I betook myself to the house of the English Consul, where I found neither a horse nor any thing else prepared for our departure.

It is necessary to look calmly upon these irregularities here in the East, where it is esteemed a fortunate occurrence if the horses and mukers (as the drivers of horses and donkeys are called) are only a few hours behind their time.

Thus our horses made their appearance at half-past five instead of at four, the hour for which they had been ordered.

Our baggage was soon securely fixed, for we left the greater portion of our effects at Joppa, and took with us only what was indispensably necessary.
As the clock struck six we rode out of the gate of Joppa, and immediately afterwards reached a large well with a marble basin.
Near places of this description a great number of people are always congregated, and more women and girls are seen than appear elsewhere.
The dress of females belonging to the lower orders consists of a long blue garment fastened round the throat, and reaching below the ankle.

They completely cover the head and face, frequently without even leaving openings for the eyes.