FROM MARSEILLES TO THE NILE 109 



cattle all skin and bones, many of the native breed 

 being ridden to and from their pastures. The 

 donkeys are the best-class animals I have seen, 

 and the camels hold their own ; but other beasts 

 are emaciated to the last degree, though there 

 seems plenty for them to eat if they were only 

 given the chance. The beautiful rich soil would 

 surely grow root crops and many other things 

 than it is, seemingly, asked to do. 



" However, let that pass, for I am in a hurry to 

 post this at 7 p.m. We are now on board the 

 Rameses the Great — a really beautiful boat, with 

 spacious cabins and every possible comfort. Mr. 

 Gubbins, despite his lost luggage, looks happy." 



The above statement that Mr. Gubbins was quite 

 happy without his luggage is correct, but I certainly 

 was not. 



