Series 02: Journal of a tour in Holland, 12 February - 22 March 1773 - No. 0081

[Page 81]

March 1773 - Rotterdam

but not very numerous here we saw a species of Guinea Fowl whose ground colour was a bright blue instead of white & had a crest instead of a horn it was said to be the bird of which a figure & description is given in Bosmans account of Guinea.  I heard here for the first time that the Hoepoe [Hooepoe] (Upupa) had been several times kept alive in holland by giving it human ordure for its food one gentleman as I was informd kept it with a paste of his own contrivance the principal part of which was turkey figs but like a true dutchman he refusd to divulge the secret & it dyed with him.

From hence we went upon change the building certainly was good but not half filld with people.  I was told that it was generaly thin.

after dinner we went to see the Collection of Burgermaster Gavens & friend.  I think the best appointed collection I saw in holland a room compleatly furnishd