JIDDA. 
303 
to the sea, which here forms an inlet, and is nearly surrounded by 
the walls. The audience chamber had two large windows opposite 
to each other, about twelve feet long by four wide, and raised a foot 
from the ground ; in both of these were seats covered with carpets, 
and rich cushions. On the southern were seated three Arabs, who 
rose up on my entrance, and made their salaams, which I returned. 
An old fashioned large elbow chair was placed for me opposite to the 
centre of the window : it was covered with very rich cushions. Plain 
English chairs were placed for the other gentlemen. Soon after- 
wards the Vizier, who was a stupid looking eunuch, entered, with 
his train borne, and seated himself in one corner of the window. 
The usual compliments having passed, he lamented our misfor- 
tunes, and assured us of every possible assistance frorn him in re- 
trieving them ; but regretted he could do but little, from the scarcity 
which prevailed. I requested his permission to employ Ibrahim 
Jelani, and consult with him on the subject. He said he would im- 
mediately send to him, and I might go there on my departure from 
him. Coffee was presented to us, but none of the Mussulmauns took 
any, as it was Ramadan. He asked respecting the business at Mas- 
sowah, which he had heard of from the Samaulies of Abdulcauder's 
boat. I found great diEEculty in explaining this, and indeed every 
thing else, as Andrew's Arabic was of a low cast, and the Vizier spoke 
the best. He, however, at length understood it, and expressed great 
resentment at the Nayib's conduct to a friend of the Sheriffe, and 
the Sultaun of Roum. He said he should write very severely to 
him, and would make him give a strict account. Rose-water sher- 
bet was presented, which was excellent, with embroidered napkins 
to wipe our mouths. He expressed a wish that I would write to 
