Of course the Khalifa knows best, but to us it seems strange, indeed." There was a general chorus of assent.

After listening for some time Gregory rose and, passing over the ridge, came upon the main camp.

Here were a number of emirs and sheiks, with their banners flying before the entrance of their tents.

The whole ground was thickly dotted with little shelters, formed of bushes, over which dark blankets were thrown to keep out the rays of the sun.

Everywhere women were seated or standing--some talking to each other, others engaged in cooking.
Children played about; boys came in loaded with faggots, which they had gone long distances to cut.