OFFER OF METALLIC BEDS. 287 



the metalliferous mountain. When this arrangement, 

 already elaborated in detail theoretically and practi- 

 cally, is ready, there will exist in the distant Caucasus 

 a smeltery, preeminent in a scientific point of view, 

 and able to cope successfully with the disadvantages 

 of its site. 



It may easily be imagined that the results obtained 

 by us in Kedabeg would bring us offers of metalliferous 

 property from all sides. Although my brother Charles 

 was as little inclined for further undertakings as I 

 myself, Kedabeg having already given us cares enough, 

 yet we could not always reject the invitation of people 

 of influence to take a look at the preferred beds. 

 When, after the death of my brother Walter, who 

 lost his life very suddenly by a severe fall from his 

 horse, I travelled in the autumn of 1868 for the second 

 time to Kedabeg, I was in this way induced to make 

 two tours in the great Caucasus. One of these from 

 Sukhum-Kale to Cibelda in particular was of uncommon 

 interest to me. 



The Elbrus, 18000 feet high, the loftiest mountain 

 of Europe, if the crest of the high Caucasus range be 

 taken as the natural limit of this part of the globe, 

 is visible in its full height from a few points only, 

 being surrounded by a circle of lofty mountains. The 

 interval, which separates it from this circle, is accessible 

 at a few places only, and is again cut up into different 

 parts by several radial ridges, which render all human 

 intercourse impossible. Among these Cibelda is a na- 

 tural impregnable fortress, which can be defended by 



