Page 65 - Travels in Arabis (Vol I)

26 TRAVELS IN OMAN. [CH.

CHAPTER III.

Excursion to the Hot Springs of Imam All—Cove of Maskat—
Heat—Glassy surface of the Sea —The Laughing Gull—Visit
on board a Bagaid — Singular appearance of her Crew —
Songs — Music — Dancing — Remarkable Echo — Scenery—
Matarah — Population—Arab Women—Bedowins—A Village
— Watch Dogs—Caravanserai—Description of the Springs—
Irrigation—Height of the Thermometer—Fine Climate—Re-
turn to Maskat.

November 23rd. Having obtained from his
Highness this morning an officer to accom­

pany me, I set out on a visit to the hot
springs of Imam Ali, which are situated on

the sea-shore, about seven hours to the west­
ward of the town. Although the cool season

was so far advanced the day proved exces­
sively sultry, and when we pushed off in our

boat for Matarah, notwithstanding a fresh
breeze was prevailing outside, yet within the

cove it was a perfect calm, and the heat

thrown off from the sides of the mountains,