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 innumer-

able 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-con-

sidered 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 un-

able 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 ill-

understood, 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 whole-

heartedly.