XXV1 INTRODUCTION.

Hmin was subsequently able to recover most of the ground he had lost. In October 1886 temporary aid arrived in the shape of a caravan from Uganda with supplies from Dr.

Junker. Hmin speaks of the almost childish joy with which he and his people welcomed this caravan. In April 1887 he heard that help was probably coming from England, and in a letter written to me then he says :—“‘ You can imagine better than I can tell you that the heartfelt sympathy which has been expressed for me and my people in England .. . have richly repaid me for many of the sorrows and hardships I have undergone.” The news has not yet reached us of the arrival of the expedition, which Mr. Stanley has led with his usual undaunted courage and perseverance, but it is to be hoped that long ere this he has clasped hands with Emin and given him the help and encouragement which he so well deserves.

It will be noticed how firmly Emin states his intention of remaining at his post until the future of the country he has ruled so long and of the people in whom he takes so much interest be settled. He says :—‘‘The work that Gordon paid for with his blood, I will strive to carry on, if not with his energy and genius, still according to his intentions and with his spirit ;” and, again, his concluding words are :—‘ All we would ask England to do is to bring about a better understanding with Uganda, and to provide us with a free and safe way to the coast. This is all we want. Evacuate our territory ?

Certainly not!” I feel sure that those who read this book will honour him for his decision, and will understand the need of keeping up a judicious and firm rule in the country which he has saved from slavery and barbarism. If it is developed in such a way that the good of the people be secured, it will form a centre of civilisation and hberty to the whole of Central Africa. | In order that Emin may continue his work, it will be necessary for a trade route to be opened up between the east coast and the Equatorial Province. It is not my intention