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THE MOSQUE
two hundred thousand palm-trees, upon the welfare of which depends not only the wealth but the very existence of the community. The detail of the business carried on is even more minute than in Biskra, and the tiniest transactions are treated with imposing seriousness by the stately merchants. We observe two very young business men putting their heads together over a most engrossing affair, a red fez cap being the focus of their attention. I have said that in the average Arab's dress there is a dignity beyond compare; may I be permitted to add that there is something that is less passive than dignity? From the intentness with which these little chaps are looking into the hat business they evidently believe that there are "millions in it." One of the two seems to say, "I've got him"; an assurance that is belied by the doubting expression of the other's chubby toes. Leaving the little hunters to their task of extermination, we seek the coolness and silence of the mosque, where there reigns a peace and freshness as grateful as that of a thick grove of palms. Weary worshipers lie sleeping soundly on the mats, completely en-
