They're nearly as numerous as they are at Lagos Roads." He paused and added carelessly: "I expect you know my father loaded _Arcturus_ ?" "I heard something about it," Brown replied.

"All the same, Cartwright sent us to lift her and we have got to try.

Will you let me hire some of your factory boys ?" "Sorry, but they're Liberian Kroos, engaged on a twelve-months' contract to work in my compound, and I'm accountable for them to the Liberian government." "Then what about boys from the bush ?" Montgomery smiled.

"I can't recommend the bushmen.

They're a turbulent lot, but you might send a present to the headman at the native town up river, and it's possible he'll let you go to see him.