123 10 9669 https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/8087ad8036014d565f5b2b30121e586e.pdf 91ad2383de516c3a1fc5a8d4c222ce9b PDF Text Text 1 I WAY TO MAKE �FRIENDS WITH GIRLS ADELE MADUMERE F.B.s.c.,A.c.I. (INCORPORATED COMMERCIAL CONSULTANT.) Obtainable From:- A. ONWUDIWE & SONS. R 9 No. 6 Onitsha Main Market, P 0 BOX 214, . . ONITSHA-NIGERIA 316d Net Price All Copy Right Reserved �CONTENTS PAGE Ade and Lizzy at Owrri Road. Dance at Cafe Ambassador. Obstacles in Courtship. Ade Snached Lizzy from Mr. Cousin. Ade to appear Before the Supreme Court The Political disciples of Ade. Ade wins again Lizzy meets Native Doctor. Limy in awful Condition. L z y s ments letter to Adc. iz' : �PREFACE The Way to Make Friends with Girls presents itself as novel io which the Nigerian background can be seen in its entirety. The names appearing in the book are fictitious. m e story itself has no reflectin whatsoever to any person or persons now living or long dead. It is an imaginary story. THE AUTHOR. �A. ONWUDHWIE & SONS P 0 BOX . . %e 214 ONITSIIA - NIGERIA. Xanaging 9irector of ONWUDIWE & S N OS Boek - Sellers and Publishers. Promoters of Nigerian Modern Novels. �CHAPTER I It was a blessed evening. Owerri Road was thick-a very busy road. busier than Aggrey Road, Port-Harcourt. Lizzy, a drab-complexioned beauty of her time, the girl whose beauty everybody delighted in discussing, was walking gloriously along Owerri Road. Ade, like amateur cub just out to hunt games, could not allow an error pass him. Hc jumped out from the School Road. "Slop! Lizzy, I know you had wished to see me." It was Ade's whisper to Lizzy �"What! how do you come by this suggestion?" asked Lizzy. "Call it not suggestion" continued Ade. "Don't play shy on this issue. You like to see my face always isn't it.' Lizzy was hurrying up for a dear appointment. She had not plenty of time to discuss romance on the Road. Ade was too anxious to hear more of Lizzy's sweet words. He thought that, that was a golden opportunity to talk to some one who he had in mind for long. "Why are some men fond of interrupting women on high ways.?' questioned Lizzy. "Why are some women not bold in expressing their interests in men they love and like?'replied Ade. There was no reply from either side. Passers-by wondered why the two people broke their journey on a high way. The popular feeling was that they were discussing an important matter largely personal to them. It was bad light. Lizzy could not continue to stand on the road unmindful of her appointment. Ade did not mind bad light and time because it was the appointed time "Though the talk .was to Lizzy's inconvenience yet Ade was in smiling cheeks. A brake to the talk was unavoidably necessary. It was imperative. Lizzy took leave of Ade and walked away. Ade was in a confused state. He stood still. To go up to Lizzy again was a capital Q. He concluded however, that he had made a b3ld attempt though not successful. The next question was how he could re-adjust his plans in order to succeed. To go home to plan another method of approach was the only answer. CHAPTER I1 Lizzy was wondering how Ade could boldly stop her on the road. She did not know how Ade came to understand that she had any interest in him at all. 6 �She had not talked to Ade previously. How both of them knew each other's name was nothing to surprise anybody. Lizzy and Ade were popular names about town. Lizzy was named to a senior Service man in a big firm in Port-Harcourt, Ade was a public servant a journalist and politician. As a matter of fact Lizzy had admired Ade's manners and personality. Ade, five feet ten inches tall. Lizzy five feet eight inches two inches difference! Lizzy had much to think about her position. Ade. had much more to do. Lizzy left her husband, Mr. Cousin, on account of maltreatment. Though Mr. Cousin was a senior Service man yet something was lacking in their marriage tie. There was no happiness. There was quarrel every day. Plenty of trouble every time! Lizzy did not want to remain single. She was contemplating to reconcile with Mr. Cousin Many other suitors had given her their hands in marriage but she could not give consent. Mr. Cousin was much worried lossing a charming. young girl of Lizzy's figure. He had approached Lizzy several times both singularly, severally and otherwise. Each new approach became more unpromising than the old. He wrote so many letters of apology. When his English language was failing him he coosulted a barrister who drafted him a letter which he registered to Lizzy at one time. When the legal letter failed, he turned to vernacular letters. There was no inprovement! But to keep away from Lizzy Mr. Cousin could not bear. He desired to reconcile with her by all means and at all costs. road romance, Lizzy had Since Ade's changes in h e r o u t 1 o o k. She had mentime tioned to Nelly, her friend at one �prior lo the road incidenr, that she was interested in Ade, Her interest came to the comparative degree when on one evening Adt: delivered a heart-breaking lecture at the Diobu Market Square. He was campaigning for one of his party's candidates during a parliamentary election. Lizzy suspected that Nelly must have mentioned this remark to Ade at any time and that might be the reason why Ade mentioned that she wanted to to see him. Though Lizzy snobbed Mr. Cousin's several approaches yet she had not concluded not to rejoin him. She wanted to make him realise his follies and to mend his ways. Mr. Cousin took the whole matter seriously because he had enjoyed Lizzy's company to the envy of so many others. If he missed her entirely he would find it dificult to go in the other ladies company. Moreover, his other three wives were no match. Going to choose ladies from mean insultiog his wives. outside would While Ade was planning haw t o get Lizzy. Mr. Cousin was doing all he could to gain his wife's love. Lizzy on her part; had became confused owing to so many new developments. It was a world of confusion. Who would Mr. Cousin or Ade? win? �A state dance was staged by the Managers of Cafe Ambassador V.I.P.S., States men and second class citizens would attend the dance. Ade was in his dead black dancing suit. He was a bachelor. Being a state dance, he had no need for a partner. He was sure to have a dancing partner when he got to the hall. Lizzy had not attached herself to any dancing partner for fear that her husband might be offended. �Ade bought his ticket a t 10.30 p.m. and walked up the dancing flat. About 30 minutes later, Lizy. in light--blue, dazzling. damask, don't-shake gown, reported at the Ambassador gate. A gentleman at the gate requested to know if she was partnered ' I don't need a partner. I will partner myself. So, don't be worried about me," replied Lizzy in a sharpcontemptous voice. She bought her single ticket and went upstairs. She quietly took her seat very close to the entrance beside a gentleman facing the other way. Being attracted by the drawing of a chair behind him, Ade turned round to see the face he saw on the Owerri Road. It was Lizzy sitting closed beside him! "What are you doing here Lizzy?'asked Ade "And what about you?" asked Lizzy. It was on exciting occasion an occasion that would renew acquaintance. Ade had no need for another partner. Lizzy had no need for another partners came down froin heaven just at the time they were necessary. The first dance was High Life. Edison Bells Orchestra discussed the hits. Ade and Lizzy danced the NIKE NIKE .......... .. high life on the glory floor of Cafe Ambassador. The music was on, it was true but the partners did move conver, ration than dancing for Lizzy to be inside Ade hold me tight. It was wonderful! "Who asked you to sit near me, poor you?" whispered Ade. "This point is inexplicable, my Lord" replied Lizzy in a love-sented tune; "Don't you think something is responsible" continued Ade. "Anything can be responsible, I don't care. What ever may be your suggestion, my only belief is that the call together is free and easy, "concluded Lizzy. The dance was on. The conversation was on. Ade was preparing himself and his speech another opportunity. �The music first round ended. Dancers took their seats. Ade and Lizzy occupied on and lone table right at the extreme corner of the hall -perhaps for convenience sake. The dancing hall became the long awaited place for Ade's second approach. The table was rich with Star Lager Beer and Tango all brewed in Aba, Eastern Nigeria by the Nigerian Breweries Limited. The services of waitress was not needed. Lizzy appeared to be the best waitress even though she had not served in that capacity before. 'The partners paid no need to the music second round. "It is regretted that when we met last on the Owerri Road we could not have a nice discussion. You could not help replying to my question Adequietly. Before I go further I will thank you for having given me the courtesy that day. This very attitude of yours places ),ou above average. Just as if you gave me an appointment I did not arrange for adancing partner to night. You, on your part! came in without one. That is why 1 will not hesitate in concluding that God has sent you safely to me to continued, and if possible, finalise the matter. Lizzy, you may doubt why the matter has been put to us in this way. I know quite well that you were married to Mr. Cousin. It seems to me that you are not living with him presently. I can't say whether you will, one day, in the near future, rejoin him. What ever may be the case, all I want is your love, for truly, I like you. I should be very pleased if you would give me your opinion fully in order to release my heart from bondage". Lizzy was listening attentively to Ade's speech and raising her eyes she saw Mr. Cousin walking into the hall in his Agbada dress, She pretended not seeing him. She began to give Ade signs to make him know that her husband was in the hall but Ade did not take notice. �In replying to Ade's speech Lizzy said: I could have replied adequately but for Mr. Cousin's presence,' which Cousin?" interrupted Ade. "Look behind you" wanred Lizzy, As Ade turned round he saw Mr. Cousin sitting opposite their table looking steadily at Lizzy. There was no going back. There was no need hiding. Mr. Cousin had seen his Lizzy in Mr. Ade's company. For courtesy Mr. Cousin would not intrude. For the same reason Ade and Limy would cantinue with their conversation. If anything would happen it would be after the dance. "Let's forget all about Mr. Cousin" continued Ade- "There are only two possible things we expect, Mr. Cousin may either stage a fight with me or seize you from me. Both are usual daily occurences. If the former happens the shame is Cousin's. If the later the shame is mine. I pray you, carry on with the talk and be frank" Lizzy entertained some fear in the first instance. Later, when Ade applied his diplomatic utterances, she felt quite normal. She would carry on with the talk in spite of her husband's presence. "Well, she began to whisper" I'm bound to say something I'm bound not because you force me to say my opinion, I'm bound because love is strong. I'm bound because love is kind. I m bound because love is true. I'm bound because love is my pride. I'm bound because love is the due to prosperity, to place of mankind". "Speak high my lady" intruded Adz, "Yesy' continued Lizzy ''I was married to Mr. Cousin. We had married for long but for lack of love 1 was compelled to leave him. I have decided that before I give myself to another man I must consent my mind several days and nights and even months if not years. I know you are a bachelor and may ask me to marry you. And before you put this question across, I must assure you that you are bound to fail as my mind is very far from consent �I shall always like you person for you are sweet. Any young woman who does not surrender to you in love cannot surrender to any other person. Let's go on with the dance." Ade held his breathe. The Bells Orchestra kept on with latest hints while ethers enjoyed themselves in a dead waltz, Ade and Lizzy appeared unconcerned. Mr. Cousin, who came to enjoy the Saturday night engaged himself seriously in the affairs of his wife and her dancing partner. How the dance would end for the two parties could not be predicted. Ade could not be silent over an important' matter as courtship. "For likeness sake" he burst' your reply though very disencouraging, ought to be polished to a certain degree lest it becomes together valueless to me. I appreciate your frankness for I urged you be frank. You are a product of noble parents. All you fear is thz very many unusual commitments in love- making. Dismiss this fear and release your conscience reconsider and give me your final decision." Lizzy found it hard to reply again. She meant L'I to harm for Ade, but wanted to stand clear. have a principle in life." voiced out Lizzy "I can't make fuither statements on this matter to-night but will advise you to hold on till when next we meet. Let's enjoy the dance". Ade could not press the matter stronger but waited for another opportunity. The dance was coming to a close. Mr. Cousin had decided what to do. He watched Ade atjd Lizzy closely. The master of ceremonies announced that five would end the dance. Lizzy and Ade jived. The Edison Bells Orchestra signed off. Mr. Cousin quickly walked downstairs and waited for Lizzy and Ade at the gate. As Ade and Lizzy came down the gate and walked out there was a whisper of "Lizzy ' from Mr. Cousin. �There was no reply. "Lizzy don't you hear Mr. Cousin's voice again?" querried Mr. Couisn "Oh Sir, you are too late Cousin" replied Lizzy. Mr. Cousin was surprised at the reply. What would he do?. While Ade stepped his right leg into the car. Mr. Cousin held him by his tie. ''lf you enter this car I finish your life now" exclaimed Mr. Cousin angrily. Ade gave him a jaw-breaking blow oo his cheek and he let Ade go and fell unconsciously on the ground. Lizzy jumped into Ade's car and they drove away. Mr. Cousin lay there for a few minutes, regained consciousness and quietly went home CHAPTER IV Both Mr. Cousin and Ade were students of the Island Hotel Dancing School. Dancing ;classes werc held twice weekly. One Monday evening, Mr. Cousin arrived at the dancing practice quite on time. Ade went up to Lizzy's house to request her to accompany him to the dancing school to do a special Tango which had worried him for long. Lizzy told him that she had no objection if that could only keep him happy, but reminded him that her husband dsed to be a regular student of the dancing school. Ade told her that Mr. Cousin had not attend e d t h e school for six consecutive times. Lizzy was convinced. She dressed up aod followed Ade. Arriving at the Island Hotel square they noticed that the attendance was very good that evening. It was a pleasure for them to join their comrades. They went up and took their seats. Students were seriously attentive to the Tango bits demonstrated by the Instructor. Later, it was coupling. The instucior wanted a lady for coupling demonstration. His eyes caught Lizzy. "EXCUSE WE DANCE" said .the instructor as he walked straight to, Ade. 14 �He danced with Lizzy. That was time. The cat was let out of the bag. It was a little wonder to Mr. Cousin who just walked in. It was a little wonder not because he had not seen a man daocing with a woman before. It was a wonder because he was surprised t o see Lizzy at the dancing School because through out his stay with Lizzy she swore that she would never follow him to the dancing School. He did all he could but failed to convince her. This thought made Mr. Cousin look pale. The problem, to him, was incomprehensible. How be it, he must endure it as he endured the terrific blow of the Cafe Ambassador. The demonstration was over students more t o apply the Instructor's instruction. This time Ade was to dance with Lizzy. Mr. Cousin could not keep silent any longer. he should act. He walked boldly