Note (return) — SPECIMENS
Reading edition
Finally, my description of the black heartheaded serpent, called Bouska 270, has been doubted; but a late traveller 271 has confirmed the accuracy of my account; even of this extraordinary animal.--In Riley's Narrative of his Shipwreck on the Coast of Sahara is given an account of an exhibition by two Isawie 272, who do not appear to have been adepts in the art of fascinating these serpents; for I have frequently seen them manage and charm the Bouska much more adroitly than those who exhibited at Rabat before Riley, although its bite is more deadly, and its strength considerably greater, than that of the El Effah!