CAMP OF EGYPTIANS. 
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bedsteads, crockery, &c, none of which we had seen 
for more than two years. The scenes also in a camp 
of Egyptians were new to us. Mahomed, the com- 
mander, seated on a low stool, while being shaved by 
a barber, excited the wonder of the Wanyoro. A 
white napkin being placed on his chest, the boy 
strapped the razor with the rapidity of lightning, and, 
standing with extended arms, passed his instrument 
over the whole head and beard at a frightful pace, 
handing his master a gilt frame looking-glass when 
the operation was completed. Donkeys were ridden 
at a sharp amble, without saddle or bridle, driven by 
a long stick, and the rider seated in the native fashion 
on the animal's haunches. Eiding-oxen, with halters 
and ropes through their noses, were exercised about 
the village by negro lads, who made them go at a fast 
trot. Our bedding and cooking utensils not having 
arrived, we requested Mahomed to have some dinner 
prepared for us. At once he offered a cow, but it was 
late, and we did not wish to wait till it was killed. 
Coffee in true Arab style was served, and an attend- 
ant stood by offering occasionally tin mugs full of 
native-made beer. When dinner was ready, a crowd 
squatted beside us, and a woman stood with water to 
drink. The repast was minced meat in balls served 
in a tureen, a roast leg of goat in another tureen, honey 
and thin cakes of sorghum ; all looked inviting, and 
we longed to begin. We found, however, that there 
were no spoons, knives, or forks ; and we made the 
most of it without them, and enjoyed an excellent 
dinner, which we had not done for many a day. But 
the greatest treat was to come — water was brought us 
to wash our hands, and, luxury of all luxuries, soap ! 
