EPILOGUE 5U can honestly assert that I suffered far more personally just because of my zeal for the task I had undertaken ; a task which when completed would extend the area of our colonial possessions and make them better known, which would add to the wealth and the power of my native country. Yes, I suffered more than if I had been a bad officer, caring little about his duty.

I wish I could say that at least all was changed on my return, but truth compels me to add that there were certain notable exceptions to the general sympathy with me, and the general kindness of the reception given to me.

GRAND MEDAL OF THK PARFS SOCIETY OF COMMERCIAL GEOGRAPHY lut never mind, the sense of having done one's duty is worth more than anything else.

It is to you, dear friends, dear companions on the Niger, that I add — " Let people say what they will ; a hundred years hence many things and many men will be forgotten, but for all that, it will be as true then as it is now, that our hydrographical expedition was the first to descend the Niger, the first to explore its course from Kolikoro to the sea." A French sailor, Francis Garnier by name, on his way to Tonquin, which he had to aid in conquering, and where