CHAPTER XI.
THE TRIBE OF KLATCH.
When Ibrahim and Max returned to the camp, they easily persuaded the Sherif el Habib to steer clear of the petrified forest and its savage occupants.
Turning to the southeast, the caravan entered upon an oasis.
After the sand which had nearly choked them, it was pleasant to get among the tall marsh grass.
It seemed strange that such a difference could exist in so short a distance.
Mile after mile of sand, without one drop of water to be found, and then suddenly the sand would cease, and a patch of swampy ground, perhaps covering twenty square miles, would be entered upon.
The oasis was the exact antithesis of the desert.
There everything was dry, not a leaf of vegetation visible; no water could be obtained, even by sinking deep wells.
Now, on the oasis, the land appeared to be covered ankle deep with water.
Palm and mimosa trees grew to an enormous height, yams were found in abundance, and wild fruits and vegetables in plenty.