Chapter II. 
of a numerous caravan of porters were required to cover this 
ground. 
The construction of this railway was a truly great work, 
owing to the serious obstacles which had to be overcome. It 
stands as a witness to splendid perseverance and resolution in 
an incessant struggle for six years against the gravest difficulties. 
Vast tracts of the country are absolutely lacking in water or 
resources, and, in fact, practically a desert. A great part of the 
way passes over mountains where the line rises to a height 
of 7,700 feet, descends to 6,000, and mounts again to 8,300, 
only to drop down to 3,700 on the shore of the lake. 
KISUMU MARKET. 
No help was forthcoming from the natives, mere naked 
savages, devoid of industry or skill, incapable of work in any 
shape whatsoever. It was necessary to transport an army of 
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