aroundworldortra00peebiala-1

CHAPTER XX.
Egypt's catacombs and pyramids. — appearance of
the egyptians.
In physique the
Egyptians of to-day are larger and much
stouter in organic structure than the Hindoos, yet evidently
lack their intellectual activity. Physically they are a weUformed
race, with an expressive face, retreating' forehead, jet
black eyes, full lips, prominent nose, broad shoulders, and
beautiful teeth. Their complexions — strangely blended—
vary ; the darkest are doubtless the descendants of the
pyramid-builders. Those having an infusion of Arabian
blood in their veins are exceedingly hardy and stalwart.
The women veil their faces, all except their eyes. A certain
class, however, as do some Syrians, veil their faces completely.
The reasons assigned refer to the harem, and the
" look " of temptation.
Dress, with Egyptian men, consists of trousers, — literally
a red bag through which the feet are thrust, — a tight undershirt,
probably white when clean ; a short, flying overjacket
; a heavy, sash-like fold of cloth about the waist ; and
a red-tasseled " tartouche " upon the head, around which is
twisted a fanciful coiffure. All classes wear the tartouche,
even those who otherwise doff the European dress.
Travelers
frequently put it on, thinking to pass for old citizens.
Have they forgotten the " brayer " in the "lion's skin"?
Could I speak but one word to the Khedive of Egypt, that
word should be education, — educate the people I
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