THE CONGO FREE STATE 277 



We are already looked upon with suspicion, both 

 in Belgium and France, as having not altogether 

 disinterested motives in this Conp^o agfitation. I 

 would venture to suggest that, from our own colonial 

 experience, we can afford to treat generously the 

 shortcomings of others, and, above all things, we 

 can assure ourselves absolutely of their truth before 

 we bring serious accusations against a friendly 

 nation. 



