54 
Wandermgs in Eastern Africa. 
Mombasa is governed by an Arab Luwali (governor), 
called Ali bin Nasur, appointed to the post by the 
Sultan of Zanzibar. His will is law. The people may 
appeal to the Sultan against his decisions, but the 
poorer of them find it difficult to do this. Bribery is 
a very powerful institution amongst Arabs, indeed the 
law may be said to be absolutely under its control. 
The governor of Mombasa is said to receive no 
pay, but there are ways and means of making the 
position a most lucrative one. The people are made 
to feel this, and they complain, but in silence, and 
resign themselves to their wrong. 
The population of Mombasa cannot be less than 
1 5,000. It has greatly increased of late years, chiefly, 
however, through the large importation of slaves made 
from all parts of the country. 
The climate of Mombasa is far preferable to that 
of Zanzibar. The temperature is higher, but the air 
is dryer and far less relaxing and enervating. If the 
town were cleansed, and the soil brought under culti- 
vation, it would be one of the healthiest of tropical 
towns. 
Its surroundings on the mainland are of the most 
advantageous description. The land on all sides is 
very fertile, and is largely cultivated. Kisauni to the 
north, Changamoe to the north-west, Mtongue west, 
and Lakone to the south, are all covered with thriving 
plantations. The produce they send to the town adds 
largely to its wealth and importance.- They are the 
market-gardening districts of Mombasa. All kinds 
of fruits, vegetables, pulse, and cereals, grow in the 
greatest abundance. Their palm and mango planta- 
tions are magnificent. Oranges, limes, lemons, pine- 
