'The Expedition for the survey of the rivers Euphrates and Tigris, carried on by order of the British government, in the years 1835, 1836, and 1837; preceded by geographical and historical notices of the regions situated between the rivers Nile and Indus. In four volumes. With fourteen maps and charts, and embellished with ninety-seven plates, besides numerous wood-cuts. Volume the first.' [‎699] (798/905)

CHAP. XXV.] TRAITS OF BENEVOLENCE.
699
The Bedawin Arabs are witty, sagacious, cheerful, and of The female sex
a very jocose disposition; 1 they are fond of a good meal, TeCawiL
particularly when given by another, and they frequently meet
at the dwelling of the sheikh, in order to enjoy one, or
to listen to music and recitations. They seem to be almost
indifferent to religion, even the forms of the Muhammedan
worship being disregarded by them. They live in harmony
with the Hebrews, and are not decidedly hostile to Chris
tianity. They are very indulgent to their children, particu
larly to the boys, who are permitted not only to sit with the
men, but even take part in the conversation. The female sex is
much respected by them f they even tolerate, in their wives,
a difference of religion, and, generally, the Bedawin women
enjoy more freedom than any others in the East.
The reputation of the Bedawins for liberality, kindness. Liberality and
and a strict attention to their engagements, is attested by Bedawim. the
many travellers; among others, by Mr. Griffiths, 3 and
Colonel Capper. The latter relates an instance of politeness
and liberality that would have done honour to the most
polished European. 4 Burckhardt relates of two Arabs a
circumstance which almost throws the deed of the good Sama
ritan into the shade. The companion of a Bedawin, whilst
travelling, being attacked with the small-pox, the latter built
for him a hut, attended him as a nurse till he recovered, and
daily solicited alms for their common support. The Bedawin
was then taken ill of the same malady, and unfortunately
died; but, while living, he experienced the like attention
from the man whose life he had saved. 5
A Bedawin enters slowly and reluctantly into any engage
ment for the performance of a service; but, the terms being
settled, the performance of his part may be considered certain.
It is well known that the Bedawins habitually transport
1 Burckhardt's Bedawin and Wahhdbi, p. 208. 2 Ibid., p. 81.
3 Travels in Arabia, p. 386.
4 Passage to India, by Colonel James Capper. This officer states that a
* sheikh, when the money (500 dollars) for his payment was delivered to him
in a bag, refused to have it counted.
5 Travels in Arabia, vol. I., p. 117.
4 u 2