Page:Africa by Élisée Reclus, Volume 3.djvu/429

 from Kanem and by the Makari intruders from the south, and appear to be now best represented by the Keribina tribe on the left bank of the Shari.

The south-eastern districts are held by the Makari (Kotoko) nation, who helped the Kanuris to crush the aborigines. Of darker complexion and more uncouth form, the Makari seem to be also less intelligent than the other Negroes of Bornu; nevertheless, they are distinguished for their industrious habits as peasants, artisans, and fishers, and the products of their industry are easily recognised by their freer style in the bazaars of Sudan. The peaceful Gamergus, near the southern extremity of the lake, and the Mandaras (Wandalas), on the slope of the

hills still farther south, differ little in physical appearance, habits, and speech from their Makari neighbours, and like them have embraced Islam and accepted the authority of the Bornu sultan. But in the more inaccessible parts of these uplands dwells the chief of Sugur, an independent prince who is said to combine a-sort of priesthood with his royal functions, sacrificing cocks and sheep to the mountains. The Musgos also, akin to the Mandaras and dwelling on the left bank of the Shari, have remained pagans, whose chief fetish is a spear stuck in the ground. The Musgos, who recognise the sovereignty of Bornu, and who call themselves "Mussulman," that is, "civilised," are a finer and stronger people than the