neighbors to take off their izzars—the white sheets in which they were enveloped—and to remain with me to breakfast. They wore dark cotton trowsers, made very full and long, and cloth jackets, closely fitting and fastened up to the throat. Their mundîls, or bright-colored muslin kerchiefs, were put on like shawls over the head, crossed under the chin, and the ends tied on the top of the head. Their hair was braided, and hung in long plaits over their shoulders. Their finger-nails and toe-nails were rosy with henna-dye. They left their yellow shoes at the entrance of the room. They were very much interested in turning out the contents of my work-box, and in looking through books of pictures, about which they asked many questions, and made curious comments, not only teaching me, unconsciously, Arabic words, but showing me the spirit of Oriental ideas. They were amused to hear about English children, and laughed heartily when I told them that in England a few camels are kept as curiosities, in a beautiful garden. They could not understand how we could live in a land where there are no camels to carry burdens. I tried to explain to them the use of carts and railed roads; but, as they had never seen a wheeled carriage of any kind, it was very difficult to convey the idea, even with the help of pictures. They were very clever, quick children; and, though only eight and nine years old, they could already make bread, and prepare many simple dishes. They were surprised that I had not been taught how to cook. It is the chief point in the education of an Arab girl.
While I was occupied with my amusing little guests, our Egyptian groom Mohammed arrived, leading a beautiful white mare, and bringing a letter from my brother, inviting me to go immediately to Shefa' Amer—about three hours' distance—to meet him there, and to return with him to Hâifa the next day. The children said, "We are glad you will to-day see the Consul; but we are sorry you are going away from us; go in peace." I was soon ready, and mounted on the white mare. Her long mane and tail were
