Chapter Twelve On the Administration of the Provinces "291" - Bahr al-Ghazal Major Gordon wrote: "In the two years during which I held the post of governor of this province, I saw clear progress in the material condition of the inhabitants, especially the people of the northern regions, and they are increasingly trusting and submitting to us. Among the signs of general prosperity is the influx of traders who find their goods in demand in the province, just as among the signs of progress is the constant stream of inhabitants to Wau and its surroundings, which is a cause for hope as it indicates their desire to enjoy the blessings of civilization and the benefits of security and order." It is a cause for relief and satisfaction that the difficulty of managing money in Wau is almost gone. The people in the western part are beginning to realize the value of money and are therefore willing to work. However, in the eastern part, the situation is the opposite, while in the southern part, progress in this matter is evident. In general, it can be said that the province is now on the path of advancement, and its people are shedding the mantle of savagery and entering the realm of civilization. The government, however, faced difficulty in collecting the revenues from the "Mahbub" and the herds that were imposed last year. This was the first tax in Bahr al-Ghazal. Traders are spread throughout all the posts in the northern centers, and there are plans to open the southern gates of the province to trade. It is estimated that many traders will go to those regions, seeking to follow the example of the Levant during the time when it was sent to the land of Kanaf. Trade has progressed noticeably in Wau and Raja, and an increase in it has appeared in Rumbek, Deim Zubeir, and the smaller posts. The expenses of the province still far exceed its revenues, of course, and this may continue for many years, but the future financial situation is now better than it was a few years ago.

- 63 - Berber The year was a good one for agriculture, and prosperity was general among the inhabitants. The Nile flood rose. Rains came, and many turned to agriculture after having spent the previous years earning