Page:Africa by Élisée Reclus, Volume 2.djvu/546

 Tuareg peoples. But at present the dominant tribe is that of the Oraghens, whose territory comprises the valleys of the Wed Ighargharen, Miharo, and Janet. The most civilised appear to be the Ifoghas, who are specially regarded as the allies of France, owing to the protection they extend to all European travellers in their country. Sheikh Othman, a member of this tribe, was the person who accompanied Luing to Insalah, and collected his papers. On three other occasions the

same sheikh escorted French travellers through his territory, amongst others Duveyrier, to whom we are indebted for so much valuable information on the physical and social condition of this region. The was also the first man of his nation to leave the desert and make a journey to Europe. The Ifoghas enjoy great influence in their character of marabuts and dealers in amulets; in this capacity they are met in all the northern regions of the Tuareg country.

The confederation of the Ahaggars, the Hoggars of the Arabs, is far more