But how?
There was no washing-basin to wash myself in; besides, I had forgotten my soap.
I was glad I had no beard at that time; for I do not know how I could have shaved.
In short, I resolved to go and see his majesty as I was.
The sun being very warm, I took my umbrella with me. The people conducted me to the royal palace.
What do you suppose a palace to be in the Benito country? The king's palace was made of the same material (bark of trees) as the houses I have just described to you; and it was only about twice as big.
As I entered I went towards the king, who was seated on a stool. Another empty stool was by his side.
I may say that Apourou—such was the king's name—did not come up to my ideas of a king. In fact, I should have laughed at him had I dared.
His costume was composed of a red soldier's coat, and he wore a little bit of calico round his waist. That was all. You must understand he had no shirt.
He was a tall, slim negro, with grey hair, and had large scars on his face, and his whole body was covered with tattoos. He wore large earrings. He was smoking a big ugly pipe.