to Lizzy to request a dance. Lizzy looked at him with contempt. He drew her from the seat. She held Ade tight. Mr. Cousin could not draw her off, while he stood before her Lizzy said "You are too late Cousin. If you don't respect yourself 1 will here now show YOU your seat" Ade did not intrude for he was watching the evznt. Mr. Cousin came up to drag Lizzy again. '%%at a fool you are, Cousin. Take your time. play cool. If not, 1.11 beat the hell out. damn you and damn the consequence. Voiced out Ade in a high temper, Mr. Cousin left Lizzy and walked out of the Hall. Lizzy and Ade continued with the practice. they did not mind the little drama. Other students could not talk because the matter was from big man to big inan. Mr. Cousin was away but nobody knew what was in his mind. At one interval Lizzy looked downstairs and saw Mr. Cousin standing beside an electrict pole near the I s l a n d Hotel. �She watched him closely to know whether he was armed. Ade saw Lizzy as she was looking dowo. He walked up to her. "Look at Mr Cousin" whispered Lizzy. They looked at him attentively but could see nothing strange about him. The dancing School came to a close at 9.30 p.m. Students were going away. Lizzy and Ade kept behind until every other Students had gone down. Coming downstairs, Ade and Lizzy saw Mr. Cousin walking away. They followed him with short paces coming to the junction leading to Lizzy's house, Mr. Cousin halted. Ade and Lizzy came to the same point. As they walked over the adjourning street, Mr. Cousin followed. "Stop there Lizzy! Stop there or die Lizzy!" commanded Mr. Cousin. Ade and Lizzy continued walking" If you walk further. I shoot you dead! threatened Mr. Cousin. There was still no shivering, no reply, no turning back. What a determination! What a slight even at the point of gun! It was terrible. Liuy wanted to play her part when and where necessary. Mr. Cousin walked up to Lizzy's house but halted at the entrance. Lizzy went into the dressing room, got ready, looked at Mr. Cousinand said: "Come in, darling Mr. Cousin was afraid to go in. .'I deal with all kinds of people but not of Adz's type, said Mr. Cousin. "Don't fear intruded Ade "Come in for I dehl with all classes of men including people of Mr. Cousin's class Experience has thought me so. Come in, I know your worries-"once beaten twice shy". Come in friend. Don't fear. Mr. Cousin's fear increased as he heard Ade's voice. He thought that if hc went in he would be entrapped. In departing Mr. Cousin said; "I know my love to Lizzy is yet true. She was true all the time. She has not told me the manner of sins I'm guilty of. 16 �has charmed my sweet heart. There is cupid influence in all this. But what matters is how we parted. What judges us is how riiuch we loved ourselves, Lizzy loves me, this I know. This she will continue to love me I'm sure. Though going in dismay Lizzy, keep fit and remember me. Lizzy was worried: In a very cold voice Lizzy raid; "Sorry, you are too late, Cousin." CHAPTER V Mr. Cousin returned home in the worst of mood. Poor Cousin To live or t o die. To continue the Lizzy case o r discontinue. The world at this time was in complete darkness. Missing Lizzy because of a minor matter. He did not think that the mistake was such that could not be corrected. He had three wives besides Lizzy but the missing of any of the other three would be frankly regarded as a shortcoming. 'Lizzy's absence was a !horn in the flesh. The only reason was that Lizzy stole Mr. Cousin's heart before they ever joined as husband and wife. Mr. Cousin thought of many things sorrounding the case. Well wishers. friends, bossom, relations, had warned him about his affairs with Lizzy before the break-down. He was shy because his parents had advised him not to joke with Lizzy but because of thz weakness of flesh he paid no heed but regretted after every misadventure. But what was that bone of contention? A man with four wives was not satisfied with them. He was fond of picking women from outside to inside the house- would ask the four to give him chance to romance the fifth temporary pasture. This attitude continued for some time until that became: his second self. Mr. Cousin would leave the house every Saturday night �to sleep ourside and to return the following Sunday morning. The first, second and third wives could accommodate this very .attitude of Mr. Cousin but Lizzy who knew the art of loving could not. She always told Mr. Cousin, "if you are not satisfied with all of us and feel that another woman ou:side is more applealing. bring her in legally. We want to be as many as ten in the house since there is accommodation for all of us and since African custom allows it. But if you feel it is an extra burden and you still have interest in her, please romance her outside not inside this house" Mr. Cousin regarded this stately statement as water poured on the back of the duck This was the real trouble. Lizzy could no longer bear the burden. Whea the case reached its green point-when there was no happiness in the house Lizzy decided to keep away in order to avoid trouble After all, there can be no life without happiness. Sadness in the horn? shortens the the days and nights. It reduces strength and life and that is death. A new thought came to Mr. Cousin. He decided to write a letter to Lizzy which might change her mind. If the change of mied was impossible. The next qoesticn was "what do you say?' Lizzy would say what would be the next step to follow in the matter in order to arrive at success. There and then Mr. Cousin would take a decision. Was the losing of Lizzy an inrecoverable loss? The question would be answered by Lizzy in her reply to Mr. Cousin's letter. ''Dear Lizzy" Wrote Mr. Cousin #'Need we bother our heads about doubtful future? What do you say? Shall we continue to live in a fool's paradise? the home of doubting Thomases �Did I not aish you Godspeed as I left you that night. Did I not ask you to remember me. I have waited for the response but have been challenged by silence. What do you say to our existence? Tell me in sincere words whether you will come back to me nor nay. I know it was not your intention to stay away as long but for the presence of that foolish jealous heart. Do you know that Ade plays a mere foolery with you and will drop you as soon as his plans are true. Don't you know the politicians tongue. Because you see him always talking on the soapbox-raising fale alarms in order to attract innocent citizens to dwindle them to feed fatter than senior sxvicemen -To gct rich overnight. T o b poor the following day. T o brew crisis in order : to feed fat on the' illiterates. Thank you, time shall come when you will pr-fer living with me under this condition to eating for a week and starving for another week. Rich men a t election times and poor men thereafter. You know how dearly I love you. You know I cannot afford to miss you. Jane, Kate and Asugwo always say I will die whenever you leave me. They are now waiting to hear that I have done something extra-ordinary because of your absence. In order to avoid an unpleasant end, please come back. It will interest you to hear that I am now prepared to act by your instructions and directives-stop talking to one and thousand ladies- being with you always when I am not in the ofice attend all private and official functions and meetings by your express permission and approval- above all, to love you lovelier than ever then to be yours for ever. In the light of my new phase of life what d o you say Lizzy? what do you say to our existence in life? Tell me! Tell me! Your dearest, changed Cousin. - 19 �The letter did not move Lizzy. Since Mr. Cousin's Island Hotel encounter, Limy had delved into higher interest in Ade. She has been lectured by Ade atimes without number. Lizzy had made up her mind not to have further dealings with Mr. Cousin and his family as far as marriage was concerned. She was awarethat Mr. Cousin was wealthy. She believed that wealth was not his that had it but his that enjoyed it. She felt that without happiness wealth meant death. Though Ade did much in braning Lizzy, yet she carefully ignored anything relative to making a promise --a promise to marry Ade. She did not want to commit herself in any way except for keeping Ade harpy zt that material time. Mr. Cousin was expecting a good result. He was optimistic because Lizzy's action in her house the other night encouraged him. Ade read Lizzy's action well. He knew that she was principled hence she avoided commitment very much: However, Lizzy's action spoke much of premise. It would not be wrong to admit that Lizzy was watching Ade closely. He did not want to go from hell to hades. Would there be a reply at all to Mr. Cousin's letter or would it be treated with silence this was a problem which required a solution. I t would be discounteous of her if such a letter was not treated. In what way and what tune would the reply be written in order to avoid commitment. Aftei consider~ngthe gaps and hitches L i u y decided to give a full. com~rehensiverenlv to the letter ~ . ~ ;\T 3 A,M. LIZ& WOKE FROM * SLEEP AND WROTE: DEAR Cousin It was a hard job that your letter was presented to me. It has been over one week chat I had picked materials for the reply. Shaping of the tune to suit. I was not drawing a conclusion on our final position but on how to be able to write you when I had. for long, ~ - �decided not to have further dealings with you. Well, courtesy is strong. I must give your lztter the very courtesy it requires. I must make it clear to you that before taking the decision to keep away from you, I had the backing of many conscience. Nobody else is responsible. Ade was not my friend while I was your wife. You know I had to respect you in all respects. I like your personality so dearly but hate your manners. 1 did all in my power to play the game with you as a comrade. You did not regard me as somebody in union with you but as a visitor. I managed the affair well as far as humanly possible. I gave you a sufficient time to make a change of heart but very unfortunately you played me out: Jane, Kate and Asugwo are your wives. I am not better than them. You can always remain with them in that they are always prepared to pay you back in your own coins. As I am not born to reciprocate evil I will not learn that in your house for marriage sake. The alternative is that which I have now done Outside this, I will live to wound myself and conscience. Your new phase of life, as you have put it is very interesting. I wish you all the best of luck. Are the present promises sweeter than those you used to make on those hectic days? The answer is No I You can't deceive me again. Acting by my directives satisfying my wants listening to my advices desist from going to. the pubs regularly stop talking to thousand and one ladies - to be with me always when you are not on office duty to attend all private and official functions and meetings by my express permission and approval-above all, my Sweet Cousin, to love me lovelier than ever and Oh! my dear, to be mine for ever ! It is all true darling me! What do 1 call this?. - - 21 �the sentiment-the sentiment-what a promisewhat a wonderful evasive promise of future improvement - what a prospective future I wish I had a teleprinter to send out this news. - Let me tell you Cousin, I have the music in me. I am a good trumpeter talking candidly, you wrote the letter under reference the night you returned from Cafe Ambassador. Finishing the letter you went to Hotel Picadilly whtre you spent the remaining part of the day. Alcohol and spirit can do marvellous jobs for weak humanity. I must advise you to keep up with Jane. Kate and Asugwo for the time being. Later. you will decide to make another choice if you still want a fourth wife. Left to me., I would ask you to manage these three and do to them all the things in your nzw phase of life. There is n o need having, a legion of wives. For your information, I have vowed since leaving your house not to marry a polygamist in my life again. Remember that before I gave my love to you there was no indication at any time that you had any wife other than me. You did not reveal to me that you had ever intended any girl before approaching me. It was a big surprise to me to see vour other wives coming in successioo after I had settled in your house. In order not to embarrass you I kept calm. You were still not satisfied but proceeded with the new wife deal. On the other hand I founa you an imposible partner- Not only that happiness was absent from the house but that sincerity is your enemy with your marriage is slavery. As I don't want to be a slave in a free world, I sang you ''Nunc dimitis". Replying now to "What d o you say'' I candidly affirm that I will no longer remain in bondage in a man's house in order to have a husband �I will not come back to you. If you are feeling my absence from your house, please pray t o God to give you courage. Rpgard i t as a shortcoming. It is nothing strange. What of death? Assuming that 1 am the best, can't the world d o without the best? There must be a substitute as I go away. Try elsewhere and you will surely succeed. While wishing you, all wish yourself let me remind you, Mr. Cousin. that you are too late. very sincerely, Lizzy. CHAPTER VI It was a world of make - belief to Mr. Cousin as he received Lizzy's revelation. It was a shocking news! He wished he did not write the letter. If he did not, he would have not been reminded of many things he had since forgotten. That is the danger of using the pen. In courtship man meets many obstacles. Mr. Cousin had caused himself the headache. He would blame nobody. He wanted to have the best from woman but had the worst instead. He did not think that the matter would die there. Woman can be tossed here and there, for they are changeable all the time. He decided t o make further attempts which might fiod a solution. He would not bsar Lizzy's absence in his house. It was Lizzy who attended important personalities who always visited Mr. Cousin. Many of his friends admired Lizzy's manners and would express same in her presence. The other three wives were unpolished. They were not the sort presentable in a Senior Service man's house. Mr. Cousin would d o it or die. �Ade was on the other hand, finding Lizzy's favour. Nothing was binding both of them. Ade wanted a corcrete statement from Liny. He did not know in what manner she replied t o Mr. Cousin's letter. If he did he could have had some relief. He had his doubts because anything could happen in courtship. If he succeeded in wooing Liuy's the bctt-r for him. But if he failed it was another calamity. Politicians are talkertives. He had boasted to friends with Lizzy's name. He had told tales with the Cafe Ambassador and Island Hotel incidents. Ade must pull his weight if he w o ~ l d hope to succeed. Mr. Cousin was planning ahead. He thought that nothing again would disunite L m y and Ade except that same offence he had committed. He used to know a girl who had been in love with Ade. This was an instrument to use. Mr. Cousin succeeded in knowing the house of Gracy. She was the type of girl who breaks her head when she hears politics. She attended all political meetings especially those of Ade's party. She liked to see and hear Ade deliver his speeches. But Gracy's love t o Ade was too secret. She was under the control of her mother. Her father died when she was eight years old. The mother had been all and all for her. She would have married Ade if not for her mother's serious objections. "My daughter. you won't marry a Politician'. She told Gracy always. Gracy was interested in Ade but since she had not the final say in the marriage way she had to wait. But talk ill of Ade t o Gracy's hearing you would have it hot. She defended Ade every where. She took pride in reading. �Ade's contributions in the dailies. She would want her girl friends to enjoy the reading with her. She would always feel to go to Ade's house but for the mother she wouldn't. Mr. Cousin had a cousin who was very friendly with Gracy. Agnes visited Mr Cousin one evening. He was very sad. "What is w r o n g ? ' a s k e d Agnes "Many things are wrong' replied Mr. Cousin "I have not seen you i n this mood before. Something must be wrong indeed: continued Agnes "Yes, Agnes one Ade, Ade, Ade, wants me to die. He has taken away Lizzy from me. He had to beat me at Cafe Ambassador. He wanted to kill me a t the Island Hotel. He persuaded Lizzy to write me a stinker. You know how Lizzy loved me a@ how I loved her. If she were here now you would have been happy. But Ade, the politician, has used his "1s sweet coated tongue to snatch Lizzy from me!' it not Ade who intends Gracy?' interrupted Agnes, "Yes. It is he that dangerous man". - Concluded Mr. Cousin. "Don't trouble your heart much. As fnr a s l have heard this story, Agnes must hear it. She will warn Ade. I know how dearly Gracy loves him. She is mad about him. She has told me many fine stories about him. She goes as far as to defend him wherever she hears his news. I know if she hears that he is interes~ed in another girl something must happen. be The matter will s o o ~ settled. I f Cracv hears that you are my cousin, she will feel it badly. She must act.' CHAPTER VII Gracy was at her mum's Creek Road residence on Friday evening. There was a tap at the door. It was Agnes "Come in Agnes!" You look sweet. There must be some fine news''. very �"The news is not all that fine. I don't know why we should con~inue to give our hearts to these unsteady men. They promise you Heaven and Earth today and forget all tomolrow. I'm not happy at all over Ade's attitude towards my cousin, Mr. Cousin of the Travellers Bank Limited who rides on EP 555. You know his wife Lizzy who was a pupil of our School." ''Yes! yes!' I remember. I use to see them always I know Lizzy very well. That fine-Looking girl". intruded Gracy. 