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 1c0 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 q . 
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 ~ 
