452 A TROPICAL DEPENDENCY ment. Government will in no way interfere with the Mohammedan religion. All men are free to worship God as they please. Mosques and prayer-places will be treated with respect by us. Every person, including slaves, has the right to appeal to the Resident, who will, however, endeavour to uphold the power of the native courts to deal with native cases according to the law and custom of the country. If slaves are ill-treated, they will be set free as your Koran orders, otherwise Government does not desire to interfere with existing domestic relations.

But slaves set free must be willing to work, and not to remain idle or become thieves. . . .

** It is the earnest desire of the King of England that this country shall prosper and grow rich in peace and in contentment ; that the population shall increase, and the ruined towns which abound everywhere shall be built up ; and that war and trouble shall cease. Henceforth no emir or chief shall levy war or fight ; but his case will be settled by law, and if force is necessary. Government will employ it. I earnestly hope to give effect in these matters to the wishes of my king.

*' In conclusion, I hope that you will find our rule sympathetic, and that the country will prosper and be contented. You need have no fear regarding British rule ; it is our wish to learn your customs and fashion, just as you must learn ours. I have little fear but that we shall agree, for you have always heard that British rule is just and fair, and people under our King are satisfied. You must not fear to tell the Resident everything, and he will help and advise you."

The speech was amplified and fully explained in the sitting which took place after it was read. The messenger who had been ill-treated at Sokoto on the reception of a first letter from the British High Commissioner was present and gave his evidence, the original letter from the late Sultan declaring war was shown. The existing position having been fully discussed and appreciated by