This export of elephants' teeth direct _via_ Fezzan has
only lately been opened. Some manufactured cottons are likewise brought
from Soudan, and sell easily in this part of the Sahara, especially
amongst the Tuaricks. Besides, there are exported bullocks' and goats'
skins, and a small quantity of ostrich feathers. The gum trade has
lately been introduced into Fezzan by the British Consul, and one
hundred cantars per annum are already collected from the tholukh-trees.
The acting Governor of Fezzan always resides at Mourzuk. His principal
coadjutors in the despatch of affairs are a Kady with two secretaries, a
Sheikh or mayor of the city, some respectable men who act as privy
councillors, the Wakeels of Bengazi, Augila, Sokna, &c.
A little story may find its place here, as an apt illustration of the
state of society and manners in this out-of-the-way capital. A married
woman preferred another man to her husband, and frankly confessed that
her affections had strayed. Her lord, instead of flying into a passion,
and killing her on the spot, thought a moment, and said,--
"I will consent to divorce you, if you will promise one thing."
"What is that?" inquired the delighted wife.
"You must looloo to me only when I pass on the day of the celebration of
your nuptials with the other man."
Now it is, the custom for women, under such circumstances, to looloo
(that is, salute with a peculiar cry) any handsome male passer-by.
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