Beschreibung:

GORDON, Charles G. Autograph letter signed ("C. G. Gordon") to Sir Samuel Baker, Moogie, 15-29 December 1875. 4 pages, 8vo, slight tears at creases . GORDON ON THE NILE EXPEDITION: "I CORDIALLY DISAPPROVE OF THE WHOLE AFFAIR & IF I WAS NOT BOUND TO GET THE STEAMER ON LAKE, I WOULD LEAVE AT ONCE" During the closing stages of the first Nile expedition, Gordon expresses exasperation, if not contempt, for the whole enterprise. "That this expedition is likely to be of any good to the people I do not believe & it is absurd to talk of its civilizing effects. I cordially disapprove of the whole affair & if I was not bound to get the steamer on lake, I would leave at once. I am only putting these ignorant fellows in a position to do harm....Do not be under the impression that I am going to examine the lake, most positively I will not do so, I am not going to box myself up in that little steamer or the life boats to solve any Geographical problems for any one whatever, let those who are interested come and do it, & I hope they will enjoy the trip. You may look on my decision as quite decided on that score, and let the Royal Geo. Soc. know that they must not rely on me for any exploration of the lake. If I see Stanley & he has not accomplished the lake exploration, I may offer him the steamer when it is completed, but most assuredly I will not go myself. I have had quite enough misery with these fellows to deter me from boxing myself up with them for a fortnight, to ascertain a fact of no import to me..." By the time the second portion of the letter was completed, 29 December, the exploration was complete and Gordon made for home. He begs Baker not to offer him the hospitality of dinner or even a visit: "of all things I dislike & strenuously resist, there are two that have preeminence viz sleeping out of my own house, and dining out, so you will kindly not ask me, if God grants me life to return."