Dear reader, we took our leave of the Fair Cape with some sadness. However, our spirits were lifted by the sight of vast numbers of people singing and dancing in the streets. To my astonishment, our guide imparted that they were angry about some perceived injustice. Astonishing, for they danced nimbly and sang most lustily. What, I inquired, did they do when they were merry? The same, replied our guide, notably to a folk song about Jerusalem. We were in no small measure mystified.
The Northern Cape is a rugged region, peopled by a rugged, but friendly populace. Great storytellers, the cadence of their speech was almost musical to the ear. I was distressed to note that despite many appearances of a civilization equal to ours, they prepared their meat upon open fires. Still, the victuals were most pleasing to our palates. Indeed, they surpassed even the nationally favoured dish, kayefsee, which our guide had obtained for us on the road. (He explained that many of those who serve the people favour this repast, as it bestows strength and the nourishment necessary to rule wisely).
In the region named The Free State, giants do roam the land. They are partial to a sport in which an oval ball is pursued, then once gathered, immediately kicked away. Closely resembling warfare, it is nevertheless enjoyed by great and small. Little else of interest happens in this region, once famed for great dairy herds.
I shall be at pains, dear reader, to write of our journey through other parts: the fabled City Of Gold (where savage beasts stalk), Durban, Place Of Great Burning and the rest of this land of mystery and magic.
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