THE HUMAN STORK 159 Intense blackness of skin is a much-pronounced feature. In the Dinka it is perfectly wonderful ; no grease-paint compares with its marvellous tone !

The impression given is that they are immensely tall, but this is partially aided by their slimness of build and the comparative length and slightness of their limbs.

An average taken by the late Dr. Pirrie gives a height of 5 feet 11 inches, and a maximum measurement of about 6 feet 3 inches. I took no measurement here, but that of the chief of a band appeared to be much in excess of this figure.

Marsh and river dwellers, who subsist much on fish, they partake of the same dispensation which has given the stork his long legs, and common to both is the habit of resting on one leg.

No more remarkable sight exists than that of a number of naked young men, with the sole of one foot placed at the side of the neighbouring knee while they balance themselves with the aid of a down-pointed spear, the tip of which is protected by a piece of soft ambatch-wood. This attitude is reported by Dr. Seligmann to have its counterpart among the Toro tribe of New Guinea.

A notable was due to call at Renk on his way up-river, and a native dance was arranged for his edification. He was unable to stay, and, rather than give disappointment, his place was taken by me.

It was a motley assembly, consisting of Arabs, some runaway slaves— respectable old gentlemen with the tarbush (or fez), and white cotton shirt