Twain and his friends are sure they are going to run into problems finding enough provisions for their trip to Damascus. What happens while their are in Lebanon to change their minds?

The consuls in Beirut are made aware that there is a large group of Americans in need of supplies on its way to their area. When the Americans arrive, dozens of animals and guides are waiting for them. They are also assigned a "dragoman" consul to hire animals and camping gear for their side trips.