eo eee we et 
Capt. Koschkull on the Caucasus, 341 
latter group is remarkable for the diverisity of character ex- 
hibited by the different springs. 
Even in this brief description of the Isthmus of the Cau- 
casus, it seems necessary that something should be said of the 
rélations which exist between the orography and the climate, 
population and productions. 
he principal chain of the Caucasus divides the country 
into two districts, which present marked differences of climate, 
_ The plain drained by the rivers Terek and Kuban passes 
imperceptibly on the north into the steppes of Southern 
Russia. The southeastern portion of this plain bordering on 
the Caspian Sea is represented by broad sandy surfaces and 
extensive “salt-pans ;” while the interior and western portions 
consist of low prairies, marshes and mud flats, In eapeninenes 
mercury often falls to -20° Reaumur. During the summer, on 
the contrary, fair weather prevails, and in this portion of the 
prety sheltered from the north winds by the great mountain 
er 
the east 
Caspian and Black Seas, while its climate is somewhat influ- 
enced y the wall of mountains which in Northern Persia and 
Asia Minor bound it on the south. In consequence of these 
Spe Mountains of Karthlo-Imeritia exert an influence on 
to be ite of the valleys of the Rion and Kur which deserves 
‘Roticed. From its transverse direction across the great 
