FREK EGBOS. 
241 
privileged class, said to have a language and customs 
of their own. They are employed in all palavers ; 
and may pass unmolested into hostile countries, which, 
if true, would establish the fact of a sort of free- 
masonry existing throughout that portionof West Africa. 
They wear no other covering than a kilt or fringe 
made of grass, about fourteen inches broad, round 
their loins ; and a marabout feather in the hair. 
A sort of rattle is carried in each hand, — very like 
those for the amusement of infants, — made of wicker- 
work, which they shake at one another in the dance. 
We purchased some of these articles from an old man, 
who disposed of them with great reluctance ; and in 
order to ease his conscience, he alFected to consider us 
as belonging to the “ Free Egbo,” a privilege which we 
did not consider as at all flattering, if certain rites are 
performed at initiation which rumour has delicately 
hinted at. This is however contradictory, inasmuch 
as the society — which is under the direction of the 
priesthood — is in such repute, that nearly all the 
men of any distinction consider it to be an honour to 
belong to it. 
King Bell’s house is very well built, with a raised 
story, surrounded by a verandah. A spacious saloon 
occupies the whole front, and is filled with European 
goods in chests ; piles of crockery ; figures and look- 
ing-glasses in abundance adorning the walls. Nor 
was the room devoid of useful furniture, as there were 
several tables, chairs, sofas, &c. 
VOL. II. 
E 
