Seven Years in the Sotidan.

water collects in the middle, it decays, and is only a giant with feet of clay. But if the Adansonia grows on sloping ground slightly sliaded, its trunk is slender, solid and very tall. At the present season, which is winter, though the thermometer marks 53° centigrade in the sun, this tree is destitute of leaves, and it is very curious to see the fruit hanging on boughs which seem withered. The fruit is oblong in shape, of a greenish colour, with a thick rind. When opened it is found to contain seeds of an acid flavour ; unworthy children of such a father !

From Roseres to Fazoglu the route is decidedly monotoiious and very fatiguing. Xumerous beds of torrents divide the road into so many parts, each of wliich has its name. The first mountains encountered are very high, and composed of gneiss, granite, iron, and porphjry. At the time of Ernest Marno, a large village called Meaza existed at their foot, but we did not see it, perhaps because it has been destroyed by some conquering tribe.

At three da3s' camel journey from Roseres, Fazoglu, the principal place in the province, is reached. Fazoglu is a mountain, perpendicular in form, and very difficult to ascend ; the town is called F'amaca, and is the residence of a Mudir. At Fazoglu there are mines of exceedingh' pure gold, but they are not ver productive, the principal vein not having been yet discovered. At Famaca the Egyptian (rovernment keeps a large garrison, necessary to collect the tributes from the natives who inhabit the mountains, and who if not compelled by force would willingly withdraw from a so-called civilized government. The town is picturesque ; it is surrounded by mountains, and built at their foot in a circular form ; the houses are inlail of various shapes and sizes, the greater part clean and decent.

We were received by the Governor, ]\[ohamed Faim Bey, a polite and well-instructed Turk — a rarity in the country and among his countrymen. He is