A journal of the embassy from their Majesties John and Peter Alexievitz, emperors of Muscovy &c. over land into China through the provinces of Ustiugha, Siberia, Dauri, and the great Tartary to Peking the capital city of the Chinese empire by Everard Isbrand, their ambassador in the years 1693, 1694, and 1695 written by Adam Brand, secretary of the embassy ; translated from the original High-Dutch printed in Hamburgh, 1698 ; to which is added Curious observations concerning the products of Russia by H.W. Ludolf.

AN ACCOUNT OF AN Embassy from MVSCOVY INTO CHINA OVER LAND.

THE now most Illustri∣ous Princes Ivan and Pe∣ter Alexievits, Great Lords, Emperors, Grand Dukes, and Conserva∣tors of all the Great, and Little, and White Russia; of Muscovy, of Volodimir and Novogorod; Emperors of Casan; Emperors of Astrachan; Empe∣rors of Siberia; Lords of Plesko; Great

Dukes of Twersco, Leghorscho, Permsco, Veatsco, Belgarsco, &c. Lords and Great Dukes of Novogorod in the Lower Countries; of Rosansko, Rostessko, Ge∣restessko, Beteozarsko, Oudersco, Obdorsko, Condinsko, and all the Northern parts; Lords of the Country of Versco, of Car∣talinsko, and of Gruzinsco, and of the Country of Cabardinsco; Czars and Dukes of Circasco, and Igorsco, Lords and Mo∣narchs of several other Dominions and Provinces, East, West, and North; which are their Inheritance from Father to Son: These, I say, my most gracious Lords and Princes, having after mature deliberation resolved to send a most splen∣did Embassy to the Great Amologdachan (or Emperor of China); Everrard Isbrand, a Native of Germany, born in the City of Gluckstad, in the Dukedom of Holstein, was pitch'd upon by the abovementioned Two Czars, as a fit Subject to discharge so great a Trust; and being accordingly declared their Ambassador to the Great Amologdachan, he gratefully accepted of the Favour bestowed upon him by both their Czarish Majesties; and after his humble Thanks for the Grace received from their hands in putting so much con∣fidence in him, he ordered his Equipage,

and all other matters requisite for so great a Journey, to be got in readiness to depart at a minutes warning.

After some time spent in providing se∣veral rich Presents, which we were to carry along with us into China, and all other necessaries; the Ambassador and the chiefest of his Retinue were in the Year 1692, the 3^d of March, introdu∣ced into the presence of Ivan Alexievits, to Kiss his Czarish Majesty's hands; and on the 12^th of March following, having been admitted into the presence of Peter Alexievits, the Youngest of the Two Czars, to receive the same Honour from his Hands after his return to Musco from Peresla, we set out on our Journey the next following day, being the 13^th of March.

The whole Attendance of the Ambas∣sador at his departure from Musco, con∣sisted only in One and twenty Persons; among whom were Twelve Germans, the rest Muscovites. We were provided with a good Chest of Physick, a Physici∣an, and a good number of Baggage-Wag∣gons to carry our Provisions, Wines, and all other Necessaries for so great a Journey; and having taken our leave, not without some tears, of our Friends, both Germans and Muscovites, who conducted us for

some Miles out the Town, we conti∣nued our Journy towards Troitza.

But before I go any further in giving an account of this Embassy, I hope it will not be look'd upon in me as a presumption, if by way of digression, I touch upon some general matters concerning Muscovy, which being otherwise known by the name of the Great or Black Russia, ex∣tends its Frontiers to the utmost Borders of Europe and Asia. It is of a vast extent, its length reaching from the Confines of Poland as far as to the great Asiatick Tar∣tary, and its breadth from the Frozen Sea to the Caspian Lake or Sea; but many of its Provinces (especially those bordering upon Asia) are almost desolate.

Among many others, it has Four great and famous Rivers; the first is the River Wolga, arising not far from the Confines of Poland, and exonerating it self in the Caspian Sea. The second is the River Oby, which disimbogues in the Frozen Sea; and on that side divides Asia from Europe. The third the River Don, which discharges it self in the Euxine Sea. And the fourth the River Dwina, which falls near Archangel into the White Sea.

