Belgian Congo 91 DOMESTIC COMMERCE a -monial occasions, are probably not equalled by any other tribes of Equatorial Africa. During the last few years they have readily acknowledged the Congo administration and have paid their hut- tax willingly. The advent of a railway in either of these two districts, and the introduction of European influences, would open up great trading possibilities.

(6 ) Markets and Fairs. — Markets,weeklyor bi-weekly, have been instituted at Government posts in most administered districts. Officials and police attend them, in order to prevent abuses and ensure fair dealing. These markets are greatly appreciated by the natives, and besides encouraging trade serve the purpose of familiarizing them with Europeans and their goods, and disseminating the news of the district. They are quite a feature of the Belgian Congo, and have done much to simplify the difficulties of the administration and raise the standard of civilization . In spite of its success in the Congo this system is apparently not encouraged in the British protectorates in Africa.

The chief caravan and trade routes in the Belgian Congo are provided with rest-houses, and porterage services are arranged for under Government super vision .

(c ) Foreign , including British, Interests.-- As a relic of the old regime must be reckoned the large number of powerful companies holding concessions from the Government , which now, no longer as a rule in any re lation of community of interest with the Government, carry on operations in the Congo. A special position is occupied by the railway companies , which still, with one exception , have close relations with the administra tion. The line to Léopoldville is entirely in private hands, though 15,000,000 francs of its capital of 82,000,000 francs were provided by the State, and the terms on which the State was authorized by agree ments of 1896 and 1901 to acquire the line if desired