26_th_.--They tried hard to prevent our going to Meroka this morning,
saying we should be eaten by the _Jakoni_ (wild beast)--and how could
they return? That would not do--go I must; so I got the things out, and
asked some Meroka natives, who had come in, to pick them up and let us
start. They refused, and joined in with our friends, saying we had
better remain. No; I must see Meroka, and until I saw it not a taro
would be bought nor a pile of salt given. They all sat down, looking
true savages. After some time, I said, "Meroka, or we return at once." I
got my bag and went on to the path; they got up, and called to me to come
back--they would go to Meroka, but leave the things, and return here to
sleep. No; I must have the things; I might want to sleep at Meroka. That
was terrible, the salt would be finished, and there would be none for
them here. Would I not consent to their taro being bought, and then they
would go with me? No; Meroka first, and taro when we return.
Seeing there was nothing for it--that go I would--they consented, and the
Meroka folks picked up the things, and away we went.
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