TRIPOLY TO BENGAZI. 
51 
clusters of olive-trees are scattered over its surface, and contribute 
with the green turf on which they are planted to give it a very 
pleasing appearance. From the summit of this appears the whole 
plain of Lebida, stretching down, in a gentle slope, from the high 
groimd to the sea ; and a more beautiful scene can scarcely be wit- 
nessed than that which is presented by this fine tract of country. 
Thick groves of olive and date-trees are seen rising above the vil- 
lages which are scattered over its surface ; and the intermediate 
spaces are either covered with the most luxuriant turf, or rich with 
abundant crops of grain. 
It must always afford matter for surprise to those who are 
acquainted with this beautiful and highly-productive country, hov^ 
Tripoly could ever have been selected, in preference to Lebida, as 
the metropolis of the regency. Placed in the midst of sand, on the 
borders of an extensive desert, and situated almost at the extre- 
mity of the country in which it stands, Tripoly appears to enjoy 
scarcely any particular local advantage beyond the possession of its 
port; while Lebida seems to unite in one beautiful spot all the 
advantages of plenty, convenience, and security. It is probable 
that the harbour and strong walls of Tripoly were the principal 
causes of its adoption as the capital ; and the sums of money which 
would be necessary to rebuild and fortify Lebida, might have been 
considered as more than equivalent to its local recommendations, by 
a people who seldom look beyond the present. 
But Lebida, once occupied, would be a much stronger post 
than Tripoly could ever be made ; and the good sense of the 
