Page 219 - Travels in Arabia (Vol 2)_Neat

200 COAST OF ARABIA. [CH.

ing the flocks. Their huts differ in form
from those of the northern tribes, being
square, instead of the usual conical form. At
first the Bedowins seemed to view our landing
with suspicion; but I walked immediately
up to the Sheikh’s hut-, which is always on
the western side, and may further be distin­

guished by the lance planted in the ground
alongside of it. Like the patriarch of old, he
was seated at the door of his dwelling. “ You
are welcome,” said he, rising as I approached,
and stroking his snow-white beard: “be
seatedpointing to the Persian carpet which
but partially covered the floor of the apart­
ment. He then inquired the object of my
visit, and appeared perfectly satisfied when I
explained that it was merely to see and con­
verse with him, and to inquire respecting the
ruins. Coffee, milk, and dates were now in­
troduced, and, as we got better friends, the
slave was directed to bring his children. He
was delighted at the notice I took of, and the
few presents I gave to them; so true it is

that human nature is everywhere the same.
Thus, with the “wild man,” as with the

* These huts are merely temporary, answering in place of tents.