsiding very strongly. 
17 DECEMBER (THURSDAY). 
Hired the farmer's oxen to take the wagons a little 
higher up the river in order to have an oblique course 
to pursue in taking them across. The difficulty with 
which the boat was got across and the strength of the 
wind which was blowing right down the stream made 
me fear we would not be able to convey them over 
entire. I therefore determined upon taking them in 
pieces and taking the separate portions in the boat. 
This was immediately attempted, and ere dusk we had 
four and part of a fifth over. River during the 24 
hours has subsided about two inches. 
18 DECEMBER (FRIDAY). 
At daybreak commenced upon the other wagons and 
by 4 p.m. got the cart and every article over without 
a single accident. The wheels were taken off the cart 
and then, by means of barrels, the body was floated 
over. A little after midday the oxen were driven across 
below the regular drift and Corannas were engaged 
to swim along with them and keep them from going 
down the stream. All were got across without 
accident. The clouds early in the day began to appear 
very dark and dense to the N.W. Thunder was first 
heard about 2 p.m., and towards evening it was loud 
with heavy rain. 
302 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
19 DECEMBER (SATURDAY). 
In the course of last night the river rose 5 inches. 
People employed in packing the wagons. 
20 DECEMBER (SUNDAY). 
The water of the river which yesterday was rather 
clear is today of a dirty yellowish white colour. Since 
yesterday morning (it] has risen two inches. Nieukirk 
says the colour is from rain water having fallen into 
it which had passed through some brak ground not far 
up above us. Service as usual. 
21 DECEMBER (MONDAY). 
At 9 a.m. left Nieukirk's 632 for Graaff Reynet. 
After travelling about 3 hours halted at a place where 
there was abundance of fine grass, and there remained 
till about Y2 past six (at Beesiput, 638 about 9 hours 
from Duivenaar's Fonteyn).634 Here we found the 
springs choaked up with mud, grasshoppers, etc., and 
nothing for the oxen to drink. Had some conversation 
with an old Bushman named Bartman W armkop. Said 
this portion of the country was formerly the property 
of his father who was the principal of the Bushmen 
residing here. He had goats and cattle, but he cannot 
say how he procured them. The half of them he, 
Bartman, got; the other half his father retained. His 
father killed and eat all those which he kept; those 
which Bartman got were partly killed by himself and 
132 This place was Duivenaar's Fontein, on which the present town 
of Hopetown was built . 
... About twenty•five miles south of Hopetown. See map . 
... Hopetown. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 303 
the rest were stolen by other Bushman commandoes. 
Did not go immediately after said Bushman, but in 
course of time repaired with a party to their kraal 
and carried off both what had been taken from him 
and what they themselves had, consisting of cattle, 
goats, etc. The said Bushmen took them off again, but 
not before he, Bartman, and his people had killed three 
of the cows, which was done in the course of two days 
after their return. He states that he is old and has 
no fear of dying; that he would not die so soon had 
he sons (meaning probably that his death will 'be 
hastened by his want of protection and food, both of 
which, had he sons, might be afforded him). His father 
used to tell him that long before he was born the 
Bushmen used to make commandoes against the Gaffers 
and steal their cattle, and when asked why, he added 
they had so many fat cattle that therefore they always 
plagued [them J. They used also to steal from the 
Gorannas, and when asked why he said because their 
cattle were fat. He says that the Bushmen do not 
believe that there is any crime in stealing their neigh, 
hour, s cattle and when he tells them that it is wrong 
they say he lies. When their intention is to steal and 
any person endeavours to dissuade them from it, they 
say they must do so in order that people may think 
they are strong. He cannot give any reason why they 
should wish to be thought strong, nor in what way 
it will benefit them to be thought strong by other men. 
He is at least sixty years of age, and when asked why 
his hair was grey he said it was because he had always 
behaved well and therefore had never been attacked 
by commandoes. He said it was very wrong in the 
Bushmen to attack the Gaffers living at Duivenaar·s 
Fonteyn and that they ought to be killed. States that 
304 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
never within his memory did Caff ers live between the 
Vaal and Black Rivers, at least low down; that was 
always Bushman country, and that the party over which 
his father was chief used sometimes to live and hunt 
on one side and then on the other. Mentions the 
Amakosa 635 as once having made sad havock amongst 
the Bushmen of this quarter and Nieukerk states that 
that happened a:bout 1818. The Bushmen having 
stolen their cattle down the river, they assembled and 
went in search of them, and so vigorous were they in 
their measures that they actually drove the B[ushmen} 
into the houses of the farmers and caused them to take 
refuge under the bedsteads, etc. On ·this occasion a 
very great number of B[ ushmen} were killed but no 
Caff ers. Says that the Bushmen attack the white 
people because they do not pay them. On this subject 
he gave rather a confused and disjointed statement, but 
the sum of it appeared to be that revenge was what 
led them to meddle with the farmers. It would almost 
appear that one injury inflicted on one Bushman was 
made a common cause, and it is always the remark of 
the farmers that those who have at one time lived 
amongst them are always the most troublesome and 
dangerous when they fly from civilised life to their 
native state again. That may depend principally upon 
their having acquired some knowledge and partly upon 
their passions being more raised in consequence, 
perhaps, of bad treatment. The Field Commandant 
Nieukirk states that sheep have been collected twice 
for the Bushmen; the last time to the amount of 9000, 
but these were scarcely distributed before they were 
eaten up. He stated that Piet Bartman, now under 
.. Xhosa. 
.ANDREW SMITH DI.ARY 305' 
sentence of death at Graaff Reynet, came with 24 men 
to his house on their way to the Veld Cornet to claim 
a portion of the sheep. He told them they had better 
return home as the F.C. was absent and that they could 
not get them, but when he returned they might then 
go for them. They continued living with Nieukirk 
for two weeks, and he night and morning gave them 
a goat and tobacco. The day when they were starting 
to return he was engaged in working with his oxen. 
The Bushmen came to him and said his oxen were fine 
and fat. He replied yes, but they must not take them 
away. They said •• Ne, Ba:s, ons zal noit ne. Bas 
bestes nem. Hou canons, Bas, bestes nem? Bas harta 
goot op ons gevest." 636 Very soon afterwards they 
paid him a visit and carried off 46 oxen of his besides 
a number belonging to another person living on the 
place. He pursued them, but ·before he got near they 
'had them over the river which was :flooded, and they 
were seated on the opposite side with their prey and 
kept exclaiming •• Daar weidt de osen, com ne an vat 
ossen.,, 687 He was alone and the river not to be 
passed, so he could not in any way recover them. The 
head of the party was the same Piet Bartman whom 
he had treated so well shortly 'before. At the time 
they attacked, killed and carried off the Gaffers, cattle 
from near Duivenaar's Fonteyn 638 about two years ago, 
the river was also :flooded and the belief that no 
commando could approach them may have accounted 
... "Nee, baas, ons sal nooit nie Baas [se] beeste neem [nie] . 
Hoe kan ons Baas [se] beeste neem? Baas [se] hart 
[was] goed (vir] ons gewees." ("No, boss, we shall never take the 
boss's cattle. How can we take the boss's cattle? Boss's heart was 
good to us.") 
181 
"Daar wei die osse; kom nou en vat [die] osse." ("There 
the oxen are grair.ing; come now and take the oxen.") 
• Hopetown. 
306 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
for their fixing themselves so close to the Colonial 
boundary. Nevertheless 639 the river was so full, the 
commando got across to the amount of 31 men, attacked 
them at day dawn and vanquished them. Says he 
thinks there were at least 300 Bushmen. Nieukirk 
called at two different times that they must give up 
and come out, but they would not listen. The second 
time when they would not listen he then said they 
must send out the women and children. To this they 
were equally disinclined. Then they used their guns 
with their utmost skill. Bartman says 60 Bushmen 
were killed by the Boors, and I have been told that 
when Bartman was sentenced to be hung he said [that} 
Nieukirk and Swiegers must first be hung and then 
they might hang him. He also said who was to pay 
him for the sixty men which the two named had Shot. 
The farmers rather pref er sending their cattle herds 
unarmed than with guns, as they believe that they 
would often be murdered for the sake of their guns. 
22 DECEMBER (TUESDAY). 
Sufficient water not being obtainable here [I was} 
forced to send the oxen back about 4¥2 miles to drink. 
Early in the morning, :five lions seen near to our 
wagons. 
23 DECEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 640 
24 DECEMBER (THURSDAY). 
2 5 DECEMBER (FRIDAY) • 
.. Notwithstanding that . 
... No entries for 23, 24, 2,-, 26 and 27 December. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
26 DECEMBER (SATURDAY). 
2 7 DECEMBER (SUNDAY). 
28 DECEMBER (MONDAY). 
307 
The Matabeli 641 have great ceremonies before they 
can eat of the fruits of the ground. Also the men 
and women are assembled at the kraal of Kabalonta 
and there they both dance and sing. The women are 
ornamented in their best style with under karosses 
reaching to their ankles and their arms surrounded 
with beads. They have a particular song which they 
sing at the time and that they dare not sing or even 
repeat at any other time. They assemble at 
Kabalonta's kraal because that was the kraal where 
Masalacatzie was born 642 and hence esteemed the 
headquarters of the king. At this time they kill an 
enormous number of oxen. The meat is in such 
a:bundance that they give it away to the dogs. This 
is the moon in which the ceremony takes place. Says 
that Cha:ka formerly used not to observe that ceremony, 
but after he saw Mas.' practice it he also adopted it. No 
person by their laws can eat of watermelons, pumpkins 
or com before the assembling of the people. 
Hans van Luber and his wife both speak on high 
terms of the Bushmen and Bushwomen they have had; 
some have been with them for at least 2 5 years and 
.. , This information must have been given to Smith by the Matabele 
who accompanied him back to Cape Town, and who have not hitherto 
been mentioned by Smith. The chief member of the party was 
Mncumbati. This passage shows that the Feast of the First Fruits was 
still being celebrated by Mzilikazi's people, although they had been 
more than ten years away from Zululand . 
... At Kabalonta's kraal in Zululand. 
308 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
have always behaved well. Mentions that Cornelius 
Nieukirk,643 who has had no children, had a number 
of Bushmen, and that he and his wife used to treat 
their children as if their own. Everything that was 
used in the house they used to partake of, and at times 
when men used to visit them they would say •• Old 
master, you must not give all the bread to the men 
for I must have a piece.,, When they grew up they 
all at once without reason of any description ran off 
and left the two old people. 
29 DECEMBER (TUESDAY).644 
30 DECEMBER (WEDNESDAY). 
31 DECEMBER (THURSDAY). 
1 JANUARY (FRIDAY) 1836. 
2 JANUARY (SATURDAY). 
3 JANUARY (SUNDAY). 
4 JANUARY (MONDAY). 
Early in the day reached Graaff Reynet, three 
wagons and the cart :first with oxen belonging to 
Grobler, the other three with our own oxen only some 
time afterwards. Towards evening some of the people 
drunk, but to an extent far short of what I expected. 
Engaged some wagons belonging to the farmers to 
convey the baggage, etc. to the bay. 6411 
"' Of Rhenosterfontein. See map . 
... No entries for 29, 30, 31 December, 1, 2 and 3 January. 
"' Algoa Bay. 
ANDREW SMITH DIARY 309 
5 JANUARY (TUESDAY). 
Engaged moving the contents of our wagons to the 
hired wagons. Oxen sent back to Grobler's. 
6 JANUARY (WEDNESDAY). 
Sent the following articles to Mr. Biddolph tHe to 
remain there till instructions should be received from 
the Committee. The following were left: 
4 Wagons with trak tow rims 647 etc. complete. 
1 Cart do. 
A quantity of shot and ball. 
A . f 648 quantity o ..... . 
A parcel of iron pins. 
2 dried ox hides. 
1 eland skin. 
1 mill, etc. 
2 watercasks. 
A quantity of tools. 
A quantity of sambucs, 13 in number. 
2 double b[ arrelled] percussion guns. 
1 do. rifle do. 
5 powder flasks. 
5 shot belts. 
Three picks. 
3 spades, two broken. 
2 powder canisters. 
6 small axes, most broken. 
111 J. B. Biddulph, the former partner of A. G. Bain, the trader• 
hunter. 
"' Trektouw riems. 
"' Word indecipherable. 
310 ANDREW SMITH DIARY 
5 wagons left town on the road; the sixth to leave 
at midnight. 
7 JANUARY (THURSDAY). 
Joined the wagons in the afternoon at Hans 
Kloppers', and then started and rode eight hours. 
8 JANUARY (FRIDAY). 
Threatening rains towards evening. Passed Zwarte 
Ruggens range 649 and halted about 2 hours to south 
of range. 
9 JANUARY (SATURDAY). 
During last night and this morning a considerable 
quantity of rain fell. Started about 11 a.m. 
"" Zwartruggens range, rnuth of Graaft'·Reinet, on the way to 
Algoa Bay. 
APPENDIX I. 
Addenda and Corrigenda to Volume I. 
Page. Line. 
11 12 For "Von'' read "Van." 
B 32 For "McGregor" read "McGrigor." The mistake was 
made by Alexander Michie, author of the Memoir. He 
2S' 
26 
33 
3S' 
40 
46 
48 
49 
7'i 
96 
122 
147 
lS'O 1n 
1S'8 
189 
198 
226 
237 
239 
repeats it on page 21, line 18. 
1 S' Litubaruba was actually several miles south of the 
present-day Molepolole. 
2 The missionary in question was James Archbell, of the 
Wesleyan Missionary Society, and not Robert Moffat. 
For "McGregor" read "McGrigor." 6 
33 
4 
16 
34 
James Terry was Captain Edie's soldier•servant. 
For "Mr. von Ludwig" read "Baron von Ludwig." 
For "Baron Ludwig" read "Baron von Ludwig." 
Add that Dr. Smith had previously, while on this very 
Expedition, prescribed for the wife of Rev. John Edwards 
at Lishuane. See Edwards, J., Fifty Tears of Mission 
Life in South Africa, London, 1886, p. 9S'. 
6 Add that a long abstract hitherto unpublished was sent 
by Moffat to the London Missionary Society. I hope 
to print it elsewhere. 
36 The Bakaa Mountains are near Shoshong, not Serowe_. 
Footnote 2. For "South Namaqualand" read "Great Namaqua• 
land." 
16 For "Thurdsay" read "Thursday." 
Footnote 2. Stow's work was written about 1880; it was, 
however, published in 190S'. 
