one of the three principalities into which Arabia Deferta is divided.

one of the chief cities of the above principality, and formerly a famed mart-town, is situated in Lat. 33° 57' and E. Long. 42° 10' on the river Euphrates, in a fruitful and pleasant soil. It has two streets, which are divided by the river. That on the Mesopotamia side is about two miles long, but thinly peopled, and by none but tradesmen; that on the opposite side is about five miles in length, and it is there that the principal inhabitants of the city dwell. Every house has some ground belonging to it; and these grounds are loaded with noble fruit trees, as lemons, oranges, citrons, quinces, figs, dates, pomegranates, olives, all very large and in great plenty. Some of the flat grounds are sown with corn and other grain, which yield likewise a considerable crop. This city is the common rendezvous of all the robbers that infest the country, and from which they disperse themselves into all parts of the desert. Here they meet to consult; here they hold their grand council, and deliberate where to rob next with success. It is with great difficulty that the Turkish aga, and the janizaries who are kept here, can levy the tribute imposed by the Turks on all the commodities carried through this city, which is one of the great thoroughfares for the passing of the caravans that go to and from Aleppo, Tripoli, Damascus, Bagdad, and some other parts of the Turkish empire.