Chapter Text
5th August 1885
Day Thirty-One
Finally we have come to the area of coastline where, it is said, the Natives have reported that gorillas might be seen inland. Unfortunately, we will not be able to talk to the fascinating peoples, as my cousin Clayton has declared it far too dangerous to deal with them. However, I may talk to my father and see if it will be possible to visit one of the local villages and see their culture.
In any case, I do hope that we will be able to see these gorillas of which much is said. I have heard it said that they are so intelligent that the natives treat them as other humans! Surely this can only give credence to the work of Mr. Darwin so terribly misunderstood by so many of our countrymen. It would be wonderful indeed were we to discover that it is possible to communicate with these creatures.
The Captain says that weather is fine and that he is merely looking for a good area of ground where he might be able to put ashore. Clayton assures us that he will be able to find a good area for our campsite and that the men will be able to set up camp before night falls. He has also finally persuaded me to partake of the khaki clothing which he says is more commonly worn, and though hardly to be mistaken for formalwear it does do rather well in the intense heat which these tropics bring.
The bell tolls for landfall. The Dark Countries await!