Liberia <*- 



lascivious and given up to a libidinous life to an even greater 

 degree than most West African races. Perhaps they have 

 changed since his day, as that is not the impression one 

 derives from an acquaintance with them now. But even Koelle, 

 though he ascribes this characteristic to the race as a whole, 

 cites numerous exceptions, who were according to his descrip- 



353. VAI SERVANTS 



tion really noble-minded men, with a high ideal of sobriety in 

 living. 



So far as pushfulness is concerned, combined with other 

 good qualities, the Mandingo may be considered the future 

 dominating native race in Liberia ; but the Vai (who after 

 all are nearly related to them in language and religion) will 

 perhaps join hands with the Grebo in furnishing the civilised 

 and civilising element. Just as the Mandingo remind one of 



946 



