Page:Africa by Élisée Reclus, Volume 3.djvu/576

 rectangle, as the sign of their nationality. The skin of an animal encircles their waist, and the chiefs adorn their heads with a leopard's fur, while all file the incisors to a point. Despite the soft rounded form of the features and bust, and the feminine elegance of their coiffure, the Zandehs are distinguished amongst all Africans by their noble carriage. The trunk may perhaps be somewhat long compared to the lower extremities, but they are none the less noted for their marvellous agility, using their offensive weapons, such as the spear and dart, with dangerous dexterity.

A distinctive national trait is the vehemence of their conjugal affection. In

their domain no wife is purchased, as is customary amongst nearly all African peoples. The marriageable young man applies to the district chief, who looks him out a suitable consort; yet notwithstanding this somewhat official arrangement, which seems to override the individual inclinations, these unions are seldom unhappy, and the wife is as faithful to her husband as she is reserved towards strangers. In this respect the contrast is complete between them and their Monbuttu sisters. The Zandehs are, on their part, passionately devoted to their wives, so much so that in war the enemy first endeavours to seize the women in