A Liberian Journey

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Sat Oct 23^rd A day of rest. In the first place we must look after our larger – But no first of all we gathered whatever men we could find – and by chance they were sufficient – to bend go back into the bush and bring out our abandoned boxes. We had sent out the night before thru the chief, for 27 men and were surprised to see them. It was then, after this essential task was over, that we started buying. Our own supplies of milk, sugar, jam etc were very low at the time – thanks to the enforced reduction of our luggage – with the result that we were very willing to get together such food stuff as would take their place.. Eggs to cover the need for sugar and milk on the oatmeal. Bananas- to take the place of bread and desert etc.

      And then came the great climax of the day. – For several weeks, nay months, I have been nursing a rather pitiful attempt at a moustache – a care worn, wounded and ragged little thing – but it comforted me greatly – and so long as we were without the influence of mirrors I was happy. I used to sit and caress it with the loving hand of a proud parent – and the feel of the silkey fellow under my hands was always a joy and comfort to me in all the trials thru which we had planned. But now – ah horror – I peeked into the mirror – a magnifying mirror. And my heard stood still. Gone was that silky delicate soft appearance – gone the fresh bloom of youth – and in its stead, curses! “a thin scraggly grey headed thing with half a mind its own – half at the beck and call of idle fancy – Ah to think I had let it come to such suffering – no – I would no longer subject it to the tortures of the damned – And with trembling fingers I got out scissors and razor. Yes, it has gone now – but I feel better – as do the others of the party.

      Well – what more can I say of the day? We sent out our boys out to wash our clothes, we washed ourselves – and I even attempted to brush my hair – such are the taints of civilizations.

      In the afternoon we opened up our trunks and aired them as well as overhauling our equipment in general. We also siestad – probably more important – at least more time consuming. 

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