The
servants of the Germans hearing the squalling thought it was Said
"beating his wife"--a thing common in these countries. Dr. Barth heard
all sorts of noises, but imagined they were all from the celebration of
the wedding. It is always well to examine suspicious circumstances. A
strange camel had been seen straying at sunset near our tent, which
excited the suspicions of myself and Dr. Barth. If we had obeyed our
presentiments, we might have discovered the intended attack, or, at
least, have made some preparations.
A few robbers have often visited us before this. When I had an interview
with En-Noor I asked for a couple of guards, but he refused them, on the
plea that they were unnecessary. Although he knew well the country is
now full of thieves, and told us so, he never expected this audacious
attack of thirteen maharees! Soudan abounds with thieves, and we must
now always keep watch. May we, however, in our further progress, have
nothing more to fear than petty larceny; and we shall have reason indeed
to be thankful!
CHAPTER XVIII.
We shift our Encampment--En-Noor's Circular--The Kadi's Decision--No
Progress in the Sahara--Aghadez Gumruk--Scorpions--Election of Sultans
in Aheer--Present of Salutation--Paying for finding lost
Property--Courier from the new Sultan--No Presents sent us--Notes on
Denham--A Bornouese Measure--Intended Razzia--Firing off
Gunpowder--Hypotheses of Danger--Dress and Women--Enroute to
Bilma--Soudan Caravan--Visit from Tintaghoda--Aheer Honey--Modes of
Measurement--Power of En-Noor--Visits to him from great People--Stations
on the Bilma Road--Salt-Trade--Account of our Pursuers at
Tajetterat--Costume of the Kailouees--Their Weapons--Poisoned
Arrows--Charms--Female Dress--Names of Articles of Costume--Character of
Kailouees.
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