Calling the whole party together, Susi and Chumah placed the state of affairs before them, and asked what should be done.  They received a reply from those whom Mr. Stanley had engaged for Dr. Livingstone, which was hearty and unanimous.  “You,” said they, “are old men in travelling and in hardships; you must act as our chiefs, and we will promise to obey whatever you order us to do.”  From this moment we may look on Susi and Chumah as the Captains of the caravan.  To their knowledge of the country, of the tribes through which they were to pass, but, above all, to the sense of discipline and cohesion which was maintained throughout, their safe return to Zanzibar at the head of their men must, under God’s good guidance, be mainly attributed.

All agreed that Chitambo ought to be kept in ignorance of Dr. Livingstone’s decease, or otherwise a fine so heavy would be inflicted upon them as compensation for damage done that their means would be crippled, and they could hardly expect to pay their way to the coast.  It was decided that, come what might, the body must be borne to Zanzibar. It was also arranged to take it secretly, if possible, to a hut at some distance off, where the necessary preparations could be carried out, and for this purpose some men were now despatched with axes to cut wood, whilst others went to collect grass.  Chumah set off to see Chitambo, and said that they wanted to build a place outside the village, if he would allow it, for they did not like living amongst the huts.  His consent was willingly given.

Later on in the day two of the men went to the people to buy food, and divulged the secret:  the chief was at once informed of what had happened, and started for the spot on which the new buildings were being set up.  Appealing to Chumah, he said, “Why did you not tell me the truth?  I know that your master died last night.  You were afraid to let me know, but do not fear any longer.  I, too, have travelled, and more than once have been to Bwani (the Coast), before the country on the road was destroyed by the Mazitu.  I know that you have no bad motives in coming to our land, and death often happens to travellers in their journeys.”  Reassured by this speech, they told him of their intention to prepare the body and to take it with them.  He, however, said it would be far better to bury it there, for they were undertaking an impossible task; but they held to their resolution.  The corpse was conveyed to the new hut the same day on the kitanda carefully covered with cloth and a blanket.

2nd May, 1873.—­The next morning Susi paid a visit to Chitambo, making him a handsome present and receiving in return a kind welcome.  It is only right to add, that the men speak on all occasions with gratitude of Chitambo’s conduct throughout, and say that he is a fine generous fellow.  Following out his suggestion, it was agreed that all honours should be shown to the dead, and the customary mourning was arranged forthwith.