ile; and though green is forbidden by Mohammedan law, the
modern rugs frequently have green for their dominant color. The reason
for this innovation is that the influence of their religious faith has
waned, and consequently the law regarding that color is not now strictly
enforced. The weavers of these rugs are mostly Moslem women and girls.
The wool is generally bought in the interior from nomad tribes, and the
weaving is carried on in private houses in a manner similar to that of
other rugs, except that the yarn is spun more loosely. In the early
history of rug-weaving these rugs were known in the Western market as
the _Yapraks_, and the colors were, almost invariably, red with either
green or blue. Until recently, even the best Ouchak rugs were apt to
have inferior wool for their foundation, and hemp was frequently
employed. The wool was loosely woven, and the dyes were fugitive. There
are now, however, certain provinces in Turkey, including Ouchak, where
the products are controlled by European and American firms, and where
excellent wool and natural dyes are used. The rugs made under such
control are very durable and in every way satisfactory. In size Ouchaks
vary greatly, ranging from a few feet to fifty by twenty-five feet.

_Sivas_ rugs are always woven of wool, and almost every hamlet carries
on the industry of weaving in the homes. There are no factories, the
young girls and women doing the work here, as in other parts of Turkey.
Sivas rugs are in most cases small, measuring about eight by four feet;
but lately larger and more attractive rugs are being made. Even the
poorest families have fine rugs, and regard them as valuable property,
to be sold only under the pressure of great extremity. The weavers are
so frugal in their manner of living that their daily earning of fourteen
to nineteen cents is sufficient to supply their wants.

[Illustration: INDIAN LOOM AND WEAVERS]

_Smyrna_, next to Constantinople, is the most important commercial
centre in the East. It is the open door to mysterious Asia, and within
its boundaries are found representatives of every race and religious
belief of that little-known continent, the land of mystics, nomads, and
fanatics. It is a mistake to imagine that the so-called Smyrna rugs are
made in that city. As a matter of fact, no rugs are manufactured there.
It is the export depot for goods from the interior, and dealers have
allowed the name to be used merely for convenience, for