The Bafut Beagles by Gerald Durrell. Short summary

5 seconds

Gerald describes his trip to Africa. His group set up camp near the settlement of Mamfe. Darrell decided to go to the local ruler, who went by the name of Von Bafuta.

1 minute

The writer recounts his journey to the western part of the African continent. Near the settlement of Mamfe, Gerald’s team decided to set up camp, which they found very difficult. Darrell left one of the team members, Smith, as head of the affairs of the main camp, while he himself began to prepare for a trip to other parts of the country.

The writer did not know where a suitable spot for trapping beasts was located, so he went to the local warden for recommendations. The latter, after listening to Gerald, put a map on the table. He also suggested that Darrell go to Bafut and added that for a successful trip Gerald should be able to win over the local ruler, Fon.

A good attitude on his part could easily be achieved through the use of an alcoholic beverage. Gerald, on the advice of the local governor, wrote a letter to Fon in which he outlined his request to come. He also enclosed a bottle of gin with the letter. Soon the writer received a reply from Fon, who gave him permission to come.