xii INTRODUCTION those whose paths are laid in similar places to benefit by it, eliminate the bad, take advantage of the good, and above all, by the glimpses they will get of lost opportunities, at once equip themselves with the means of making their observations of scientific value and reliable accuracy.

Personal observation and the perusal of innumerable books of travel have convinced me that one's success with native tribes is due to three things—an unrelenting sense of justice tempered by well-considered mercy ; a tenacious hold of any position once taken up, whether right or wrong (it will never be the latter if the first-named quality is present) ; and a keen sense of humour. Like charity, be it said, "The last is the greatest of these."

A noted West African, in relating his experiences, told me of an official who complained of being unable to manage his native escort. Inquiry proved that on the march his persistent order was, " Silence in the ranks." Ye gods and little fishes ! Learn the chorus of a song and join in it. Sing and whistle yourself—the only appreciative audience I have ever had has been in my escorts. Listen to and laugh at a story, and tell one yourself—be sure, even if illunderstood, it will be well received ; and if you punctuate the points by laughing, you bet that they will drive it home by their merriment. And when the time comes, whether it is silence you want or work or whatever it is, it will be given you wholeheartedly.