[FN#479] This is the Eastern idea of the consequence of satisfactory coition which is supposed to be the very seal of love. Westerns have run to the other extreme.
[FN#480] "Al-Ríf" simply means lowland: hence there is a Ríf in the Nile-delta. The word in Europe is applied chiefly to the Maroccan coast opposite Gibraltar (not, as is usually supposed the North-Western seaboard) where the Berber-Shilhá race, so famous as the "Rif pirates" still closes the country to travellers.
[FN#481] i.e. Upper Egypt.
[FN#482] These local excellencies of coition are described jocosely rather than anthropologically.
[FN#483] See vol. i. 223: I take from Torrens, p. 223.
[FN#484] For the complete ablution obligatory after copulation before prayers can be said. See vol. v. 199.
[FN#485] Arab. "Zunnár," the Greek {zoonárion}, for which, see vol. ii. 215.
[FN#486] Miriam (Arabic Maryam), is a Christian name, in Moslem lands. Abú Maryam "Mary's father" (says Motarrazi on Al-Hariri, Ass. of Alexandria) is a term of contempt, for men are called after sons (e.g. Abu Zayd), not after daughters. In more modern authors Abu Maryam is the name of ushers and lesser officials in the Kazi's court.
[FN#487] This formality, so contrary to our Western familiarity after possession, is an especial sign of good breeding amongst Arabs and indeed all Eastern nations. It reminds us of the "grand manner" in Europe two hundred years ago, not a trace of which now remains.
[FN#488] These lines are in Night i. ordered somewhat differently: so I quote Torrens (p. 14).