The City of Musco, besides its anti∣quity, has this to boast of, that ever since

the Year 1540. at what time Czar Ivan Basilovits began his Reign, it has been the constant Residence of the succeeding Czars, to wit, of Fedor Ivanovits, Boris Goudenou, Fedor Berisovits, of the Coun∣terfeit Demetrius Ivanovits, of Basili Iva∣novits Zusksi, Michael Federovits, Alexoi Michaelovits, Ivan Alexiovits. and of the present Czar Peter Alexiovits. It is near Fifteen English Miles in compass, being scituate on the River Mosco (which not far from thence joins its current with the River Occa, and falls afterwards into the great River Wolga) in the Center of Muscovy.

The Castle, called Cremelina, where the Czars of Muscovy keep their ordinary Residence, is Fortified with a very strong Wall, a deep Ditch, and some Demilunes, upon which are mounted good store of large Cannon.

Russia has its own Patriarch, who exer∣cises the same Authority all over the Mus∣covian Empire, as the Pope does in other Roman Catholick Countries. But for the conveniency of Commerce, the Lutherans, as well as other Protestants, are allow'd the free exercise of their Religion in the City of Musco, as well as in some other places of Muscovy. The Lutherans are

very confiderable for their Number in the Capital City, where they have Two Churches built of Stone in the German Sub∣urbs. The Calvinists have also one very fine∣ly built in the same place. The Roman Ca∣tholicks and Iews, who have not been to∣lerated till of late, only exercise their de∣votion in a private house, and the Jesuits are excluded from that benefit also, under pain of Banishment, as it happened to one of that Fraternity not many years ago.

It is very well worth taking notice here, That the present Czar Peter is a Prince of an excellent good Humour, and a great Favourer of the Lutherans, whom he presented with all the Stone Materials which were made use of in building their new Church, and gave them permission, without the approbation of the Patriarch, to adorn their Church with a Steeple.

But to return to our Journey; We Tra∣velled the 14^th of March to Troitza, a place very agreeable both for its Scituation and the Fertility of the circumjacent Country. This place is chiefly famous for the Convent of Troitza; which by reason of its strong Fortifications resem∣bles a great Castle at a distance, being scituate about 60 Versts or English Miles from Musco. The present Czar Peter is

so extreamly taken with the delightfulness of this place, that scarce a Week passes but he diverts himself there.

After we had passed here one Day and two Nights to refresh our Horses, and to take a full view of the place, we Tra∣velled the 16^th of March as far as Pereslaw, a great and magnificent City, according to the Muscovian Fashion, the Houses be∣ing all of Wood. It is scituate on a Lake about 60 Versts or Miles from Troitza, near it are fine Saltpits, which afford great store of very white Salt, which is from thence transported to other places.

From hence we pursued our Journy to the City of Rostof, having a Convent of the same name; it is the Capital of the Province of the same name, which in former Ages was, next to Novogored Ve∣tiki, accounted one of the most ancient and most considerable of Muscovy, and afterwards was appropriated as an Ap∣penage to the use of the Younger Brothers of the Imperial Family; but the last Prince of that Race being in the Year 1565, by the Tyrant Ivan Basilovits be∣reav'd at once of his Dominions and Life, the same was reincorporated with the Crown of Muscovy.

The City of Rostof it self is a very large

and stately City, scituate on a Lake; from whence arises the River Coterius, which discharges it self into the River Wolga; it is dignified with the Title of an Arch∣bishoprick, and the Archbishop keeps his Residence in the Castle, which is Built of Wood; it is 60 Versts distant from Pereslaw.

We did not tarry long here, being afraid to lose the conveniency of making use of our Sleds, by reason of the approaching Spring; for which reason having provided our selves with fresh Horses, we came on the 18^th of March to Iaroslaw, the Capital of the Province, scituate near the River Wolga, and one of the largest Cities of the whole Russian Empire. It is a place of vast Traffick, but especially celebrated for its Trade in Muscovia-Leather; of which such prodigious quantities are dressed in this place, that it furnishes not only Mus∣covy, but also a great part of Europe with this Commodity.

