"I have not stated in my previous letters that Senor José Daniel Colaco, the Portuguese Minister at Tangier, kindly placed at my disposal his chaise-a-porteurs to enable me to perform the journey over the rough and stony plains of the interior of Morocco. To this were harnessed two mules, one behind and one in front of the vehicle. I believe I should not have been equal to the fatigue of travelling on horseback, and even as it was, this mode of transit was very trying and fatiguing.
"A quarter of an hour's ride brought us to the gates opening upon an avenue leading to the courtyard, or open space, before the palace.
"This avenue, which is of very considerable length, was lined on both sides by infantry troops of great variety of hue and accoutrements. They were standing in closely serried rank, and we must have passed several hundreds before emerging into the open plain. There a magnificent sight opened upon us; we beheld in every direction masses of troops, consisting of cavalry and foot soldiers. I should estimate the total number assembled on this occasion at not less than six thousand.
"We went forward some little distance into the plain, and saw approaching us the Oozier, the Grand Chamberlain, and other dignitaries of the Court. I descended from my vehicle, and my companions alighted from their steeds to meet them. We were cordially welcomed. We arranged ourselves in a line to await the appearance of the Sultan. This was preceded by a string of led white horses, and the Sultan's carriage covered with green cloth. His Majesty's approach was announced by a flourish of trumpets; he was mounted on a superb white charger, the spirited movements of which were controlled by him with consummate skill. The colour of the charger indicated that we were welcomed with the highest distinction.
"The countenance of His Majesty is expressive of great intelligence and benevolence.
"The Sultan expressed his pleasure in seeing me at his Court; he said my name was well known to him, as well as my desire to improve the condition of my brethren; he hoped that my sojourn in his capital would be agreeable; he dwelt with great emphasis on his long-existing amicable relations with our country; he also said it was gratifying to him to see two of the officers in its service at his Court.