XXU INTRODUCTION. 



or later to seek out the shortest and cheapest route. The troubles of 

 the last three years have of course diverted it to Nepal, and some 

 time may elapse before it finds its way back to its former channel. 

 But the roads made while hostilities were imminent must ultimately 

 attract traffic to the railway at Darjeeling, and in this indirect fashion 

 we shall realise the only tangible and substantial benefit likely to be 

 derived from closer intercourse between India and Tibet. 



H. H. RISLEY. 