The Province of Iaroslaw is of a very large extent, and extremely fertile, espe∣cially where it borders upon the River Wolga. This Province, like the former, was allotted as an Appenage to the Younger House of Muscovy; who en∣joyed it for a considerable time, with the Title of Princes, till being also subdued

by the aforementioned Tyrant Ivan Basi∣lovits, they were forced to rest contented with a certain yearly Allowance under the Jurisdiction of the Czars of Muscovy.

We were forced to stay here the 19^th of March, partly to take a little Rest, partly to expect the Coming of our Bag∣gage. The 20^th we again set forward in our Journey, and arrived at Mid-night in the City of Wologda, situate upon the River of the same Name, about 180 Versts or Miles from Iaroslaw. All the Country betwixt this City and that of Musco is extreamly populous, we seldom Travelling a Day but within sight of 14 or 15 Villages or Towns.

This City is the Capital of the Province of the same Name, which is almost impas∣sable at some times of the Year, by reason of the many Forests and Boggs: It for∣merly was under the Jurisdiction of the Dukes of Novogorod Veliki; but since the Peace concluded in the Year 1613, be∣twixt the Swedes and Muscovites; by ver∣tue of which, the last were put in possessi∣on of the Dukedom of Novogorod Veliki, that of Wologda, as being its dependency, also devolved unto the Muscovites. It is a pretty large City; but what is most re∣markable is its Castle, which by the in∣defatigable

Care of the Muscovites is sur∣rounded with so strong a Fortification of Stone, as to be accounted impregnable.

The River Wologda, which has com∣municated its Name both to the City and Province, runs from West to North, till it joins its Current with the River Dwina.

On the 21^st Day of March (as good for∣tune would have it) the Weather turn'd again to a hard Frost, to our great Satis∣faction; for without it we must have quitted our Sleds, and must have stay'd there till the Frost had been quite broke, which in all probability would have stopp'd our Journey for several Months. We therefore pursued our Journey the 22^d, and on the 23^d came to Scuskajam; where being provided with fresh Horses, we, after Dinner was over, went forward upon the River of Sucagna. On the 24^th of March we again changed our Horses in a small Place called Tettma; which having nothing in it to stay us in our Journey, we Travelled on with all the Expedition imaginable, in hopes to take up our next nights Quarters in the Village of Vsgorodishna; but meeting beyond Ex∣pectation there with more fresh Horses; and being willing to improve our Time

to the best advantage, we Travelled on the same Night; and the following Day, being the 26^th of March, to the Village of Bobroffskajam, where indeed we refresh'd our selves a little; but having again the good fortune to find new Horses ready for us, we set forward the same Night; and the next following, being the 27^th of March, and the first Easter Holiday, arri∣ved in the Capital City of the Province of Vstiugha; where we spent that day and the following night in affording our selves necessary Rest, and such other good Cheer as we thought most convenient to restore our decayed Spirits.

Scarce had we taken a few hours Rest to recover our selves from the past Fa∣tigues, but the Governor of the Place sent one of his Servants; who after a Compli∣ment from his Master, offered us in his Name every thing that might be in his Power to serve us; and I must confess, that we were not only very handsomely entertain'd here, but also furnish'd with every thing that was thought convenient for the prosecution of our Journey.

The City of Vstiugha, as well as its Castle, is situate upon the very Bank of the River Sucagna, being a very populous and well-built City; its chief Traffick

consists in all sorts of Furrs and Skins, but especially in white Fox-Skins.

We Travelled all the way from Schus∣kajam to Vstiugha, upon the River Sucag∣na, not without great Danger, the Ice being almost melted by the Beams of the approaching Sun: This is the same River by which the Merchants of Wologda tra∣vel to Archangel.

Being again provided here with fresh Horses, we came on the 29^th of March to a small Place called Lolowitzgoth, up∣on the River of Wictzegda: This River joining its Current with the River Dwina, is very well known to the Russian Mer∣chants, who from this Place travel in six or seven Nights to Archangel,

For the rest, this Place having nothing in it, which was inviting enough to de∣tain us there; and meeting with fresh Horses, we travell'd the same day near 50 Miles through a very large Forest, which is accounted by the Inhabitants to contain 800 Miles in length.

