According to a telegram forwarded by Renter, and there- fore
presumably demi-official, Sir F. Scott, in command of the Ashantee Expedition, has made an important statement:4 At a "palaver," or formal interview, with the King of Akim- Ashantee, a friendly chief, Sir Francis announced that he was going to Coomassie as the representative of Queen Victoria; that Ashantee would be annexed; that a Goidrnor would be appointed ; and that the country would be opened up to com- merce. This is probably a wiser course to pursue than the establishment of a Protectorate, and undoubtedly it will be more beneficial to the natives; but it may of course increase at first the energy of the resistance. The Ashantee chiefs are fighting for their " customs " as well as their inde- pendence, and know that if we annex we shall introduce the most radical changes. It is doubtful also whether Samory will approve so complete a destruction of a neigh- bouring Kingdom. The policy adopted is incomparably the better if we are to enter Africa as a civilising Power ; but we wish it had been announced after the occupation of the capital. The expedition is now well across the Prah.
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