3-077-646 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Portuguese in Africa: steam-ship passengers waiting for passports at Delagoa Bay, 1890. Sketch by '...our correspondent, Mr. Wallis Mackay...[He] mentions among the other vexations and annoyances to which foreigners are exposed at that port the unnecessary delay of steamers, for hours after their appointed time of sailing, caused by the arbitrary behaviour of the officials whose duty it is to inspect and certify the passports for passengers by those vessels. We scarcely venture to hope that, with the present temper of the Portuguese towards the English, this grievance will speedily be remedied in consequence of our publication of Mr. Mackay's Sketch of the passengers kept waiting. But it may serve as a caution not to visit Delagoa Bay except when compelled by the most urgent business to go there...It is understood [however,] that the new Ministry of Portugal has in contemplation some measures for [reform in the management of the Portuguese colonies]; and, both at Mozambique and at Delagoa Bay, as well as on the Zambesi, there is great room for amendment, not only with regard to the civilisation of the native races, who derive no benefit whatever from the Portuguese official establishments, but also in facilities for trade'. From "Illustrated London News", 1890.