I do not stir from here without it." "Then, white lord," answered Komba, "you will do well to stop in this place in the midst of your family, since, if you try to bring it with you to Pongo-land, you will be killed as you set foot upon the shore." Before I could find an answer Brother John spoke, saying: "It is natural that the great hunter, Macumazana, should not wish to be parted from what which to him is as a stick to a lame man.

But with me it is different.

For years I have used no gun, who kill nothing that God made, except a few bright-winged insects.

I am ready to visit your country with naught save this in my hand," and he pointed to the butterfly net that leaned against the fence behind him.
"Good, you are welcome," said Komba, and I thought that I saw his eyes gleam with unholy joy.

There followed a pause, during which I explained everything to Stephen, showing that the thing was madness.