CHAPTER XXIII.

THE BAGGARA MASTERS OF THE SUDAN.

Relations between Abdullah and the rival Khalifas-- Mahdiism practically dead--The Khalifa's son Osman--His marriage to Yakub's daughter--His intentions regarding the succession--The Baggara and the Aulad-Belad--The Baggara masters of the Sudan--Examples of their tyranny --Emigration of the Rizighat tribe--Hostility between the Khalifa's and the late Mahdi's households--The Ashraf conspiracy--Witchcraft--The dispute between the Khalifas--Riots in Omdurman--The Mahdi's widows 387