One case is of the very best spirits for
our own use. The rest is common stuff and is intended as presents.
Our main drink will be tea and chocolate. These are invaluable for
the traveler. I have, besides, large quantities of calico, brass
stair rods, beads, and powder. These are the money of Africa, and
pass current everywhere. With these we shall pay our carriers and
boatmen, with these purchase the right of way through the various
tribes we shall meet. Moreover it is almost necessary in Africa
to pass as traders. The people perfectly understand that white men
come here to trade; but if we said that our object was to shoot
birds and beasts, and to catch butterflies and insects, they would
not believe us in the slightest degree, but would suspect us of all
sorts of hidden designs. Now we will go ashore and pay our respects
to the king."
"Do you mean to say that there is a king in that wretched looking
village?" Frank asked in surprise.
"Kings are as plentiful as peas in Africa," Mr. Goodenough said,
"but you will not see much royal state."
Frank was disappointed indeed upon landing. Sierra Leone had given
him an exalted idea of African civilization, but this was at once
dispelled by the appearance of Bonny.
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