'Colonel Gordon, Governor-General of Upper Egypt, has entered into a contract with Messrs. Yarrow and Co., of Poplar, for the construction of four very light-draught steel steamers for use on Lake Albert Nyanza, and for opening up the navigation of the rivers in Central Africa. These steamers will be carried on land on the backs of Negroes, and consequently Messrs. Yarrow and Co. have sub-divided the packages in such a manner that none shall exceed 200 lb. weight. It is estimated that no less than 1000 men will be employed for the porterage of these vessels.'