in so far as the collection of information is concerned, the advantages of travel may often be over-stated. so much has been written, so many facts are upon record about every country, even the most remote, that a judicious and persevering study of existing materials would no doubt enable a reader to fill himself with knowledge almost to repletion without leaving his chair. but for the formation of opinion, for the stirring and enlivenment of thought, and for the discernment of colour and proportion, the gifts of travel, especially of travel on foot, are priceless. it was with the design and in the hope of securing such prizes, that i undertook last year the pilgrimage of which these pages give account. i cannot tell whether i have succeeded in winning vi them; and still less whether, if won, they are transferable. i therefore view these letters with a modest eye. they were written mainly in long hot uganda afternoons, after the day's march was done. the larger portion has already appeared in the strand magazine, and what has been added was necessary to complete the story.

they present a continuous narrative of the lighter side of what was to me a very delightful and inspiring journey; and it is in the hope that they may vivify and fortify the interest of the british people in the wonderful estates they have recently acquired in the northeastern quarter of africa, that i offer them in a connected form to the indulgence of the public.

winston spencer churchill

london, 1908.