Preface. 
The task was difficult, even with the help of Cav. Uffi 
Vittorio Bella’s splendid photographs, which, in a measure, 
filled out the bare outlines of our diaries. I, therefore, take 
this opportunity of expressing my deep sense of obligation to 
Cav. Filippo De Filippi, and of recording the pleasure given 
me by his acceptance of my proposal. 
To this volume, which contains a narrative of the journey 
and of the actual exploration work of the expedition, together 
with the meteorological and astronomical notes, will be added 
a second volume,* containing the geological and mineralogical 
report of Dr. A. Boccati, together with reports upon the 
zoological and botanical specimens brought back by us. 
1 must here tender my thanks to all the distinguished 
men of science who have collaborated in the study and 
illustration of our collections. 
Eome, 
April, 1908. 
* Published in Italian only—U. Hoepli, Milan. 
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