African News

Seated across from each other at the reception table, Constantine initiated the conversation, "Mr. Stanley, could you share something fascinating about Africa?"

In response, Stanley directed his gaze towards the young duke, thinking he seemed like a child intrigued by the unfamiliar.

"Alright," Stanley said, glancing at Nina by the window.

"She's my maid, Nina; don't mind her," Constantine reassured Stanley.

"Okay, let me tell you about what I've witnessed in Africa. Our expedition procured unsellable cotton cloth from London, languishing in warehouses for years, along with discarded or pressed clothing. In Europe, these items were considered unsellable; the cotton cloth resembled more white clay and paste," Stanley explained.

"But what does cotton have to do with white clay and paste?" Nina, now more interested in African tales than the coastal scenery, asked curiously.

"Someone as lovely as you might not be aware. Profiteers try to cut costs and boost profits. They use minimal cotton thread to weave thick-feeling cotton cloth by employing a secret method involving paste. The cloth is passed through the paste, some even using white clay mud. The result is a thick and lustrous fabric. And since young and beautiful girls enjoy hearing stories, I find it quite entertaining to share," Stanley added with a grin.

"Can't this type of cotton deceive people? Won't it be exposed after one wash?" Nina questioned with skepticism.

"Indeed, whoever buys such inferior cloth will find it shrinks and loses its luster after one wash," Stanley confirmed.

"Do Africans actually buy those worn-out clothes?" Nina asked in disbelief.

"Ha! Surprisingly, they do. Ever wondered what the natives wear? They use animal skins, right?" Stanley inquired, seemingly amused.

"No, no. The temperature in the Ganguo River Basin remains between 25 to 40 degrees all year round. Animal skins would be too hot. They craft clothes from hay and leaves," Stanley revealed, growing more animated.

"Woven clothes from leaves?" Nina widened her eyes in disbelief.

Constantine nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging the purchasing power of Africans.

"But Mr. Stanley, one thing puzzles me. How do the Africans pay for the goods you bring? They don't have pounds or francs to settle the bill," Constantine inquired directly.

Stanley seemed a bit surprised by the straightforward question. "True, they don't have pounds or francs, but they use a simple currency—a copper rod for local trade. Occasionally, we exchange goods for food like cassava, bananas, or even ivory," Stanley explained.

"So, the Ganguo copper mines are indeed rich?" Constantine probed.

"It's not just the copper mines; elephants are abundant. When the locals saw us accepting ivory, they eagerly brought their own for trade. I suspect some might have obtained it from deceased elephants," Stanley replied.

"In the Congo River Basin, the most sought-after item is the European knife we bring. Locals willingly trade their entire net worth for a sharp European steel knife," Stanley proudly shared.

It was evident that Stanley had made considerable profits. Over the past few years, the money earned from Africans likely rivaled what Constantine paid him.

"In Kinshasa, our home base, the Congolese have a peculiar fascination. They willingly endure hunger and hard work to acquire European fashion, especially Parisian clothing. They go to great lengths for a bright and beautiful dress. Strangely, when they flaunt these European fashions in public, other Africans look on with envy. Their show-off mentality baffles me," Stanley admitted.

"Really? Spending all your fortune on a luxury item? How can someone be so impractical?" Nina exclaimed in disbelief.

"It's a shame you can't experience Africa. The world is vast, filled with wonders beyond luxury goods. Tribal chiefs, upon seeing us hunt with rifles, are astonished and often inquire if we'd sell them a rifle. In Africa, where medical treatment is scarce, diseases like malaria and dysentery are rampant. The climate is harsh, but most Africans remain optimistic, always wearing a smile. Living in the Congo River Basin, where food is abundant year-round, they find contentment. I sometimes wonder if living a simple life, free from the relentless pursuit of desires, might not be a wiser choice than our civilized, busy existence in Europe," Stanley reflected, his mood taking a somber turn.