168 
TEAVELS m CENTEAL AFEICA. 
“ Upon a reconsideration of the question, I feel the Committee 
will give me credit for continuing my exertions beyond the 
allotted time as expressed in the agreement, but in full accord- 
ance with the interpretation of the real views of the Council of 
the Uoyal G-eographical Society, as conveyed to me in their 
instructions for my guidance.^ Captain Speke not having been 
able to keep time,t and the object in view being his relief, the 
continuation of my efforts to attain that end must at the time 
have met with the approval of the Society, inasmuch as, on 
the report of my death, its wishes are distinctly recorded by a 
Minute of the Council, dated January 26th, 1863, J and to which, 
for a just appreciation of my efforts, permit me respectfully to 
refer the Committee. 
“ (Signed) JOHN PETHEEICK.” 
On the following clay I received a communication to this effect : 
“ Sm, 
“ 15 WHITEHALL PLACE, 
June 2m, 1865. 
“The Council of the Eoyal Geographical Society having 
yesterday taken the subject of your letter, dated June 12th, into 
* In the instructions occurs this paragraph : “ The President and Council do 
not attempt to lay down any limit to this exploration, hut, fully trusting to your 
known zeal and energy, feel assured that you will do all in your power to effect 
the above-mentioned object without serious risk to the lives of the party under 
your command.” 
f He was sixteen months behind the time appointed for his arrival at Gondokoro. 
f This occurred nearly seven months after the date fixed for the termination of 
my contract with the Society. The Minute in January 26th, 1863 : “When on the 
subject of the reported death of Consul Petherick and wife, the President was 
requested to communicate with Mr, Baker at Khartoum, requesting him to act for 
the Society, should the report of Consul Petherick’s death be confirmed.” 