'Do you know" continued Agnes "that Ade has snatched her from my cousin." Telling me!" interrupted Gracy. Yes Lizzy is no more in Mr. Cousin's house. The Pittiest side of the story is that Ade bit Mr. Cousin at Cafe Ambassador and attempted to kill him at the Island Hotel. Mr. Cousin was crying in his house yesterday before 1 came in to see him. He has the greatest blow any average man could have. I'm sorry for the situation. Sorry because this matter affected my cousio and someone in whom you are interested". Gracy was not happy at all. That was some thing serious. She could not talk. She. looked a t Agnes stupidly scratched her hair. She found it difficult to say any word. When Agnes saw that Gracy was wounded she said: "I'm sorry I have had to injure your feeling this evening. You were happy before I came in. You now look dull. I know I O U have the interest of Ade at heart not neccessarily 1oving:him. I know why you are sad. I am aware that Ade intends to marry you. You will not be happy to hear that your intender misbehaves in any way feminine. But I will urge you to go about it gently. When Ade knows thatyouare aware of his present undertaking, he will discontinue his plans because he loves you. �Don't fall out with him. Take the matter lightly. We should correct ourselves from the misadventures of others. That is why we read books. Your case is not a complicated one. There is a way out'. "But you arc not serious, Agnes. tuned Gracy. "Are you wanting me to believe that my Ade will behave in this way. To snatch Lizzy from Mr. Cousin to beat Mr. Cousin in a public place such as the Cafe Ambassador. To attempt Killing Mr. Cousin! It is wonderful! Ade is a public Servant. He makes the law. His standing in the community is such that he cannot think in terms of commiting murder because of woman. I have watched his utterances in private and public places. He is mindful of his position in the community. I have not seen him in bad company. Could you believe that since I knew him I had not entered his house yet he is not worried. He has disclosed his interest in me. 1 have franklv told him that my mother has the final say in this connection. As modern as he is, he has not indicated to me his objections to my mother's vizws about his intention. He has taken everything coolly. He does things gradually. I am puzzled indeed. I will not take a decision on t h s matter. I know what to do. You will hear the result soon. 1 thank you for disclosing all this to me'. Agnes was disturbed a bit. She wondered why Gracy was bold in defending Ade in this all important matter. She had her doubts. She took leave of Gracy. CHAPTER VIII Ade iovited Lizzy to an at-home. He also invited Lambeth, George, Sunny and Sylva. Ade had some points to discuss with his friends. �He would want Lizzy to be there. That was another way of making his political friends know of his new deal -His plans for Lizzy. Ade asked the manager of the Hotel Universal to arrange him one room of the Hotel for the at-home. By 7. 10 p.m. the invitees arrived at the Hotel Universal, a stone throw to Gracy's house. Egusi soup pounded yam-goat slices-chickens maggi sauce-ground pepper-The table was rich. "Ladies and gentlemen, there is DO nerd for any introduction. You know yourselves. Of course, Lady Lizzy, you are at home with Lambett George, Sunny and Sylva!" Your humble Ae' d! Hear! Hear!. The party did justice to the dishes. "And what do you drink Ladies and gentlemen? asked Ade "Nothing but Star beer' repl~edSylva. "Why Star Beer?' asked George "Because Star nas quinine In it' point out Sylva. It is true! It is true!' Ladies and gentlemen' Ade intervented "You have got it a11 wrong. Star Beer has n o jot of quinine in it. Five ingredients are presented in Star Beer. They are malt, yeast, hop, sugar and water.' "This is wonderful! exclaimed Sylva. "That is why it is good to come together. I had held the view that there is quinine in Star Beer. Not me only but several thousand others. Ladies and Gentlemen, we have learned enough to-night. If we doo't have to learn more, this is sufficient Plenty bottles of Star Beer on table. 'These are condemned soldiers. They must be executed!" commanded Mr. Lambeth. There was a big laughter. Lizzy was watching the order of the night. She was learning much about her new suitor. She was not shy. She was used to that sort of gathering when she was with Mr. Cousin. 28 �The only thing strange to her was all that scented politics. That sent her head back to Mr. Cousin's remarks about Ade. "Now, Couucillor Lambeth, can you tell us what is wrong with your council and the market men and women association." Asked Ade. The Secretary of the Association had made several calls on me since the past weeks. I had not taken the matter seriously because I always hit at the right point. I don't want to raise any alarm yet. But when I know the truth in the whole matter, I will boom up the show. Councillor Lambeth said: "This matter has heard so many interpretations from many angles. As far as I am concerned, I can only defend myself. You know I'm new in politics. I do my private job from which I earn my livelihood. There are many members of our couucil who have no private occupation but tbe council Hall and its many departments. Some of them do the legitimate duties of council officials. Whatever may be their good intentions not withstanding, the public suspect them. I have met three or more members 3f the market men and women Association who told me that they paid El0 each to be allocated market stalls. I for my own part, have not been approached by anybody to help. I have neither demanded from any one. I am convinced that there is something wrong somewhere. I'm afriad. However honest any councillor may be. he must be suspected. I am afraid. I will resignmy membership of the Council." Mr. Sunny whose show in drinking beer became interested in the matter. "What did I tell you yesterday, Ade?' asked Sunny. Man). of our present councillors are swindlers. Some of them are rogues. They see all manner of will in the name of our great party. They always bring preasure on the Executive Committee 29 �to defend them. This time they will not eat their cake and have it. We must go on without a management. As for Mr. Lambeth, since your conscience is clear, you should fear no accusations and suspicions. The market men and woman know those who took money from them and such people will be handled. Many of the Councillors who had no bicycles before going to the Council are now owners of 300 C. C. Triumph Motcr Cycles. Some of them now own Volkswagen saloon cars. They are not paid any reasonable allowance but they can live luxuriously in the name of the party. ' Mr. Sylva was fast with the Beer. "Star! Star! You can't beat Star Beer. Beer at its Best! Others joined in cheeriop. Sylva was nice in campaign. He had heard previous arrangements with some members of the Market men and women Association. They had agreed that they would send nine delegations to the Minister of Local Government. Ade was to lead the delegation. The noise made for Star Beer attracted Gracy. She heard the vioce of Ade but did not suspect it much. That was about 9 p. m. The party was coming to a close Mr. Cousin left Hotel Metropole coming to Hotel Universal. As he was going upstairs to the Beer parlour he heard the vioce of Ade and company. He ran down to Gracy. "Come on! Come and see your Ade with Lizzy. Come! Come!" Gracy dressed up. She walked fastly to the Hotel. Mr. Cousin had quickly taken his seat in one of the rooms in the Hotel t o watch events. Gracy was going upstairs while Ade and company were coming down. Hello! Gracy. preeted Ade. "How d o you do!" replied Gracy. "Is mum in?" continued Ade. "Yes Mum is in and what of your Lizzy?" 30 �Ade was silent. Lizzy heard question but did not ~~~~~~~~~anything. Gracy walked away without saying more. Mr. Cousin who was expecting some casualties was disappointed. What was actually wrong with this Ade? His dear Gracy did not stage a fight with Lizzy. There was no quarrel ! What a disappointment! CHAPTER IX On petting home that night. Mr. Cousin felt that he was wasting his time by chasing Ade and Lizzy in the way he had done. The law courts must look into this case. He married Lizzy according to native law and custom. If a woman does not want t7 continue marriage with her husband, she should divorce him in the customary court of his town. Lizzy was quite aware of this condition. But she wanted to take a final decision before taking such a step. Her letter to Mr. Cousin was an exhibit. T o divorce a husband meant paying to him through the court what bride price he paid for marrying the wife. This usually happens if the woman has attacbed herself to a new husband. In Lizzy's case, she had not given a definite word to Ade or anybody else. If Mr. Cousin would take legal redress it must be against Ade if he could prove his claims. Taking it against Lizzy meant he was divorcing her an undertaking which he so much feared. He therefore decided to test Ade's action in the Law Court. Ade was worried in mind since after the at-home surprise. He was worried because he did not know how Gracy know that he and his party were in the Hotel Universal how Gracy know about Lizzy. He had to suspect many people including intimate ones. He did not know how to handle the Gracy issue. - - �Of course, he could defend himself. Gracy had disclosed to him that her mum did not want her to marry a politician. This was a good point. Ade would not like to die i3 single blessedness. If Gracy failed him. he would make a success from another. But the moral impl:cation mattered. If Gracy proved, truly speaking, that Ade fought o r bit Mr. Cousin o r attempted to kill him because of Lizzy, Gracy would lose confidence in Ade. By his losing Gracy's confidence he lost much because Gracy had done so much to advertise him. Defended his attitude represented his interest in private and public. What more to love him dearly to admire. Ade called a t Gracy in the noon of Thursday. She received him normally. He expected that the Lizzy question would be brought up. T o Ade's greatest surprise, no mention was made about it. "You asked me a question a t the Hotel Universal the other night. Was it not about Lizzy?" "I have forgotten all about the question. I only wanted to confirm an information and that I did. If you could snatch Lizzy from .Mr. Cousin and bit him, you are too brave. Anything can happen about any person. There is no need having explicit confidence in man for he is fragile. "Don't continue" interrupted Ade. "Let me tell you. Your informant told you that I snatched Lizzy from her husband and at the same time bit him. "And attempted to kill him !" introduced Gracy ' ' ~ h killing? And you believe this story. This is a fable. .'I have been interested in you. I have not snatched you from your mum but I was able to snatch a wife from her husband. Which is easier? To take away a girl from her parents o r a wife from her husband? This is fantastic! As long as you are concerned I must tell you the truth. Lizzy had left her husband since eight months ago. I approached her along the Owerri Road one evening. Since then, 1 have been �trying to get her to marry me. You know that your mum has placed a very big barrier in our way. I don't know how long to wait for a change of heart on the part of your mother. How d o you think I should live without a wife - a partner. Lizzy has not given me her final reply on this issue. You know how much I had. approached you on this marriage deal. I understaod lately that Lizzy is not willing to go back to Mr. Cousin. She made up her mind before leaving his house. I was not there. I had no interest in Lizzy when she was under her husband. I am not the class of men who tamper with peoples' wives. If anybody tampers with my wife, whenever I have one, I will deal with him. The evening you met us at Hotel Universal was a tragic one. I invited friends including Lizxy to an athome. I was collecting facts in a matter which will soon engage my attention. That was all for that evening, Gracy was convinced. She began to feel much for Ade. Her mother had deprived her of something real. She wished anything could happen to change her mum's opinion about Ade. But she could not challenge her mum whom she had loved much and who had been all for her. Any attempt made on forcing her mum would be resisted. If she felt heavy about the matter or pressed it carelessly meant committing matricide. "Poor Ade" said Gracy. "I wish you were inside my mind at this moment. I'm dying, dying. dying for you. Blood is strong. Mum! Mum! Mum! On mother! Parents have secret joys and so arc their griefs and fears we are told. Could you not convmce mum to change her mind about you. What is wrong with politicians. I don't know. other' hates politicians badly. What of Ministers' wives? Can you not come to that posit~ons through your local activities 33 �I have admirtd your articles in the dailies. I have heard your speech to a marmoth crowd. I have heard of your activities in your local council. What is their wrong in marrying politicians. Are our Regional Premiers not politicians. Our Prime Minister - Our Parliamentarians earning fat Governor General salaries to maintain their wives and children. - - - It was Mr. Cousin entering our house for the first time in his life, who informed me that you wcre with Lizzy at Hotel Universal. 