Page 302 - Travels in Arabia (Vol 2)_Neat

XIII.] COAST OF ARABIA. 283

its inhabitants. The race is so mixed that
they possess but few characteristics in com-
mon with each other. A yellow complexion
and meagre form render them easily distin­
guishable from the Bedowins, although re­
taining the large and sparkling eye, the aqui­
line nose, and expressive features of that

race. Some of the lower orders, accustomed
to carry burdens and perform other laborious
services, are exceedingly muscular. Here, as
in parts of Africa and elsewhere in Arabia,
they have a silly custom of making three
longitudinal incisions on either cheek of their
infants, the scars of which remain through
life. Various reasons were assigned for this
practice: by some it is said to denote the
sanctity of the place of their nativity; others
believe it prevents the formation of bad hu­
mours about the eyes; but the custom is not
universal, many mothers objecting to it.
The inhabitants of Jiddah have little of

that gravity of deportment which usually
marks the town Arab: on the contrary, the
smile of mirth constantly plays about their
features, and, while discoursing on the gravest
subjects, any witty allusion is sufficient to