1892 
of the Mekong prison range, its sides extending in precipitous buttresses 
to the depths below, tree on tree, like the masts of ships in a crowd- 
ed harbor, - the mighty snow-capped peaks in the distant north glitter- 
ing in the sunlight, and there I thanked the gods for being alive, well, 
and able to enjoy the glories of nature. 
"Tomorrow we are off for Chienchuan, a six days' journey, and 
thence it will only take two days to Likiang to my base camp. From 
here on it is unsurveyed territory, and the map is a big blank. More 
revelations to come. Now I will close with the hope of being able to 
write to you soon from Likiang, telling you of our safe arrival." 
