Chapter III. 



would frequently accompany the expedition for days together, 

 paying it honour with tlieir cruelly persistent music. 



The Duke, or some member of the expedition chosen to repre- 

 sent liim, would next return the chieftain's visit and present 

 a gift, usually quite moderate in proportion to the value 

 received. The dwellings of the chiefs are circular huts, with 

 walls of plaited reeds and the usual native roof The 

 interior is divided by curtains into various rooms. The walls 

 are adorned with illustrations from European periodicals. The 

 floors are covered with mats and skins. There is usually 

 a fair supply of chairs and cushions. The whole is clean and 

 orderly. The liTit is surrounded by several zeribas. In the 

 courts between tlie zeribas are huts for women, slaves, 

 soldiers, etc. 



On the first days of the marcli the iieed of attending to 

 innumerable details, in order to effect the best arrangement of 

 the whole and systematize tlie work of each, left the members 

 of the expedition very little time to enjoy the jjicturesque 

 aspects of the adventure. Later on, as each one grew 

 accustomed to his special attributions, every hour became a 

 source of new enjoyment. 



The most remarkable and changeful spectacle was presented 

 by the swarming native camp, Avith its deafening racket and 

 perpetual excitement, dominated by the incessant rolling of 

 drums and the inharmonious strains of uncouth musical instru- 

 ments, the loud cackling of poultry, the bleating of flocks and 

 lowing of cattle. Now^ and again noisy, jabbering crowds would 

 sinround dancers or wrestlers. Women who had come to 

 fetch food for the porters, men from the neighbouring villages, 

 small children, even, would remain in camp to add to the 

 hubbub and confusion. 



86 



