336 



CASHMERE. 



being no better, I presume. The skeleton of the murderer 

 appeared to have fallen from the ropes which had sus- 

 pended it, relieving the public of a most repulsive 

 spectacle. I took up my old camp ground in preference 

 to going on to the baraduri, at which, however, I 

 understand all travellers stop and are satisfied. 



27th October. In consequence of the increasing heat 

 of the sun as we neared the plains, I made an earlier 

 start than usual. It was still far from light as I crossed 

 the river which, to my surprise, I was able to do on 

 stepping stones, so low is it from the absence of rain, I 

 suppose. As I was crossing, two duck flew by within 

 easy shot, and as they returned I got my gun ready, and 

 dropped one which fell some way off up stream. Reloading 

 I went after it, and had almost given it up, when Sara 

 tracked it up, and a hunt took place in the water, the 

 two little dogs working well and securing the game. 

 Mounting the hill I hailed the old couple at top, and 

 ordered some milk : the old woman came forth with it, 

 and we had a chat. These poor people were robbed of 

 all their little wealth not long before I came this way, 

 and have recovered nothing. The thief was one upon 

 whom they had bestowed hospitality, a sort of faquir 

 who are one and all impostors, if not rogues. The old 

 lady, as though pleased with our colloquy, brought some 

 ripe plantains, evidently rarities in these regions. 



Crossing another stream, a small flock of wild fowl 

 flew over. I dismounted, and got my gun, and as good 

 luck would have it they came back overhead, and firing 

 both barrels one bird fell dead, a fine grey widgeon. 

 Then I jogged on to Saidabad. It is now very hot in 

 the middle of the day, so I put up in the baraduri, though 

 there are many objections a number of hornets in the 

 roof, and a noisy party of natives in an adjoining part. 



