They have numerous tribal names amongst themselves, that of Kafir, meaning unbeliever, being applied to them by their Muhammadan neighbours, with Siah Posh or Tor, meaning black clothes, from the colour of their apparel, both epithets being taken from their dress, like the Scythian Melanchlmum of Herodotus (iv. p. 10), for the whole of the Kafir race are remarkable for .their fairness and beauty of complexion ; but those of the largest division wear a sort of vest of black goatskin, while the other dresses in white cotton. They are of fair complexion, regular feataires, shaded hair, with ruddy cheeks, and variously-coloured eye.
The Dara Nuri profess to be Tajak, and take great pride in the antiquity of their race. The language of the Dam Nuri is almost identical with that of their neighbours on the plain of Lughman. In appearance the Dara Nuri differ little from the Afghans.
The Chuguni is a numerous tribe dwelling beyond Shwa. They are of the same race as the Kafir, but have been converted to Muham madanism. The true Kafir call them, in some
what contemptuous language, Nimchah, which may be translated half-breed. They intermarry indifferently' with Kafir and Afghan. They arc principally employed as guides, and have access into hafiristan. The Chuguni tribe live in the highest habitable parts of the Kund range. Their appearance differs from that of the Afghans, their stature being shorter, and their features softer and more pleasing. The Chuguni are devout and attentive to their religious duties, and their women engage in prayer. They are the only Muhammadan who allow women uncon strained freedom, the women going about among the men as in Europe.
The view from Utchalic Eali pass, 7300 feet, overlooking the Arat valley, is extensive. On the summit of Kund there is a small lake, and it is stated that on its shores still rest the remains, petrified, of Noah's Ark, while in the plain below was the tomb of Lamech, Noah's father.— C.M.S. Intel!., 1865, p. 203.