I would refrain from using the phrase the call of nature to avoid invoking images and adding to your already much mirth and laughter at ones bodily functions; instead I will say call of the wild. I wish there was some permanency to this sojourn in 1886 as I headed deep into the Bush. To keep the memory alive and therefore to give it some kind of permanent outlook, I have vouchsafed to share with you this wonderful journey, and wish you were there. Here in the jungle, the climate, flora and fauna can be extremely different from other regions of the tropics. The vegetation is of the most luxuriant nature, temperature being very high, an abundance of rain with an absence of wind. This particular spot I am describing is in fact rather sombre and devoid of bright colours. Any flowers that exist can be seen at the top of the trees, one hundred feet above my head whither also fly the bright butterflies and the colourful birds which feed upon them. Thirst was taking its toll owing to the high humidity. A nearby stream that debouched into the river provided for a much needed drink. It was refreshing to say the least. The boat turned a corner of the Demerara River and for about three miles the trees of the forest are covered with a bright purple creeper, which fell in festoons from the top of the trees, and is reflected at length in the placid water. Lit up by the slanting rays of sun, the woods present a blaze of glory which I have rarely seen equalled; it was like a much admired painting in oil. The air was laden with the heavy scent of flowers. It reminded me of the Cabacaburi mission on the Pomeroon River where I saw this huge ceiba tree, whose trunk shot up seventy feet into the air before its branches began to expand. The trunk was entirely surrounded and hidden by a gorgeous coloured climbing plant, which, when in full flower, turned the old ceiba into a pillar of gold, seventy feet high and six feet wide and which under the blaze of the setting sun presented a floral spectacle which I have never seen surpassed.
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 03:26:39 +0000
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