1 did come of course, I saw you and greeted you. I don't blame you. It is mum. It is mum! Ade looked up to the ceilliog. He could say nothing. "I will leave you. Let us watch The side" was his final statement. CHAPTER X At 7 a.m. on Monday morning. Ade was preparing his speech for a big Lady at NO. 4 Field, Port - Harcourt, when a Bailiff handed over to him a summons to appear bcfore the Supreme Court on Friday in the forenoon to answer a writ from Mr. Cousin to show cause why he should detain Lizzy, Mr. Cousin's wife illegally. NO. 2 clause on the Summons his claim for £500 against Ade as damages for depriving Mr. Cousin his personal libert),. That was another interesting news about town that week. Though Ade was not financially up-to-date yet his name was princely. The news bazed forth. THE REPORTER, a local news paper used it as a leader in The ADE, JOURNALIST AND POLJTICIAN IN DEPEN- - DANT IN CIVIL SUIT OF e500 CLAIMS: RE.4SON ILLEGAL DETENTION OF MR COUSIN'S WIFE. The Reporter sold it like hot cake that day. That was a fulk of the town. The Rroadcasting Service used it as Headline News. Other National Newspapers made big news out of it in different journalistic languages 34 �Ade must defend himself. He consulted Mr. Nwafor M. A,, LL.B., a politican- Lawyer of Lagos fame. Mr. Cousin retained Mr., Ibeji, M. A., M. Sc., LL.B. another famous Port-Harcourt Lawyer, specialist in matrimonial cases. Friends and well wkhers of Ade and Mr. Cousin applied to go into the case to effect a szttlement out-of-court, but Mr. Cousin was too stiff. Ade's feet was heavy about the case but he was not in any way despondent. He would not give up. That was a test case for the two learned friends. Lizzy was disturbed so much. T o . appear before a crowded court to testify in a case for the first time in her life time. Her name is to be published in the dailies for the first time in her life to be finger pointed where -ever she went. T o tell tales with her name not for something glorious but dishonourable. The news shocked Gracy. She observed that Mr. Cousin was wicked and rascally. She was forced to move down to Ade's for the first time since they fall in love. She gave Agnes notice not to come to her house again. Their friendship was to be discontinued. Their relationship became stained. She was sorry for her Ade. She minded much Ade's name not the case it self. Ade had been making fast news not such as that which came in as a flash that time. CHAPTER X I The S u p r ~ m eCourt was crowded. Cars lined up. The premises was the sea of heads of men, women children, politicians of all grades, who came to listen to the sensetional case. The police were very busy at work, keeping order. �Ade dressed in his immaculate white Agbada. In his company was Lizzy who dresscd in blue Mambo native custom with cha-cha-cha gold neckless to march. As Ade moved his tagle-ftalhtr fsn, there was a loud applause of 4de! Ade! Ade! both outside and inside the court. What a popularity1 Mr Cousin dressed in his deep indigo suit. He drove in with Mr Metu, his good friend. They alighted fiom the car and walked majestically into the court. c'Court" His Lordship. Major Amachoko, came into the court. There was a dead slience' "Suit No. P H 40161. Mr. Ete Cousin Versus Mr Mana Ade witnesses in this case out of herrings'' 'cYour Lordship, 1 appear for the plaintiff" said Barrister Ibeji. Your Lordship, I appear for the Defendant" said Barrister Nwafor. 'Your Lordship, my client is asking the defendant to show cause in this court why he detained the plaintiff's wife illegally since twelve calendar months and 2, to "pay us f500 special damages for depriving my client his personal liberty. This is our case" said Barrister Ibeji. "Are you liable or not liable?" "Not liable' replied Mr. Ade. "Your Lordship' said Mr Nwafor' 'I will apply to this court to strike out the first clause in the claim. There is no ground whatsoever for my learned friend to mix criminal case with civil. Your Lordship. if my client detained the plaintiff's wife illegally which I suppose to mean unlawfully, he could have reported the matter to the police. It is the police and not this court who will charge my client with unlawful detention. I will refer your Lordship to Maxwell Versus Chapper which was exactly put in this way. In that case, Your Lordship, the court struck out the case �and cost was awarded against the plaintiff". 'What do you say Mr Ibeji ?' asked the Judge. "Your Lordships' replied Mr. Ibeji, "My learned friend cannot interprete our mind at this stage of the case. He could have waited until a later stage to make this application that is if we fail to establish a case against the defendant. It is the court's findings, which will show us the next way to follow-Your Lordship, my learned friend is putting the Cart before the horse." Standing up again Mr. Nwafor said, "Your Lordship, my learned friend bas got it all wrong. I would refer your Lordship to cap. 38 sub section 4 of Criminal Procedure. The whole thing is explict here." The Judge referred to his book. ''Yes, yes, yes, I see with you Mr. Nnafor and Mr. Ibeji, I am afraid you will lose this case. I therefore strike off clause 1 of the claim. "As Court pleases." ''This case" said the Judge "is an interesting one. I will give it a full day's hearing when next it comes up. You should file your statement of claim and defence within thirty days from today. Case is adjourned to 30th July. Immediately the Judge announced the adjournment the Court became almost empty. Many people rushed to Ade outside the court. At each V sign he made there were shouts of Ade! Ade! Ade! He .;.as carried shoulder--high. Many people who had not known Lizzy had the opportunity of knowing her. No soonerdid Ade went into his car with Livy Then the shout changed from Ade! to Ade! L!zzy! Ade! Lizzy! Ade! Lizzy The following day, the local daily annouuced No. 1 Victory for Ade in the unlawful Detention case. The news spread tar and near. Ade was interviewed by many newspaper reporters but he reserved his statement. Any statement in that connection at that time would subjudice the case. t 37 �CHAPTER XI1 Mr. Cousin returned from the court with sadness because he lost part of his claims. He had paid fifty guineas to his counsel. Could he lost both siae,. To lose Lizzy and to lose his money Kate, Jane and Asugwo were not happy with Mr. Cousin. They heard all about the Lizzy's affair from outside. On hearing the Conrt news they began to think that if Mr. Cousin had some regard for then? he would not continue to waste time and money for only one woman who left the house. Kate could no longer wait for Mr. Cousin. She decided to go home tc see her parents and to sound their opinion. She revealed her plan to Mr. Cousin in the worst state of mind in which he was. Mr. Cousin told her to do whatever she wishes. He invited all his wivs to an emergency family meeting. '*I am surprised" he pointed out in a trembling voice "that since my trouble with Lizzy, none of you has asked to know how I have faked. You think that I am foolish to look for the lost sheep. You feel that I donst love you and that is why I have been anxious to get back Lizzy. I will frankly tell you that I will not forsake one ot the sheep which lost because, h l have many of them. I'm, therefore, not out of the way as I continue to struggle to bring back Lizzy. If any of you goes the same way Lizzy has gone, I will look for her. Kate has told me that she wants to go to see her parents. She may not come back. If she does not, I will go for her. But when you become stubborn or when you make a mockery of my present day position I will act before any of you. I will not allow the Lizzy's error repeat itself". �- - Poor women waves of one man who wants more of women. Mr. Cousin's speech gave them a blow, Poligamy, this is the danger. The danger of cosmopolitanism-the danger 'of discontentment ! Kate, the one of the three who could speak to Mr. Cousin. She could not hide in the dark. 'I'm ashamed of you, Sir" said Kate sluggishly "So you are not ashamed to tell us these words. If 1 were you, I would not utter anything at this time. You were beaten at Cafe Ambassador. At Island Hotel, Lizzy and her friend fought you. You wrote a letter of apology to Lizzy and you were terribly tormented in returning. You went to the court yesterday and lost part of your claim. Yon will continue to look for one woman who was tired of you and went her own way. Dear Sir, I am also tired of you. I will find my way before darkness falls on us." Mr, Cousin was pricked again. He was hopeless. Too many troubles. As he wanted to reply, Jane said: "Ete, l have been silent all the while not because I don't know what to say o r what to do but because I am ashamed of myself not of you as Kate said. I will act when I will. I know that I am in great trouble-in agony-hell. Whom will I meet and who will speak for me. All that I will do is in my mind. When 1 will, I will" "What will you do?'' interrupted Mr. Cousin. "Say what will you do to go to your parents-To find another husband. These are the. two possible things you can do. Men are too many. Women are also many. Any c,ndition is good for me. And you Asugwo, what say you?" Asugwo looked at Mr. Cousin and signed. "To qay what others hav? not said. TO tell you anything newer than all you have heard. I am not the taking type. 1 believe very much in action. 1 will give no notice when I decide. 1 am too slow at talking decision. My decision, when taken, cannot be recalled. So, wait for me. You will see but will not hear." 39 �Lizzy's trouble became lighter than the one Mr. Cousin had, then to reply' Kate, Jane o r ' Asugwo. "Anything can happen. After all, what is the end of man? Is it not death? Man dies but once. The next is re-incarnation. If women curse my life this time, in my next re-incarnation, I will make a vow. Women are woe men! They are woo men! Men suffer all the time." thus concluded Mr. Cousin. , C H A P T E R XI11 - It was another big day in Ades, history the 30th of July. The political disciples of Ade were ready. The Kokoma Dance Club had arranged its native high life picces. It was the Ade Day! Ade boys were happy to march to the court in their Youth Day uniforms. Since the Judge announced that Cousin Versus Ade Civil Suit was the only case to be heard in the Supreme Court that day, friends and wellwishers of Mr. Cousin and Ade would not want to pe absent from the court. The court pemises and Hall made temporary forum. Mr. Cousin was in his white gabadine suit with black bow tie to march. Ade dressed in his party colours with red cap on his head. Lizzy drcssed in her pep+pe Ghana print and in white buck shoes. AS Ade and his Lizzy alighted from their car Adel Lizzy! Ade! Lizzy! rang into the air. Ade waved his fan in 'response. The court Hall could not accommade listeners. Hundreds of heads stoad.outside the court Building. What Sort of case! People were sOffaearing. Electric fan! And yet they could not help. A murder case had never had such adiuence "C-o-u-r-t;" commanded the Orderly. His Lordship bowed to the court and took his seat. "Su!t No. pm40/61 Ete Cousin Versus Mana Ade witnesses in this case out of hearing." �"Your Lordship, I appear for the Plaintiff.' It was Barrister Ibeji. "Your Lordship I appear for the Defendant.' that was Barrister Nwafor. 'Your Lordship, my client is claiming £500 special damages from The Defendant for depriving him his personal liberties. Our statement of claim is before this court, my Lord' submitted Barrister Ibeji. ''Do you still plead not liable?' asked the Judge. "Yes the Lord' replied Barristtr Nwafor. " ~ n d " be continued "My Lord. This is a very funny case, funny indeed. I would ask lour Lordship not to waste his time in this case. Here is a man whose wife left. (see paragraph 3 of plaintiff's statement of claim) my client only met the woman in her parents' house at the time in question. My client did not induce his wife to leave him. If the Plaintiff was offended, he would seek legal redress against his wife and not against my client. If we waste our time to give evidence and counterevideneces, it will amount to the same thing. My learned friend could have directed his client what to do. In matrimonial causes Act 1950, the proceedure of divorce is set out clearly. The husband or the wife can make a divorce petition. If your Lordship holds that the plantiff has a locus stand, 1 am prepared to go on with the case. "Yes Mr. Ibeji. "This is a case of prestige. My client has been injured seriously by the attitude of the defendant. It is this court which will prove us right. This is clear case of deprivation of liberty Fundamental human rights has been challenged. This honourable court, my Lord, will agree with us that our claim is genuine. If my learned friend is afraid or not ready to go on with the case today we will happily ask for costs. The Judge was seriously writing down his opinion IThese lawyers keep on messing up themselves. This is a case which a lay man can early handle. - 41 �The ,Plaintiff has righi.to petition against his wife;' The Defendant can be correspondent. Read: your law books at home and don't always disgrace yourselves in this court. Case struck off.' Mr Nwafor stood. my Lord we ask for costs. Yes I agree. You must definitely have costs from the plaintiff. "Fifty pounds my Lord." said Mr. Nwafor. Mr. Ibeji said, If your Lordship holds that this case be struck off.' That is what I hold interrupted the Judge. "It is wrong for my learned' friend to ask for costs." . "f35 cost against Plaintiff announced the Judge. "As court pleases." 'gC-o-u-r-t!" The Judge rose for ten minutes. How would Mr. Cousin leave the court? T o trek out from the hall nhen the Ade men and women were ringing Ade! Lizzy! Ade! Lizzy! The Kokoma army with their talking drums Music! Music! Music! everywhere. Ade's driver drove Lizzy home while Ade was sitting comfortably on peoples shoulders on to his residence. A song composed by the Kokoma Boys - Too Late Coz. Cousin, what will you d o next: It is late. It is late Coz, Cousin Oh late! late!" It was a melodious tune which caught the minds of many people who heard the young voices. It was the song of thp season. CHAPTER XIV The Ade Cousin case was the common talk about the town. The Vigil, a local paper came out with hot news "ADE WINS AGAIN.'' Regional and national papers. made smooth- sailing news out of this case. It was a heartbreaking news for Mr. Cousin. Ade did not stop here. He crossed over to the Music makers of Atomic 8. He wanted a high life hit of the Ade Cousin squable. A song was composed in high life "Ade wins the fantastic case Cousin wouldn't make a peace. - .42 �Who will advise Cousin to stop here for he will find us relief there. Major Amachoko is a wise judge Mr. Cousin would certainly owe him a gradge. The Supreme Court is a court ofjustice which does not in a moment admit malice who will quickly run to Mr. Cousin's aid so that he may not find the world red. who will advise Cousin to stop here for he will find no relief there! Go, say Ade wins the fantastic case but Mr. Cousin wouldn't make a peace. This high life number was recorded. Everybody would want a copy. The records sold like hot cakes. The Aggrey Road record dealers had something tangible. The demand for "Ade wins" record was great indeed. Mr. Cousin was embarrassed. How this news blazed was unthinkable. Ade was a political prince. Every thing connecting him must be sung in high and low places. There would be no check. If Mr. Cousin would stop the news he could but he couldn't. He confined himself to his house. He wouldn't go for tennies. He wouldn't go to hotels to chat and drink. He couldn't go to the church. If he could stop gzing to work he could but how could he? He was cut free. Ade organised pressure groups at every corner of the garden city. He knew all the places to find Mr. Cousin and detailed his disciples to watch. The world at the stage was too miserable for Mr. Cousin. Returning from the house, Mr. Cousin hhd oppositions from his three wives. He would go to bed withcut dinn5r many nights. He had no strong will to demand anything from his wives. If he would ever lay emphasis on certain points, he would be cautioned. Everything he did to regain his wives' love proved abortive. CHAPTER XV A new thought came to Mr. Cousin. He decided that before aoy other thing happened, he would bring peace to his family. 