170 SHOOTING IN CHINA 



mountains would seem sufficient for feeding 

 purposes, but thus far we had bagged a few 

 only, and as we expected to add to our 

 commissary department by our skill as 

 shooters, prudence dictated that we hold a 

 conference in the interest of the economy 

 of our table. We were feeling quite des- 

 pondent over our luck, but we were not 

 wholly discouraged, and on the morning of 

 the r2th., we started higher up the river, 

 but the current being very strong against 

 us we anchored at the entrance of the 

 gorge. While here we had a full view of 

 the beginning of the magnificent scenery 

 ahead. The mountains rose almost per- 

 pendicular on both sides of the river and 

 their tops were covered with snow. While 

 waiting a fresh wind began to blow up the 

 gorge, and availing ourselves of it we 

 hoisted sail and soon found it steady enough 

 to drive the boat ahead, although the 

 current continued strong and swift against 

 us. The scenery through which we passed 

 was really beautiful. I do not know that I 

 ever saw prettier. Some of the mountains 

 were shaded with large pretty trees, and 

 the temples and villages built at their bases 

 or on their sides seem to give a repose to 



