takes place for the worse, large numbers drag out
a weary existence, victims of vices which hold them in their grip,
till as if burned up by a fierce but short-lived fire, they ultimately
become seared and shattered wrecks. From this time every effort is
made to fan the flickering or extinguished flame, till death relieves
the weary mortal of the burden of his life.

XI

"DINING OUT"[6]
[6: Contributed by my wife.--B. M.]

"A good supper is known by its odour."

_Moorish Proverb._

There are no more important qualifications for the diner-out in
Morocco than an open mind and a teachable spirit. Then start with a
determination to forget European table manners, except in so far as
they are based upon consideration for the feelings of others, setting
yourself to do in Morocco as the Moors do, and you cannot fail to gain
profit and pleasure from your experience.

One slight difficulty arises from the fact that it is somewhat hard to
be sure at any time that you have been definitely invited to partake
of a Moorish meal. A request that you would call at three o'clock in
the afternoon, mid-way between luncheon and dinner, would seem an
unusual hour for a heavy repast, yet that is no guarantee that you may
not be expected to partake freely of an elaborate feast.

If you are a member of the frail, fair sex, the absence of all other
women will speedily arouse you to the fact that you are in an oriental
country, for in Morocco the sons and chief servants, though they
eat after the master of the house, take precedence of the wives and
women-folk, who eat what remains of the various dishes, or have
specially prepared meals in their own apartments. For the same reason
you need not be surprised if you are waited upon after the men of
the party, though this order is sometimes reversed where the host
is familiar with European etiquette with regard to women. If a man,
perhaps a son will wait upon you.

The well-bred Moor is quite as great a stickler for the proprieties as
the most conservative Anglo-Saxon, and you will do well if you show
consideration at the outset by removing your shoes at the door of the
room, turning a deaf ear to his assurance that such a proceeding is
quite unnecessary on your part. A glance round the room will make it
clear that your courtesy will be appreciated, for the carpet on the
floor is bright and unmarked by muddy or dusty shoes (in spite of the
condition of the streets outside), a