Footnote 1. For mal{_abi read makgahe. 
Footnote 2. For "Moroko" read "Moroka." 
Footnote 3. Professor Schapera prefers the form Moletsane. 
Footnote 3. For "Tlaping" read "Thlaping." 
8 See P.· l fO, footnote 2. 
3 For 'noon" read "nine." 
Footnote 2. For "Genadenthal" read "Genadendal." 
Footnote 1. For makabi read mal{_gabe. 
8 For ""p.m.,. read. ua.m."' 
8 For "31 January (Sunday)" read "l February (Sunday)." 
In my footnote 3 to this page I pointed out that Smith 
had confused his dates and that I had corrected all of 
them. Unfortunately by an oversight the wrong pages 
were sent to the printer, with the result that I merely 
made matters worse. I now give the correct dates for 
the various entries. 
312 APPENDIX 
Page. Line. 
239 13 For "l February (Monday)" read "2 February 
(Monday)." 
241 
242 
244 
247 
247 
249 
271 
25'4 
261 
266 
277 
279 
289 
333 
344 
374 
3H 
367 
381 
397 
8 Insert the date "3 February (Tuesday)." Smith origin• 
ally wrote it in at this point, but later deleted it. 
3 For "2 February (Tuesday)" read "4 February (Wed• 
nesday}." 
For "3 February (Wednesday)•• read "5' February 
(Thursday)." 
14 For "4 February (Thursday)" read "6 February 
(Friday)." 
20 For "7 February (Friday)" read "7 February (Satur· 
day)." 
17 For "6 February (Saturday)" read "8 February (Sun• 
day)." Note the entry "Attended Service," etc. 
24 No date is required here. The text should form part 
of the entry for 8 February (Sunday). 
For "8 February (Monday)" read "9 February 
(Monday}." 
16 For "9 February (Tuesday)" read "10 February 
(Tuesday)." 
18 For "10 February (Wednesday)" read "11 February 
Wednesday)." 
17 For "11 February (Thursday)" read "12 February 
(Thursday)." 
7 For "12 February (Friday)" read "13 February 
(Friday)." 
4 Ddete the date "13 February (Sunday)" and also 
footnote 1. 
7 The date "14 February (Saturday)" is correct. So 
are all succeeding dates. 
Footnote 2. For "Moletsani" read "Moletsane." 
Footnote 3. For "Tlhaping" read "Thlaping." 
Footnote 6. For "1<.oro" read "mokoro." 
Footnote 2. For "Millin" read "Millen." 
Footnote 7. For "Ietlhuare" read "Ietlhware." 
Footnote 1. For "hadi" read "tladi." 
Footnote 7. Professor Schapera suggests that this tribe was 
called Makoba. 
Footnote 3. Smith was right and I was wrong.. The chiers 
name was Leshage, and his people were Tlokwa. 
Footnote 1. This is wrong. T hey were the (Baga) Maidi. 
See Arrowsmith's map of the Cape of Good Hope, 1842. 
Footnote l. For "botlhabasatsi" read •• botlhabatsatsi." 
Footnote 2. For "Motsiganong" read "Motsheganong." 
Footnote 3. The word should be mal(.atane, or Kallir mdon1. 
APPENDIX 313 
Page. Line. 
405 Footnote 3. Professor Schapera points out that Smith's 
orthography is c:orrect. Melita was the c:ommon, though 
erroneous, method of rendering the name of the town 
in English, and it appears thus in most old maps and 
books of travel. 
406 Footnote 1. Professor Schapera suggests Kgale Hill, the site 
of the present Roman Catholic: Mission near Gaberones. 
407 Footnote 2. For "Ratbou" read "Ratlou." 
411 Footnote 3. Professor Schapera considers that Smith was 
correct, as ipoga is from the root boga, to endure. 
Note: There are a number of instances where the orthography of 
native names is in doubt; but as there are confilcting views on 
this question I have left them as they are. 
APPENDIX ·II 
A NOTE ON THE BusHMAN AND HO'ITENTOT WollD8 IN THB 
Dww OP J\Nouw SwrrH. 
l. Bushman, by Miss D. P. Blee~. 
I find the words most similar to the lxam and I/ti BuShman 
, lan~es, which is not surprising in a Bushman found near Hopetown. 
The fo owing list contains Smith•s words ~ith the same words in those 
two languages of Southern Bushman, and al5o in =#<homani where possible. 
with remarks on tht probable spelling. 
Word Smith fxam 1111 :1:1!,homani 
sun ~0114 lf~M'n //~l5r l/~N'andfl? 
(click lost) 
moon quarn !~a!~aro !~OTB 
(!~uara) 
&tar qualtati ~watan f/~wei&a 
cow 
~ual{an) 
XOTO /aiti xama 
bull gooa XOTO gWai 
(?male) ' (xoro goai) 
· horse ~ar~a para hasa ha:si 
(?para~a) (perd) (horse} 
tooth ~uai l/~?t IJ~ir /l~U 
(click lost) 
n~ nu tu tnunu, /ntlfu fnutu /vutu 
(click lost) 
ear igwantu !nuntu !nwe:ntu 
(our ear, ears) lnulnuntu 
eye itsaho ts?axi:iu ts?axu ts?ax®, ts?axu 
(?our eye) 
penis · . ~ana !~weitan 
three !nwana Inwoma !nona 
Caffers 00 Jl~oxaitt:n /u 
(click lost) 
Orange River o~a ~"i. ~H' ~"!'. lt.1$4 
APPENDIX 315' 
- Other rivers unknown, or not noted down. Meinhof gives !oa for 
the name of the Vaal River; the !usa of the Langeberg Bushmen may 
really apply to that river. 
I think that Smith uses c for the dental click I, and q for ! I think 
his oo stands for u. 
The #{homani words I have taken from Professor Maingard's paper 
on The tkhomani Dialect of Bushman; the other words from A Com• 
pm-ative Vocabulary of Bushman Languages. 
2. Hottentot (Gru].ua and KDTana), by ProfessOT L. F. Maingard. 
The Griqua ·and Korana words in the Diary were accurately noted 
by Smith, with two qualifications. · 
Firstly, his phonetic rendering of the clicks is imperfect, as might 
~ expected from the date of his writing the Diary. 
Secondly, in one or· two instan~, the words given do not correspond 
to their present-day forms, and it is probable that he heard them badly. 
The following list contains the words, arranged in four columns. 
The first of these gives the English equivalents, the second Smith's Griqua 
words, the third Smith's Korana words and the last modern phonetic 
transcriptions of the Korana words. 
English Smith's Gr;qua Smith's KOTana Modem Korana 
sun SOTep SOTtp • sOTep 
moon kaa kaa //~& 
star ~ame kame /"amOTOS ~ 
cow {amash {amash gamaf 
bull aramap aramap .;/:ll.aramap , 
horse haap haap ha:p 
tooth kangup kangup, {,J~: kongku. teeth 
nose ;iuep nuep *kuip 
·ear ruzup , kaip nangku {//naup, /nauku 
eye ~p moop mu:p penis oakai ~x!>ap 
Caffers bri~utJ.S biee {~~~ 
Black River nu gariep t !garip 
Vaal River hy gariep !garip 
Oranize River ~au ~aip cua ? man, Griquas kau ~hwep 
man ~oi·e khwei 
one arrbw qui aap /~ui :fn:p 
'? 
' 
316 APPENDIX 
. English 
two arrows 
father 
woman 
women 
rain 
thunder 
lightning 
Smith's GriqU4 
ta tu 
taraques • 
taracoidi 
toop 
goorukuku 
tabacocu · 
Smith 
kai quaip, a good man 
kat quin, good men 
kat haap, a 'good hone 
kai haan, good horses 
ga quaip, a cunning man 
ga haap, a cunning horse 
ohe, cui 
two, kBm 
three, gona 
four, ~au 
five, koro 
six, l:Juane 
seven, hungon 
eight, kdsi 
nine, quisa 
ten, dcd 
Smith's Korana Modem Koran& 
kaam.dalta /kam :fa:ka 
tatu ta tap 
tara/{hwes 
tarakhwedi 
tu:p 
!kuruku (LI.) 
tabaku (p .) 
Modem Phonetic 'Transcription 
!kai khwep 
!kai khwma 
!kai ha:p 
!kai ha:n 
ga: khwep 
~a: ha:p 
/kui 
/kam 
!nona 
haka 
koro 
lnani 
hailJtJ:'il/ 
l/kdsi 
gue&i 
djisi 
APPENDIX Ill 
'The Wor~s of Sir Andrew Smith, MD., K.C.B., F.R.S. 
I. Published. 
1817 [?] "Report of Cases treated at the Ophthalmic Hospital, 
Chatham," communicated to Professor Thomson, in 
EdinbuTgh Medical and SuTgical Journal, xvii, pp. 349-
375 and 495-509; xviii, pp. 509-519; xix, pp. 13-26. 
1819 "De Variolis Secondariis" (On Secondary Small Pox). This, 
Smith's thesis for the degree of M.D., is in Edinburgh 
University Library. 
-- [?] "On Remittent Fever." I cannot obtain details of this 
work. 
"A Case of Malformation of the Kidneys," in BdinbuTgh 
Medical and SuTgical Journal, xv, pp. 90---92. 
1826 A Descriptive Catalogue of the South African Museum, 
Cape Town. 
-- [?] Instractions for preparing and PTeseruing the different obiects 
of the Animal, Vegetable and Mineral Kingdoms, Cape 
1827 
1829 
Town. 
"Queries respecting the Tiger Wolf, or Cape Wolf," in 
Edinburgh N:ew Philosophical Journal, ii, EP· 204-205. 
"Descriptions of two Quadrupeds (Hyaena villosa et Hyrax 
arboreus} inhabiting the South of Africa, about the 
Cape of Good Hope," in 'Transactions of the Linnaen 
Society, xv, p. 460. 
"Contributions to the Natural History of South Africa," 
in Zoological JouTnal. iv, p. 443. 
-- [?] "On some new SJ>ecies of Birds from South Africa," in 
PToceedings of Com. Zoological Society, i, p. 11, and 
also in Philosophical Magazine, ser. 2, ix, p. 61. 
1830 
1831 
1832 
1833 
1833 
"A Description of the Birds inhabiting the South of Africa," 
in South African ~uarterly Journal, i, pp. 1-17; 105-
120; 225-241; 380-392. . 
"On the Origin and History of the Bushmen," in South 
African ~uarterly Journal, i, pp. 171-189. Reprinted 
in Philosophical Magazine, ix (1831). 
"Contributions to the Natural History of South Africa," 
in South African ~uarteTly Journal, v, pp. 11-H. 
"Notice of a Collection of Birds, Land Shells, and Corals," 
presented by him, in Proceedings of the Zoological 
Society, i, p. 1. 
"On the Zoology of South Africa," in Proceedings of the 
Zoological Society, ii, p. 25. 
"Letters on several Subjects in Zoology (Hyuna vulgaris, 
Aquila uulturina, Vultur auricularis, etc.)," in Proceed­
ings of the Zoological Society, iv, p. 45. 
"Description of Crithagra albogularis, Corythaix concolor, 
and Prancolinus N:atalensis," in South African ~uarterly 
JouTnal (second series). p. 48. 
318 
1833 
1835 
1836 
1837 
1838 
1838-49 
1854-58 
APPENDIX 
"Description of Accipite-r Madagascariensis, Glareola ocularis 
and &illus Madagascariensis, in South African !tuarterly 
Journal (second series), P.· 80. 
"Description of 'frichophorus flaventus, Halycon Swainsonii, 
etc., in South African !tuarterly Journal (second series), 
pp. 143-144. 
"An Epitome of African Zoology," in South African !tuar• 
terly Journal (second series). Ten instalments on pp. 
16, 49, 81, 113, 145, 169, 209, 233, 273 and 305. 
Report of the Expedition f 01' Exploring Central Africa, 
Cape Town. 
Catalogue of the South African Museum: now exhibiting in 
the Egypban Hall, Piccadilly. 
"Exhibition of the Drawings made during the Expedition 
into the Interior of South Africa," in Proceedings of 
the Zoolor·cal Society, p. 49. 
"Exhibition o some small Quadrupeds collected in South 
Africa," in Proceedings of the Zoological Society, p. 69. 
"Revision of the Groups included in the Linnean genus 
Squalus," in Proceedings of the Zoological Society, p. 85. 
Reprinted in Ann. Nat. Hist., i, p. 72. 
"The Characters of two new Genera (Pleurotuchus and 
Chrysopelea) of South African Reptiles, with descrip· 
tions of species belonging to each," in Magazine of 
Zoology and Botany, i, pp. 141-145. 
"Characters of a new Form in the Fringillidae; with a 
description of the only species yet referable to it 
(Philetairus)," in Magazine of Natural History, i, pp. 
535-536. 
"Contributions to South African Zoology," in Magazine of 
Natural History, ii, pp. 30--3 3 and 90--94. 
Illustrations of the Zoology of South Africa; consisting chiefly 
of Figures and Descriptions of the objects of Natural 
History, collected during an Expedition into the InteriOT 
of South Africa, in the years 1834-1836, London, 
4 vols. quarto. 
Various official Reports dealing with the organisation of the 
Army Medical Department. 
II. Unpublished (In Manuscript). 
1824 (and onwards) Fourteen Volumes, housed in the South African 
Museum, Cape Town. For details see Vol. i, pp. 11-12. 
1828-33 Two Volumes of Notes on South African Birds, housed in 
the Transvaal Museum, Pretoria. 
Note: So far as I have been able, I have checked Smith's works from 
the publications themselves, and all the manuscripts; but in 
the case of a few of them to which I could not obtain access, 
I have had to rely on the information supplied by Alexander 
Michie. 
INDEX 
Compiled by DR. AUSTIN ROBERTS, Transvaal Museum 
Aapies Riv.: ii, 12. 
Aberdeen, Earl of: i, 22. 
Abiti: ii, 174. 
Abraham: i, 158. 
Accipiter, black (Micronisus gabar): 
ii, 114. 
Accipiter gabar (Micronisus g.): i, 
206. 
Accipiter musicus (= Melierax m.): 
i, 165, 167. 
Adam: ii, 247. 
Africaner (Jager): i, 202, 203, 204, 
256, 257, 258, 302, 309. 
Africaner (Jonker): i, 273. 
Agama: i, 313, 319. 
Albrecht, Rev. Christian: i, 256. 
