TRAVELS IN AFRICA. 69 be progressively approaching to their former respectabiHty.

The population of Galam has increased considerably within the last two years, in consequence of many of the inhabitants of the Gedumagh towns on the north bank of the river having settled there, being obliged to quit their own country by the Kaartans, to whom they were tributary, but whose exorbitant demands they had for some years declined complying with, thereby bringing on themselves either slavery or the absolute necessity of quitting their homes.

Great numbers of dates are grown in all the towns, which are beautifully shaded with large trees of the fig and other kinds, and being well walled, have a more respectable appearance than might be expected from people whose means are so limited.

Their amusements, animals, household furniture, and musical instruments are the same as those of Bondoo ; but the people themselves are neither so lively in their manners, nor so apparently active in their occupations as those of that country. A Serrawolli is seldom seen to run j a grave and sober deportment, and an apparent indifference to all matters characterize those people. In stature they are large, and in make