Here was a narrowly focused outfit -- Compaq, a maker and seller of computer boxes -- swallowing a more complex operation.

FORBES: Bon apptit!

Here was a narrowly focused outfit -- Compaq, a maker and seller of computer boxes -- swallowing an older and more complex operation.

FORBES: Bon apptit!

As the situation in the north remained volatile, however, the rescue operation continued for three months after the rebel withdrawal, until 2, 400 metal boxes containing an estimated 285, 000 manuscripts had been delivered to private homes in the capital.

BBC: How Timbuktu's manuscripts were smuggled to safety