CHAP. III. 
OF THE TUARICK. 
109 
distribute camels' flesh. However, it really was appropriated to 
those who most wanted it ; as I sent for the negroes who accom- 
panied our Kaffle from Tripoh, and who were without friends or 
money, and divided it amongst them. One necessary attendant on 
charity is, that the person who bestows it should go and boast of 
his good deeds to all the world. I was found much fault with by 
our neighbour for not sitting outside the door to distribute the 
flesh, (Mr. Ritchie being too weak to attend for that purpose), so 
that every one should see me — a piece of ostentation which our 
neighbour did not omit; and in only giving pieces about the size 
of a walnut to each applicant, of whom there were great numbers, he 
certainly extended his charity farther than we did. 
Many parties of Tuarick came with their slaves and goods, 
during the last month, (July), from Kashna, Aghades, and Ghraat. 
They are the finest race of men I ever saw ; tall, straight, and 
handsome, with a certain air of independence and pride, which is 
very imposing. They are generally white, that is to say, com- 
paratively so ; the dark brown of their complexions only being 
occasioned by the heat of the climate. Their arms or bodies, 
(where constantly covered), are as white as those of many Euro- 
peans. Their costume is very remarkable, and they cover their 
faces as high as the eyes, in the manner of women on the sea-coast. 
Their original motive for so doing is now forgotten ; but they say 
it must be right, as it was the fashion of their forefathers. This 
covering extends as high as half way up the bridge of the nose, 
from whence it hangs down below the chin on the breast, much in 
the same way (but longer) as crape or lace is hung to a lady's half 
mask. This cloth is generally of blue glazed cotton ; but yellow, 
red, white, and many other colours are worn according to taste, or 
the ability of the wearer to purchase them. The beard is kept 
close clipped, so as not to interfere with the covering which is 
tied behind ; their red caps are generally very high, but some wear 
