Glossary of Terms:

Bwana - "Sir."

Gikuyu - peoples of southwestern Kenya. The language of the Gikuyu is Kikuyu.

Kwa nini Bwana - "Why, sir?"

Memsahib - a Kikuyu name that refers to Mr. Howlands wife

Murungu - Gikuyu diety or god, sometimes referred to as Ngai

Ndio Bwana - "Yes, sir."

Second War - refers to World War Two

shamba - farm or garden