TO THE SHAYAK. 183 



crc I turned out, after having enjoyed a good night's rest. 

 The mountains are truly grand and majestic, as viewed 

 from this spot; and during the changing effects of a 

 humid atmosphere they presented some magnificent 

 pictures. Again I longed to be able truly to depict them. 



The three Peake's pills having had no effect on Mooktoo, 

 I gave him two more ; nor did this additional motive 

 power produce any result, yet he says he feels much better. 

 A messenger passed through, bearing instructions from 

 the thanadar to his son to take care that my wishes were 

 attended to, and no trouble given me very civil, indeed, 

 of the old gentleman. 



I have nothing particular to note of the day, but may 

 remark how soon a man left to himself, without the aids 

 and influences of Christian ministry and communion, 

 becomes listless and indifferent in religious observances, 

 and neglects the appointed means for the strengthening 

 and refreshing of his soul. We need the stimulus of the 

 example and offices of others, and especially those of the 

 Church, to keep us up to the standard of vital Christianity. 



30th July. I arose at earliest dawn, wishing, if 

 possible, to reach the next camp ere the sun should attain 

 his full power. The path led down a narrow valley, 

 threading some ravines, and penetrating some remarkable 

 defiles, then passing over table lands, until we stood 

 looking down upon the river Shayak and its valley, which 

 lies at right angles to that dowu which we had come, the 

 distance some six miles. The Shayak's course here I 

 judge to be N.W. A small hamlet with its green crops 

 greeted our sight from the eastern side ; all else was bare 

 rock and barren slopes. I had hoped for better things. 



"We turned to the left, following the river's course, but 

 high up on the rocky mountain-side overhanging it, and, 

 plunging down a deep gorge, came upon Kalsar, our 



