Page 87 - PERSIAN 5 1905_1911

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RESIDENCY POR THI TEAR 1905.1006. 77
The Sheikhs were inclined to bo shy of the correct treaty flag, on the in­
timation first mado to them by the Native Agout, but bad nothing to say
when shown the original treaty signed by their ancestors. The matte* wao
still under correspondence however when the year ended.
The traffic in negro-slaves has not come into evidence at all on the Coast
during the 12 months under report
Blaro Tirdo.
On the other hand the ports are full of
indigent Mckranis, many of whom are practically in a state of slavery. This
Mekran slavery question is an increasingly difficult problem. Apart from
those who are actually sold by their own Mirs and headmen in the maritime
districts of Mekran, many more come over voluntarily to esoape from famine
or oppression at home. Well knowing what to expect, they regard the
prospect as preferable to the harder struggle for life which has driven them
away. Once arrived in Oman some make their livelihood and become freo
communities; others lapse into slavery and their free relatives are afraid to
assist them.
Specific cases when reported are treated on the same lines as in the caso
of negro-slaves.
P. Z. COS, Major,
Political Pendent in the Persian Gutf.
Bbitish Rebidknct,
Tht 23rd Sejitemler 1906.}
Bush ire;