Then Colonel Gordon asked King Mutesa the reason for his coming to the land of the King, saying on behalf of his king that they were satisfied with their situation and had no complaints or requests. They did not need their civilization, which would rob them of their honor and independence.

After a discussion of this nature, King Mutesa gave Colonel Gordon permission to build the fort he intended to build in the region and allowed the people to return to their lands and trade with the soldiers. This was the reason for the visit of the sheikhs and notables of the country to Colonel Gordon. He presented them with luxurious gifts and bestowed upon them precious robes, which greatly pleased them. He then enlisted their help in digging the trench and building the fortifications he wanted to establish. After completing the construction of the fort with all its necessities, he raised the Egyptian flag over it, announcing the opening of this province. King Mutesa showed his appreciation for all this, expressing his desire for friendship and affection, and saying that the Egyptian government was his strength in extending his authority over the subjects, ensuring their safety and happiness.

Colonel Gordon had sent to Egypt to bring King Mutesa a carriage, which the governor had used in his days. The lands of the province of Equatoria were among the most fertile in Africa. Its lands were populated, and its people were advanced in agriculture. Their cattle and sheep were numerous. The clothes of its people were finely woven from the fibers of trees there, which they peeled and pounded until they resembled silk in their fine threads. They wore loincloths, which they tied around their waists to cover their lower halves.

As for King Mutesa himself, he wore a silk robe made in England.