Algyra No. 111: i, 314, 318. 
Algoa Bay: i, 39, 108; ii, 14, 308, 
310. 
Allison, Rev.: i, 20, 125, 128. 
Amadoda: ii, 67. 
Amahlobi: i, n. 
Ama;aha (machaha): i, 353; ii, 67, 
78, 246. 
Amangwane (Amanguan) : i, H; 
ii, 169. 
Amapimpi: i, 51. 
Amaxosa: ii, 66. 
Amer gambianus (= Plectropterus 
g.): i, 216. 
Andrew Smith's Manuscripts: i, 11, 
12, 55; ii, 318. 
Andries: i, 87, 198, 359; ii, 129, 
130, 131, 133, 295. 
Anthrax (bloedsiekte) : i, 241, 242, 
247, 396. 
Anthus capmsis (= Macronyx c.): 
i, 235. 
Aquila vulturina (= Pteroaetus ver• 
reauxi): i, 137. 
Araminice: i, n, 150. 
Arbousset, Rev. Thomas: i, 105; 
ii, 172. 
Archbell, Rev. James: i, 20, 109, 
113, 117, 119, 123, 124, 147, 
149, 150, 155, 156, 237, 374, 
375, 382; ii, 101. 
Ardea (= cinerea): i, 217. 
Ardea, New ( Ardea gutturalis A. 
Smith, Ardeiralla sturmi Wagl): 
i, 174. 
Arend; i, 355, 356, 357, 379; ii, 
255. 
Armstrong, Capt.: i, 151. 
Arrow poison: ii, 283. 
Asclepedia: i, 132. 
Assegais: i, 169, 311, 354, 360; 
ii, 111, 122, 136, 1 n, 161, 183, 
188, 194, 195, 214, 223, 224, 
252, 267, 271, 272, 278, 279, 
292. 
Baanco: ii, 189. 
Baatjie, Carolus: i, 39, 117, 119. 
Baba: ii, 163, 164, 166, 182, 184, 
186, 257, 259, 260. 
Babariri: ii, 174, 176, 179, 194, 
203, 206, 224. 
320 INDEX 
Baboons (Cynocephalus ursinus, 
Papio ursinus): i, 135', 311, 390, 
392; ii, 90, 177, 2 rn. 
Batclama: i, S'2. 
Baclaru, see Batlaru. 
Bacompa: i, 35'4; ii, 137. 
Badenhorst: i, 176, 182, 192. 
Bagamotsile (Hamacili): ii, 190, 
216. 
Bagres: i, 234; ii, 160. 
Bags for water bottles: i, 303. 
Bahala: ii, 194. 
Bahamachoosa: i, S'2. 
Bahapoolan: i, S'2. 
Bahapootsa: i, S'2. 
Baharootzie Mtns.: i, 35'3. 
Bahole: i, 391. 
Bahookaing: i, S'l. 
Bain, A. G.: i, 10, 25', 41, 42, 
43, 44, 62, 79, 201, 244, 325', 
328, 329; ii, 37, 38, 47. 
Bakaa (Baka, Bacas): i, S'l; ii, 42, 
175', 176, 201, 202, 203, 215', 
216, 217. 
Bakalaka (Bagalaka): i, S'2, 35'4; 
ii, 136, 137, 190, 193, 194, 201, 
214, 222, 223, 224. 
Bakatla: i, S'2; ii, 1 S'4, 1 S'6, 184, 
187, 189, 218, 219, 25'1. 
Bakgalagadi (Bakalahari): i, 18, 
279, 310, 35'3, 391, 392, 407; ii, 
223, 271. 
Balaka: i, S'2; ii, 190, 191, 216. 
Balen, Cobus van: ii, 284. 
Balen, Piet van: ii, 284. 
Balie, Lenaart: i, 214. 
Bamafatlha (Bamahatla, Bamaha· 
kla): i, S'2; ii, 176, 189, 206. 
Bamakop: i, 407. 
Bamalete, see Lete. 
Bamangwato: i, 19, 271, 278, 279, 
289, 292, 35'3, 35'4, 35'7, 405', 
406, 407; ii, 215', 216, 217, 219, 
223, 268 (see Ngwato). 
Bamatan: ii, lS' S'. 
Bamatsili: ii, lS' S'. 
Bamodikele (Bamooricail): i, S'2; 
ii, 176, 185', 189. 
Bamonahaing: ii, 278. 
Bamooricail : i, S'2; ii, 1 7 6, 18 S', 
189. 
Bampootoon: ii, 174. 
Bangcloofoo: i, S'2. 
Bank Fontein: i, 80, 81. 
Bapaholi: i, S'2. 
Bapiri (Bapiring, Phiring): i, S'2; 
ii, 15'3, 1 S'S', 1 S'6, 278, 279. 
Bapookoo: i, S'2. 
Bapoola: ii, 189. 
Bapootchuan: i, S'2. 
Bapootooma: i, S'2. 
Bapuroo: ii, 75'. 
Bapuroo•chuana (Phudutswana): i, 
333. 
Bapuroo•huroo (Phuduhudu): i, 
333. 
Baquain, see Kwena. 
Barend, Barend: i, 128, lS'l, 15'9, 
163, 190, 214, 231, 281, 285', 
289, 290, 375', 381, 382, 384, 
386, 387, 388, 393, 401; ii, 39, 
65', 66, 172, 276. 
Barend, Field Cornet: i, 178, 181. 
Barend, Hans: ii, 263. 
Barend, Nicholas: i, 25'9. 
Barend, Philip: i, 178, 181. 
Barend, Piet: i, 232, 335'; ii, 263. 
Barkhuizen: ii, 285'. 
Barolong: i, S'l, 113, 147, 149, 
271, 277, 306, 310, 313, 319, 
334, 344, 346, 35'4, 35'8, 363, 
367, 369, 374, 388, 401, 402, 
INDEX 321 
404, 407, 408, 412, 413; ii, 37, 
264, 267, 279. 
Bartlett, Rev. John: ii, 276. 
Bartman, Claas: i, 207. 
Bartman, Piet: i, 206, 207, 208; 
ii, 304, 305', 306. 
Barutsana: ii, 278, 279. 
Barwa (Baroa, Booroa): i, S'l; ii, 
204, 217, 279. 
Baskets: i, 292; ii, S'4, 77, 241. 
Bastards: i, 61, 80, 90, 117, 123, 
140, 149, 15'2, 176, 192, 232, 
233, 328, 362, 364, 382; ii, 117, 
163, 274. 
Basuto, see Sotho. 
Batau: i, S'2; ii, 37, 278, 279. 
Batluaroo: i, 333. 
Batlapin (Tlhaping): i, S'l, 212, 
213, 219, 225', 234, 242, 271, 
272, 278, 279, 280, 281, 313, 
324, 332, 333, 337, 338, 344, 
346, 35'1, 35'8, 35'9, 363, 365', 
366, 369, 374, 388, 391, 396, 
406, 407; ii, 34, 37, 109, 202, 
266, 268, 279. 
Batlaru (Baclaru): i, 277, 282, 284, 
299, 302, 308, 310, 322, 337, 
35'0, 363, 365', 366, 367, 368, 
369, 373, 388, 406, 407; ii, 162. 
Batlathlaquan: i, 391. 
Batsatsing: i, 396. 
Beads: i, lOS', 225', 229, 25'0, 279, 
35'4, 360, 382, 395', 396, 398; 
ii, 122, 123, 136, 137, 140, 141, 
193, 194, 201, 219, 220, 231, 
285', 292, 307. 
Beans: i, 346, 349; ii, 124. 
Beaufort, Capt. 31, 32, 34. 
Bechuanas (Tswana): i, 54, 61, 76, 
126, 204, 205', 215', 225', 232, 
240, 245', 270, 271, 290, 294, 
332, 35'4, 360, 365', 368, 370, 
372, 383, 384, 385', 386, 395', 
397, 402, 406; ii, 90, 108, 118, 
134, 140, 142, 143, 144, 145', 
147, 148, lS'O, lS'l, 15'8, 161, 
162, 165', 166, 167, 168, 174, 
175', 179, 181, 183, 186, 188, 
197, 200, 201, 203, 214, 215', 
222, 224, 239, 246, 25'1, 264, 
265', 267, 268, 270, 278, 282. 
Beesiput: ii, 302. 
Beer: ii, 62, 64, 70, 74, 76, 122, 
124, 140, 180, 243, 25'1, 25'6, 
25'7. 
Bell, Charles: i, S', 6, 7, 9, 35', 
40, 42, 82, 87, 90, 100, 104, 
119, 138, 142, 167, 346; ii, 10, 
12, 22, 23, 62, 81, 83, 95', 144, 
25'5', Pl. 30. 
Bell, Colonel: ii, 19. 
Bellows: i, 109, 1 B; ii, 201, 292. 
Berend, Hans: i, 367. 
Bergenaars: i, 1 S'2, 185', 199, 214, 
216, 280, 363, 368, 370, 372, 
373, 375, 393. 
Berghover, David: i, 384, 387. 
Besigha: ii, 278. 
Bethulie: i, SS'. 
Bezuidenhout: i, 399; ii, 95. 
Biddulph, J. B.: i, 25'; ii, 309. 
Bird Lime: ii, 148. 
Bird traps: ii, 149. 
Bisondermeid: i, 25'6. 
Bitter apple: i, 408. 
Blaauwbank: i, 190. 
Black bird, smaller than a crow: 
ii, 112. 
Black Buck, Sable Antelope (Hip• 
potragus niger): ii, 79. 
Black Modder (Riet) Riv.: i, 173, 
322 INDEX 
174, 184, 190, 193, 197, Pis. 
16, 17. 
Black Riv. (Orange): i, 68, 16f, 
207, 208, 290, 3f8, 370, 407; ii, 
283, 293, 304 (see Orange Riv.). 
Bleeding operation: i, 273, 282, 
35'1, Pl. 23. 
Blesbok (Damaliscus albifrons): i, 
103, 147, 171, 390. 
Blinkklip: i, 22f, 28f, 394, 406; 
ii, 27, 268. 
Blood of game: i, 346, 390. 
Bloom, Andries: i, 149, lS'l, 379. 
Bloom, Jan: i, 139, 149, 1 H, 1 f8, 
194, 203, 263, 281, 28f, 326, 
327, 336, 3f3, 377, 378, 379, 
380; ii, f3, 66, 98, 172, 243, 
244, 261, 262, 263. 
Bloom, Jan's sister: i, 379. 
Bloom, Piet: i, 204. 
Bloom, Wm.: i, 149. 
Boats: i, 49, 279; ii, 271, 296, 
297, 300, 301. 
Boers: i, 179, 182, 189, 194, 19f, 
196, 3f8. 
Boetsap (Bootschap): i, 2f, 44, 
190, 227, 231, 233, 387; ii, 39, 
64. 
Bogachoe: ii, 22f. 
Bogosi (Bogos): i, 40f; ii, 176, 
206. 
Bomareme: i, 278. 
Bondelswarts: i, 7'. 
Booi, Sare!: i, 96. 
Boratiri : i, 407. 
Borne, Claas: i, 393. 
Boschies Spruit: i, 81. 
Botamaha: i, 396. 
Botha, Andries: i, 33, 86, 400; 
ii, 13, 60, 84, 87, 95', 113, 127, 
128, lff, lf8, 182, 184, 186, 
200, 206, 2f6, 2f9. 
Botha, Dirk: ii, 28f. 
Botletle (Batlete, Bokitele, Booclai· 
teli) Riv.: i, 3f4; ii, 136, 137, 
21 f, 223. 
Bourke, Sir R.: i, 14, 371. 
Bows and arrows, quivers: i, 121, 
169, 280, 287; ii, 136, 187, 188, 
190, 191, 195', 214, 223. 
Brachypus (red vent): i, 20f. 
Brink, Hon. J. G.: i, 33; ii, 16. 
Briquas: i, 164, 16f. 
Brits: ii, 12. 
Broadbent, Rev. Samuel: i, 126, 
338. 
Brown, Mr.: i, f8. 
Bucco, new: ii, 91, 147. 
Buchu: i, 376; ii, 286, 291. 
Buchuanas, see Bechuanas. 
Bucephalus, New (Sassaby, Bastard 
Hartebeest): ii, 30, 42, 43, 45', 
49, 86, 117, 126, lS'f, 1S'6, 163, 
181, 182. 
Bucorvus: ii, 1 '7. 
Buffalo (Syncerus caffer): i, 171, 
286, 309, 349, 408; ii, f6, 60, 
80, 106, llf, 140, 14f, 147, 
lff, lf6, lf8, 204, 210, 228. 
Buffalo Weaver (Bubalornis niger): 
ii, 143, 144. 
Buis, Coenrad de (Buys): i, 9f, 
121, 268, 3ff, 35'6, 35'7, 364, 
393; ii, 76, 180, 206, 219, 284. 
Bulabul (Puff-adder, Bitis aTietans): 
i, 308, 309. 
Buprestidae: i, 217. 
Burchell, Dr.: i, 25'. 
Burning valleys: ii, 40. 
Burrow, John: i, 3f, 40, 42, 90, 
INDEX 323 
102, 174, 319, 323, 339; ii, 52, 
62, 192, 2H, 257. 
Burrow, Rev. Dr.: i, 29. 
Bushmen: i, 74, 84, 97, 99, 111, 
117, 120, 121, 122, 160, 161, 
165, 168, 179, 181, 189, 191, 
192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 207, 
212, 223, 227, 232, 234, 235, 
258, 285, 286, 287, 289, 301, 
303, 307, 342, 344, 362, 368, 
369, 370, 381, 388, 407, 409; 
ii, 136, 165, 187, 266, 267, 273, 
279, 281, 282, 283, 289, 302, 
303, 304, 306, 307, 308 (see 
Masarwa). 
Bushman Fontein: i, 185, 186. 
Bushman, Jan: i, 207, 208. 
Bushman Riv.: i, 186. 
Buyskes, Gert: i, 197. 
Gaffer Cranes (Balearica .,.egu• 
lorum): i, 137. 
Gaffer vin.ks: i, 167, 168. 
Calabashes: ii, 239, 285. 
Caledon, Lord: i, 93. 
Caledon Riv.: i, 18, 43, 86, 89, 
93, 98, 99, 120, 121, 132, 133, 
142. 
Cape Agulhas: ii, 284. 
Calepi: ii, 79, 112, 117, 132, 135, 
139, 141, 244, 252, 2H. 
