Makaka would not hear of such an arrangement.

A present, he said, was due to him of course, but of more importance than the present was his wish to see me.

Baraka and all the men begged I would give in, as they were sure he must be a good man to send such a kind message.

I strove in vain, for no one would lift a load unless I complied; so, perforce, I went there, in company, however, with Mfumbi, who now pretended to be great friends; but what was the result?
On entering the palace we were shown into a cowyard without a tree in it, or any shade; and no one was allowed to sell us food until a present of friendship was paid, after which the hongo would be discussed.
The price of friendship was not settled that day, however, and my men had to go supperless to bed.

Baraka offered him one common cloth, and then another--all of which he rejected with such impetuosity that Baraka said his head was all on a whirl.