e manners and customs of this
nomadic people.

Here, for the first time, they witnessed the Arab method of making
butter.

A goat's-skin, nearly filled with the milk of camels, asses, sheep, and
goats, all mixed together, was suspended to the ridge-pole of a tent,
and swung to and fro by a child until the butter was produced. The milk
was then poured off, and the butter clawed out of the skin by the black
dirty fingers of one of the women.

The Arabs allege that they were the first people who discovered the art
of making butter; though the discovery does not entitle them to any
great credit, since they could scarce have avoided making it. The
necessity of carrying milk in these skin bags, on a journey, must have
conducted them to the discovery. The agitation of the fluid, while
being transported on the backs of camels, producing the result,
naturally suggested the idea of bringing it about by similar means when
they were not travelling.

At this place the slaves were treated to some barley cakes, and were
allowed a little of the butter; and this, notwithstanding the filthy
mode in which it had been prepared, appeared to them the most delicious
they had ever tasted.

During the evening, the three merchants, along with several other Arabs,
seated themselves in a circle; when a pipe was lit, and passed round
from one to another. Each would take a long draw, and then hand the
pipe to his left-hand neighbour.

While thus occupied, they kept up an animated conversation, in which the
word "Swearah" was often pronounced. Swearah, of course, meant
"Mogador."

"They were talking about us," said Jim, "and we must learn for what
purpose. I am afraid there is something wrong. Krooman," he continued,
addressing himself to the black, "they don't know that you understand
their language. Lie down near them, and pretend to be asleep; but take
note of every word they say. If I go up to them, they will drive me
away."

The Krooman did as desired, and, carelessly sauntering near the circle,
appeared to be searching for a soft place on which to stretch his body
for the night.

This he discovered some seven or eight paces from the spot where the
Arabs were seated.

"I have been disappointed about obtaining my freedom so many times,"
muttered Jim, "that I can scarce believe I shall ever succeed. Those
fellows are talking about Mogador; and I don't like their looks. Hark!
what is that about `more than you can get in Sw