PREFACE. 



As a young Author I may be allowed to make a 

 few introductory remarks, for the purpose of pro- 

 pitiating that spirit of critical inquiry which will 

 probably be directed to the examination of these 

 volumes. 



To undertake this journey into Africa I resigned 

 a valuable medical appointment in the East, and 

 voluntarily assumed the character of an adventurer. 

 My taste and prudence were questioned much at 

 the time by my friends. Whether the results of 

 the ambition which prompted me to endeavour to 

 be of service to others are, or are not, sufficient 

 reward for the sacrifice I made, now depends upon 

 the judgment of my reader. 



In 1840 I held the appointment of Surgeon on 

 board the iron armed steamer Phlegethon, on 

 secret service, but presumed to be bound for the 

 Eastern coast of Africa or India. I had long 



