DANGEROUS ROAD — ANECDOTE. 
277 
that our property may be restored to us, I propose 
to write to Zinder for an escort. It is better and 
more agreeable to pay escorts than robbers in these 
countries. But I must wait for the recovery of En- 
Noor. They tell us now that there are no robbers 
or bandits along the Soudan route at all ; and the 
proof cited is, that the smallest caravans pass in 
safety. The property of Christians, however, will 
probably be considered as common property, the 
lawful prey of ever}^ one who may be disposed to 
possess himself of it. This news of peace, therefore, 
concerns us not. We may still have to buy our 
way. 
The thermometer under the tent this evening, at 
an hour after dark, was 81° Fahrenheit. 
1th. — I rose late, after a more refreshing sleep 
than usual, and felt much better in health. The 
sky was overcast with thick clouds; and the ther- 
mometer stood at 77° at seven a.m. My first question 
was, whether any news had been heard of the camels ; 
but I only learned that on the previous day many 
people had gone in search of them, scouring the 
country. The servants notice that I am much 
depressed, and endeavour to cheer me. On the 
whole I must say that they show considerable good 
feeling. 
I remember now with pleasure, that when we 
were attacked on the road and I appeared with arms 
amongst them, they always insisted upon my going 
to my tent, exclaiming : " Go, 0 Consul, to your tent ; 
