In Cairo the slaves seemed badly kept; they lay in little tents, and were driven out, when a purchaser appeared, very much in the manner of cattle.

They were only partially clothed in some old rags, and looked exhausted and unhappy.
During my short stay at Cairo one of the chief feasts of the Mahommedans--namely, the Mashdalansher, or birthday of the Prophet-- occurred.

This feast is celebrated on a great open space outside the town.

A number of large tents are erected; they are open in front, and beneath their shelter all kinds of things are carried on.
In one tent, Mahommedans are praying; in another, a party of dervishes throw themselves with their faces to the ground and call upon Allah; while in a third, a juggler or storyteller may be driving his trade.

In the midst of all stood a large tent, the entrance to which was concealed by curtains.