As we sat in this hovel, comparatively speaking, smoking cigarettes over a cup of tea, Captain Brocklebank leaned back in his folding chair and remarked laughingly, “I really don’t know why I am here.” “Nor does anybody else,” was my rejoinder. “I assume because you like it.” “Yes, that’s the explanation, I suppose.” “But how came you to give up the Army, and then the interesting occupation of the political branch of the Northern Nigerian Government?” “Well, there did not seem much in humdrum soldiering. I might have reached command of my regiment, but there appeared to be nothing beyond. And with all its engrossing interest, the civil department in Northern Nigeria was a little monotonous.” “You wanted greater freedom?” “Not quite that—opportunities for initiative. I felt that I wished to do something, to be going ahead, and going by my own efforts.” “Being your own master, as the phrase is?” “Yes and no. I had not the slightest ground for complaint of any kind against the policy I was a humble unit in helping to carry on, nor against my colleagues, with whom I have always been on the best of terms. I simply wanted to do something fresh, and chance brought me here.” “Neither you nor your present associates regret the connection?” The reply was a smile, followed by “I think not.” “Are you likely to remain?” “Oh, certainly, unless there is an unexpected upheaval.” “That was not your original plan?” “Quite so. I commenced by nibbling; now I have my teeth fairly locked in a grip of the things; and I have no inclination to lose them. I am going on.” In a compound near by Captain Brocklebank had 20 horses; his personal property. I asked whether they were kept for pleasure or for business purposes, and the answer was “For either, or rather for both.” The cost of feeding such a stud by one who bought his guinea-corn in the fat period of the year is small. If his friends wish to borrow a horse for a day or so they can have it. If there is enquiry for something the London and Kano Company have not but which is worth getting, Captain Brocklebank sends half-a-dozen mounted messengers in as many directions to try and secure it. If anybody desires to purchase a horse he is pretty sure to see one at his figure among the batch; and if anyone desires to sell, then the Captain is ever a buyer. An animal more or less makes little odds.