Very often the sudd will be found with its roots adhering to the bottom; this is especially the case in a year when there is a very low Nile, like 1899-1900, or close up to the banks, when the first leading channel is being widened.
In this case a grapnel or ordinary anchor sunk to the bottom of the river and then dragged along by the steamer is useful. As soon as the leading steamer has opened up the channel a sufficient length to enable her not to interfere with a steamer working behind her, another steamer is put to work, the same way as the first, to widen the channel. This is generally laborious work, as there is not much current to act on the sudd, and in consequence it takes longer to get it away.
In cutting the trenches care should be taken to cut or saw through all roots.
(For further details of the sudd, see H.B.S., pp. 4 and 207 to 213 inclusive (Dr. Junker’s account); Sir W. Garstin’s invaluable reports (Egypt Blue Books No. 5 of 1899, pp. 15 to 19, No. 2 of 1901, pp. 34 to 43, and No. 2 of 1904); Major Peake’s Reports, 1900; and Mr. Broun’s Note, 27.4.03—from all of which, besides some original work by the Editor, the above description has been compiled.)
THE BAHR EL JEBEL—PAPYRUS.
[228]The writer counted 72 in one lagoon at Shambe.
[229]Such blocks are so solid that elephants have been seen to walk on them.
[230]The Director of Forests, Mr. A. Broun, does not agree with the classification, or all the details, &c., given. He has not found the feathery-headed grass, and states that the Um sûf would not, in any case, come in the second class.—Ed.
[231]Query Boottia Scabra or Nymphaea Lotus?—A. B.