[228]. The feddán has lately been reduced: it was equal to about an English acre and one-tenth a few years ago; and somewhat more at an earlier period.
[229]. Of some productions, as cotton, flax, etc., the government always takes the whole.
[230]. Even the debts of the peasantry of one village are often imposed upon the inhabitants of another who have paid all that is justly due from them.
[231]. The above account of the government of Egypt, having been written in the years 1834 and 1835, is not altogether correct with respect to the present time (1842). Great changes are now being made in various departments; and as the Básha has no longer to maintain an enormous military and naval force, he will be able to ameliorate very considerably the condition of the people whom he governs. Most of the evils of which the people of Egypt have hitherto had to complain have arisen from the vast expense incurred in war, from the conscription, and from the dishonesty of almost all the Básha’s civil officers.
[232]. Men and women of this race often contract marriages with persons who are not members of the same; and as the title of shereef is inherited from either of the parents, the number of persons who enjoy this distinction has become very considerable.
[233]. This word is thus pronounced by the inhabitants of Cairo and the greater part of Egypt; but in most other countries where Arabic is spoken, “hájj.” The Turks and Persians use, instead of it, the synonymous Arabic word “hájjee.”
[234]. Unless there be a eunuch. The sakka is generally the chief of the servants.
[235]. I believe it is maple.[maple.]
[236]. To preserve the matting or carpet from injury, a small brass tray is often placed beneath the bowl; and a small tray of wood is made use of to receive the ashes of the tobacco.
[237]. A Persian word, signifying “glass.”