Sand-Buried Ruins of Khotan; Personal Narrative of a Journey of Archaeological & Geographical Exploration in Chinese Turkestan

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1903. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... the ruins of exdere On the 13th of February I once more started my caravan, back to Imam Jafar Sadik. As I passed one ruin after the other familiar to me from the incessant work of the last weeks, I took occasion to collect specimens of the various kinds of wood from the withered trees of ancient orchards. Where will it be next that I can walk amidst poplars and fruit trees planted when the Cipsars still ruled in Rome and the knowledge of Greek writing had barely vanished on the Indus? I had already heard at Niya, of ancient remains in the desert near the Endere stream about half-way towards Cherchen, and subsequent information decided me to select them for my next explorations. It would have been difficult to take all my former labourers along to this new site, as the distance was great and the men were exhausted by the hard work of the last three weeks. The fresh set of men needed could only be secured from Niya. It was hence a welcome surprise when on arrival at that evening's campingplaee I was met by the Deputy of the Beg of Niya, who brought not only a fresh Kashgar mail sent on by the thoughtful Amban of Keriya, but also assurance that all arrangements had been made for the timely dispatch of the fresh contingent. The next day's march to Imam Jafar Sadik was easy, and it rejoiced me to hear once more the rustling of the leaves in the luxuriant jungle that marks the end of the Niya stream. There was no sign yet of the approach of spring, but even in its winter sleep this living forest was a great change after the silent sands and ruins among which I had dwelt. At the Mazar hospice I enjoyed for one brief afternoon the cheerful warmth of a fireplace and indulged in that long-desired luxury, a thorough 'tub.' But there was plenty to do besides, as I despatch...