text:  But the ruins even now remaining of the fortifications and publick works constructed in Aden by the Ottomans during their tenure of the place are on a scale which not only proves how fully they were aware of the importance of the position but gives a high idea of the energy with which their resources were administered during the palmy days of their power when such vast labour and outlay were expended on the security of an isolated stronghold at the furthest extremity of their empire