In fact the whole system is, as I have said, distinctly feudal, and it interested us much to meet with such an old friend far in the unknown heart of Africa.
The taxes are very heavy.

The State takes a third of a man's total earnings, and the priesthood about five per cent on the remainder.

But on the other hand, if a man through any cause falls into bona fide misfortune the State supports him in the position of life to which he belongs.

If he is idle, however, he is sent to work on the Government undertakings, and the State looks after his wives and children.

The State also makes all the roads and builds all town houses, about which great care is shown, letting them out to families at a small rent.