With the exception of a few connecting paragraphs and explanatory notes, which have since been found necessary to give coherent shape to the work of many solitary evenings, every word of this book has been written among the scenes of which it treats.<br><br>It has been my habit to record personal experiences and impressions as nearly as possible at the time of their occurrence; and I have spared no pains to verify, on the best obtainable authority, any statements relating to historical and other matters outside the scope of my own direct knowledge.<br><br>Since going to Africa I have often regretted my imperfect acquaintance with scientific methods of research, for I have felt that this disability relegated me, in a country full of natural wonders, to the position of a mere uninstructed observer.