2 volumes. xvii, [3], [7]-386; vi, 413, [1] pp. Wood-engraved frontispieces. 7¾x5, later half morocco and marbled boards, spines lettered in gilt, raised bands, marbled endpapers, top edges gilt; bound by Tout for Sotheran & Co. First Edition.

While serving as consul at Fernand Po, Burton defied the instructions of the British Government and made a secret visit in 1863 to what was reputedly the most bloodthirsty land in Africa. He reported on what he saw, and was given permission to make an official visit to protest to King Gelele about his participation in the slave trade and his indulgence in human sacrifice. When Burton arrived, he was greeted by the king and toasted with rum drunk from a human skull. Generally, Burton was unimpressed with Gelele's Amazon fighting force and the king laid on enough human sacrifice for Burton to leave quite revolted with Gelele and his kingdom. Penzer pp. 72-74.