Camels (= Cameleopards, Giraffes, 
Giraff is camelopa.,.dalis capensis) : 
i, 240, 271, 278, 297, 311, 408; 
ii, 31, 35, 40, 119, 194, 204, 
205. 
Campbell, Rev. John: i, 25, 164, 
202, 357; ii, 10, 250. 
Campbell (town): i, 44, 201, 207, 
273; ii, 14, 280, Pl. 29. 
Campher, Rolph: ii, 284. 
Canacamora: i, 372, 402; ii, 267. 
Caprimulgus pectoT"alis: i, 217; ii, 
274. 
Captain, Jan: i, 1 n, 163, 191, 
203, 231, 381. 
CaTduelis squamatus (= Sporopipes 
squamifrons): i, 318; ii, 87. 
Casalis, Rev. Eugene: i, 104, 105, 
106, 107, 110, 111, 112, 113, 
115. 
Cashan Mtns., see Magaliesberg. 
Cat leopard (Serva!, Leptailurus 
seroal): i, 278. 
Cat with black stripes: ii, 196, 204. 
Cattle posts: i, 293, 294, 335; ii, 
119, 139, 148, 160, 168, 225, 
236, 245, 249, 251, Pl. 7. 
Cattle sickness (?): i, 301. 
Ceremonies at menstruation: i, 343, 
381, 411; ii, 26. 
Ceremony at sickness: i, 343, 344, 
345, 349, 395, 413. 
Ceremonies for war: i, 274, 411, 
413, Pl. 31. 
Ceremony of bogueTa: i, 394, 395, 
398, Pl. 29. 
Ceremony of boyak: i, 339, 395, 
397, 398, 400, Pl. 30. 
Certhilauda garrula (Chersomanes 
albofaseiata): i, 167. 
Ceturi : i, 3 91. 
Chaka: i, H, 16, 133, 392; ii, 98, 
138, 172, 260, 261, 307. 
Chaihip: i, 194. 
Challahenga, see Kalahari. 
Chameleon (Chamaeleon diltpis): 
i, 163, 224, 234. 
Chase, J. C.: i, 25, 26, 28, 45. 
Chauane (Tawane) : i, 320. 
Childbirth: i, 272, 351, 409. 
Chief (~gosi): i, 408. 
INDEX 
Choai, Great: ii, 10, 34, 264, 265. 
Choai, Little: ii, 33, 266. 
Chocun: ii, 178. 
Cht'ysopilea: ii, 69. 
Chue (Heuning Vlei): i, 277, 305, 
310, 316, 320, 324. 
Claani (Tlhane) : i, 361. 
Clabalican Riv.: ii, 115, 118. 
Clampan: i, 371. 
Clarke, Sir James: i, 23. 
Cleansing after killing somebody: 
i, 410, 411, 413, Pl. 31; ii, 199. 
Cloete, Jacob: i, 199, 277, 363, 
393. 
Cloete, Kurasie: i, 366, 372. 
Clubs (kieries): i, 311, 360. 
Cobiniani: i, 391. 
Cobra capdlo: i, 219, 289. 
Cole, Sir Lowry: i, 17, 26, 58, 67. 
Colesberg: i, 43, 62, 63, 67, 68, 
Pl. 2. 
Coluber: i, 319; ii, 99. 
Columba bidncta: ii, 199. 
Columba capensis (= Oena c.): i, 
237, 290; ii, 199. 
Comanqua: i, 195. 
Commando Nek: ii, 12, 98. 
Common Sparrow (= Passef' mda-
nurusJ: i, 165, 170, 217. 
Compass Berg: i, 58, 59. 
Copper: ii, 178. 
Copris: i, 299. 
Coracias caudatus: ii, 145, 149, 157. 
Cot'acias indicu.s: ii, 239. 
Cornet, Claas: i, 366, 367. 
Corkerell, H.: i, 35. 
Corn, growing, etc.: i, 394, 412; 
ii, 52, 54, 66, 135, 139, 141, 
144, 146, 173, 201, 203, 223, 
156, 257, 268, 270, 280, 285. 
Corvus albicollis (= Cor11ultuf' tJ.): 
i, 137. 
Corous scapulatus (C. albus): i. 
137, 165, 189, 217, 237, 304. 
Corythaixoides typicu.s (C. con­
colot'): ii, 51, 58, 88, 120, 144, 
145, 148. 
Cotton, Mr.: i, 44. 
Coturnix 11ulgaris ( C. coturnix 
africanus) : ii, 49. 
Cowan, Dr.: i, 39, 406; ii, 180, 
190. 
Crabs: i, 168, 2!4. 
Cratopus, New (C., 'Turdoides ;ar­
dineiJ: ii, 46, 67, 177. 
Crippled, deformed or insane per­
sons: i, 345, 390. 
Crocodile Riv.: ii, 12. 
Crocodile: i, 280; ii, 32, 60, 80, 
81, 82, 83, 106, 181, 195, 204, 
229, 237, 239. 
Cucumis (prophilarum) : i, 297. 
Cupping: i, 273, 351, Pl. 23. 
Cutting wood superstitions: i, 336. 
Dagga smoking: i, 312; ii, 254. 
Dakka (dagga, Leonotis leonurus) : 
i, 312. 
Dahoi: i, 197. 
Damaras (Hereros) : i, 246, 277, 
278, 279, 280, 311, 354, 371, 
372; ii, 66, 267. 
Dancing: i, 199, 395, 398, 400; 
ii, 59, 64, 66, 7 3, 77. 138, 179, 
254, 291. 
Daniell, Samuel: i, 9. 
Daniel's Kuil: i, 379, 387, 393, 
403; ii, 276, 282. 
Danster, David: i, 107. 
Daurheip (Derhuip) : i, 150, 1 H, 
157, 166, 167, 195. 
INDEX 32> 
David, Jan: i, 281, 386, 387. 
David, Peter: i, 39, 123, 124, 127, 
U2, 216, 232, 240, 247, 328, 
331, 384, 38S', 386, 387; ii, 6S', 
117, 274. 
Death ceremonies: i, 272, 273, 287, 
339, 341, 3S'l, 393, 394, 39S', 
398; ii, 27, 29, 110, 202, 283, 
291, 292. 
de Bruin, Mr.: i, 76, 77. 
Deentu: i, 277. 
Delagoa Bay: ii, 42. 
de Vries, Piet: i, U2. 
Dibi MakOS1: i, 396. 
Dicrurus: fi, U7, 15'9. 
Digging stones (l{ibi): ii, 283. 
Dilophus gallinaceus (Creatophora 
carunculata): i, 219. 
Dingaan: i, U, 16, 110, 127, 328, 
330; ii, 38, 7S', 78, 98, 101, 
120, 124, 138, 172, 179, 190, 
2,.4, 261, 262. 
Donovan, Lt. : i, 39, 406; ii, 180. 
Doom Fontein: i, 324; ii, 270. 
Douglas: ii, 14. 
Drakensberg: i, Pl. lOA. 
Dress: i, 160, 168, 193, 196, 219, 
279, 337, 391; ii, 106, 137, U6, 
174, 183, 187, 194, 195, 201, 
203, 214, 222, 223, 237, 239, 
246, 267, 268, 270, 271, 273, 
278, 279, 28,.. 
Dreyer, Klaas: i, 277, 280, 299, 
302, 363, 36,., 371, 372, 380. 
Dried meat: i, 141; ii, 119. 
Driefontein: i, 18,.. 
Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmi): i, 278; 
ii, 33, B, 204. 
Duivenaar's Fontein: i, 208; ii, 302, 
303, 30,.. 
D'Urban, Sir Benjamin: i, 32, 33, 
34, 44, S'O; ii, 14, 16, 18, 19. 
du Toit, Marthinus: i, 120, 191; 
ii, 140. 
du Toit (from Winterveld): i, 176. 
Earlobe piercing: ii, 109, 110, 2U, 
223, 224. 
Ear,plates: i, 360. 
Ear,rings: i, 22". 
Earthenware pots: ii, 77, 239, 268, 
279. 
Eating wild animals, Caprice in: 
ii, 207, 208, 292, 293. 
Edie, Lt. (Capt.): i, U, 17, 18, 
26, 40, 42, 4S', 61, 132. 
Edwards, Rev. John: i, 117, 118, 
122, 123, 143, Pl. 11. 
Edwards, Rev. Roger: ii, 2S'6. 
Elanus melanopterus (= E. caeru• 
leus): i, 16,.. 
Eland ('Tau,.otragus oryxJ: i, 107, 
109, 122, 13S', 136, 137, 140, 
142, 240, 278, 408; ii, 42, 44, 
4,., S'O, 163, 204. 
Elandsberg Spruit: i, 99. 
Elandskop: i, 140. 
Elephant (Loxodonta africanus): i, 
284, 286, 367, 38S', 408; ii, 27, 
3,., 42, 70, 77, 78, 80, 84, 87, 
91, 100, 106, 112, 113, 204, 
20S'. 
Engelbrecht, Gert: i, 203, 281. 
Engelbrecht, Paul: i, 203. 
Engelbrecht, Willem: i, 203, 281. 
Enniskilling Pass: i, J7. 
Entsabotloku (Aapies) Riv.: ii, 12. 
Epidemic sickness: ii, 108, 1 rn, 1 S'2, 
164, 199, 219. 
Ef'emicinnyris fusca: i, 283. 
326 INDEX 
&trilda granatina (= Granatina 
granatina): i. 317: ii, 13", 145'. 
Estrilda, New, like Granatina: ii, 67. 
Euphorbia juice: i, 288. 
Expedition, Criticism of: ii, 19. 
Expedition, Map of: ii, 21. 
Expedition results: i, 20, 45'. 
Expedition returns: i, 5'0. 
Expedition, Scientific instruments 
taken on: i, 34. 
Faber, Isaac: i, 193. 
Palco chiqueTa (= ChicqueTa rufi• 
collis daviesi): i, 165'. 
Palco biaTmicus: i, 311. 
Palco mpeTcoloides (MegaceTchneis 
mpicoloides): i, 236. 
Farewell, Lt.: i, H. 
Pelis f eaTOnii: ii, 196, 204, 20S'. 
Fire producing: i, 35'1. 
First·fruits: i, 412; ii, 307. 
Fischer, Landdrost: i, 94, 166. 
Fish, drawing No. 76: i, 228, 230, 
233. 
Fishes: i, 168, 3"9; ii, 161, 204, 
lOS', 207. 
Flamingo: i, 344. 
Fokeng: ii, 136. 
Foot·and•mouth disease (?): ii, 103. 
Ford, George: i, 3", 39, 42, 71, 
323, 324; ii, 1, "2, S'3, 62, 2'1'5'. 
Pourie, David: i, 1"3. 
PTancolinus, New: ii, 147. 
Frans, Old: ii, 65'. 
Frederick: ii, 25'1. 
Pringilla degans: ii, 67. 
Pringillidat: and grain: i, 229, 290: 
ii, 81. 
Frogs: i, 135', 139. 
Galago (moholi): ii, 160, 162, 204, 
205'. 
Game (hunting, trapping, etc.): i, 
1"6, H7. 307; ii, 110, 117, 149, 
175', 178, 179, 203, 263, 267, 
Pl. 22. 
Gamohaan (Hamhana) : i. 282. 
Gamtoos Riv.: ii, 288. 
Gariep Riv., see Orange Riv. 
Garnet, Mr.: i, 40, 44. 
Ge'<_o: i. 205', 318, 320; ii, 48, 232, 
233. 
Gemsbok (= 0Tyx gazellaJ: i, 171. 
Genadendal: i, 198. 
Geology, Report on: ii. 21, 178, 
236. 
Gibson, Mr.: i, 44, 328, 329; ii, 
219. 
Gebel, Rev.: i, 41, 71, 74, 183. 
Glenelg, Lord: i, 20, 5'0. 
Gnu (Connochaetes gnu): i, 101, 
102, 1"7, 168, 240; ii, 117. 
Gnutumah : ii, 292. 
God (Teguap) : i, 164. 
Gordon's Fontein: i, 61, 62. 
Goroquon: i, 197. 
Graaff Reinet: i, 18, 40, '17, 179, 
208; ii, 14, 302, 305', 308. 
Graham, Colonel: i, 100, 131, 141, 
186. 
Graham, Mr.: i, 40, 44. 
Grant, Mr., 98th Regt.: i, 44, 79. 
Grass fires: ii, 68, 91, 92, 95', 99, 
12". 
Grass mats: ii, 122, 123. 
Graves: i, 271, 393; ii, 202, Pl. 16. 
Greeting, Methods of: i, 332; ii, 
2'1, 62, 221, 230. 
Griquas: i, 18, 44, "2, 15'2, 178, 
179, 180, 182, 188, 191, 196, 
213, 215', 25'1, 290, 331, 336, 
360, 364, 367, 372, 381, 382, 
INDEX 327 
384, 386, 393; ii, 12, 31, 115', 
116, 282, 283. 
Griquatown (Klaarwater) : i, 19, 37, 
149, 150, 199, 213, 214, 268, 
286, 288, 35'6, 35'8, 368, 393, 
'407; ii, 14, 267, 268, 276, 277. 
Grobler's: i, 5'9; ii, 308, 309. 
Groote Fontein: i, 235'. 
Oms paradisea ( Anthropoides para• 
disea): i, 168, 171. 
Gubbins, Dr. J. G.: ii, 10, 5'0. 
Guineafowl ()\{umida mitrata trans• 
vaalensis): i, 99, 317; ii, 181, 
204, 205'. 
Haakdoorn (Acacia detinensJ: i, 
297, 336. 
Habana: i, 141. 
Haip: i, 110, 158, 159, 163, 166, 
383. 
Hair•cutting: i, 335'; ii, 223, 224, 
270, 272. 
Hamilton, Rev. Robert: i, 18, 43, 
239, 241, 245', 249, 268, 271, 
336, 338, 341, 349, 361, 363, 
373, 396; ii, 31, 248, 211, 253, 
2H, 25'6, 25'8, 260. 
Hammerkop (Scopus umbretta ban• 
nermani): i, 163. 
Hangklip: ii, 284. 
Hantam: i, 204. 
Hanto (Taaibosch): i, 1 n (see 
Captain, Jan). 
Hartebeest, Red (Bucephalus 
caama): i, 135', 137, 140, 15'7, 
235', 240; ii, 34. 
Hartebeestpoort: ii, 12, 101, Pl. 12. 
