From the first I had observed that the Egyptian authorities did not wish to encourage English explorations of the slave-producing districts, as such examinations would be detrimental to the traffic, and would lead to reports to the European governments that would ultimately prohibit the trade.

It was perfectly clear that the utmost would be done to prevent my expedition from starting.

This opposition gave a piquancy to the undertaking, and I resolved that nothing should thwart my plans.

Accordingly I set to work in earnest.

I had taken the precaution to obtain an order upon the Treasury at Khartoum for what money I required, and as ready cash performs wonders in that country of credit and delay, I was within a few weeks ready to start.