Chapter II: Introduction

CONTAINING A SHORT ACCOUNT OF THE LAST DAYS OF BELZONI.

Since the first appearance of this little work, the enterprising individual whose discoveries it relates, and who gave his permission for its publication, has departed this life. It was hoped that through his means some account of places, imperfectly described by others, might have been obtained; but the decree of Providence has prevented the accomplishment of so desirable an object. The following short account of his latter days will not be considered an improper appendage to the work:--

“Died at Gato, near Benin, in Africa, on the 3d of December
1823, Mr. G. BELZONI, so well known for his Egyptian tombs. He
was so far on his way into the interior, endeavouring to reach
Houssa, when a dysentery put an end to his valuable life. He
was buried at Gato the day after his decease, and a board, with
the following inscription, was placed over his grave:--

HERE LIE THE REMAINS OF

G. BELZONI,

Who was attacked with Dysentery, at Benin,
(on his way to Houssa and Timbuctoo,)
on the 26th of November, and died
at this place,
December 3d, 1823.

“Mr. Belzoni had been landed by Captain Filmore, R. N. at
Benin. Captain Filmore exerted himself arduously in assisting
the intrepid traveller, and discharged a man from his vessel,
who was a native of Houssa, that he might accompany Mr. B. on
his route. The following extract of a letter contains most
of the late particulars respecting this enterprising and
scientific individual:--

“On the night of the 24th of November, Mr. Belzoni left us,
with Mr. Houtson, for Gato. On parting with us he seemed a
little agitated, particularly when the crew of the brig which
brought him, (to each of whom he had made a present) gave him
three loud cheers on leaving the vessel? “God bless you, my
fine fellows! and send you a happy sight of your country and
friends!” Was his answer. On the 3d of December I received
a letter from Mr. Houtson, requesting me to come to Benin,
as Mr. B. was lying dangerously ill; and, in case of death,
wished a second person to be present. I was prevented going,
not only by business, but by a severe fever which had then hold
of me. On the 5th, I had a second letter from Mr. H. with
the particulars of Mr. B.’s end; and one from himself, almost
illegible, dated December 2, requesting me to assist in the
disposal of his effects, and to remit the proceeds home to his
agents, Messrs Briggs, Brothers & Co, America Square, London,
together with a beautiful Amethyst ring, which he seemed
particularly desirous should be delivered to his wife, with the
assurance that he died in the fullest affection for her, as he
found himself too weak to write his last wishes and adieus.

“At the time of Mr. Belzoni’s death, Mr. Houtson had every
thing arranged with the King of Benin for his departure, and,
had his health continued, there is no doubt he would have
succeeded. Mr. Belzoni passed at Benin as an inhabitant, or
rather native, of the interior, who had come to England when a
youth, and was now trying to return to his country. The kings
and emigrands (or nobles) gave credit to this, Mr. Belzoni
being in a Moorish dress, with his beard nearly a foot in
length. There was, however, some little jealousy amongst them,
which was removed by a present or two, well applied; and the
King of Benin’s messenger was to accompany Mr. Belzoni with
the King’s cane, and as many men as were considered necessary
for a guard and baggage-carriers. The King’s name is respected
as far as Houssa, and he has a messenger, or ambassador,
stationary there. On Mr. Belzoni’s arrival at Houssa, he was
to leave his guard there, and proceed to Timbuctoo, the King
not guaranteeing his safety farther than Houssa, and Timbuctoo
not being known at Benin. On his return to Houssa, he would
make the necessary preparations for going down the Niger, and
despatch his messengers and guard back with letters to his
agents and to Mr. John Houtson: the messenger to be rewarded
according to the account the letters gave of his behaviour, and
the King to receive a valuable stated present. This was the
plan, and I think it would have proved fortunate, had Mr. B.
lived.

“Mr. Belzoni was a native of Padua, and had known England many
years. He first visited Egypt with a view of erecting hydraulic
engines for the Pasha, to assist in irrigating the country.
In stature, he was above six feet and a half, and possessed
of great bodily strength. His manners and deportment were
marked by great suavity and mildness, and he had a genuine love
for science in all its branches. He was brave, ardent, and
persevering in pursuit of his objects; and his decease at the
moment of a strong hope of success, must be deeply felt by all
who estimate the true interests of science and the light of
discovery at their true value!”