Amenities of 19th century Exploration Mr H. M. Stanley's Anglo American Expedition to Central Africa having moved to Bumbireh Island , on Lake Victoria , the natives were amiable until the explorers' canoe was hauled on to dry land . They then collected a large force through war cries . " Twelve captives , including myself , were in their power , and how we escaped death , when every bow was drawn and every spear quivered in the hand , and clubs were whirled menacingly , is more than I can say . 1878