THE PASSAGE OF LAKE CHAD 105 



5 to 9 ft., and the islands, which form prominent features, 

 are fertile and thickly inhabited. Everywhere the maria 

 tree grows luxuriantly, and its close, dark foliage gives a 

 very sombre character to the scenery. This is the real home 

 of the Budumas, who are a prosperous people, gaining their 

 wealth by fish and potash, and counting it in slaves and 

 herds of cattle. 



