BELUCHISTAN.Bel-oo`chis-tan´.
A country of Asia lying east of Persia. Area, 140,000 square miles. Population, 1,000,000. Climate diverse; in higher parts, extremely cold; in valleys, heat is oppressive. Deficiency of water throughout the whole country. Surface rugged and barren.
The soil is unproductive, but has been cultivated until it supplies the natives with necessaries. Fruits and vegetables flourish near the towns.
The only exports are horses, grain and dates. Imports: Indian silk, cotton goods, rice, sugar, spices, and dye stuffs in small quantities.
The government is a despotism. Khan has unlimited power over life, person and property; resides at Kelat, the capital, a city with a population of 10,000. Inhabitants divided into many tribes, ruled by chiefs.
AFRICA.