Page 386 - Travels in Arabis (Vol I)

XXI.] TRAVELS IN OMAN. 347

each other to the sound of a drum, beaten by

*
two slaves stationed midway between them.
They proceed at a slow and measured pace,
until within about two yards from each other,

and then either party, after simultaneously
bowing their heads, retreated to the same

distance as before; in this manner they con­
tinued to approach, bow, and retreat as long

as I remained.
The condition of the people is in general

far better than that of most other Eastern
nations; and if the good or ill govern­
ment of a country may be estimated by the

proportion of those who enjoy independence
and comfort, or the reverse, that of Oman is

entitled to hold a high rank. Excepting at
Maskat, and the other towns on the sea-coast,

where they are mostly pilgrims, public beg­
gars are very rarely met. The greater num­

ber of people appear decently clothed, have
substantial dwelling-houses, are exempted
from all imposts and taxes ; and if the country

* In the course of the Narrative it has been mentioned how
powerfully the organs of this people are affected by their rude
instruments; it seems curious, therefore., that they should not
improve on them.