The Maures, with whom the Europeans are…

The Maures, with whom the Europeans are trading, consider the constant rivalries between European powers a sign of weakness, and they quickly learn the benefits of playing one power against the other.

For example, they agree simultaneously to give monopolies to the French and the Dutch.

The Moors also take advantage of the Europeans whenever possible, so that when the French negotiate with the amir of Trarza to secure a monopoly on the gum arabic trade, the amir in exchange demands a considerable number of gifts.

Thus begins the coutume, an annual payment expected by the Moors for doing business with a government or a company.