I am going as a peaceful traveler, ready to pay my way, and to make presents to the different kings through whose territories I may pass.

But I do not choose to put myself at the mercy of any of them.

I do not say that eight men armed with breech loaders could defeat a whole tribe; but they would be so formidable, that any of these negro kings would probably prefer taking presents and letting us pass peacefully to trying to rob us.

The first thing to do, will be to hire one large canoe, or two if necessary.

The men must agree to take us up into the Fan country, as far as the rapids on the Gaboon.