It would be much more pleasing if with their provocative blue eyes, fringed with long velvety lashes, one had not to encounter the smile of bold voluptuousness which plays over their features during this peculiar dance. I have often had occasion to speak of the freedom of worship tolerated in Egypt under Ismail Pacha. In most cities and villages the cross is seen side by side with the crescent. No man asks whether you go to the Christian church or the Mahometan mosque. There is one thing the Mahometan will not concede, however, and that is the right to quit the fold of the Faithful.
Death is the penalty.
I heard of but one case in which the apostate escaped, and he had to fly to save himself from being killed by his own family. The custom was handed down from a more intolerant age. There are at Tanta a number of suits of armor, said to have been taken in battle during a more martial era in the history of this race. I believe, however, they are the same that Said Pacha had manufactured for his Nubian guard. A number of Arabs dress themselves in these costumes, some representing the sons of the Prophet and others the Christian Crusaders.