Benchmark exploration of men who mapped Nile

From heroes to hypocrites, the 19th century explorers of the river Nile left a lasting legacy according to a wonderful new book, writes, Tim Severin.

Explorers of the Nile. Tim Jeal, Faber and Faber, £20

SUMMONED before a notoriously dangerous African tribal chief, the Victorian explorer Samuel Baker impressed him with his version of native finery.