128 
PALM OF PHARAOH. 
rocky ranges. From one of the lesser heights we 
had a magnificent view of Baghzem. We passed 
also through and along several fine wadys, lined with 
ancient trees. Perhaps, in some places, full half 
of the trees were decayed, and many only naked 
stumps. The trees were so thick in certain places as 
to deserve the name of forests — primeval forests — 
but, I imagine, not to be compared with those of 
America. 
Amongst the trees to-day appeared most con- 
spicuously the doom-palm. This is the first day 
we have seen it in such numbers. This " palm 
of Pharaoh," as the Moors call it, according to 
their habit of coupling all strange things with 
those ancient monarchs, is found in groups as well 
as isolated trees. When isolate, and also when 
in groups, it very frequently assumes a double- 
shaped trunk, or two large arms spread out or 
divided from a low stump.* Of the leaves, which 
are called gabba, the people make all their rope. 
These trees are now laden with fruit, not ripe. 
The abundance of them gives to the place of our 
encampment a truly tropical aspect. We journeyed 
on to-day eight hours and a-half — a good, fair clay. 
The weather was warm, even a little sultry. As 
to inhabitants, we passed many isolated huts, but 
saw no villages in groups. We also passed the 
ruins of many villages, whose houses were better 
* I believe the trunk of the doom is always thus divided and 
subdivided. — Ed. 
