218 
WOMEN OF THE CARAVAN. 
of Soudan — eloquent, I mean, in their sensual style, 
of which I cannot venture to give a specimen. The 
Tanelkums, children of the desert, are, like the 
Haghars, far less sensual in their imaginations, and 
indulge less in amorous conversation. There are 
some comely women-slaves in the caravan, but 
most of them are very plain. They have in general 
negro features, but a few are light in complexion. 
Their clothing is poor, without any attempt at 
finery ; but when they have prepared the food of 
their masters they take their shares freely. They 
walk well on the road when necessary, and being 
light and slightly made, do not appear to suffer 
from fatigue. 
As a rule, all these women are modest and 
decorous in behaviour, and are treated with con- 
siderable respect. No master interferes with the 
slaves of another, and most of them are permitted 
in their turn to ride. A poor creature belonging to 
a Tuatee, however, is forced always to trudge on 
foot, although its master often takes a lift himself. 
Two of the women have infants in their arms — little 
things, as knowing, to all appearance, as those that 
can run. These mothers, with their children, are 
treated with great tenderness and care. 
Some of the merchants had as many as three 
female slaves a-piece ; but it is to be observed, that 
they are mere girls. The Africans who can afford 
to indulge their tastes, abhor women of any age. 
All their slaves are of tender years. The older these 