Hart Riv.: i, 79, 128, ln, 154, 
163, 165', 223, 224, 25'0, 35'5', 
393, 404, 407. 
v 
Hastwell (Haswell, Hartwell) : i. 35', 
36, 87; ii, 78, 102. 
Hawk, New: ii, 99. 
Head•wear: i, 160, 176, 196, 225'; 
ii, 121, 149, 285'. 
Hekpoort: ii, 12. 
Helotarsus typicus (H. ecaudaius) : 
ii, 35'. 
Hendricks, Andries: i, 281. 
Hendricks, Hendrick: i, 71, 72, 73, 
77, 78, 82, 184, 192, 194, 200, 
208, 212, 281, Pl. 5'. 
Hendricks, Jan: i, 371, 394; ii, 65'. 
Hendricks, Piet: i, 281. 
Herbst, Marthinus: i, 184. 
Herpestu: ii, 114. 
Herpestes, New: ii, 30. 
Herpestes pharaonis: ii, 101. 
Herpestes taenionotus; ii, 145'. 
Herschel, Sir John: i, 20, 31, 32, 
40. 
Heugh, Mr.: i, 68. 
Hex (Clabalican) Riv.: ii, 12, 115', 
118. 
Hippopotamus (Seacows, Hippo• 
potamus amphibius): i, 109, 123, 
280; ii, 160, 163, 169, 204, 205', 
206, 232, 237, Pls. 23, 24, 25'. 
Hirudo (Chue): i, 316. 
Hirundo ambrosiaca (=? No such 
name in literature) : i, 13 7. 
Hirundo capensil (Cecropis cucul• 
lata}: i, 137; ii, 31. 
Hirundo, "dull white belly": i, 137. 
Hirundo rafifrons (= H. albigula· 
Tis): i, 217. 
Hirundo torquata (= )\{eophedina 
cineta): i, 235'. 
Hlotse Riv.: i, 134. 
Hoes, Iron: ii, 223. 
Honey bees: i, 288. 
328 INDEX 
Honing (Heuning) Vlei: i, 277 
(see Chue). 
Hopetown: ii, 14 (see Duivenaar's 
Fontein). 
Horse sickness: i, 167, 258. 
Hottentot God: i, 164. 
Hottentots Holland: ii, 284. 
Hottentots: i, 11, 162, 192, 194, 
195, 263; ii, 116, 117, 137, 143, 
165, 268, 282, 283, 284, 285, 
286, 288, 289, 292, 297 (see 
Korana). 
Houses: i, 1 56, 242, 243, 349; ii, 
134, 223, 240, 241. 
Houteniqualand: ii, 284. 
Hout Riv.: i, 197. 
Hoyman, Gert: i, 199, 200, 281, 
382, 384, 387. 
Hoyman, Hans: i, 387. 
Hoyman, Jan: i, 176, 199, 214, 
281, 373, 374, 379, 387. 
Hoyman, Lucas: i, 281. 
Hoyman marriage: ii, 289, 290, 
291. 
Hudson, Mrs.: i, 338. 
Hume, David: i, 27, 48, 250, 289, 
290, 291, 339, 347, 348, 350; 
ii, 9, 13, 20, 29, 32, 42, 72, 
154, 293, 294. 
Huruthse (Baharootzie, Baharutsi): 
i, S'l, 250, 261, 262, 264, 321, 
322, 335, 342, 344, 346, 347, 
348, 352, 353, 357, 384, 388, 
401, 403, 404, 406, 409; ii, 11, 
37, 38, 39, 41, 46, S'l, 57, 76, 
142, 152, 211, 223, 245, 249, 
250, 251, 257, 258, 264, 270. 
Hyena ("Wolves," Hya=a brun• 
nea) : i, 97, 171, 266, 299, 346; 
ii, 39, 81, 100, 113, 158, 204, 
20,., 207. 
Hyrax (Dassie, Procavia capensis 
coombis) : ii, 103, 104, 105, 106. 
Impala Antelope (Rooibok, Ante• 
lope melampus, Aepycerus me!.): 
ii, 33, 53, 109, 111, 148, 156, 
158, 164, 182, 204, 205. 
Inclubo (? Cheetah): ii, 80. 
Indian corn: i, 392. 
Inhabited tree: ii, 11. 
Initiation and circumcision cere• 
monies: i, 271, 272, 273, 339, 
340, 342, 343, 344, 351, 361, 
376, 394, 397, 398, 400, 410, 
Pis. 29 fi 30; ii, 271, 282, 286, 
287. 
Iron: ii, 178. 
Ironstone (Linchana): i, 297. 
Iron working: i, 153. 
lrrisor capensis: ii, 199. 
Isaac: i, 3 72. 
Ishmael: i, 87, 266, 399. 
Ivory: i, 382, 394; ii, 70, 207. 
Ivory trading: ii, 42, 43, 220. 
Jackals: i, 121, 168, 297, 299; ii, 
39, 100, 164, 196, 271. 
Jackalsvogel (= Pterolestes rufofiu• 
cus) : i, 137. 
Jacobs, Stoffel: i, 176, 178. 
]aculus: i, 221, 318; ii, SS'. 
Jamieson, of Liverpool: i, 32. 
Jan: i, 192. 
Jantjie: ii, 160, 181. 
Japhta, William: i, 280. 
Jardine, Sir William: i, 305. 
Jenkins, Rev. Thomas: i, 119, 127, 
144, 14,., 191; ii, 64. 
Jenner, Sir William: i, 24. 
Jeremias: i, 399. 
Jochim, William: i, 302. 
INDEX 329 
Jot, Frans: i, 384. 
Jot, Old Frans: i, 384, 385. 
Jot, Piet: i, 384. 
Joubert, Field Cornet: i, 64. 
Kaa (Bakaa, Baca) Mtns.: i, 49; 
ii, 201, 217, 219. 
Kabalonta: ii, 76, 139, 173, 242, 
243, 244, 245, 251, 307. 
Kahutchie: i, 208. 
Kalahari (Kalaharry, Kalaharie): i, 
18, 38, 44, 46, 240, 251, 279, 
305, 314, 407, Pl. 26; ii, 188, 
267, 271. 
Kameelboomen: i, 204, 205, 241. 
Kameeldoorn (Acacia giraffae): i, 
278, 297, 320. 
Kanakamora, see Canacamora. 
Kanka, see Khungwa. 
Karahari: i, 361, 391. 
Karosses: i, 114, 160, 169, 193, 
196, 199, 219, 222, 225, 227, 
228, 241, 278, 291, 308, 335, 
349, 351, 354, 376, 377, 391; 
ii, 111, 142, 196, 201, 207, 223, 
246, 270, 278, 283, 286, 307. 
Karosshebbers: i, 374. 
Karreeberg: i, 165. 
Karse, Jan: i, 379, 384. 
Kat Riv.: i, 77. 
Kay, Rev. Stephen: ii, 9. 
Keis: ii, 284. 
Kgama (Kama): i, 292, 350; ii, 
15'2, lS'S', 161, 168, 170, 176, 
177, 184, 188, 193, 202, 207, 
210, 212, 213, 215', 216, 219, 
220, 224, 225', 226. 
Kgari: ii, 17 6. 
Kgotla (Kotla): ii, 2'0. 
Kgotlamaswe (Kotamashua): ii, 165'. 
Khashane (Cashan): ii, 83, 1 S'S'. 
Khungwa, Cobus: i, 131, 186; ii, 
292. 
Kieries (clubs): i, 311; ii, 54, 229, 
252, 279. 
Kift, B.: i, 35, 42, 70, 75, 79, 
90, 188, 322, 323, 324, 334; ii, 
62, 66, 100, 125, 126, 129, 131, 
137, 139, 140, 141, 143, 144, 
15'4, lH. 
Klaarwater, see Griquatown. 
Klipplaat: i, 195. 
Knives: i, 83, 35'4; ii, 109, 111, 
270, 287. 
Koinkli: ii, 2S'1. 
Kok, Abel: i, 190. 
Kok, Abram: i, 79(7). 80, 200, 
201; ii, 274. 
Kok, Adam: i, 71, 76, 80, 176, 
177, 183, 184, 188, 190, 192, 
194, 195', 200, 204, 213, 216, 
260, 281, 377, 382. 
Kok, Cornelius: i, 71, 197, 206, 
207, 208, 214, 247, 302. 
Kok, Cupido: i, 200. 
Kok, Gert: i, 79(7), 190. 
Kok, Oldest son of Adam: i, 77, 78. 
Kokwane (Coquan): ii, 190. 
Kolbe, Rev.: i, 20, 69, 70, 72, 
73, 74, 77, 78, 79, 177, 178, 
180, 184, 185', 216. 
Kole Riv.: i, 143. 
·Koning: ii, 273. 
Koodoe (Strepsiceros st-repsiceros) : 
i, 299; ii, 88, 99' 102, 106, 135'' 
148, 204, 205', 274, 275'. 
Kooroo: i, 306, 309. 
Kora (canoe): i, 279; ii, 271. 
Korhaan: i, 304. 
Kornet, Klaas: i, 365', 366, 367. 
Kori village: ii, 218. 
330 INDEX 
Korana: i, 18, 4,., H, ,.4, 72, 76, 
77, 90, 99, 114, 11", 116, 117, 
124, 127, 128, 140, 148, 149, 
lS'O, lS'l, 1,.2, 1,.,., 1,.7, 1,.8, 
160, 161, 164, 16S', 170, 176, 
179, 180, 181, 182, 190, 191, 
194, 19,., 197, 203, 212, 214, 
223, 226, 227, 229, 231, 232, 
238, 270, 281, 283, 28,., 287, 
303, 3"8, 361, 362, 364, 36S', 
366, 368, 369, 373, 374, 37,., 
376, 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 
382, 396, 404, 407; ii, 223, 267, 
268, 271, 272, 282, 283, 289, 
301, 303. 
Koup: ii, 276. 
Kraut, Rev.: i, 41, 60, 61, 74, 183. 
Kreger, Adam: i, 383. 
Krokodilberg: ii, 12, Pl. H. 
Krotz, Adam: i, 11", 18,.. 
Krotz, Rev., see Kraut. 
Kruger, Carel: i, 86, 93, 101, 102, 
109, 112, 140, 142, 143, 147, 
163, 16,., 166, 167, 173. 
Kruger, Chief: i, 182. 
Kuikendief ( = Milvus aegyptius 
para.situs): i, 16,., 226, 291, 312; 
ii, 236. 
Kunuana: i, 401. 
Kurichani (Kurrichaine) : i, 38, 
326; ii, 11, 60. 
Kurichani (Kurrichaine, Chwen• 
yane, Chinyane, etc.) Mtns. : i, 
326; ii, 60, 139, 142, 206, 224, 
247, 248, 2rn, 2n. 
Kuruman: i, 18, 19, 27, 37, 4,., 
46, 48, ,.,., 1 H', 118, 223, 237, 
238, 240, 241, 248, 2S'S', 265, 
268, 270, 273, 277, 278, 282, 
284, 285, 291, 293, 29S', 297, 
308, 321, 324, 32,., 327, 328, 
329, 330, 331, 333, 334, 337, 
339, 348, 349, 354, 371, 372, 
379, 380, 390, 392, 393, 398, 
402, 403, Pis. 21, 22; ii, 2,., 31, 
48, '2, 63, 64, 70, 72, 101, 108, 
134, 136, 146, 2S'7, 263, 267, 
268, 270, 273, 276 (see Latta· 
koo). 
Kuruman Riv.: i, 284, 28S', 29,., 
297, 304, 363, 368, 372. 
Kwatele (Cuetaili): ii, 123. 
Kwekwe (Quaqua): ii, 178. 
Kweis (Queis): i, 284, 30S'. 
Kwena (Baquain, Baquan): i, 19, 
2S', S'l, 237, 279, 292, 334, 337, 
349, 3S'O, 40,., 406, 408; ii, ,,., 
102, 107, 108, 109, 126, 136, 
142, l H, 161, 162, 163, 168, 
170, 171, 173, 17S', 184, 186, 
187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 
193, 194, 19S', 196, 197, 198, 
199, 202, 203, 204, 20S', 207, 
208, 210, 211, 213, 214, 21S', 
217, 220, 221, 223, 224, 226, 
227, 228, 229, 230, 267. 
Ky Kora: i, S'l, 128, 1S'2, 197. 
Ky Koubiqua: i, S'l. 
Labar, Piet: i, 216. 
Lacerta: i, 209, 210, 23', 276. 
Lachrymary organs of Blesbok: i, 
171. 
Lahiesa (Lahesi): i, 366. 
Laino: i, 28 S'. 
Lake Ngami: i, 49, S'4, 24S', 246, 
278, 279, 280, 3S'3, 3S'S', 407; 
ii, 13, 136, 187, 223, 224, 271. . 
Lamprotomis (Chalcopsar australis): 
i, 162. 
Lamprotomis nitens (Lamprocolius 
nitens bispecularis): i, 217. 
INDEX 331 
Lamsiekte: i, 230. 
Langebeq~: i, 203, 250, 2'1, 285, 
295, 297, 299, 301, 363, 369, 
407, Pl. 24. 
Lanius excubitor ( = Lanioidi:s 
minor): i, 299. 
Lanius, New: i, 219. 
Large bok (7, Tragi:laphus syl• 
,,aticus): ii, 84. 
Larks: i, 137, 304; ii, 44. 
Lattakoo (Litakun, etc., or Kuru• 
man): i, 26, 27, 37, 38, 43, 7', 
79, 241, 268, 387, 404 (see 
Kuruman) . 
Lattakoo, Old (see Takoon). 
Leather bag: i, 169, 194. 
Lebelwane (Sibelooni) : ii, 202. 
Leeuwkop: ii, 293. 
Leeuw Riv.: i, 9J, 96, 98, 160. 
Leguan (Guana, Varanus niloticus): 
i, 310, 314, 344, 390; ii, 27, 207. 
Lehoya (Ligoye, or Bataung) : i, 
n, 388, 396, 407; ii, 268. 
Lehututu (Lehootitoon, Lehutitun, 
etc.): i, 3'4, 408; ii, 271. 
Lekweling (Liookoolin): ii, 250. 
Lemue, Rev. fi Mrs.: i, 43, 44, 
273, 306, 320, 321, 324, 329, 
334, 340, 342, 344, 345, 346, 
347, 348, 361, 403, Pl. 28; ii, 
10, 30, n, n, 266, 269. 
