74 
NATURAL FEATURES OF ASBEN. 
doubtless by this time impressed on the mind of 
the reader. They consist of a series of naked 
granite rocks or mountains, some of them rising 
to upwards of three or four thousand feet, ranging 
in every direction, with many isolated peaks ; and 
of picturesque valleys winding along between steep 
precipices — threads of green, in which the tholukh 
and all species of mimosa and acacia, with the 
souag and other trees, nourish in immense growth, 
sometimes adorned by garlands and festoons of 
luxuriant parasitical plants. Wild animals of various 
kinds range at will in unfrequented places, but do 
not seem to excite much terror. There are gardens 
and cornfields in the neighbourhood of some of the 
towns and villages, the cultivation being kept up 
during the dry months by irrigation; but only a 
few of the inhabitants, mostly slaves, cultivate the 
soil. Besides the grains I have mentioned, a few 
vegetables, principally onions, are produced. Date- 
palms bear fruit, which is good, but will not keep. 
I have already mentioned the chief manufac- 
tures of Aheer. They nourish to the greatest extent 
in Aghadez ; but Tintalous also has its artizans. 
Working in leather was very popular during our 
stay, in consequence of the presence of a noted 
charm -writer — bags being necessary. A good many 
cunning blacksmiths ply their trade in various 
places. 
