[Book Reviews]

Abstract

THE Yemen is an indefinite tract stretching inland from he south-western corner of Arabia, and the “general remarks” upon its geography and history are placed first n this volume, the personal narrative of the author's journey, in which alone is there any original information, occupying the second place. From Aden Mr. Harris started inland and crossed the Turkish frontier under the pretence of being a Greek shopkeeper from Port Said. In this way he obtained access to the disaffected province of Yemen during the progress of a rebellion, reached Sanaa, and was naturally imprisoned by the Turkish officials there, who refused to recognise his English passport. The author finds fault with the Foreign Office for not coming to his rescue, apparently forgetful that he wilfully concealed his nationality at the outset, and so gave rise to suspicion, and forfeited any privileges to which it might entitle him. From Sanaa he was sent under escort to Hodeida. The illustrations are interesting as types of the scenery and people of the Yemen, but the book has no other claim to scientific notice.

A Journey through the Yemen, and some General Remarks upon that Country.

By Walter B. Harris (Edinburgh and London: William Blackwood and Sons, 1893.)