182 BIG GAME SHOOTING 



ing them that in the event of an attack they are at least in a 

 position to defend themselves. 



For a trip to the Suk country, beyond Lake Baringo, it 

 would be better to have at least 80 to 100 armed men, as the 

 natives are not only very treacherous, but much more fear- 

 less of firearms than other tribes. For the Tana river twenty- 

 five rifles would be ample, provided the caravan did not go 

 more than one day's march from the river on the north bank. 

 If the trip should be extended further north into the Somali 

 country, it would not be worth while running the risks of entering 

 the country of such grasping, treacherous, religious fanatics as 

 the southern Somalis are with an escort of fewer than 150 rifles. 

 All arms should be breechloading. Carbines are much 

 handier for the porters than long rifles, though the askari can be 

 armed with the latter. It would add to the dignity of the head- 

 man (at all events in his own opinion) if he were allowed a 

 Winchester repeater. Sniders are much safer in the hands of 

 the men than rifles of any other make, and are also cheaper. 

 Although it is more than probable that the weapons will never 

 be called into requisition for defensive purposes, the moral effect 

 of a well-armed party on the natives is good, and they are far 

 less likely to try any bouncing or bullying if they see that the 

 party is strong enough not only to defend itself but to turn the 

 tables on them. If there is not a rifle, belt and pouch for 

 every porter in the caravan after the headman and askaris have 

 received theirs, the rest should be equally distributed amongst 

 the companies. This should not be done, however, until the 

 day of starting, and just before the loads are allotted. On no 

 account issue ammunition to the porters until nearing the 

 Masai country, as there is nothing to be feared from any other 

 natives, excepting the Somalis, north of the Tana river ; the 

 Suks, north of Lake Baringo ; and the Wa Nandi between 

 Elgeyo and Kavirondo. It is then necessary to be prepared 

 in the event of falling in with a roving band of warriors and 

 cattle-lifters. Ten rounds per man is enough for porters ; the 

 headman and askaris can each have twenty rounds, and these 



