VII 



TRAVELS m EASTERN AFRICA 



297 



Lyserege was the youngest of the three — perhaps 

 not more than thirty-six years of age, well developed 

 physically, and possessing the same regular features as 

 the others ; but his eyes were fiercer in expression, and 

 his lips gave the impression of cruelty and sensuality. 

 His name in the lanQ^uasre of the Masai means " Blood," 

 and he looked as if he would be unhappy unless wading 

 through it. 



The survey concluded, I opened conversation by 

 waving my hand, and saying, " Serian." The three 

 chiefs replied, as with one voice, " Serian." My knowl- 

 edge of the Masai language was unfortunately so 

 limited that I was unable to converse directly with 

 the chiefs, and was forced to depend entirely upon 

 Hassan, my Masai interpreter, to reveal my thoughts 

 to the Rendile, and explain to me their desires. Has- 

 san was the most willing creature in the world ; but, 

 although he understood my Swahili perfectly, his stupid 

 mind was unable to grasp any but the simplest ideas ; 

 so that he was almost more hindrance than assistance 

 as a means of intercommunication. 



I asked them if they were, indeed, Rendile. They 

 nodded. They asked my tribe, and seemed incredulous 

 when told that I had come from a great distance, and 

 across vast seas to see them. They had never heard 

 of Europeans, but said that Somali traders from Barawa 

 had visited them, and told them of the sea. 



The country of the Barawa tribe is on the coast, a 

 short distance north of Kismayu. 



I pulled up the sleeve of my shirt, and exhibited my 

 untanned arm. They were much surprised at the sight, 

 and seemed to believe Hassan when he told them I 



