CHAPTER XVI.

MISCELLANEOUS REMARKS.

The Person and Characteristics of Khalifa Abdullahi--The Fate of the Mahdist Chronicler--The Princesses of Darfur--The Khalifa's Family Life--His Harem--The Organisation of his Body-guard--Enforced Attendance at the Mosque--The Postal System--Military Parades--Elevation of the Western Arabs and Oppression of the River Tribes--The Military Situation and Strength--Guns and Ammunition--Revenue and Expenditure--Courage 514