xii INTRODUCTION 



those whose paths are laid in similar places to benefit 

 by it, eliminate the bad, take advantage of the good, 

 and above all, by the glimpses they will get of lost 

 opportunities, at once equip themselves with the means 

 of making their observations of scientific value and 

 reliable accuracy. 



Personal observation and the perusal of innumer- 

 able books of travel have convinced me that one's 

 success with native tribes is due to three things — an 

 unrelenting sense of justice tempered by well-con- 

 sidered mercy ; a tenacious hold of any position once 

 taken up, whether right or wrong (it will never be the 

 latter if the first-named quality is present) ; and a keen 

 sense of humour. Like charity, be it said, "The last 

 is the greatest of these." 



A noted West African, in relating his experiences, 

 told me of an official who complained of being un- 

 able to manage his native escort. Inquiry proved 

 that on the march his persistent order was, " Silence 

 in the ranks." Ye gods and little fishes ! Learn the 

 chorus of a song and join in it. Sing and whistle 

 yourself — the only appreciative audience I have ever 

 had has been in my escorts. Listen to and laugh at 

 a story, and tell one yourself — be sure, even if ill- 

 understood, it will be well received ; and if you 

 punctuate the points by laughing, you bet that they 

 will drive it home by their merriment. And when 

 the time comes, whether it is silence you want or 

 work or whatever it is, it will be given you whole- 

 heartedly. 



