Letter 17

Abstract

Mokembe’s,* 25 October 1897 My dear Désiré,* Monday 25. I left Lofoi this morning at 6:45, accompanied by Verdick,* Delvaux,* Delvin,* 150 soldiers and the cannon. It is with real joy that I am heading for Kiwala’s,* for I have been fuming for more than one year thinking about the impunity enjoyed by that animal and the Negro cheek with which he has been making fun of me. Passed by—and met again with—Kikola,* as filthy as ever; his women yelled joyfully as we passed through. Same thing at Mokembe’s,* where I met Mwemena,* who had come to help build houses for us....