The character, size, and discipline of the caravans.
Though conducted wholly by nomad tribes, these
caravans were, nevertheless, as complete in their
organization and control, as the modern Indiamen
which now occupy their place. Frequently
consisting of between one and two thousand persons,
with numerous horses and many thousand camels,
they had a captain (pasha) of their own choice, to
whom all owed and gave implicit obedience. Separate
officers were likewise appointed to regulate the
march, to perform the duties of treasurers and paymasters,
to superintend the servants and the cattle,
to take charge of the baggage and merchandise, and
to make the necessary arrangements for encampment.
Thus the caravans had each their captain, their
pilot, their purser, and mates, who had their respective
duties to perform like those of the officers of the
merchant-man of the present day. It was a point of
honour that each traveller should assist the other; and
if the humblest fell into difficulties, he had only to
claim the assistance of his companions. If a camel
broke down, or even if its load was thrown to the
ground, the whole line halted until the accident was
repaired.
On the main routes, special seasons, well known to the merchants and travellers, were appointed for the arrival and departure of the caravans. Their departure was an animated sight. For several days, persons destined for the journey were hourly arriving at the rendezvous with their camels, horses, and merchandise. Provisions had to be provided, and plans arranged for the comfort and safety of all who were about to undertake so long and hazardous a journey. The risk of falling short of food, or of
