J56 . 
ANTALOW. 
" During the rainy season, from May to October, the Ras resides 
at Antalow. I do not exactly know what induced him to make 
choice of this place in preference to Adowa, but it appears to me 
ill calculated for a capital, as water is only to be procured at a con- 
siderable distance from the dwelling houses, and there is not a single 
agreeable spot in the neighbourhood for a residence. It is also very 
difficult of access ; but this objection which, in more secure states, 
would be a great inconvenience, is perhaps the very circumstance 
which gives a peculiar value to the situation, as it forms a barrier 
against the incursions of the Galla. 
" A good deal of attention is paid to ceremony at Antalow. Most 
of those who come into the presence of the Ras uncover themselves 
to the waist ; others expose only the breast, and afterwards replace 
their garments. Musjsulmauns are permitted to appear before him 
with their heads covered, as also the priests, and some few of the 
Christian chiefs. All mechanics, or people employed in business, such 
as cooking, kc. wear a cloth about their heads. No one in public 
addresses the Ras without rismg from the ground, and uncovering 
to the waist ; but, after the first address, they are often permitted 
to speak sitting. This does not hold good, however, in their private 
parties, where they are all huddled together on the ground in a 
most happy equality. Equals salute each other by kissing when- 
ever they meet, and repeat their compliments over and over again 
like their neighbours the Arabs, With all their freedom, they 
are scrupulous observers of the laws of good breeding established 
among themselves, and are particularly attentive to their friends, 
especially at meals, where they make it a point to feed each other. 
The Ras wears a small piece of the finest cloth upon his head, and 
