74 
VIEWS OF CAUCASUS. 
calculations of Dr. Renniggs, who visited the Caucasus in 1781, 
the elevation of the mountains directly opposite the castle of 
Derial, is not less than three thousand seven hundred and eighty- 
six feet. This measurement was the result of several observ¬ 
ations ; and it may be received as the common height of nearly 
the whole range, east and west, with the exception of Elborus 
and Kasibeck. 
Our road from Derial lost nothing of its gloomy magnificence, 
all the way to the sort of gorge, whither the soldiers had been 
sent to dislodge its unwelcome guests; and there we found a 
spot peculiarly wild, and fitted to the uses of its late inhabitants. 
Vast quantities of low thick bushes, and brushwood, occupied a 
suspicious-looking hollow on our left; which natural trench, so 
well covered from the eye of observation, terminated at a point 
that communicated its egress with the accesses of the mountain. 
But so difficult did they seem, that only one was visible, by 
which it appeared possible to us for the boldest adventurers to 
descend. But, descend they do, and in no insufficient numbers ; 
concealing themselves in the thickets till opportunity presents 
itself to spring upon their prey* Before the precaution was 
adopted, to send out a party of military, literally to beat the 
bushes, and clear the way, this road was one continued scene of 
bloodshed and robbery. These mountain-brigands being sure, 
from knowledge of their own paths and agility in gaining them, 
of always escaping pursuit, never failed to be in waiting on every 
approaching convoy ; and keeping close behind their brush-wood, 
or broken rocks, fired on the unwary people as they passed; 
killing, or wounding numbers. The survivors, too often taking 
to flight, left the spoil to the leisurely collection of the 
victors. 
