Voyage 

I am Mansa Musa, the King of Kings.

Today I write to you from aboard the vessel Al-Asad. The voyage thus far has been better than expected. I have not been struck with seasickness, and we seem to be moving along quite rapidly. The ship's captain, an honest and just man, has assured me that we will reach the other side by the time the sun sets. I've been fairly comfortable, and not crowded at all. There were not enough ships in the city to accommodate my caravan, but there were extra ships to be acquired at smaller towns to the north and south. Several of the ships are crowded, but I travel with only my small personal retinue. Eventually, we received enough so that we could fit the entire caravan. Sea travel is much better than I expected, but I'm still eager to get off this vessel and put my feet on solid ground once more. I am finally nearing Mecca. I feel an excitement that I have not felt for quite some time. The giddy feeling I have further cements my resolution to abdicate the throne on my return. Simply being this close to Mecca excites me. I can scarcely imagine what it will be like once I actually set foot in the city itself. My body quakes with anticipation.