Leopard, see Tiger. 
Lepeli: i, 3'2, 3'3 (see Tlhapeli). 
Leshage (Leshahe) : i, 3H. 
Lepui: i, 39. 
Lepus: i, 217, 218; ii, 204, 205, 
292. 
Li:shooh (Scli:roptila l. gariepensis): 
i, 282. 
Lete (Bamalete) : i, '2; ii, 142, 
189, 206, 219, 250. 
Liapeli: ii, 46, 64, 72. 
Lidoqua: i, 391. 
Liebenberg, Barend: i, 179, 208. 
Liebergeldt: i, 184. 
Lightning: i, 394, 395, 412, 413. 
Limpopo Riv.: i, 19, 47; ii, 13, 
184, 186, 193, 203, 206, 215, 
216 (see Crocodile Riv. and 
Oori Riv.). 
L'inchuane: i, 297, Pl. 2'. 
Lions (Leo leo): i, 63, 98, 100, 
102, 103, 104, 121, 132, 171, 
234, 278, 299, 346, HO; ii, 29, 
30, 32, 34, 37, 40, 43, 46, 48, 
49, 60, 72, 77, 78, 81, 91, 100, 
115, 159, 163, 166, 181, 198, 
200, 201, 204, 205, 206, 207, 
225, 226, 227, 231, 234, 256, 
258. 
Liqua (Likwa) Riv.: i, 391, 392; 
ii, 74, 98, 119, 250, 261 (see 
Vaal Riv.). 
Lishuane Mission Stn.: i, 123, 125, 
145, Pis. lOB fi 11. 
Liater, Miss M.: i, 10. 
Little Boetaap: i, 230, 231, 233. 
Litubaruba: i, 25. 
Livingstone, David: i, 25, 49; ii, 7. 
Lizards: i, 13", 139, 142, 160, 189, 
23', 313, 318 (see Lacerta). 
Locusts: i, 16', 166, 171, 231, 288, 
298, 307, 312, 318, 353. 
Lodewyk: i, 192. 
Loharon: ii, 265. 
Lohohane (Lachachanie) : i, 305. 
Longtailed Butcher Bird (Urokstt:s 
melanoli:ucus): i, 160; ii, 147, 
199, 204, 205. 
Lothlakane (Loklohani) : ii, 10, -45, 
47, 48, 2'7. 
Low, J.: i, 3'. 
332 INDEX 
Lowe, Henry: i, 36. 
Lower Kuruman: i, 393. 
Luber, Hans van: ii, 307. 
Lynx's Kraal: i, 96, 150, 163, 197. 
Macaba, see Makaba. 
Macabies (mal(_abi): i, 122, 226, 
391. 
Machablie: ii, 267. 
Machachocban Riv.: ii, llS'. 
Machinhobi: ii, 268. 
Machokwane (Mootachooan, Moota• 
choosan) Riv.; ii, 217, 222. 
Mac~aloni (beans): i, 346. 
Maclear, Thos.: i, 31, 32, 34, 3S', 
36, 40, 44, 4S'. 
Macroscelides: ii, 179, 264. 
Macori (Lake Ngami): ii, 271. 
Madebing (Morrebing): i, 306, 
309, 319. 
Madibang (Manapani) Spruit: ii, 
26S'. 
Madijana (Malichan, Malitchana) : 
i, 284. 
Madiletse: i, 3 H. 
Mafeking: ii, 10, 46, 2S'7. 
Magalatzina (Malaquini): ii, 193, 
194. 
Magaliesberg ( Casban Mtns.) : i, 
2S', 47; ii, 20, 78, 80, 83, 84, 
86, 87, 90, 91, 92, 100, 101, 
107, Pls. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 
13, 14, lS'. 
Magalies (Mavooba) Riv.: ii, 12, 
Pis. 9, 10. 
Mangope (Macopa): ii, 196. 
Mahalatcda Riv.: i, 406. 
Mahura: i, 216, 244, 24S', 273, 280, 
30S', 319, 322, 32~ 330, 331, 
333, 334, 336, 337, 340, 34S', 
350, 3S'2, 362, 371, 372, 387, 
399, 402, 403, 404, 40S'; ii, 37, 
6S', 266, 267. 
Majun, see Langeberg. 
Makaba (Macabba): i, 262, 40S'; 
ii, 205', 211, 218. 
Makabi (chiefs sister): ii, 172. 
Mal(_abi (skin petticoat), see 
Macabies. 
Makaka: i, S2. 
Makama Riv.: ii, S'2. 
Makan: ii, 3S'. 
Ma~atane (mdon): i, 277, 397, 
412; ii, 27, 38. 
Maklari: i, 391. 
Makoba: i, 407. 
Malaconotus atrococcineus ( = 
Laniarius a.): i, 236. 
Malala: i, 277, 279, 280, 311, 349, 
396, 404, 405', 406, 407, 408, 
409, 412; ii, 25', 267. 
Malaquini, see Magalatiina. 
Malcolm, Mr.: i, 40, 44. 
Malcolm, Sir Chas.: i, 40. 
Malmani Oog: ii, 10, S'O. 
Maluali: i, 407. 
Maluana's people: i, 112. 
Mampuru (Mamphoro): i, 407. 
Mamorati: i, 40S'. 
Manis (Smutsia temminc~ii): ii, 
1 S'4, 1 S'6, 204, 20S', 228. 
Mantatee, see Tlokwa. 
Mantswang, see Langeberg. 
Mapela (Mapeli): ii, 190, 216. 
Maphatana: ii, 136. 
Mapite (Mapiti, Mopati): i, 361. 
Maquana: ii, 196. 
Maquassie: i, 381. 
Marico Riv. (Marique, Meriqua): 
i, 19, 47; ii, 11, 13, 50, S'9, 
60, 61, 76, 135", 142, 14S', 147, 
148, 1 S'l, 160, 161, 162, 16S', 
INDEX 333 
166, 167, 169, 174, 176, 179, 
184, 186, 193, 196, 197, 199, 
203, 206, 215, 216, 217, 218, 
219, 221, 222, Pis. 23, 24, 25, 
26. 
Maritzani (Meritsani) Riv.: ii, 10, 
38, 39, 40, 41, 263. 
Moroi: i, 113. 
Marriage: i, 286, 345, 378, 380; 
ii, 27, 28, 143, 286, 289, 290, 
291. 
Marrow, uncooked: i, 346. 
Martin, Mr.: i, 111. 
Marupolo: i, 392. 
Masarwa (Masaroa): i, 52, 280; 
ii, 187, 188, 223, 224, 267, 268, 
271, 273 (see Bushmen). 
Mashe (Mashwe): i, 406. 
Mashona: ii, 222. 
MMhowing (Mashua) Riv.: i, 306, 
307, 309, 316, 319; ii, 31, 266: 
Massepa: i, 236. 
Massouta Riv.: i, 45. 
Matabele: i, 17, 19, 44, 325, 327, 
329, 331, 334, 335', 336, 347, 
348, 35'2, 35'4, 385', 386, 391, 
401, 406, 407; ii, 9, 11, 13, 14, 
u, 16, 17, 18, 29, 37, 38, 39, 
46, 47, 48, 5'0, 53, 55, 57, 5'9, 
72, 74, 75, 76, 79, 90, 92, 101, 
107, 108, 110, 112, 115, 116, 
117, 118, 119, 120, 126, 133, 
135', 138, 139, 140, 144, 145, 
146, 148, 149, 150, 151, 153, 
H4, 160, 164, 165, 166, 167, 
168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 
174, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 
182, 183, 184, 185', 186, 187, 
188, 193, 202, 203, 205', 214, 
215, 216, 219, 220, 221, 222, 
224, 225, 230, 231, 236, 239, 
243, 244, 246, 247, 249, 250, 
25'1, 25'8, 259, 260, 261, 270, 
278, 279, 307. 
Matclaba: i, 381. 
Matclama (Damaras): i, 311, 35'4. 
Matlakhari (Kari) Mtns.: i, 406. 
Matlaring (Matlarie, Matluare) 
Riv.: i, 284, 295, 308, 325', 333, 
359, 375, 379, 397. 
Matlhanyane (Clahaniani, etc.): i, 
274, 319, 327, 328, 330, 331, 
352, 35'3; ii, 46, 47' 5'0, 64, 72, 
247, 25'0, 257, 261. 
Matsabaleli: i, 302. 
Matseli: ii, 102, 110, 155, 162. 
Matsikin: i, 52. 
Matuan (Matiwane): i, 391. 
Matompe: i, 52. 
Maubel (Mobil) Hill: i, 306, 310, 
408. 
McGrigor, Sir James: i, 13, 21, 33. 
McKenzie, Corp!. 72nd. Regt.: i, 18, 
35, 39, 45, 87, 90. 
McLuckie, Wm.: i, 25, 263, 267; 
ii, 9. 
McQueen, J.: i, 32, 36. 
Meadows, Mr. R. N.: i, 40. 
Medicines, Love of: i, 283. 
Medicine men: i, 413, Pis. 31, 32A, 
32B. 
Medicines (superstitions): i, 390, 
395'. 
Meletta: i, 38. 
Melite, see Moleta. 
Melville, Mr.: i, 126, 194. 
Merops apiaster (European Bee• 
eater): i, 161, 214, 219. 
Meteor: i, 393. 
Metsimachwen (Mitsimashau) : ii, 
222. 
Michell, Major: i, 31. 
334 INDEX 
Michie, Alexander: i, 10, 12; ii, 
318. 
Miles, Rev. Richd.: i, 41, 371. 
Milking: ii, 25'. 
Millen, Hugh: i, 27, 289, 329, 
348; ii, 9, 10, 165', 25'9, 260. 
Milvus pa,-asitus (= M. aegyptius 
p.J: i, 137. 
Mimori (Mamurie) Riv.: ii, 49, 
25'6. 
Mimosa described: ii, 229, 234, 237. 
Mintem, John: i, 35', 36, 397; ii, 
167. 
Minto, Earl of: i, 20. 
Minua Tau: ii, 271. 
Mirimani, see Malmani. 
Mmoaloge (Maleoog): ii, 186. 
Mncumbati (Umnombate, Com• 
batisi, etc.): ii, 13, 14, 16, 18, 
76, 129, 131, 132, 139, 15'3, 
25'7, 25'9, 260, 265'. 
Modder Fontein: i, 79, 25'5'. 
Modder Riv.: i, 15'8, 172, 173, 
174, 182, 195', 197, 205', 207, 
210, Pis. 18, 19. 
Modimosane (Mirimitsan): ii, 203, 
217. 
Moffat, J. S.: i, 47; ii, 21. 
Moffat, Rev. Robert 'CJ Mrs.: i, 9, 
18, 19, 26, 43, 4,., 46, 47, 48,* 
49, 75', 238, 239, 240, 244, 24,., 
247, 248, 249, 2,.1, 264, 267, 
273, 276, 283, 326, 327, 328, 
338, 3"2, 3,.9, 371, 372, 378, 
379, 380, 393; ii, 9, 10, 11, 12, 
13, 19, 21, ,.0, "2, ,.,., 61, 62, 
63, 64, 65', 70, 98, 99, 100, 101, 
102, 125', 126, 127, 129, 131, 
134, 135', 138, 139, 140, 142, 
143, 144, 146, 15'3, 178, 25'4, 
25'7, '262, 293, 294. 
Mohapi: i, 391. 
Mohatla: i, 291, 342, 346, 347, 
348, 387, 404, 405'. 
Moiloa (Moiloway): i, 404. 
Mokaring: i, 396. 
Mokatwe (Macotue, Umcotue): ii, 
5'3, 129, 131, 132, 141. 
Mokhachane (Mochasanie) : i, 11 7. 
Mokaile: ii, 279. 
Molatsi (Mitats) Riv.: ii, 207. 
Molemo (Moremi): i, 35'3; ii, 187, 
25'5', 25'7. 
Molepolole: i, 2 5'. 
Moleta: i, 405', 406; ii, 180, 196, 
225'. 
Molitsane (Mulitsane) : i, 15'0, 15'8, 
378, 380, 381, 391; ii, 37, 261. 
278. 
Molobe (Moolobi): ii, 188. 
Molopo Riv.: i, 19, 284, 35'6, 405', 
407; ii, 10, 46, 47, 48, 49, ,.0, 
98, 25'8. 
Monaheng (Monahaing) : i, 49; ii, 
140, 206, 2"2, 270. 
Monametse: ii, 170. 
Monkey (Cercopithecus pygeTy• 
thTUS): ii, 161, 178, 204, 205'. 
Moodie, Mr.: i, 61, 64, 6,., 245', 
247. 
Mooliha: ii, 189. 
Moordkop: ii, 13. 
*An abstract of the missing journal has now been found (see 
Vol. i, p. 5') and printed as follows: Kirby, P. R., Robert Mo/fat's 
Visit to Mzili1(.azi in 1835', Witwatersrand University Press, Johannes• 
burg, 1940. 
INDEX 335' 
Moperi Spruit: i, 121. 
Moquatsi: i, 391. 
Moos: i, 1 S'2. 
Morija Mission Stn.: i, 104, lOS', 
107, 112, llS', Pl. 7. 
Moroi: i, 119. 
Moroko: i, 39, 147, 150. 
Morua: i, 284. 
Mosega (Mosiga, Mosegha): i, 32S', 
326, 3S'2, 403; ii, 11, 48, 49, 
S'O, S'l, S'2, 55', S'6, 78, 126, 
134, 139, 142, 147, lS'l, 165, 
248, 249, 258, 262, 263, 266. 
Morulane (Mooroolani): ii, 218. 
Moshete (Mosheto): ii, 39. 
Moshesh: i, 20, 39, 56, SS', 103, 
104, 105, 106, 107, 110, 111, 
116, 117, 118, 119, 129, 134, 
138, 145, Pl. 9. 
Motacilla capensis: i, 233. 
Mataka: ii, 267. 
Mothibi: i, lS'l, 1S'4, 212, 218, 
221, 227, 241, 2S'O, 251, 262, 
268, 313, 336, 337, 351, 3S'9, 
362, 364, 368, 376, 392, 394, 
395, 396, 40S'; ii, 31, 202. 
Mothlwane (Mushuara): i, 404. 
Motito: i, 18, 43, 44, 320, 324, 
325, 334, 339, 340, 361, 397, 
404, 410, Pis. 27, 28; ii, 9, 10, 
30, 77, 266, 269, 270. 
