This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1863 edition. Excerpt: ...on the sand. One day we began to imagine we were back again in civilised society. We were j ourneying on when we met a Kirghis, who said he had had some difficulty in finding us, and that he had a letter for me. On reading it I found it contained an invitation to dinner, and was thus expressed: ' If Mr. and Madame would be so good as to dine with me to-day in the first hour, I will beg of them to bring a pair of silver spoons and a pair of forks, and nothing more will be wanting.' CHAPTER VIII. Russian Courtesy--Sumptuous Dinner--An afflicted Child--Cossack Desire for Information--Scanty Food--TheAla-kool--Intense Heat--Funeral Rites of the Kirghis--Singular Custom--A Love Ball--Enormous Appetites--A Scene of Grandeur--Effects of the Wind--Gift of a Maral--Extraordinary animal Attachment--Loss of a Pet--Chinese penal Settlements--Visit and Pursuit of Intruders--Return to Best-Heavy Storm--A lovely Picture--Masses of Rock--Evidences of Volcanoes--Kirghis' Tombs--A treacherous Climate--Large black Eagle--Numerous Thunderstorms--Return to old Quarters--Suspicious Visitors--Exciting Chase--A determined Scoundrel--Rapid Streams--Wild Horses--A frightened Steed--Congratulations--A Halt--Devoured by Mosquitoes--A Chinese Picquet--National Costume--Polite Reception--Hasty Arrival and Departure--Interview with Officials--Affection for Children--A Desire ungratified--Chinese Interpreter--Invitation to Dinner--Alatau overwhelmed with Kisses--Taking Leave--Guard of Honour--Systematic Arrangements-Refreshing Bath--A great Delicacy--Amusing Incident--An empty Cupboard--Successful Search for Apples--Washing Contrivances--Tea-party in the Steppe--A Bride's Attire and Bridal Party--Mutual Satisfaction--Female Tea-party--Disappointed Lords of the...