570 
RETURN THROUGH SIAN KALA. 
than by repeating the words of one of the nobility, on hearing 
some remarks on the certainty of a man’s possessions in the 
kingdoms of Europe. “ It is not so in all countries of the 
world!” said he. “ There are some , in which the stick held in 
the owner’s hand is only safe as long as his is thought the 
stronger arm. But let one come more powerful than himself, 
and it will instantly be torn from him, with perhaps aggravated 
injury. In fact,” he added, “ here, I am sorry to say, you see 
nothing done amongst us for to-morrow ! We do not build, 
nor plant, beyond the day ; for who will erect mansions that 
may be taken from him ? or amass riches he dare not own ? or 
lay up provision for children, whose lives might only be endan¬ 
gered by his providence ?” 
September 1st. — This morning I left Hazar on my return 
northward, by Sian Kala; and taking a direction N. 70° W.'over 
the hills, passed the village of Guzel (or Kizzil) Boulak. Two 
hours brought us parallel with the fortress of Guzloo, whence 
we crossed the heads of the mountains ; and gradually descending 
again, gained a finely cultivated vale, watered by a rivulet called 
the Gorva, which finally flows into the Jigatti. A village of 
twenty huts stands on its margin. From hence we traversed a 
second range of lofty hills, the declivities of which brought us 
into the Great Valley, and we reached Sian Kala at ten o’clock. 
Our march had been four farsangs and a half. 
September 2d. — This morning at five o’clock, I again bade 
farewell to the hospitalities of the Courdish frontier citadel, and 
passing down the right bank of the Jigatti, enjoyed a delightful 
ride amongst its village scenes. The Sian Kala side of the river 
chiefly belongs to the brave Afshar tribe, while the opposite 
shore is rather regarded as the territory of the Mickri Courds. 
