found, they were not all so black as
generally described. A private vessel, which would remain on the coast
while the expedition pushed inland, would entail considerable cost.
Where were the funds to come from?

When the old lieutenant related Mr Farrance's offer to defray all
expenses, his friend's countenance brightened.

"That alters the case; we will see him without delay, and if he has the
means we are right to take advantage of his liberality," said Mr
Hanson.

The two officers, therefore, accompanied by Tom Baraka, proceeded to the
address of Mr Farrance in one of the fashionable parts of London. The
old lieutenant was somewhat taken aback, as he expressed it, on finding
himself in a handsome mansion, such as he had never before in his life
entered; it appeared to him a perfect palace. He and his companion were
at once ushered into a large study, where they found Mr Farrance, who,
rising from his seat, welcomed them cordially. He expressed his sincere
regret at hearing of the disappearance of his young friend, from whose
commander, he said, he had received excellent accounts. "We must find
him if he is to be found. What object the Arabs can have for keeping
him in captivity, when a reward has been offered for his liberation, it
is difficult to say. However, I am very glad to have the means of
assisting to recover him."

Mr Farrance, after putting numerous questions to the two officers and
Tom, observed, "We will consider the matter settled. I have two objects
in view; besides the recovery of our young friend, I am sure the more
the natives are brought into intercourse with white men who show that
they come for the purpose of benefiting them, the sooner will the slave
trade be put a stop to and the Arabs driven out of the country. Not
until then will the negroes be able to enjoy the blessings of peace, and
the possibility of advancing in civilisation and embracing the truths of
Christianity. As you, Lieutenant Pack, know those seas and are willing
to take charge of a vessel, I shall be glad to obtain for you the
command of one suited for the purpose; and I conclude, as you would find
it inconvenient to travel--indeed you should not make the attempt--you
would remain on board while the rest of the party penetrate into the
interior. You, I dare say, Mr Hanson, can get some trustworthy men
among your late crew to accompany you; but we must rely chiefly on the
natives for furnishing a sufficient force.