43 �Anything could happen to him outside but there must be peace inside. How could he go about this matter. Mr. Cousin invited his fathers-inlaw to his home. He did not disclose to them the object of the invitation. Upon hearing that it was at.home all of them decided to respond. Before the clock struck 2 p.m. on Sunday, the eleventh of May, all the invitees had arrived at Mr. Cousin's Res~dence, 3 Bende Street. Messrs. Okon Etim and Nnabuihe were surprised to meet one another at Mr. Cousin's. It was an exciting pregnant meeting. Asugwo had prepared a rich vegetable soup with pounded yam foo-foo for the luncheon. The food was passed. The invitees were truly at home. While at table. Mr. Nnabuihe observed that his daughter, Kate, was not happy. He also noticed tbat the faces of the other two women were gloomy. "Gentlemen!" whispered Mr. Nnabuihe. T h e dishes are palaiable it is true but the house does not appear free and easy. Something is wrong. Look at the faces of our hostesses and you will see rancour, displeasure and sadness." Mr. Etim looked and Mr. Okon did not bother. "We will see whatever it is later' replied Mr. Okon. Retiring to the palour the invitees were presented with two kegs of Omoba palm wine and two big bottles of Guinness Stout beer. Stout beer and palm wine make good mixture. Two legs of goat were served. The fathers-inlaw were entertained according to custom. Mr. Cousin called Jane. Kate and Asugwo. L'You are welcome. mv fathers-inlan' greeted Mr. Cousin. ',I iovited you today. I know yo; are surprised to see one another in my house. Our fore-fathers say that where one's enemies are too many one has to offer drinks to some of them. I have so many enemies outside because of my affair with Lizzy whom you all know. 1 do not move comfortably outside. Ade has �done very much to run me. He has organised his men against me a t strategic points in the town. I am not safe to move about and to eat outside. I feel that my security must be inside my house Contrary to expectation, my house become so much unsafe. It means, therefore, that my life is in great danger. I know this because an enemy can work his chance through inside and outside ihe house. The more successful would be that which passes through the inside. I must tell you straight away that your daughters are my known enemies to-day. I haveinvited you t o see what you can d o t o bring my wives t o acknowledge me as their husband and friend and not as an enemy". Mr. Cousin's statement was amazing, There was a dead silencz. I t was a matter which required a close vindication. The silence broke when Mr. Offiong said; "This is a serious matter. The accused person are here. They should defend themselves. All we want is the truth and nothing but the truth. If Asugwo could say something we will be grateful. Felling on her knees Asugwo said; "Good Sirs, I'm ashamed to say whatever 1 may say in this matter, I'm saying something because of custom. If I don't, I may be right by reason not to say out my mind, my action in this regard will be heavily misread. I'm ashamed of Mr. Cousin. I did not think that he would some day summon such a meeting to discuss his love adventure. After all, who is Lizzy? She is fine, it is true but she is an incomplete woman. Not withstanding this. Mr. Cousin loves you more than any of us. A beautiful woman without a child is a decorated coffin.. Mr. Cousin does not care for us and the children we have born for him. He cares for Lizzy's beauty. I believe I am speaking the mind' of my mates ' '*Yes" answered Kate and Jane. "Mr. Cousin believes that missing Lizzy means missing his precious life. How can wt, the neglected ones accept the one who has rejected us. We had decided to return to our parents so that Mr. Cousin 45 �could fight out his Lizzy's issue. Our presence in his house affects his plans. Tha! is why he wants us to go. fle is giving you the reverse of the story. He has invited you to recall us not to reconcile. If he wants internal peace he must sever connections with Lizzy who, amongst us, is now a lost sheep. The disappointments, humiliations and disgraces Mr. Cousin has heard in his bid to find Lizzy are sufficient to have him. Mr. Ade has taught him so many lessons!and how I wish he stops here. It is when this 1s done that he could have the happiness he asks for. I don't want to go further into the matter. If T do, I will be inviting more headaches and heart breaks". "Has any other person more to say?'' asked That was the reply from Mr. Nnabuihe L ' N ~ ! " E Kate and Jane. "Have you anything to add, Mr. Cousin? asked Mr. Okon. "I will not add anything. I am appealing to you to use this opportunity to an advantage. I'm in a big confusion. My wives seem to be cleverer than I and the more I talk the worse the situation becomes. In order not to waste your time I hereby promise not to go further into my deal with Lizzy. Let fate decide the issue. I rather preserve my life for the younger ones than to lose it to L i u y and her Ade". "This matter has settled itself" said Mr. Nnabuihe "We cannot go against custom. We must go out for consultation.'. They retired to one of the rooms. "1 am an Igbo man" voiced out Mr. Nnabuihe "I don't know how you treat the matter of husband and wife in lbibio land". Since both of you are Ibibios I will introduce the matter as a guide to what we may decide here. Mr. Cousin has offended his wives greatly. He has to beg them-render apologies to them in order to recapture their love. From what has happened, the women have been too patient. If they were not good parented they would have deserted. The custom in Igbo land finds Mr. Cousin guilty for which he is liable to a heavy fine. In-order not to waste our time I will suggest that 46 �he should pay each of his wives ten pounds and further apologise to them. The women should be asked to buy three hens. Each of them should make a delicious erika ikong soup tooffer to the husband. They should eat the food together. They will go to Ojukwu Diobu to swear t o ' each other so that they take themselves into confidence. After this, the matter is done." After a long pause. Mr. Okon said; I1Mr. Nnabuihe has solved the problem. There is nothing to add or substract. All he said is what happens everywhere. It is not only in lgbo land. The only thing new to us is Ojukwu Diobu. Since they live in a town ruled by the Juju. we will not ask them to go to any other place to look for a juju. If all. swear to the juju, there will be a lasting peace. There were no further remarks. The arbitratores returned to the parlour. Mr. Cousin and his wives were waiting for a ruling "We have looked into the matter" said Mr. Etim. I'We are sorry that our brother-inlaw. Mr. Cousin, has allowed satan to come into his house Why we marry many wives is to check ourselves. No wife can claim superiority to her mate in the house. A beautiful woman advertises her beauty when she is married alone. But when she is married with one or more wives, she hides it. The man who marries more than one wife is always a King because the wives will find means of pleasing him. The wife who renders best service t:, the husband enjoys him best. Mr. Cousin has allowed Lizzy's beauty to dictate pace on him. Lizzy saw this weakness and used it to an advantage but to the disadvantage of the Cousjn's family. From all your statements, we can rightly say that Mr. Cousin has offended his wives. But this does not mean that the wives should pay him back in his own coins. They should understand that what ever a woman is, she is under man from creation The woman should always play her own part well. The man will come back to his secures afterwards. �Mr. Cousin wants to have peace in his family hence he has taken this honourable, humble, approach to the issue. l h i s Mr. Cousin's action should be welcomed by everybody who knows the game of life and how to play it. But inorder to respect native law and custom, Mr. Cousin should make some sacrifice. He should pay each of his wives ten pounds and with this ask for forgiveness and pardon. The wives should offer a hen each to the husband. Each of the wife should make a palatable dish with the hen. Mr. Cousin will eat with all of them. In order to rebuild confidence, the whole party should go to the Ojukwu Diobu to take oath of confidence. This being done, peace will come back to the family. Mr. Cousin has given an undertaking, not to continue his hunt for Lizzy." Mr. Cousin stood up. Looking up and down smiled. ''Well, my Lords", he said: I'm happy indeed that you have done a big task in less than twenty minutes. I am prepared to pay the price for the cause of perfect peace. If doing only this will return me to the family I will be Sappy to accept your recommendation". 'IWhat do you say women" asked Mr. Efiong. ''On the behalf of my mates', answered Kate' We accept your findings and recommendation. The invitees had more of the Omoba stout mixture and later went away. CHAPTER XVI Ade had made up his mind to marry Lizzy. There was one thing yet difficult. T o marry a wife who deserted her husband meant much by native law and custom. The deserter would apply through the native court to divorce the husband. That meant that the bride price, including all expences the husband made would be returned to him through the Court. �Mr. Cousin paid twelve pounds and three pence to marry Lizzy. That was the marriage custom of the Effiks. This amount would be paid to the court by the new suitor. Ade handed over twelve pounds three pence to Lizzy to deposit at thz Obia native court. The court messenger served summons on Mr. Cousin to appear before the Obia native court on Wednesday the twentieth August to answer a suit of Divorce made by Lizzy. That was another try time for Mr. Cousin. That was a test-case. He had assured his father-inlaw that he would abandon his bid for Lizzy. If he accepted the refund of the bride price it meant he had finished with Lizzy. They would be regarded as ex husband and wife. If he did not accept the refuod he would be inviting another trouble in his family. His wives were watching every movement of Mr' Cousin rignt from the last meeting. It was not a matter to be pursued secretly. In whatever form it was handled it must be known by Mr. Cousin's wives. It was a trying time for Mr. Cousin. The matter would be settled once and for all. On Wednesday, the twentieth August Mr. Cousin went to the Obia Native court in the company of Kate. That was another news. The mere going out with Kate for the first time was a sign of things to come. When the case was called up for hearing Mr. Cousin told the Court that he was not prepared to stand with Lizzy on the box. He said that be accepted the divorce and accepted the bride price refunded through the Court. The president of the Native Court praise Mr. Cousin for the way he handled the matter. He ordered that the money should be paid to Mr. Cousin. He told Lizzy that she was at liberty to choose a new husband if she liked. 49 �Whilt on the car returning home Kate who was sitting in the front with Mr. Cousin was pondering over the whole issue. She could not say any word. 'What is your opinion about this matter? asked Mr. Cousin. Kate pretended not hearing him. She continued to be silent. "What's your mind about this matter, Kate? continued Mr. Cousin "I'm sorry. I don't know you were talking to me" replied Kate. "Well, I am yet uncertain of the matter. I cannot say how I feel until you have said how you feel about it. I will answer this question after three Calender months by which time I can make my conclusion. I am yet observing what's the situation! "I understand you" interrupted Mr. Ccusin." You are in doubt about my sincerity in this connection. You must have observed a very big change in me since our last weeking. You ought to be surprised a t my action in the court. You don't believe that I will bear Limy's absence. I saw Lizzy in the court but that once charming face did not charm me. I was not moved. I was not attracted. There was a time in our affair when I asked to know what was the greatest object of my existence in a life without Lizzy. My concern today is to have an ideal home with o r without Lizzy. But I can't forget her." Kate looked stupidly at Mr. Cousin. She watched him as he held the stering of thecar in a helpless condition. "Why all this?' asked Kate. "You said not long age that you have finshed with Lizzy and yet you are, dying for her". "There is something, wrong' said Mr. Cousio. "Oh Lizzy, Lizzy, Lizzy. Poor me. Something, truely wrong." What is wrong? interrupted Kate. "I won't tell you . what's wrong. All I know is that there issomething wrong in my heart, Poor me.'' Kate could not bear the situation. She was afraid, afraid that under that condition there was a possibility for an accident. Mr. Cousin was in an unconsious, mood. yet he was driving. ' �"Ho! exclaimed Kate suddenly "Don't kill me for Lizzy. Don't kill me I'm Kate, poor Kate. Life has no duplicate! If you choose to die for Lizzy's sake please do so. Don't commit uxorious! "Mr. Cousin had his fears also. He stopped the car. Kate quickly came out I'll wait for:: taxi here. I've had the rotterest time for my life, Kate Nnabuihe." Mr. Cousin came out t c drag in Kate, She ran away to nearby village. Mr. Cousin could not go out for her. He came back and kicked off the car. Kate came back to the road, both seeing the car, took a taxi back home. CHAPTER XVII - Gracy had been following the Cousin Lizzy dramma closely. She was in a position to know what happened in both Mr. Cousin's and Ade's houses. From Mr. Cousin's side she had her Agnes. From Ade's side she had Oti, Ade's sister and Georgy, his friend. Gracy heard that Mr. Cousin had accepted a refund of the bride price he paid on Lizzy. She knew that it was by Ade's arrangement that it was possible. She knew also that Ade would eventually marry Lizzy. Her mind was beating furously. She did not think of losing Ade any time. She believed that there would be a time when her mum's heart would change and consequently Ade would be accommodated. She didn't know how to get about the matter. Gracy wouldn't go to Ade's house. She had not done so in the past. But at that time Lizzy and Ade lived together. Gracy decided to register a letter to Ade to make her intentions known to him. "Ade,' she wrote Dear Ade, ''I have tried to put off my mind from you �but fate holds me strong. You told me once that your ruling planet is the sum and that you are a that Lion. I k n o ~ lions are wickedly shy but wonderfully commanding. If your contenance represents your soul, I have a reason to keep away from you. I have known you too well. The soul is clever, of course. My knowledge. Therefore is limited. It is how evident that you have succeded in your project--Ade and Lizzy, husband and wife. It is an interesting news. Ade. What o i Gracy, the founder of Ade's love? where is she going to be? This question may appear unbecoming and irresponsible but fates demands that it can be put. 1 know that there are so many young men wishing to have life partners. I aiso know that there are millions of young women who wish to couple. 1 am certainly aware of the fact that the world can do without the best. 1 agree that the dead can be remembered when the living is disappointing. Fate demands that I should do justice to concieve. 