PREFACE. 
In the history of the Nile there was a void : its 
Sources were a mystery. The Ancients devoted much 
attention to this problem ; but in vain. The Emperor 
Nero sent an expedition under the command of two 
centurions, as described by Seneca. Even Roman 
energy failed to break the spell that guarded these 
secret fountains. The expedition sent by Mehemet 
Ali Pasha, the celebrated Viceroy of Egypt, closed a 
long term of unsuccessful search. 
The work has now been accomplished. Three 
English parties, and only three, have at various periods 
started upon this obscure mission: each has gained 
its end. 
Bruce won the source of the Blue Nile; Speke and 
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