Motshwasele (Mutchaceli): i, 406; 
ii, 187, 190, 193, 195, 196, 202, 
215. 
Motshwene (Mootchunis): ii, 219. 
Mountaineers, see Bergenaars. 
Mpondi: ii, 76, 78, 112. 
Murray, Rev. Andrew: i, 41, 58, 
59, 62. 
Murray, Sir George: i, 26. 
Muishonds: ii, 101. 
Mus spp.: 255'. 
Muscicopa (near grisea): i, 143. 
Musical instruments: i, 344, 392; 
ii, 179, 196, 204, 20S', 297, 298. 
Muskalkat, Muskaliat Kat (Genetta 
spp.): i, 278; ii, 196. 
Mutsuara (Muchuara): i, 407; ii, 
267. 
Myeries (Mayeye): i, 365, 37S'. 
Mzilikazi's Kraals: ii, 12, 61, 69, 
75, 92, 101, 122, 240. 
Mzilikazi (Masalacatzie): i, 17, 18, 
19, 39, 43, 4S', 46, 47, 48, 49, 
7S', 109, 113, 117, 118, 119, 
123, 124, 127, 128, 133, 143, 
144, 152, lS'S', 158, 1 S'9, 191, 
201, 205, 216, 223, 231, 237, 
239, 244, 245, 247, 248, 250, 
262, 263, 264, 266, 267, 270, 
279, 280, 281, 289, 290, 291, 
292, 293, 294, 319, 322, 325, 
326, 328, 329, 330, 331, 333, 
334, 335, 336, 340, 347, 348, 
350, 3S'2, 3S'3, 354, 378, 379, 
380, 382, 383, 384, 386, 387, 
398, 399; ii, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 
17, 18, 20, 31, 37, 38, 39, 41, 
42, 48, 49, S'O, S'l, S'3, 54, S'S', 
56, S'7, 61, 62, 63, 64, 6S', 66, 
67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 
7S', 77, 78, 79, 90, 92, 98, 99, 
101, 102, 108, 118, 119, 122, 
124, 12S', 129, 130, 131, 132, 
133, 134, 135, 137, 138, 140, 
141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 
147, 148, 149, lS'O, lS'l, 1S'2, 
1 S'3, 154, 1S'5, 160, 161, 165, 
166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 
172, 175, 176, 177, 179, 182, 
186, 189, 190, 207, 217, 218, 
237, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 
336 INDEX 
245', 246, 247, 249, 25'0, 25'1, 
25'2, 25'3, 25'5', 25'6, 25'9, 260, 
261, 262, 263, 265', 307. 
Namaqua Hottentots: i, 162, 364. 
Names of months, etc.: 389, 405'. 
Napo: ii, 162. 
Native customs (proposals): ii, 27. 
Native doctoring: ii, 242. 
Native kraals: ii, 75' 83 87 111 
112, 120, 121, 12.2, '134: 167: 
186, 240, 247. 
Natal Pheasant (Chaetopus natalen• 
sis): ii, 178. 
Natal, Offer of Governorship of, -
to Dr. A. Smith: i, 17. 
Natal, Recommendations to open 
up: i, 17. 
Native customs (separations): ii, 28. 
Necklaces: ii, 109, 228. 
Neethling, J. H.: i, 28. 
Nel, Cmdt.: i, 108. 
NeophTon carunculatus: ii, 15'7, 199. 
New Lattakoo, see Kuruman. 
Ngomankulu: ii, 172. 
Nguni: ii, 169. 
Ngwaketsi (Bawankets): i, 5'2, 
264, 335', 349, 35'4, 35'7, 371, 
401, 406, 408; ii, 37, 53, 136, 
165', 180, 191, 202, 205', 218, 
224. 
Ngwato, see Bamangwato. 
Ngwato (Bamangwato) country: 
i, 49, 51, HO, 383; ii, 134, 168, 
180, 214, 216, 219. 
N,ilus: i, 172, 209, 233. 
Nkulumana (Kuruman): ii, 39. 
Nieukirk: ii, 294, 295', 296, 300, 
302, 304, 306, 308. 
Noka (Noch, lnyoka) Riv.: ii, 174. 
Nokuning: i, 388, 396, 406; ii, 268. 
Notwani Riv. (Motwan): ii, 13, 
196, 202, 203, 207, 216, 217, 
218, 224. 
Nymphae of Bushwomen and Hot• 
tentots: ii, 268, 271, 282, 288. 
Ochse, Mr.: i, 5'8. 
Oliphant& Riv.: ii, 288. 
Olive tree (letlhuaTe): i, 333. 
Ontkomings: i, 190. 
Oori Riv. (Oli, Crocodile): i, 19; 
ii, 99, 102, 107, 108, 112, 114, 
118, 142, 15'5', 16~ 170, 171, 
174, 176, 184, 222, Pis. 11, 12, 
13, 14, 15'. 
Opperman, Hans: i, 95'. 
Orange Riv. (Gariep): i, 37, 45', 
89, 111, 302, 309, Pl. 3; ii, 14, 
283 (see Black Riv.). 
Oribi (OuTebia ouTebi): i, 135'. 
Ornaments of metal: ii, 193, 194. 
Ostrich eggs: i, 168, 304. 
Ostrich-egg-shell beads: i, 229. 
Ostrich-egg water bottles: i, 303, 
304. 
Ostrich feathers: i, 97, 304; ii, 38, 
145'. 
Otis aTabs, Otis cristata (Choriotis 
~oTi): i, 167; ii, 81, 204, 205'. 
Otis colei (N,eotis ludwigii): i, 135', 
137, 189. 
Otis ruficrista: i, 322. 
Otus peTlatum ( = Smithiglaux peT• 
latus): i, 299. 
Oudeberg: i, 5'7. 
Owl: i, 392; ii, 27. 
Owls, Superstition about: ii, 27. 
Palla Camp: ii, 13. 
Palmerston, Lord: i, 22. 
Papilionidae: i, 217. 
Partridge, Greywing: i, 71, 282. 
INDEX 337 
Parus afer (P. cinerascens): ii, 15'8. 
Passer (= Plocepasser mahali): i, 
167, 170; ii, 221. 
Patani (Patanie, or Poort): i, 284, 
368. 
Paul (Korana chief): i, 374, 379. 
Pechua (Petswa): i, 279. 
Pedi (Baperi): ii, 2 S'O. 
Pelissier, Rev. J. P.: i, 43, 84, 
85', 347, 403. 
Pella: i, 161. 
Perdix, New: ii, 5'8, 67. 
Perdix, New, near nudicollis (Pter• 
nistis swainsoni); ii, 67. 
Perry, Dr.: i, 5'8. 
Phetoe (Petoo): ii, 189. 
Philip, Dr.: i, 213, 336, 403. 
Philip (Hottentot) : ii, 128. 
Philippolis: i, 18, 43, 45', 67, 69, 
70, 78, 99, 133, 177, 178, 179, 
183, 184, 185', 186, 191, 192, 
206, 208, 213, 216, Pl. 4; ii, 
163, 274. 
Phutiatsiana (Putehazan) Riv.: i, 
140, 141. 
Picus (? Chrysoptilopicus bennetti}: 
ii, 81. 
Pied Babbler ('Turdoides bicolor): 
i, 304; ii, 46, 147, 177. 
Piekenier (Pickene): ii, 129, 130. 
Pienaar, J\rnoldus: i, 202. 
Pienaar, Jan: i, 384, 387. 
Pienaar, Mr.: i, 77, 78, 93. 
Pienaar, Piet: i, 202, 203, 204, 21", 
25'7, 25'8, 285'. 
Pienaars (Pinnears) Riv.: i, 5'7. 
Piet: ii, 140, 145', 147, 160, 161, 
163, 181, 182, 184, 186, 206, 
240, 295'. 
Potgietersrust: ii, 20. 
Pilandsberg : ii, 13. 
Pilane: i, 382; ii, 15'2, 15'4, 165', 
171, 175', 176, 179, 186, 187, 
189, 190. 
Pitso (Picho): i, 412, 413; ii, 137. 
Platberg: i, 1"2, 3"6, 374. 
Ploceus personatus (= Hyphantor• 
nis velatus): i, 175', 304. 
Ploceus socius (= Philetairus 1.): 
i, 300, 304, 320. 
Plu'llianus aT111atus (Hoplopterus a.): 
i, 206, 233, 235'. 
Plu'llialis, Blue Head ( = Cursorius 
rufus): i, 298. 
Po (Bapoo): i, 5'2; ii, 107. 
Poisoning of milk: ii, 216. 
Pontoon over Vaal Riv.: ii, 14. 
Porcupine (Hystrix africiu-austra• 
lis): ii, 293. 
Port Natal: i, 16, 26. 
P0we (Poi): ii, 206. 
Pretoria North: ii, 12. 
Psittacus (Poicephalus) meyeri: ii, 
147. 
Pterocles bicinctus (= Calopterocle1 
b.): i, 291. 
Pterocles bicinctus: ii, 15'8. 
Pterocles described (=Ganga gut• 
turalis, A. Smith): i, 295', 303; 
ii, 47, 67. 
Pterocles tachypetes (=Pt. nama· 
quus): i, 291, 311. 
Pumpkins: i, 347; ii, 122, 123, 
124, 25'6. 
Python: ii, 167, 177, 204, 205'. 
Quaggabok, Harnessed Antelope 
('Tragelaphus scriptus): ii, 79. 
Quagga (Zebra, Hippotigris quagga 
and H. burchelli): i, 101, 103, 
15'7, 171, 173, 235', 307, 309, 
310; ii, 34, 42, 47, 163. 
338 INDEX 
Quain, Mr.: i, 24. 
Quatsie (black quarter): i, 247, 
251, 253, 2S'4, 258, 261, 265, 
269, 270, 274, 275, 276, 332, 
339, 350, 390; ii, 2S' . 
Rain-making: i, 261, 338, 392, 393, 
394, 39S', 396. 
Ramabutsetse: ii, 117, 119, 136, 
170, 176, 20S', 214. 
Ramapip: i, 292. 
Ramaquabane Riv.: ii, 215, 222. 
Ratclo (Ratbou): i, 407; ii, 2S'. 
Rathsibi (Ratsipip): i, 266, 407; ii, 
117, 119, 170, 171, 174, 222. 
Read, Rev. James: i, 268, 337, 
394; ii, 31. 
Red Bishop Bird, Red Vink (Pyro• 
mc:ldna orix) : i, 168, 175, 237; 
ii, 31, 121, 14S'. 
Rensburg, Mr.: i, 9S', 99. 
Rheebok (Pelea capreolus) : i, 137. 
Rhinoceros, Black (Rhinoceros 
bicomis) : i, 271, 286, 290, 311, 
408; ii, 3S', 42, 49, S'O, S'7, S'S, 
66, 78, 80, 83, 84, 91, 102, 
106, 107, 111, 113, 114, 118, 
119, 204, 20S', 208, 210, 213, 
22S', 228. 
Rhinoceros, White (Ceratotherium 
limum) : ii, 46, 47, 49, 80, 81, 
107, 113, 204, 20S', 218. 
Rice, Rt. Hon. P. Spring: i, 4S'. 
Riems: i, 171. 
Rietbok (Eleotragus arundinum) : 
i, 137; ii, 49, 94. 
Riet River, see Black Modder River. 
Roan Antelope, Bastard Gemsbok 
(Hippotragus equinus) : ii, 46, 
1 H, 156, 240, 246. 
Rockets: i, 1 S'4, 15'S'; ii, 72, 73. 
Roodekat (Caracal) : i, 278. 
Roofs: i, 279. 
Rooireebok ( R.edunca fulvoruf uld) : 
ii, 107. 
Rolland, Rev.: i, 43, 329, 403; ii, 
n, 52. 
Sabiqua (Sibiqua, Sobikwa) : i, 
278, 279, 292, 353, 3S'4; ii, 164, 
178, 218, 2H, 271. 
Salt: i, 99. 
Salt Pan : ii, 281. 
Sandals: i, 169, 196, 199; ii, 283. 
Saree: i, 28 2. 
Sarel Booi: i, 96. 
Saulspoort: ii, 13. 
Saxicola familiaris (= Cercomc:ld 
f.J : i, 217. 
Saxicola (= Dromolaea monticola): 
i, 137. 
Saxicola formicivora (= Myrmeco­
cichla f.) : i, 137. 
Schanse: i, 188, 199. 
Scheepers (Scempers): i, 184; 
(Skipper) : ii, 284. 
Schmidt, Rev.: i, 41. 
Schoon, Robert: i, 2S', 48, 76, 79, 
248, 2S'O, 2S'l, 263, 264, 266, 
267; ii, 9, 20, 32, S'2, 60, 70. 
Schoorsteenberg (Scoorsteinberg): 
i, 92, 93. 
Sciurus ciccura (cepapi) : ii, 160, 
172, 204, 20S', 238. 
Sebego, see Sabiqua. 
Sebetwane (Sibitwane): i, 279, 355; 
ii, 136, 142, 170, 176, 189, 20S', 
214, 215. 
Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpen­
tarius) : i, 390. 
Sefton, Mr. : i, 1 S'O. 
Seekoeigat (Sea Cow Hut): i, 92. 
INDEX 339 
Seidensticher, Mr.: i, 110, 111. 
Sekgoma (Takoma): ii, 176. 
Selokolela (Siliqualala): ii, 209, 
21S. 
Selons' Spruit: ii, 11. 
Seretz ( Seretse) : i, 2 77, 2S f. 
Setaben (Sitabing): i, 405. 
Setlagoli ( Sitlakole, Sitlahole) : i, 
401, 407, 407; ii, 10, 37, 264. 
Setube (Sethobe): i, 277·. 
Serowe: i, 49; ii, 20. 
Serowe (Seroi) Riv.: ii, 21S. 
Serurumi (Soraruma) Riv.: ii, 203. 
Seven Pontein: i, 9S. 
Shampani, Shampan, Sampan, Clam• 
pan: i, 371. 
Shashani Riv.: ii, 217, 222. 
Shashi Riv.: ii, 217, 222. 
Sheaths for knives: ii, 110. 
Shells, Freshwater: ii, 197. 
Shepstone, Mr. & Mrs.: i, 16. 
Shields: i, 320; ii, 74, 122, 136, 
140, 1 n, 174, 194, 204, 20J, 
206, 214, 217, 224, 252, 271, 
27S. 
Sichele, i, HO; ii, 177, 21'. 
