CHAP. I.] 
CHANGE IN DISPOSITION OF MEN. 
35 
the voyage. Bought four milch goats at 9 ps. each, 
and laid in a large stock of dhurra straw for the 
animals. Got all my men on board and sailed at 
4.30 p.m., course due west; variation allowed for. I 
have already reduced my men from wolves to lambs, 
and I should like to see the outrageous acts of mutiny 
which are the scape-goats of the traders for laying 
their atrocities upon the men’s shoulders. I cannot 
agree with some writers in believing that personal 
strength is unnecessary to a traveller. In these savage 
countries it adds materially to the success of an ex¬ 
pedition, provided that it be combined with kindness of 
manner, justice, and unflinching determination. Nothing 
impresses savages so forcibly as the poiver to punish and 
reward. I am not sure that this theory is applicable to 
savages exclusively. Arrived at Wat Shely at 9 p*m. 
23cZ Dec. —Poor Johann very ill. Bought two 
camels, and shipped them all right: the market at 
this miserable village is as poor as that at Getene. 
The river is about a mile and a half wide, fringed with 
mimosas; country dead flat; soil very sandy; much 
cultivation near the village, but the dhurra of poor 
quality. Saw many hippopotami in the river. I 
much regret that I allowed Johann to accompany me 
from Khartoum; I feel convinced he can never rally 
from his present condition. 
D 2 