'That is why it appears to me and perhaps to you too that I'm making a mockery of myself in this letter. You told me when last you visited that you were trying to get Lizzy to marry you. You mentioned my mum as placing a very big barrier in our way, you said you could not wait for mum's change -f heart. You remarked that it was unfair for a young man like you to remain without a ~ i f e . I did not fail to make you undsrstand my position. I urgtd you to make some move towards making mum change heart on the issue. She has had no objectims other than your being a politician. I had my strong confidence that through your influence and perhaps my little help, we could win mum's favour. From the look of things, you have made up your mind about Lizzy. If not so the question of convincing mum requires only constant approach. You have had harder cases very hard cases which you softened by your influence. You have won declared 52 �and hardened political approvements to your side. Your convincing ability had secured your outstanding position in your party. Poor Ade, you have failed to d o what you ought to d o only because of that sire-footer, heart-hrcaking lad. This is dangerous! It is challenging! -dangerous because you have killed innocent love. Challenging because you questioned Nature, I, Gracy am good for everything feminine. Beauty, I am okey. Height, I am averagely promising Ade's match. Education, manners, I can be sure of not disappointing. If Lizzy and 1 are interviewed I'm sure of beating her by a big margin. D o you know Ade. that because of you I have made open enemies both socially and politically. How well have I defended you? How much weight has fate taken away from me? How many worried nights have I had just because of you. How many meals have I missed because of defendinp your name? am ashamed of myself. How can I look at Agnes' face? Agnes who had been dear to me appears indeffmnt today bccause of Ade. She has the right of asking me so many questions now. "Where is your Ade? I remember hearing "1 don't know why we should contiruc to give our hearts to these unsteady men. They pramise you Heaven and Earth today and fcirgct all tomorrow.' I also remember replying, "Ade is a public servant. He makes the law. His standing in the community is such that he cannot think in terms of committing murder because of woman. I have watched his utterances in private and public places. He is mindful of his position in the community. I have not seen him in a bad company "...... ........ ........ 99 Please let me hear fully from you lest I ask myself. "What is the greatest object of my existence?' Yours in Love, Gracy. 53 �ADE RECEIVED THE LETTER. He read through. "This is a matter of life and death" he said to himself. He knew the feelings of Gracy whom he gave his love a t a glance. He had come to mix company with friends and foes. He had realised what it w a s all about. The gift of life is one thing. The care of life is another. Could it be said he was impatient and that had caused these bickerings. His astonishment at finding himsclf invlwed in the affair was growing rather than diminishing. This letter from a fallen-teacher, was borning. What of the moral justification? Ade's highest aim at that time was to be married. He gave his love to Gracy and thought going on with the affair and to prove the hitches, shortcomings and finally the success or failure. But Lizzy's charm was wonderful. He was caught in Owerri Road trap. There was no going back for him. Politicians like much noisemaking. The newspapers and radios blazed and sang the love episode Ade made a venture a bold venture to the politicians but to the private man, no news. While he was enjoying the advertisements, he forgot his dealings with Gracy who became crazy about him at one time. - Ade seemed to be faced with a problem which kept attacking him, some times horrible, sometimes reviving -uncountable emotions he yawned. He walked about in the room. "Why am I in this place? he murmured. The tricks of fate enhanced him. He was thinking whether there was going to be another news. This time Gracy versus Liuy or Gracy versus Ade. Lizzy found Ade a worried man. She gave him a symbolic look. She watched him closely to know what was disturbing him. Ade was aware of Lizzy's move. He sat tight on the chair taking care of the �letter. Lizzy could not say any word. Her mind did not go the length of understanding if anything existed between Ade and Gracy. She had her suspicion that something must have been wrong at a political meeting or that he was makmg up his mind a b m t a peculiar party problem. Ade had continuous busy three nights all for his party affairs. 4de slept. He woke slowly, thinking he heard R knock at the door and hearing Graq's voice. But he had dreamed that Gracy hanged herself and in her room left a hote "ADE IS THE CAUSE" The dreamed sound lingered into his waking state and left him puzzled and depressed. He wondered if he had slept at all. The hanging inclderlt and the alarming note sank Ade's feeling. In a confused state he shouted "Poor' Gracy!" This is noise woke Lizzy. "Which Gracy?' Lizzy exploded. "Gracy hanging?" 'Ade is the cause?' he continued. "Sincere Gracy hanging! Honesty! Innocence! Defender of my soul! Heaveus!, what do you say? Lizzy ran to hold Ade as he sat helplessly in the bed. "Did you quarrel with anyhody?'she asked. There was no reply. She thought of many things-Politicain's lives are ridiculous. Any thing can happen to them at any time with or without notice. "What must be wrong with this m a n ? ' s h e continued- "This man has t a d a sleepless night. He has concealed many things. I cannot read his mind. We have not lived long and I cannot claim knowing nothing of his ways I have known no!hing about him than that he is a pol~tician. Who will help me?" Turning himself left and right in the Bed Ade shouted again, L'Poor Gracy" Lizzy left him suddenly and ran out from the room to the parlour "There is something in this name" she th?ught "Poor Gracy must be Ade's ghost friend. she won't be a living Gracy". - 55 . �The wall clock struck 7. 30 a. m. It was time for breakfast. Ade hadnot taken bath. He had not dressed up. Lizzy quickly ran to the kitchen to make breakfast. Ade walked sluggishly into the bathroom. He later went to the dressing room. By 8 o'clock he was ready for the day's appointments. He took little of Akamu and Akara and drove away to the party's Secretariat. CHAPTER XVlll . Lizzy was not happy. Ade's new developments disturbed her much. Since she could not gather any thing from Ade's mouth, she would investigate the matter. She thought of how to go about it. She remembered that there was a native doctor who lived at 13 Creek Road who could reveal the whole secrets to her. Ugochukwu had been famous in town because of his ability in sooth-saying. He had caused many heart-breaks. Many families had relied on him in every hard, mysterious, domestic problems. Lizzy told Ade that she was going to see her aunt who was ill. Ade wanted her to wait till evening so that he would go in her company. She said that she was asked to come down immediately because it was a serious case. She was however, allowed to go. Limy took a taxi to 13 Creek Road. Shz knocked at U~ochukwu's door. The native doctor's messenger ran Gut to receive her. "is your master in?'questioned Lizzy. " Master is very busy with a client," replied the messenger. "Could I not see him now? Messenger. ''Let me see him. But he may not have time to attend you now." Lizzy: please help me. I have only a very short time with him. The massenger came out from the room. "Sit on the form. Whatever you wish to ask from master speak it from your mind. Spit o n four penny pieces .and hold them lightly. Master will call you �soon". Lizzy did as she wastold. She waited anxiously for her turn. About a minute later, she heard a native doctor chunning. The juju bell was rung seven times. A juju morkation song began. The native doctor danccd as he sang. He asked Lizzy to clap her hands to his tone. . The native doctor asked Lizzy to place the four penny pieces on the ground, She did so. Ugochukwu: You are a lucky woman. You have to come to know all about your life. You are married now. Your husband is living. Looking into a small mirror on his alter, he smiled. "Oh Lucky girl. Say, One who does not carry a pot does not break a pot." Lizzy said so, "Say My hands are clean". Lizzy said so. "Your husband loves you too much. Is it not so?" "It is so, answered Lizzy but added "Tell me why I'm here". ' L Y o ~ here because you are here, otherwise you are should. not be here" replied Ugochukwu. "But why should I be hert?" continued Lizzy. "Aha! you want to know why your husband who had loved you does not love you again." "Is it why I'm here?" questioned Lizzy "Yes. There was something wrong in your home yesterday and that is why you are here. My juju says he was there last night' Lizzy was astonished. She looked at Ugochukwu nodding her head. That was a point for the juju. "And" de continued ''You had a restless, sleepless night. You couldn't see your husband's face. He did not talk to you. His attitude was vzry unusual Is it not so?" "It is so." replied Lizzy. You have come to know why your husband behaved in that way". Lizzy was glad. The native doctor read her countenance and understood that she had been convinced. He continued to sing for the juju. He stood and danced. while Lizzy was was clapping for him. He rang the 57 �bell twelve times. Sitting down again he said; "Open your two palms." Lizzy did so. He looked into his small juju mirrow and said : "The juju said that you have not given him kola and before. he continues you must bring a bottle of ekpeteshi, two bottles of guinrss stout, one pound in shilling coins. ten shillings in six pence and five shillings in three pence." Lizzy had only one pound. "Can 1 offer anything I have to the .juju?" asked Lizzy. "No, the juju does not talk twice on one subject. "From what you have stated I understood that the juju wants a total sum of one pound fifteen shillings from me but I have not up to that sum here she pointed out. "1 understdnd youy' said the native doctor "But" he continued " You can go home to get whatever is !he balance. My juju dots not charge much money. You are very lucky to be charged one pound fifteen shillings only. Lizzy took leave from Ugochukwu to go to the house to collect the balance of the money. On getting home. Ade had returned from work. She appeared kery serious and pale. Adc looktd at her. He found something strange in Lizzy's look. "How is your aunt feeling ?" "asked Ade" She is seriously down. I'm afraid if she will recover. She has been sent to a native doctor's house. I have come to takz food and to meet them there. Ade was in deep sympathy with her. "Take your food quickly and let's go down to see her. I'm sorry indeed. This is another thing to worry your mind. Make haste and let's go." "Don't worry yourself" replied Lizzy. " You can't be allowed to see her now. The native doctor does not allow anybody to see her at this early stage of his work. He has allowed me and my younger sister to be there. Hz may allow othcr visitors later. You will wait till then. I will send your kind regards to my aunt." Ade did not go further. He �thought that Lizzy was sincere and serious. Lizzy went back to 13 Creek Road. She paid the juju charges. Ugochukwu was happy. Heasked Lizzy to keep calm. She would hear everything about her case revealed. She listened with eagerness to the native doctor's demonstration. The mvocation took a new turn. The juju drum was in attendance. Ugochukwu began to chant ',Ududughudu; Okwa mpkuru otile; Onyam mata Okwa hibie. Uh! Uh!, Ugochukwu: Your husband was calling the name of somebody when he was in bed. Lizzy: Yes. He was calling Gracy. Ugochukwu: Gracy is his girl friend. He promised to marry her but disappointed her because of you. Lizzy: Is it true? Ugochuk~u:Gracy is annoyed with your hnsband. She handed over your husband to Ogbakorokoro juju. The juju says that there will be no peace in your house as longas you live together and that either of you must die if you continue to live together. There is nothing you can do to please your husband and there is nothnig your husband can d o to please you. You will live in disunity throughout the short time you have to stay together. Lizzy: Telling me? What a m I to do? Ugochukwu: In order to release your husband from the hand of Ogbakorokoro there must be some sacrifice. After that you will be given some charm against known and unknown enemies. Yon will be given some powder to apply to your husband's food. This will make him love you more and sincerely. Lizzq: Are you sure that after doing all this, things will be well with us. Ugochukwu Oh! definitely so. Native doctors are too many but they are graded. Many people �who come to me h w e hau no disappointments this case is very hard but simple to me. If you can foot the blll you can be sure of success. Lizzy: Do you mean that I will pay additional money to what I have paid Ugochukwu; This is a childish question. It appears y3u are no; familiar with our business. Lizzy You've guessed it right. I have had no previous dealings with native doctors. I always take my cases to the white and black trained doctors. Let me know what will be the bill. Ugochukwu: You will buy many material for the preparation of the charm and the love powder They are two separate jobs. Both of them will cost you five pounds. At the completion of the work, you will pay more eight pounds. Lizzy: It means I have to pay more thirteen pounds Ugochukwu: Yes, If you pay this amount you will enjoy more happier days. Lizzy: I have not the amount required. I don't know how to convince my husband about this matter. In the first place he is not aware of my coming to you, I told him a different story before he allowed me to be here. In thz second place he cannot listen to such story .He is a politician. He does not believe In sooth-saying. He does not believe that anybody can charm him handing him over to a juju for that matter. I don't know how to go about this matter. This is a big problem. Ugochukwu: I know your difficulties in this instance. There is a way by which you can set your husband round. You chat with him always At times he romances you. Politicians are good drunkards. You can get him round on one Saturday night. Lizzy That is true but I would want you to give me the love powder. I will apply it on my husband. When he is in mad love with me I will 60 �make him pay what ever is your charge. I know that in a week's time the powder will effect him and by Saturday next I will drag him down to you and the remaining job will be done., Ugochukwu: I understand what you are after. You want to try me. I will surprise you. I will give you the powder. Before two days time you will bring me news of its effect on your husband. Lizzy: I'm not trying you. 1 have heard much about you before I decided t o meet you. 1 know you can d o wonderful things. My chief trouble is money. If I had it, 1 would not ask you t o start from number two of the items. Please help me for you will enjoy me now and in future. Ugochukwu: This ponder! You will see it when the time comes. You will thank me thereafter. Put a 'little of it in your husband's soup. Don't eat with him. If you eat any food in which it is added, the powder will be off. It will not react on your husband. It will be more effective in lunch. The soup in which you will add it must be palatable. It must be rich so that ycur husband will take much of it. The more he takes the more. it will affect him and the more he will love you. Lizzy: Thaok you. You will hear again from me. Ugochukwu: I will not be long. I will soon hear from you. Lizzy left Ugochukwu's house, full of hops. She took a taxi home. The battle must be fought and I will win" she thought. CHAPTER XIX Lizzy would face the opportpity with the necessary uneasy sense of obligatibn. She was going t o make an attempt. She felt that something was wrong indeed. She had been called names. She had been worried by her former husband, Mr. Cousin. �Her name had been published on the pages of the dailies. T o lose the very man for whom she had stood many trials and temptations was to her unbecoming. She would face the matter fair and square. She would set her face strongly against any woman who would intrude. Ade, she concluded, had fallen short of what she expected. He would then run the gountlet between Lizzy and Gracy. Ade was thinking of Gracy still. He was moving heaven and earth to get Gracy agree with him in the changes. He thought he couldn't d o