Sketches from Formosa.

XVIII
FORDING THE TAI-AN RIVER
AT the southern end of the Lai-sia valley in Mid-Formosa
there is a deep, rushing river which every year dragged
people attempting to cross it into a watery grave. During
a time of heavy rain, I was shut in at Lai-sia after the
pastoral work of my visit had been finished, and began to
fear lest I might be prevented from keeping my promise
to visit several other churches in that part of the Island.
At last I said I would substantially reward any villagers
who saw me safely over the river. A number of volun-
teers commenced by coiling up a long, thick rope for
whatever emergencies might arise, and by furnishing
themselves with stout sticks about ten feet in length.
On reaching the northern bank, I completed my own
preparations by tying on my sun-hat, and fastening an
old torn waterproof coat over my naked body ; the two
travelling baskets, containing my little worldly all at the
time, having been put in charge of four stalwart members
of the party. I was held by two strong fellows ; and,
with the others well round me, we dashed in, but I was
quite unable to plant my feet on the river-bed, while
the water itself would persist in splashing over my head.
It was when about half-way across I turned round to see
my two baskets far down the river, and gaily bobbing
along to the sea. I was especially sorry at this loss of two
large bundles of dried plants tied on the top of one of
them ; for Mr. Carruthers of the British Museum had
asked me to make this collection from the higher moun-
tain regions, in addition to one I had already sent to him.
It was in the face of many obstacles and no small amount of
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