Sifonela: i, 126, 337, H6, 407. 
Sikatseli ( Cicatsali) : ii, 1 S6. 
Sikonyela (Ciconiale): i, 39, 129, 
130, 132, 133, 134, 143, Pl. 14; 
ii, "· 142, 171. 
Sikonyela's Stronghold: i, Pl. 13. 
Silverfontein: i, 20f. 
Silverkrans: ii, 11. 
Singing: ii, f9, 64, 66, 71, 72, 
13S, 172, 307. 
Sjamboks: i, 271, 34f; ii, 309. 
Skin sacks for milk: ii, 2S5. 
S1agboom: i, 141. 
Slier (Sly): ii, 2S4. 
Slik Spruit: i, Sf, SS, S9, 90, 160. 
Smallpox: i, 273, 390; ii, 2', 39, 
199. 
Smit, Stoffel: i, H2. 
Smith, Lady: i, 24. 
Smith, Thomas: i, 13. 
Smoking, Dagga: i, 312; ii, 2'4. 
Snakes: i, 139, 219, 2SS, 2S9, 299, 
309, 390; ii, 69, lOS, 109, 177, 
204, 20f. 
Snuff: i, 227; ii, 63, 2 '2. 
Sneeuwberg: i, 64. 
Sobikwa, see Sabiqua. 
Somerset, Lord Chas.: i, 14, 94. 
Sotho (Basuto): i, lS, n, 114, 
lSf. 292, 320, 347, 34S; ii, 27S. 
Speeches of hunters, etc.: ii, 208-
214, 22f-22S. 
Spiders: i, 217. 
Spoetfontein: i, 1S7. 
Springbok ( Antidomu maTsupiali.s): 
i, 103, 147, H7, 171, 172, 27S, 
299, 307, 309; ii, 34. 
Starrenberg Spr.: ii, 296. 
Steedman, A.: i, 9, 2f, 26; ii, 60. 
Steenbok (R.aphiceTos campestris): 
i, 13f, 217, 27S, 299, 303, 333; 
ii, 145, 1 S-6, 204, 20f, 271. 
Stella, P. 0.: ii, 10, 34. 
Stockenstroom, Andries: i, 141, 
1'2, 194, 3H, 393. 
Stoffel, Gert: i, 197. 
Stoffel, Tontjie: i, lSO. 
Stoll, J. W.: i, 60. 
Stretch, C. L.: i, S'S, 62. 
Sturman: i, 2Sl, 296, 302, 303. 
Sunday's Riv.: i, 131. 
Superstitious medicines: i, 390, 39f; 
ii, 27. 
Suwe (Shue): ii, 17'. 
Sweet•reed, Preserving of: i, 3H. 
Swiegers: ii, 306. 
340 INDEX 
Syme: i, 102, 103; ii, 127, 128, 
29S'. 
Taaibosch, Gert: i, 39. 
Taaibosch, see Captain, Jan. 
'Taeniae in Hyrax: ii. 103. 
'T ahaitse ('T al(_ayesi): ii, 46, 240. 
Taisho: i, 19S', 222. 
Takoon (Old Lattakoo): i, 241, 
268, 292, 319, 320, 333, 340, 
342, 34S', 3S'9, 37S', 388, 407; 
ii, 10, 30. 
Takoon Riv.: i, 30S'. 
Taue (Tau): i, 407. 
Taungs: i, 44, 2rn, 388. 
Ta wane (Towane, Tauiane, 
Towani): i, 320, 371, 381, 388, 
401, 403, 407; ii, 37, 267, 271, 
272 (see Chauane). 
Techoe: i, 40S'. 
Tennant, E.: i, 3S', 48, 311; ii, 78, 
200. 
Terry, James: i, 3S', 147; ii, 9S'. 
Thaba Bosigo: i, 117, Pl. 9. 
Thaba 'Nchu: i, 124, 146, !S'S, 
407, Pl. 1 S'; ii, 142, 163. 
Thlambi (Lambi): ii, 292. 
Thia peli (Lia peli) : ii, 46 (see 
Lepeli). 
Thunderbolt ( clarie, hadi): i, 344. 
Tiger (Leopard, Panthera pardus): 
i, 278; ii, 90, 101, 196, 204, 
20S', 207. 
Titus: i, 19S', 2S'9, 260. 
Tlatla (Clacla) Riv.: ii, 166, 176, 
207, 222, 224 (map). 
Tlhane (Claani): i, 361. 
Tlhaping, see Batlapin. 
Tlok:wa (Batlok:wa, Baklokwa, 
Matok, Mantatee): i, 18, n, 106, 
110, 113, 118, 12S', 127, 238, 
292, 320, 3S'9, 361, 391, 392; 
ii, 31, 74, 83, 136, 142, 1S'2. 
277, 278, 279. 
Toads: i, 13S', 137. 
Tobacco: i, 48, lOS', 227, 27S', 379; 
ii, 63, 102, 110, l 3S', 174. 
'Tol{_us (= Xanthrhynchus leucomc:• 
las): i, 299; ii, 199. 
Tolane Riv.: ii, 11, 13. 
Tortoise shells: ii, 286. 
Tortoise-shell water scoops: i, 304. 
Tortoise, Water: i, 309; ii, 80, 204. 
Tree described: ii, 233, 234, 23S'. 
Tributes: i, 388. 
Tropic of Capricorn: i, 27, 49; ii, 
13, 192, 197, 200. 
Trigardt, Louis: ii, 20. 
Tsama melons: i, 277. 
Tsening: i, 284, 29S'. 
Tsetse Fly: ii, 117, 16S', 180, 18S'. 
Tsitaki: i, 391. 
Tswana, see Bechuanas. 
Tugela Riv.: i, 16. 
Tuli (Toli): ii, 214. 
'Tuna (induna): ii, 79. 
'Turdus olivaceus (= Afrocichla 
smithi): i, 16S', 217. 
'Turnix, New ('Turnix lepurana): 
ii, 147. 
'Typhlops: i, 410; ii, 113. 
Uintjies: i, 169. 
Uitdraai, Riet Riv. : i, Pl. 16. 
Uithalder: ii, 284. 
Umbrellas: i, 304. 
Umcotue, see Mokatwe. 
Umhlokulu (Umcloculo): ii, 183. 
Umkhaliphi: ii, 63 (see Calepi). 
Umnumzane: ii, 79. 
Umpagate (umphal(_athi): ii, 67. 
Umpok:wane Mission Stn.: i, Pl. 12. 
INDEX 341 
Umslatosi Riv.: i, 16. 
Um:imvubu Riv.: i, lS', 16. 
Vaal Riv. (Likwa): i, 18, 45, 109, 
118, 123, 127, 158, 161, 165, 
179, 201, 205, 209, 210, 211, 
223, 356, 358, 391, 392, 407, 
Pl. 20; ii, 14, 65, 66, 73, 7-4, 
78, 98, 250, 261, 268, 280, 283, 
304. 
Valschfontein: i, 189, 202, 204, 
205. 
Valtyn: i, 387. 
Van der Graf, Landdrost: i, 93, 
108. 
Van der Heever, Lourens: i, 194. 
Van der Merwe, Piet: i, 60, 61. 
Vanellus chalcopterus (Rhinoptiliu 
c.): i, 299, 304. 
Van Jaarsveld: i, 357. 
Van Niewkerk, Field Comet: i, 
208, 209. 
Van Reyneveld, W. C.: i, 185, 
194, 209. 
Van Staden: ii, 285. 
Van Zyl, Adriaan: i, 203, 204. 
Van Zyl, Andries: i, 149, 203, 
204. 
Van Zyl, Pretorius: i, 203. 
Varkfontein: i, 187. 
Venereal disease: ii, 2 5. 
Venter, Mr.: i. 63. 
Verhuil: i, 43, 85, 129, Pl. 6. 
Vespertilio: i, 262. 
Vidua longicauda: ii, 49. 
Villages on poles: ii, 11, 76, 77, 
112. 
Visagie, Gideon: i, 255. 
Visser, Cornelius: i, 61, 62. 
Viper: i, 299. 
Vlakvark (Warthog): ii, 84. 
Vocabularies: ii, 204, 205, 272, 
281, 283, 284. 
von Ludwig, C. F. H.: i, 31, 40. 
Vos, Hendrik: i, 195. 
Vultures: i, 137, 346, 351; ii, 47, 
49, 111, 157, 199. 
Vultur fulws (=Gyps copro• 
theres): i. 137; ii, 47, 1S'7. 
Vultur (Lophogyps) occipitalis: ii, 
157, 199. 
Wagener, Hendrick: ii, 285. 
War axes: i, 360, 365; ii, 278, 
279. 
Warm Bath: i, 256, 257. 
Warmkop, Bartman: ii, 302, 303. 
Warren, Admiral: i, 3 2. 
Waterboer, Andries: i, 20, 50, 78, 
126, 162, 189, 199, 200, 202, 
214, 247, 280, 281, 359, 360, 
371, 387, 388, 403; ii, 14, 274, 
276, 277, 280, 281. 
Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus): 
ii, 69, 79, 80, 92, 107, 204, 205. 
Water melon: i, 298, 310, 337, 
394, 397, 412; ii, 118. 
Water Tortoise: i, 309; ii, 80, 204, 
205. 
Wellington, Duke of: i, 21. 
Whiteboy, Hendrick: i, 399. 
White Circus ( = C. swainsonii 
A. Smith = Pseudocircus macrou• 
rm): i, 205. 
Whitefoot, Piet: i, 96, 149, 151, 
154, 174. 
White-headed Crow (C. dauricus, 
Corvus albus): ii, 157, 199, 204, 
205. 
Whistles: i, 344; ii, 196, 204, 205. 
Whitlow case: i, 351. 
Whittle, Mr.: i, 12 5. 
342 INDEX 
Whooping Cough: ii, 280. 
Widows: ii, 26. 
Wiese, Jan: i, 203. 
Wild Dogs (Lyc4on pic:tus): i, 136; 
ii, 88. 
Wild Ducks: i, 87, 160. 
Wildebeest (Gof'gon t4urinus) : i, 
147, 171, 172, 174, 278, 297, 
307, 310, 413; ii, H, 39, 47, 
60, 14S'. 
Wild Goose: i, 216, 217. 
Wild Hog (? Bush Pig): ii, 80. 
Willem: i, 181, 182, 191, 192, 193. 
William: ii, 2S'4. 
Winterhoek Mtns.: i, S'9. 
Windvogel, Knecht: i, 107, 108, 
lU. 
Wittebergen (White Berg): ii, 268. 
Witte Water: i, 288. 
Wollaston, H. P.: i, 31. 
Wooden bowls: i, 271; ii, 62. 
Woodwork: i, 279. 
Wright, Rev. Peter: ii, 277. 
Wrist-rings: i, 226, 360. 
z.ebediela: ii, 20. 
z.eekoei, Piet: i, 19S'. 
z.eerust: i, 2S'; ii, 9, 11. 
z.endelings Post: ii, 11. 
Zonurus: i, 142. 
Zosterops m4da.g4SC4riensis (= Z. 
capensis pallilfo): i, 224. 
Zoutpansdrift: ii, 294. 
Zulus: i, 110, 266; ii, 111, 121. 
Zuurberg: i, 141. 
Zwartland (Malmesbury) : ii, 284. 
Zwartruggens (C.P.): ii, 310. 
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The Great Choai. 
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Plate Z. Pliolograph by permission ?f the Uni11ersity of the Witwatersrand. 
Matabele threshing floor. 
Pfdte J. Phdtogrdph by pcnni&sion n/ the University of the Witwdtersrdnd. 
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Presentation to Mzilikazi. 
Plate 6. Photngraph by permission of the University of tire Witwatersrand. 
Praisers of Mzilikazi. 
Plate 7. PlrolotJrap/1 by permi.sion of tlie Vnivi!rsity of the Witwatersrand. 
Matabele cattle post. 
Plate B. 
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PhotograJ•/1 by pennis.sion oJ the University of the 1Vit 111aterorand. 
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The Magaliesberg from the Magalies River. 
Plate 10. Phol<>oraph by permission of the L'niversity of the IVitwaterPaud. 
The Magaliesberg and the Magalies River. 
Plate 11. PhotOl}raph by penni55ion of the University of the IYitwalersrand. 
The Magaliesberg from the Crocodile River. 
Plate tZ. Photograph by J>ennission of the University of the Witwatersrand. 
The Poort of the Crocodile River. 
Plat• 1J. Pfl()tu11rapl1 by permission of thi University of tire Witwatersra11d. 
The Crocodile River. 
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Plate 15. Photograph by Pennission of the University of the Witwatersrand. 
On the Limpopo River. 
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Plate 1b. Photograph by perrnissiort u/ the University of the IVitwatersrancl. 
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Plate 19. Photoorap/1 by 1>1m11ission of tlze l"11itlersity of the Witwatersrand. 
Matabele execution. 
Plate ZO. Plwtoarap/t />y />errni5Sio11 of the Vniversity o/ the Witwatersrand. 
Matabele corn store. 
Photograph by />ennis<ion 11/ tlie University of the Witwatersrand. 
Matabele physicking an ox. 
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Plate 22. Photoaraph by permission of t/ie University of the Witwatersrand. 
Plan of Kwena game trap. 
Plate ZJ P/tolr>(Jrap/1 by permission of the University of Ifie Witwatersrand. 
dhooting hippo in the Marico River. 
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Plate 14. l'lwtoaraph by pen11i•.<ion of the University o/ the Witwatersra11cl. 
Cutting up the hippo in the Marico River. 
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Plrotoora/1/r br permis.<ron o/ tl1e Unive,.ity of t/1e Witwatersrand. 
Feas~ing on the hippo. 
Plate 26. Photnuraph by permiuion of tire Vniuersity of the Witwatersrand. 
Near the junction of the Limpopo and Marica Rivers. 
Plate 37 Photo11ruph by pcrmissio11 o/ the University of the Witwatersrand. 
Junction of the Limpopo and Marica Rivers. 
Plate 28. Plrotngraph by pennission of th~ University of the Witwatersrand. 
Training a refractory bullock. 
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Plait! 19. Photogra1>/1 by 1>ermi.ssion o/ the Unit1'1'3ity of the W itwatersrand. 
Campbell. 
Plate 30. 
Charles Bell, the artist. 
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Pltolt1111"a1>/1 by pemus51on of tire 
AJritana Must>unr, Johannesburo.