“It cannot be possible.”
“Oh yes, very possible. Listen to me. When Dr. Junker left [Junker went to Zanzibar when all hope of going to the northern route vanished] he promised the governor to send necessary supplies by Biri. It is not only possible, but certain, that he must be here.”
“Biri is sent to make trouble in my kingdom. He shall not set foot in it.”
“You are wrong. He must come. We are here in consequence of your express assurances. We expect that they will be carried out.”
“It is my people who do not wish Biri to come here. I cannot oppose them. It is for my interest to keep their good-will.”
“It is the evil Abd Rahmann [one of Kabrega’s ministers] who is ruining your country with his pernicious influence.”
“I am the king. I command and do not need instruction from anyone as to my duties.”
“I well understand the truth hurts you, but you cannot prevent it being told to you. Emin Pasha wishes Biri to come. If you do not obey, he will feel compelled to resort to other means.”
“And what?”
“He will write to Said Bargash of the Egyptian government. What will you say then?”