ASAM AND THE NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES. 377 



not extensive enough to be very interesting; we overlooked the Luri 

 river in its south-easterly bend behind Thamathcya, and in the same direc- 

 tion could perceive a little snow laying on the peaks north of the 

 Diking. 



t 



As we seemed now, though contrary to my wish, to remain dependant 

 upon RtfDiNG, I had a conference with him, and admonished him of the 

 degree of responsibility in the office he was about to undertake ; on the 

 other hand, I warned the Tains also against assuring me too lightly of 

 their belief of Riding's good faith. The next day Khosha made good 

 his promise in a manner more handsome than I expected, and, for a few 

 seers of salt, procured me six days' provisions, with which I instantly set 

 forward, with Khosha and his son in company ; the latter was to proceed 

 with us. Our march was in an easterly direction, on the southern face of 

 some high hills ; first through some cultivation, and then down a very 

 steep descent through tree jungle, to the dell of the Ivdal rivulet. The 

 ascent, on the opposite bank, was very steep and difficult, and after nearly 

 three hours fatiguing march, we were still in sight of Khosha's house, 

 bearings on which with Thamatkeya give the distance and direction of the 

 day's journey. We halted with a Chief named Naebra, who, according 

 to the custom of these hospitable people, killed us a hog. I gave him in 

 return a pair of large silver ear-rings. His house is a ruinous hovel, and 

 his consequence can be but small ; but he was very officious in offering his 

 services for my journey, and asserted that he and Riding could ensure 

 me against all difficulties with the Mizhu tribe. The rock appeared to be 

 the same white talc slate, and lower down in the hollow, mica slate. 



In the morning Khosha returned, and took his son with him, promis- 

 ing, however, to follow me to Riding's, should Ghal^m remain unable 

 to proceed. He went early, without informing me of his intentions. Thus 

 defeated in my purpose of having the security of the presence of a Chief 



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