A Ferocious Beast. 



At this season of the year Gilgit was looking its best, all the 

 trees being in full bloom, the orchards and numerous gardens 

 presenting a picturesque spectacle. My ten days there were fully 

 occupied with making arrangements for the onward march to the 

 Chinese frontier, replenishing my supplies, and gaining all avail- 

 able information as to the poll ground on the Pamirs, and the 

 best nullahs. 



A SNOW I,E0PARD. 



One day Sher Mahomed, formerly British Native Agent at 

 Tashkurghan in Sarikol, called. He told me a great deal about 

 the Pamirs and the country round Yarkand and Kashgar, 

 and was one of the best-educated Indians it has been my good 

 fortune to meet. 



Prior to my arrival in Gilgit a fine specimen of the snow 

 leopard had been brought in and was, at the time of my visit, 



37 



