Most children love to hear stories, especially at bedtime. The favorite story of my two sons was told them by their father, over and over again, of which they never tired: HOW HE CAME OVER TO AMERICA FROM SCOTLAND ON A BIG BOAT.My purpose in writing this story now, of my voyage to Africa on a freighter, is that my grandchildren and great grandchildren might enjoy hearing of some of my experiences, which in the providence of God, have taken place in my life.Some statistics and a little information was acquired from the library before leaving for the various countries. This has been interwoven in my travelogue all of which was written on board ship.

This book was originally marketed with this words: "A rare tale of travel and Adventure. Thrilling experiences in distant lands, among strange people. A book for boys, old and young."The description of the book is no exaggeration. Paul Boyton (1848-1924) was clearly a remarkable and fearless man and indeed had adventures that can only be described as thrilling. He discovered and started working with a rubber suit, similar to modern drysuits . It allowed the wearer to float on his or her back, using a double-sided paddle to propel themself, feet-forward. Eventually, he was to found the first "amusement park" featuring performing sea lions and water chutes.