The choice of ship of the Maghrebi sailors was influenced above all by local traditions, by their different objectives, and by the availability of the vessels. It is apparent that the xebeck, with its sleek lines, its reputation for speed—admittedly at the expense of its carrying capacity—was the preferred choice of the North Africans. It is true that the xebeck served in privateering and at least a percentage of the ships assigned to shipping merchandise were converted corsairs, with somewhat reduced gunpowder and much smaller crews.

The conditions are disgusting aren't they?, he continued. "I don't know how people can. I mean, you'd have to be off your box to stay there for three days wouldn't you?

There weren't so many people at the concert - 40 at most.

The hairdresser's shop was warm and glittering. It smelled of soap and burnt paper and wallflower brilliantine.