52 In the Heart of Africa 



ensure that we are not robbed of those rich territories lying west- 

 ward of the lake. 



On the 14th of August we set out from Lake Mohasi towards 

 the west, our road leading us at first through the swampy end 

 of the lake. To accomplish the passage a huge quantity of 

 papyrus stalks were cut and placed in layers. On this swaying 

 but reliable foundation even the mules were able to pass across 

 safely. Then the usual load-humping recommenced, which was 

 a painful and laborious business at first for our carriers after 

 their lengthy rest. 



Near the village of Katschuri, on a hill overlooking the sur- 

 rounding country, there stood a mighty tree whose colossal crown 

 of foliage seemed to invite us to a shady resting-place. Some 

 beehives peeped out here and there between the branches, full of 

 a promise of sweet gifts. The place seemed made for us, so 

 we were soon lying at our ease beneath the tree's friendly shade 

 in full anticipation of a pleasant rest after our fatigues, whilst 

 the Askari set about pitching the tents. 



On a sudden I jumped up, startled out of my slumber by 

 a painful sting behind my ear, followed quickly by another on 

 my nose. A moment later Schubotz, who had just been watch- 

 ing my antics with a broad grin on his face, set up a cry of 

 woe. Wiese, muttering maledictions, fumbled about in the air 

 with his hands, striking out suddenly this way and that. Then 

 arms and cloths were waving and whisking about in every 

 direction. " Nyiiki, nyiiki! " (" the bees, the bees ! ") was heard on 

 all sides ; and, just as if the swarming insects had waited for 

 the battle-cry, the air was simply darkened by the vindictive 

 little creatures. " Nyuki, angalia! (" look out! ") Nyiiki! " The 

 war-whoop resounded all over the camp. A fierce conflict raged 

 for a few minutes, and then all w^as over. Cries of pain were 

 heard on all sides, and there was nothing but hurrying and 

 scurrying and indescribable confusion. Those who endeavoured 

 to get their burdens into a place of security abandoned the effort 

 and threw them down anywhere, and in a trice the whole crowd 

 were flying down the hillside with the angry bees in hot pursuit. 



