[13]The ardeb is equivalent to very nearly five English bushels.—Lane. Modern Egyptians, Library of Entertaining Knowledge.—Tr.
[14]Holcus arundinaceus, or Sorghum vulgare, of Linnæus, and Holcus Doura, of Forskaël.—Tr.
[15]The Cantaro is = 100 Rotoli, but the rotolo has different weights. The former is = 150 lb avoirdupois; the latter = 6159 grs. English, or, also, to 18 oz. avoirdupois.—Tr.
[16]A general term for millet, whether panicum miliaceum, or holcus spicata; it is the holcus dockna of Forskaël.—Tr.
[17]Ornithomyzes, a family of apterous and parasitic insects, vulgarly called “tics.” The latin name Ricinus, is taken from Varro, and not well chosen, as it is liable to be confounded with the plant of the same name. Vid. Dictionnaire des Sciences naturelles, tom. xlv. article Ricins.—Tr.
[18]Shebé or Sheb, native alum.—Tr.
[19]Telka or Telg, a species of pomatum.—Tr.
[20]These Sheikhs, or saints, are what we call idiots. They are unfortunate beings, who, although neglected by nature, are considered in this country as direct apostles from God, to inform the children of man of their destiny. These poor wretches are all but idolized, every one being anxious to shew them the utmost respect. When they walk out in the streets, they are stopped by old and young, who kiss their face, hands, and even their feet, and offer them everything they wish for. Beings of this description are generally very apathetic, and accept little or nothing; they are, in fact, generally to be met dressed in the most disgusting clothes, in rags, or utterly naked, although they would be provided with the finest raiment if they merely expressed the slightest wish. Their parents, sisters, or other relations, on the other hand, know how to turn their misfortune to the best account, and accept considerable presents for their intercession with these saints, or for procuring others an opportunity of consulting this oracle. They give the most absurd and ridiculous answers to questions that are put to them, partly as a consequence of their fatuity, and partly because taught to do so; it is, indeed, scarcely possible at times to guess at their meaning. The more absurd the answer, the more contented is the party interested; and absolutely delighted, if he can only make out a single word of the whole rodomontade, which in the slightest agrees with his wishes. To these saints the women flock in numbers to beg for fertility. Besides these Sheikhs, there are others, and Fakéers, who write amulets, which the women wear on their arms, or heads, firmly believing that their most fervent wishes will be then fulfilled. The latter profession is exceedingly lucrative, and I have seen several persons who had made a small fortune in this manner, and very well understood the art of imposing on the people, and of persuading them to purchase a fresh charm, although experience must have convinced them of the futility of the last.
[21]Tarabuka, a drum, which is beaten with the hand.
[22]Takie.