Ap'bendix. 445 Jur to na\dgation between Wau and Meslira, is one of tlie great works done by Gessi lately, and renders real service to the Clovernnient by saving a considerable quantity of porters, who can now turn their attention to agriculture and speculation in the products of the country.

" In order to complete these scanty notes as to the regeneration of these parts, gathered during the few days of my stay at Wau, I must say a few words about agriculture and the tanning of skins. Two new agricultural colonies, free and prosperous, were formed of the slaves taken from the Jelabba. I have already described how the cultivation of the soil was recommenced in the numerous villages along the road ; the production of doora alone is sufficient to feed the inhabitants, but the cultivation of maize and native vegetables has extended, and numerous market-gardens in every village produce European vegetables. Cotton is a product which in a few years will furnish a considerable revenue, rivalling in quality and quantity that of Lower Egypt.

" There are now eight looms at work, which will soon be raised to the number of forty. Skins are tanned on the spot, and shoe factories have been instituted which will provide the troops with articles better than those sent from Khartoum.

"This is but a brief list, dear Editor, of what Gessi has done for the welfare of these people, after having liberated them from the oppression of the Jelabba. But how long will this state of tranquility last ? Will the progress commenced proceed in a regular manner ? Will the welfare of these populations be really consolidated ? Leaving aside every question that may point to a return of the oppression of the natives on the part of the Arabs, I wish to dwell on what regards the welfare of the negroes.

" It is just that the population should contribute