without her but when there was a change in the tide he yielded to Lizzy. But he did not mention anything about Gracy to Lizzy even when they joined. That was why Lizzy felt disturbed when she first heard of the name and hearing of it desparetly. Gracy felt that Ade's attitude was a slight. She has expected to have a reply since last she wrote. She did not mind much, but thought she would draw a line somewhere. Ade was well disposed towards Gracy. This was one of the reasons for his keeping Lizzy in the dark about his intentions. He continued to adjust himself in order to be properly located. Gracy was too young that she could not think in the way the native doctor made Lizzy to believe she felt that by pointing out Ade's mistakes she could score some points and she might have his favour. If Ugochukwu did not put the matter in the way he did he could not get some money from his client. The ordinary mentioning of Ade's change of altitude was enough to convince Lizzy to believe whatever he would say afterwards. She could, therefore not play fast and loose with the affairs of her Ade. Ade decided' after all, to reply the letter in order to keep Gracys mind a t rest. "DEAR GRACY, :'To ask yourself what is the greatest object of �your existence is a question which will come through as you enter into your fifties. If the question comes now, it is too early. ''1 know that you have read many meanings into my long silence. If you were i n my heart you would find a long vacum. I have been searching for words to reply fittingly to your thought provoking epistle general. Up to the time of writing I am short of adequate words. But in order to freshen the air, I should write. "Which of the points raised in your letter should I touch and which should I leave? On reading your paragraph five I hung my head. It would have been better if you did not write at all. If you had told me anything orally-If you had spat on me-If you had slapped my cheek-I would have gladly received them. But this in black and white is a reminder. It is a mirror in which I can see my reflection. Each time I peep into this letter 1 hear an invisible person whispering your name. "Your general remarks seem to hit the nail on the head. How must 1 do? has died. The next question is how shall "how must 1 do? he buried? If it is only to please you and not "kill" innocent love" I am prepared to be a polygamist, "Considering how I had dealt with Lizzy, it is dangerously impossible to think of any disappointment at this stage. Since the advent of your letter Lizzy and I have been at loggerheads. Mark you, she did not see your letter, but she saw the reflection through my attitude. Without knowing the reason for my indifference Lizzy has suggested many things which she has not revealed to me, She has been afraid of my movements. She has been under a cloud. "Gracy, you need not tell me of your sincerity, your confidence. I have acknowledged and recognized your attitudes towards me. There could have been no drawback in my plans if mum did not blow up. She was looking at the concern from one perspective. She did not think ahead of time. �She cou!d not interprete our thoughts. It did not occur to hear that politicians are good citizens of the state who can make and unmake. She failed to notice that the one essential thing required in the partership of man and woman is happiness. Your mum's attitude has now hit me. My house has not that happiness. "Since dreaming of you, Gracy, hanging and while doing this you shouted l'ADE 1s T H E 1 have had the awful result. Lizzy .heard CAUSE!" me about your name. She wondered what was in the name. You, Lizzy and I are now in great confussion. Who can tell the result? "1 do not think you were correct to say that I am the cause of your hangiag. After all, 1 make several approaches which were neglected. The fault, of course, was not yours but my only fault is that I could not wait until your mum's change of heart. But I had my fears. She looked very suspicious. I wondered if there could be a reconciliation of all. "Your paragraph four is no exaggeration. You have those qualities. I saw these qualities in you before approaching you. How can I express here how high my hopes would have been if 1 could call you my wife. I cannot think of my other way to get at the issue. The only thing 1 can d o is to leave you to yourself. I am prepared to accommodate you but I will not give Lizzy the sack. All that I want is happiness. I don't care if it costs me every 'other thing you can think of. lfyou write back to say that man is no longer worried, I will be happy I will convince Lizzy. She will be prepared to welcome you. I'm still yours, Ade. "fir forwarded the letter to Gracy under registered cover. CHAPTER XX Since returning from the doctor's house Limy was watching Ade's movements. She did not see anything better than what it was 64 �since the hcetic night. She would try the doctor's prescription Ade returned from the Secretariat. The luncheon was ready. It was pounded yam, Egusi soup with chickeu. He went to the dining room. Limy was not there. "Lizzy, come and let's eat. I'm hungry" he said. Limy came in, Ade washed his hands Lizzy looked uneasy. "Let's eat. Limy said Ade. "Thank you, Ade. I can't eat now. I have fever." she replied "What sort of fever is this? continued Ade. "I mean the usual fever" answered Lizzy. Do. Lizzy, eat. You know I can't eat alone. I am very hungry and will want to enjoy the meal. If you will not eat, you wouldn't want me to eat. Just eat small of it so that I will enjoy the food.' Lizzy would not eat. She looked at Ade strangely. Ade was annoyed. He got up from the chair. Limy drew him down. "Please eat I'm not well. I have no appetite for food. Believe me, I can't eat when there is not appetite. I eat with you always. I have no other reasoa to refuse to eat than this I've given. Don't be annoyed. Since I am sitting with you, the meal will be enjoyable.' Ade was not impressed. He got up the second time. Lizzy held him back '.Well let's eat. I will eat with you." she said finally. Ade and Lizzy took the food Lizzy was not happy after the meal. She remembered what the doctor told her about the love powder which applied to the egusi soup. She thought that she had wasted time and money. If the powder did not act, she would not go back to the doctor to complain. She was strictly warned by the doctor not to take the food with her husband. Ade went in for siesta. At 2 p.m. he went back , to office. He was feeling out of weight. He managed to finish the job for the day. When he was driving back home, he noticed that all was not well with him. He cancelled all other engagements for the evening. On getting near the house, a friend gave him an information about a strong party supporter who had a motor accident. 65 �Bath of them drove to the place: From there they went to another friend's houseAde came back to the house by 11. 30 p.m. 'Before then, Lizzy had gone to bed. She had prepared supper of rice and stew io which she added another bit of the love powder. Ads did not want to wake Lizzy but took the supper and finaly went .. to bed. At 3 a.m. the following day. Ade felt uneasy. He saw himself in another world. "Lizzy! Lizzy! Lizzy!" he shouted. Lizzy woke. She ran into Ade's room to answer the call. Ade held her breatheless. She was struggling in his hands while he tossed her about in the room. "Don't kill me Ade. I'm dying! I'm dying1 Lizzy cried. Ade held her still After a long struggle. Lizzy managed to releases herself and ran out. weeping. Ade tore his clothes, destroyed his personal effects. He walked into the parlour and had the hanging pictures broken aod lorn into pieces. Lizzy couldn't come in for fear that she might be beaten. Neighbours were afraid to come into the house. Ade was handling a matchet. The chairs, tables, radio and gramophones had been destroyed. Passersby wondered what was really wrong. Many people came up to see what was going on. Ade became an object of ridicle in the eyes of the boys and girls who came to watch the tragedy. Lizzy's mind kept on beating. She thought of many things. She realised that she was the cause of the disaster. She couldn't imagine what other things or person could be responsible. The doctor had prescibed how she would apply the love powder. She applied it on tht luncheon and since she had taken the food with Ade, she was not sure there would be a better result. T ben she felt that she should apply more of the powder to the dinner which she thought would prove successful. Ade had elft the house with his cheque book. He withdrew two hnudred pounds from the bank. Before he got to the house, friends �and enemies had their shares and he came in emptyhanded. His relatives? heard the story. When they came in. Ade has retnrned to IKO, his home town. CHAPTER XXI Lizzy was left in an awful condition. She was afraid of staying in the deserted house. She was short with everybody who came in to enquire of the situation. She couldn't eat any food. She didn't know where to go and whom to meet. Lizzy went back to Ugochukwu. She told him all that happened. The juju was angry. Mr. Ugochukwu told Lizzy that the husband took much of the powder and that was why his brain was affected. He revealed to her that the husband would be madfor sometime. After sacrificing to his juju another doctor could cure him. Lizzy began t 3 cry. "What is this that you have done? Did I ask you to kill my husband or to make him love me? What must I do? Poor me! This is the hardest time of my life. There is no need for me to live to see all this. If you know you will not answer a querry about my death please tell me what to do to get my husband normal before long. "Your husband will bs alright. I will give you a protection charm against your enemies. Your husband's relatives owe you some grudge. There is no way in which you can defend yourself about your husband's mishap. With rhis charm you can move freely with all of them. I will give you another one which you will apply to your food. This powder will protect you against any poison you may take in through the mouth. With these two you can go to your husband's home. You will advise all they should do about his cure. If you tell them about me they will send your husband down to me for his cure. When he recovers everything will be well." �Llzzy could not make a head o r fail of this new de.11. "It makes no odds whether I am-liked by people or not. What I want from you is to get my husband normal again. Let me have all that you have for me for the cure of my husband." Ugochukwu gave Lizzy the two sets of protection powder. "Rub this on your face take this in your food. Then go to your husband's home. You will bring me a good result." Lizzy took the parcels and went away. She came to the house; This was another test. "I had not meant harm for Ade" she murmured. I only want to know who Ade is. I don't mean to kill Ade. God help me to have Ade's love and not his life." Lizzy went to kitchen. She prepared akamu . and added the protection powder. She mixed it well and took it with some AKARA. She packed her things in suit case, dressed up herself. She rubbed the powder also. She locked the doors. handled the suit case and was ready to go to IKO. She came out to waitfor taxi to take her to the Railway Station. It was not quite three seconds when Lizzy had ' some pains in the stomach. She could not control herself as the pains increased. She fell down to the gound. She was unconscious. "Help! Help !my sun is setting. She was shouting. The neighbours ran out to see Lizzy hopeless on t h e ground. One of them ran for a taxi and she was rushed to the general hospital. The doctor applied all the medicines he could afford. He invite someother doctors to help. The case was growing worse. Lizzy couldn't resist. She shouted for paper and pen. These were quickly brought. Lying face up in the sick bed Lizzy wrote:Take this news to Ade, my dear. Tell him Lizzy has her fear. That today is the last of days. And there is no news for grace. 68 �Tell Ade all I wanted was his love. It was the one problem I wanted to solve. The native doctor hid love and stole life. And that's why today I'm facing this strife. Tell Ade I meant no harm for him Before we met we saw in dream. Even at this crucial time of my life. Tell Ade 1 love him more than my life. Tell him the native doctor is the cause. 1 paid him money to let me know the cause. Why he appeared indifferent to me. I did this to test his love for me. And not to punish and kill him. It was the edge of love I wanted to win. Tell Mr. Cousin I close to love Ade. I found delight with him to stay. Tell Mr. Cousin not to be happy about today. For he will, some day meet me that,.way. Tell him I'm going to wait Ade yonder. And there our love to ourselves will be stronger. Now I must die as I cannot challenge death. ' This is the last drop of my breath. I will go to show Ade the reason. Why I had to say too late Cousin. Lizzy dropped the pen and that was her last day in life. The news of Lizzy's death spread all the length and breadth of the Garden City. T h x e who knew and heard the Ade-Cousin case were surprised at the death blow. The news of the death was out of the common. �CHAPTER XXII Everybody was anxious to know what brought about the sudden death. The Local newspapercarried the news after two days. It was then that Gracy believed the news. She ran to the hospital to have first-hand information about the circumstances sorrounding Lizzy's death. Gracy was disturbed. She decided to go to Iko to see' Ade. Her mother did not endures her proposal. She had serious objections to every word Gracy used to convince her to allow her to travel to Iko. Gracy did not want to beg the issue. She shut the door upon all her mother's reasons for refusing her request. "This time, I will do or die" she concluded. Gracy travelled to Iko by the suburban train. She quickly traced Ade's house at lko. On approaching the gate to Ade's Country House, she saw Ade hands in chains. Gracy stood dead dumb. She felt heavy about the situation. Ade saw her Gracy. He yelled. "Gracy! see your Ade in chains. This is the result of our affair. This is my fate. I have loved and died. I have fought and lost." Gracy looked deep into Ade's eyes and sobbed. "Oh life without heart. Is this your fate, Ade? This may end the story. That the mighty is now tamed hands and feet in chains. What can this mean? Ade in chains. My world is mud. My love is void. We will end the story here. Lizzy has done it and has had it. I cannot blame you Ade. I will blame father. I will blame impatience. I will blame mum. I will blame jealous heart. She fell at Ade's feet crying bitterly. Ade's relatives and friends who came to see him began to weep. It was a sorrowful show. ' Gracy made some approaches to the doctors who were giving Ade treatment. She was happy t o hear that there was hope for his recovery in a short time. She informed Ade's parents that she �would stay with them for some time to help in any way she could see that Ade was brought back to his normal state. By 8 p.m. Gracy was sitting besides Ade's bed. When Ade was a bit normal. He inquire of Lizzy. "Which Lizzy do you mean? she quicKly queried. "I mean Lizzy, my wife" replied Ade. "Have you not heard of the death of Lizzy?" continued Gracy What are you telling me?' cut in Ade. "I'm telling you, Ade, that Lizzy has died in the general hospital. Port-Harcourt. Lizzy had a date with a native doctor. It was the very doctor who gave her the powder she applied to your food that has brought you to this state. I am informed that she was sorry for your fate. She had to go back to the doctor to know what to do to bring you back to normality. But the doctor gave her a new mixture for her protection. As she got ready to meet you up here, she had a stroke and was rushed to the hospital. There she diedafter two hours. Before dying. I understand, she made out a letter for you. Ade was embarrassed. The news gave bim an extra blow. "Telling me that Lizzy is dead?" Ade asked. #'And Lizzy dropped a letter for me?' he continued. "Gracy, you will go to Port-Harcourt to get the letter. I want to read the letter. Go to the doctor and ask him to give me the letter. Don't delay. I am waiting for you." Gracy dressed up and took the passenger train to Port-Harcourt. Ade who had been uncontrolled became sobber. He fell into a deep sleep. His doctor was surprised to see him in that mood. The relatives were happy to see him in that quiet state. The visitors were not allowed to come into his room to see him. He was givcn a nice time for rest. �By 7 p.m. Gracy had arrived from Port-H-(court. As she stepped into the room, Ade woke. "Gracy come near and read the letter to me. My eyes are not clear. I can't read." said Ade in !he quietest state of his life. Gracy brought out the paper. She began to read it. On reading "I will go to show Ade the reason why I had to say too late Cousin," Ade held his breathe. He looked up to the ceiling. His eyes became blue. HE CRIED: And Lizzy, my lady of ladies is dead. And sent me news that she had'to die �So9 thief of my soul is dead. And leave me on earth to sigh. She said she had much to fear. And reminded me of That last of daysBut my fears she couldn't clear. Lizzy said she meant no harm for me. She said she had a problem to solve. She didn't think twice, she didn't care for me. Leaving my brain my heart to revolve. . Lizzy still claimed she loved me more. Yet she died and wanted me to live. This wonderful assurance is sour and sore Lizzy quickly forgot those days of strife. I trusted her and she obeyed the wind. I enjoyed the time, she blessed my life. We kept our promise and loved indeed. Why was it necessary to trim the love. When we had conquered threat and jsalously Why was it thinkable to blend the love. Which we inherited fully. truly in legacy. Tell Mr. Cousin not to rejoice todav. ' For I will go to meet Lizzy over there. Lizzy said she had delight with me to stay. Let me now die, no need to linger. In this world to suffer and to strive. I will go to meet Limy to know the reason. 