Strangers of all descriptions are invariably
treated by the Druse Sheiks with the greatest
hospitality. Should persons in distress arrive, or
wandering minstrels, as is often the case, a collec-
tion of money is made for them. Each Sheik is
taxed according to his known means, and the
Eahwaji, or coffee-maker, goes round and collects
the respective contributions, which are instantly
paid. As an asylum for fugitives, or persons
seeking concealment, the abode of a Druse Sheik



got Sheik Hamond Ab-del-Melik to take a single grape, but com-
ponction of oonscience seized him after he had put it in his
mouth, and he spat it out again.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC



288 NOBLE FAMILIES.
is inviolable. Nothing can indnce him to give
up the indiyidual to whom he has extended his
shelter and protection^ or to give the slightest
intimation as to his locality; and he will submit
to any personal risk or loss rather than belie the
trust and confidence placed in him.
