A second interview follows, in which the lover pays a part or the whole of the purchase-money through an agent. Marrying a wife is expensive in this land. Besides paying for her, the husband is expected to present her with a panier de la fianc e, consisting of seventy different essences, medicines and cosmetics. At the preliminary meetings neither bride nor bridegroom are present. Nor are they present at the marriage ceremony.
Virtuous women are obedient and subdued.
After the ceremony the bride, for the first time, appears on the scene, dressed in her richest garments, and closely veiled. She mounts a mule, and is conducted to her husband's house. At the door, where he awaits her, a vase of water is handed her, with which she sprinkles the assembled people. This is a very ancient custom, the significance of which is now unknown. A basket containing couscous, nuts and cakes is next handed her while sitting upon the mule, and these she throws to the crowd.