1 believe the love there will be stronger. And she was right to say too late Cousin. Let me die, jet me go and not linger! "What's this you're doing, Ade?" asked Gracy. "And here you leave me to die. Come! Heavens! What am I seeing? Ade is dead!'' �Gncy ltft the room. She went near the we:I and picked a piassnva rope. She mn back into the rvom. She made a knot-;of the rope on the ceiling. She climbed through Ade's bed and put in her head. While her neck was held in loop. Gracy SANG:Why must I stay here to mourn. Ade and his Lizzy's death? We tlirze must die and let others to mourn 1 should go, I have lost all faith. I had given my love to Ade and him only. 1 have no other life to live without him. �- .Ade trusted me .and.>iovedme sincerely. But mum misconstrued- and misintepreted him. . . I have no-cause to blame. my fate. .. Ade himself knew I wouldn't live. . , . .. . Hence: he died and gave no date. .. , . . . To let me sigh; mourn and grieve. .. . Tell mum she is the cause of all this. ' . . . ,' If she accepted Ade and respected order. Ade couldn't have gone woefully amiss Ade now we go swiftly over the border. If mum 'didn't interrupt Lizzy wouldn't die. If ~ i didn't die Ade wouldn't die. i ~ If Ade didn't die I wouldn't die. Ade dreamed that I was hanging. Today is the fulfilment of the vision. . . ' , We must go and meet Lizzy waiting. We must go yonder to knowthe.reason. . . . W h y Limy had to say too late Cousin. ' . . Gracy breath her last. . The End. ' �BOOKS PUBLISHED BY A, ONWUDIWE & SONS _ _ J _ . - Love is Infallible 3s : 6d Net 3s : 6d Tshombe of Katanga The way to make friends with Girls 3s : 6d The Labour of Man 1s : 6d Boys and Girls of Nowadays 2s : 6d Mabel the Sweet Honey that drops away 3s : 6d 2s :O d To Rule is a trouble Agnes in the game of Love ' 2s :O d d Miss Rosy in the Romance of true love 2s : O ' 3s ; 6d Family Birth Register Dr. Zik in the battle for freedom 3s : 6d 2s : 6d The Disappointed lover 3s : 6d The last days of Lumumba 2s : 6d The sorrows of Love How to write Love Letters,Toasts and Bussiness Letters 3s : 6d How to write Successful Letters and Applications 2s :6d 2s : gd Elizabeth my Lover How to know who Loves you 3s : O d The Bitterness of Politics and Awolowo's Last Appeal 3s ; 6d A. Dictionary of Current Affairs and Important Facts 3s : 6d Comprehensive Questions and Answers on Economics for R: S. A. Inter and d Advance and G. C. E Ordinary Level 4s :O A new Guide t o Good English and 6s : O d Correct Letter Writing Others in Preparation Printed by TRINITY PRINTING PRESS 3 MwRe smercr, P 0. Box 534 . ONITSHA NIGERIA. �WAY TO MAKE - A. ONWUDIWE -lJdiavtor8f A* OPWURlWEPvb ishers) 8) SONS Book-Se ers and � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Onitsha Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The way to make friends with girls Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Madumere, Adele Type The nature or genre of the resource Onitsha market literature Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Onitsha, Nigeria, A. Onwudiwe & Sons Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 196- Language A language of the resource English Subject The topic of the resource Nigerian literature (English) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context ksrl.c3551 Description An account of the resource The strong feminist overtones of this fictional account suggest that the author, Adele Madumere, is a woman. Lizzy, the main character of this long story, is a strong and independent woman who continuously questions men and their intentions. In the pamphlet's opening paragraph Lizzy asks, "why are some men fond of interrupting women on high ways,?" (pg.6). The author also uses a gentle humor to look at the budding relationship between Lizzy and her suitor Ade:<br /><br /><em>There was no reply from either side. Passers-by wondered why the two people broke their journey on a high way. The popular feeling was that they were discussing an important matter largely personal to them. It was bad light. Lizzy could not continue to stand on the road unmindful of her appointment, </em>(pg.6).&nbsp;<br /><br />After Ade had waylaid Lizzy in the classic manner of Onitsha Market Literature, the author plays with those assumptions. To the main characters,it is clear that Lizzy wants nothing to do with Ade at this time, and it is only the bad light that keeps the other passers-by in the dark as to the nature of the interaction.<br /><br />Unlike many of the other pamphlets, Lizzy is not a naive young girl. She is separated from her first husband and does not want to commit herself to another man, even if she does come to like Ade, a politician. Lizzy and this new lover endure a scandalous court case because her husband, Mr. Cousin, has accused Ade of unlawfully detaining his wife and depriving him of his liberties. In fact, Lizzy did not leave Mr. Cousin for Ade, but rather left her husband because she did not feel like an equal partner in a polygamous marriage. She explains, "You know I had to respect you in all respects. I like your personality so dearly but hate your manners. I did all in my power to play the game with you as a comrade. You did not regard me as somebody in union with you but as a visitor," (pg.21). Thus, Lizzy left Mr. Cousin for herself rather than for another man. <br /><br />As Lizzy commits to Ade in the story, Madumere reverts to a more traditional plot and characterization of male dominance. When Lizzy becomes jealous of another woman, she consults a traditional healer. After this visit she inadvertently poisons Ade, and he becomes insane. In her desire to restore Ade's faculties, she poisons herself and dies. The tale ends with Ade and the other woman both committing suicide to be with their soul mates. Even though Lizzy, as a heroine, creates an interesting space in the story to assert both independence and moral character, in the end she appears to be caught up by her love for Ade and controlled once again by a man. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. However, for this Item, either (a) no rights-holder(s) have been identified or (b) one or more rights-holder(s) have been identified but none have been located. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-RUU/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-RUU/1.0/</a> https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/3908bd336c4ccb43d20443cf729a05c5.jpg 69056638b31960be6713e8a0cf1c3988 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2026 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Heifer Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2026 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Maggie Johnson Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2026 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource held by creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Colored pencil https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/19dc315c4ecd6622e9be34ad72d0deec.jpg 6963b0b43c1ee02d363b867f408fa7e8 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2026 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Stolen Drink Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2026 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Maia Weingartner Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2026 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource held by creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Digital illustration https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/f8aa4b8cb74329f00cf165d7dbfc72e9.jpg f9e93690c16b0d16fe951825ac31c621 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2025 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Farmer's Market Flowers Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2025 Description An account of the resource This piece is a printed scan of a page in my sketchbook. I used watercolor and gouache to paint the zinnias I had gotten from the Lawrence Farmer's Market. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mallory Terrell Visual Art major Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Belong to Creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Digital print with watercolor 8.5" X 11" https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/7672b9dfbbe3fce72c655ce8425206e2.jpg d201c788316136d01ab8cc9ed4030b75 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2025 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Pass it Down Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2025 Description An account of the resource The vase depicted in this work was my great-grandmother's, and now my mom keeps it populated with Alstroemeria lilies. These lilies were also in my grandmother's wedding bouquet, making this print a generational piece. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mallory Terrell Visual Art major Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Belong to Creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Relief print 10" X 12" https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/5a41e1dbdc360a3fc14846fa25deff89.jpg dd0817e9645021bc36a35104c3611d47 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2025 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Slipping Through My Fingers Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2025 Description An account of the resource This print was designed after a photo of my sister doing my mom's hair. The older I get, the sweeter little moments like these become. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mallory Terrell Visual Art major Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Belong to Creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Intaglio print 9" X 7" https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/7f1e79135247ea718b00b72f758cb962.jpg 519006034c4b14bdf46efae70ed7fcaa Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource LibArt 2025 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource I am Home Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2025 Description An account of the resource Just the thought of it makes my skin crawl! When I was facing housing insecurity, I couldn’t believe something like that could happen to me in my own home. I questioned what it meant to have a place to rest, a place to belong. I longed to return to a place I couldn’t go back to—my old life. With time, and the support of my dear friends and loved ones, I came to a necessary realization, I already am home. My body is where I rest and where I will live the rest of my life. I am lucky to have a home. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Maral Bat Undergraduate Student in Mathematics and Computer Science Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Belong to creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Watercolor and colored pencils on watercolor paper https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/89c35a98e3755c96086ab693f95e2c00.jpg 74212f9d3308a8110140754c3efedd93 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Shopping List Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2024 Description An account of the resource In February 2022, amidst the onset of the war in Ukraine, my mom and I went shopping: flour, rice, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, laundry detergent, and other common imported goods from Russia. Later that same spring, my uncle passed away. During the first 49 days after his passing, his soul was held between death and rebirth. Our family observed a mourning period where we read "om mani padme hum," and other mantras daily. As part of mourning, guests were offered tea or candy with each mantra session, I found myself collecting the wrappers. With the confusion and sorrow of my uncle's passing, the mantras served as a guiding light, ensuring a safe journey for his soul to the next life. During this horrible, disorienting time I believe the mantras grounded me in the present moments, unlike the shopping list, which often left me consumed by fears of the future. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Maral Bat Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Held by creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Charcoal, ink, colored pencil, candy wrappers on watercolor paper LibArt https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/6e7e47aa51a04f78652eb9bd93ec85e1.jpg e023c12299f60ad7ab75cbe7f2ddef60 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource How My Dad Is Subject The topic of the resource LibArt 2024 Description An account of the resource When I first started college, my dad was experiencing serious health issues. It was hard to be on the other side of the world and faced with my family’s mortality. I distinctly remember when I was in my calc 1 lecture and I opened an email with no subject line from my dad—it was his will. I know he will love me whether or not he is still here. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Maral Bat Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Held by creator Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Charcoal, ink, colored pencil on watercolor paper LibArt https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/files/original/6ce21b5a2cdceb495b9b5419b6ab9916.jpg 283b7d676b8a02e2fda368585d0b28cd Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A Silver Anniversary Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>What Every Girl Should Know</em> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Margaret H. Sanger Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Girard, Kansas: Haldeman-Julius click here for a more detailed imageCompany Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource n.d. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RH H-J 14