Page:The Burton Holmes lectures; (IA burtonholmeslect04holm).pdf/210

 The hotel, of course, the only one in town, is called with an appropriateness that no one can dispute, "L' Hôtel de l' Oasis." We find it very comfortable; its proprietor, a French colonist, assigns to us the two best rooms. We know they are the best, because there are but two guest-*rooms in the establishment. There are no other guests, but we share the privileges of the table d'hôte with a number of French military officers, the postmaster, and the professor of the newly-established public school. That Touggourt is an important military post is attested by the splendid structure opposite the hotel. It is the barracks of the "Spahi" or the native cavalry.

THE ARRIVAL OF A STRANGER

The garrison of Touggourt is composed entirely of native soldiery, commanded by French officers. The infantry are known as "Turcos," and wear a Zouave uniform. The cavalry are known as "Spahis;" they wear the native dress, and form one of the most picturesque cavalry bodies in the world. Their horsemanship is world-famous, and their bravery has frequently been tested,—most frequently in fighting against the troops of France during the war of conquest and the insurrections. Their faithfulness, now that they are enlisted as volunteers under the flag of the Republic, yet remains to be tried, but the military authorities appear