Chapter I

My former journey—Inducements to a second—Plan and
object—Custom-house difficulties at Suez—Scenes in
the Governor’s divan—Environs of Suez—Sulphur mine of
Gimsah—Recluse life of the officials—An unenticing coast—The
roadstead of Djidda—The bride of the fish—Voyage across the
Red Sea—Salt works of Roway—Appearance of the shore—Charm of
the moonlight nights—Importance of Suakin—First night-camp
in the mountains—New species of Dracæna—Numerous succulents
among the flora—The valley of Singat —Idyllic abode of the
Governor—Mountains of Erkoweet—The olive-tree wild—Gardens of
the desert—Characteristics of the town Bedouins—Equipment for
the desert—Old fanatic from Kano—Injury and oppression—The
Bedouin camp O-Mareg—Brown coating of the rocks—Goats and
sheep of the Bedouins—Plant with my own name—Contest with
the camel-drivers—Ugliness of the women—A monument of
nature—Arrival at the Nile—Tent in peril—A wedding—The
ninety-nine islands and the Sablook-straits—Pitiable condition
of the country—Arrival at Khartoom Page 1