“ Their pyramids and obelisks, are monuments, evincive of their skill in building and architecture as well as of their industry and perseverance to accomplish such great undertakings. Indeed the whole country abounds with the remains of ancient grandeur, surpassing almost any other. Thebes in upper Egypt was one of the most splendid cities in the world. ”

“ The penal laws of Egypt were uncommonly severe. Female chastity was most rigidly protected.
There was an extraordinary regulation in Egypt regarding the borrowing of money. The borrower gave in pledge the body of his father, and it was deprived of funeral rites if he failed to redeem it. Population was encouraged by law, and every man was bound to maintain and educate the children born to him of his slaves. The Egyptians were tenacious of their own manners, customs and ancient usages, and had a great abhorrence to strangers and to innovation. ”