A SHIPWRECK OF SORTS 141 



are not in a hurry it is of no consequence whatever, 

 for we are perfectly comfortable ; but the distance 

 from Cairo is about 180 miles, and there is no 

 railway station anywhere near. As I write the 

 passengers are disporting themselves over a book- 

 titles show — it is 9 p.m. — and every one seems quite 

 contented and happy. Some one has written the 

 following in Mohammed's album : 



THE GREATER CONTAINED BY THE LESS 



This paradox my pen explains — 



I would it were ornater ! 

 For Barneses the Great contains 



Mohammed, who is greater. 



May luck, Mohammed, on you press, 



Both now and also later ; 

 And, while your lease of life grows less. 



May happiness grow greater ! 



As Dragoman through many a year 



You're clearly the first-rater ; 

 And Mrs. M. alone you fear — 



Though less, she's somehow greater. 



May blessings on Mohammed rain — 

 North, South, or at the Equator — 



And may his body long contain 

 His spirit, which is greater ! 



This is but one of innumerable compositions 

 which have been written in honour of Mohammed 

 throughout a long series of years, and he takes 

 a pardonable pride in showing them. 

 ** This brings me to February 8 (Sunday), and 



