Page 306 - Travels in Arabis (Vol I)

XVII.] TRAVELS IN OMAN. 267

fore part, and tapering more abruptly towards
the tail. They usually measure from thirteen

to fifteen feet in length, being covered with a
coriaceous skin, of a dark colour above, but
white beneath. The terrific weapon from

whence they derive their name is a flat pro­
jecting snout, six feet in length, four inches

in breadth, armed on either side with spines
resembling the teeth of a shark.

Diving is considered very detrimental to
health, and without doubt it shortens the life
of those who much practise it. In order to

aid the retention of the breath, the diver
places a piece of elastic horn over his nostrils,

which binds them closely together. He does
not enter the boat each time he rises to the

surface, ropes being attached to the side,
to which he clings, until he has obtained

breath for another attempt. As soon as the
fishermen have filled their boats they pro­
ceed to some of the islands with which the

bank is studded, and there with masts, oars,
and sails, construct tents. They estimate the

*
unopened oysters at two dollars a hundred
.
* Of the several duties assigned to the Indian navy, that of
cruising on the Pearl Banks is by far the most harassing and un­
pleasant. It is admitted by those who are well qualified to judge,