It is in sundry places inhabited by a certain People called Sirenes, who tho' quite different from the Muscovites in their Language and Manners, yet profess the Greek Religion, and are therefore in great Esteem among the Russians. Where-ever

we came we had our share in the publick Rejoicings, which are made, during the Easter-time, all over Muscovy, in remem∣brance of the Resurrection of Christ; it being an ancient Custom in Russia to pre∣sent one another not only on Easter-day, but for 14 days after, with painted Eggs, of which you see great Quantities ready boil'd, to be sold on all the Corners of the Streets, no body, of what Quality, Degree, Age or Sex, daring to refuse either the Eggs or the Kiss, which is always given as you present the Eggs. If they meet in the Streets, they salute one another in these Words, Christo vos chrest; that is, Christ is risen: whereto the other having answered, Wo is tenoros Chrest; that is, he is certainly risen, they Kiss one another. This Custom is so general, that if during this time you are invited at a Russian's House to partake of their Merriments, and you should not offer to kiss the Ladies there present, (where it is to be observed that you must take care not to touch them with your hands) you would be look'd upon as an ill bred Clown; whereas if you acquit your self handsomely in this Point, you are sure to receive a Cup of Aquavitae in return for your Civility.

But to return to our Journey, which for some days after proved very trouble∣some to us, being obliged to cut down many Trees, to facilitate our Passage through the Forest: Besides which, the many Rivers (amongst which the Siasellae, Chasim, and Nactim Peris, were the chiefest) we were to pass, rendered our Passage not only difficult, but very dangerous, many of our Men and Sleds falling into the last of these Rivers by the breaking of the Ice; but, by the help of the rest, having happily escaped the danger, we were ob∣liged to take new Measures for the fu∣ture.

For which reason, when we came to any of these Rivulets, which coming from the adjacent Hills, run through the Val∣leys, we fastned many pieces of Timber together, over which (in the nature of a Bridge of Boats) we drew our Sleds by the help of strong Ropes, whilst we were forced to walk it on Foot, and to let our Horses swim through the Rivers; We had at last the good fortune to surmount all these Obstacles, without any great Damage or Loss; but being extreamly fatigued by so troublesome a Passage, we rested our selves for some time in a Vil∣lage.

Having a little recovered our selves, we continued our Journey, and arrived safely on the 6^th of April at Kaigorod, upon the River Kama. This Place has its own Governor, and a good Garison, who keep a watchful Eye over the Inhabitants, who are Sirenes; besides, that the Cosacks some∣times pay them a Visit when they least ex∣pect it.

Of this the Governor of the Place, Ivan Mikietivits Lopugin, related us an Instance which had hapned two Years before, in the Year 1690, being the first of his Go∣vernment. It seems thirty of these Cosacks having had intelligence that the Place was at that time not sufficiently provided for its Defence, had taken a Resolution to at∣tack it on the Water-side: For which pur∣pose, having provided themselves with all necessary Arms, and, among the rest, with one great Piece of Cannon, they took the opportunity of the Night, when every body enjoying the benefit of Rest, they surprized the Town, murthered and plun∣dered all that came in their way, and were within an Inch of having seized the Go∣vernor; who happily escaping their hands, caused the Alarum to be given to the In∣habitants; who being thereby made sen∣sible of the Danger, run to their Arms,

and soon obliged these Vagabonds to be∣take themselves to flight. They pursued them for some time upon the River; but the darkness of the Night covering their Retreat, they escaped with the greatest part of the Booty.

Our Sleds being now become quite use∣less to us, we were obliged to tarry here till such time that the Ice were sunk in the River: In the mean while we diverted our selves with Hunting, and such other Pastimes as the Place and our present Cir∣cumstances would afford. For we had not been here many days, when we were frightned with a new Report, That a con∣siderable Number of these Robbers had again associated together in order to come and surprize our Baggage, which put us under no small Consternation, till the Governor having order'd us a good Guard, and disposed the Garison so as to be ready upon all occasions, we were soon freed from these Apprehensions, and passed the rest of our time in our usual divertise∣ments.

The River being by this time cleared of the Ice, we took our Leave of the Go∣vernor, and embark'd in a Vessel built for that purpose, on the 23^d of April, upon the River Kama; in our Passage we saw

several Monasteries on both sides of the River, but very few Villages.

The large River Kama comes from the North-East, and with a swift Current runs as far as Casan, where it exonerates it self on the left side of it into the River Wolga. It approaches in Bigness to the River Weser in Germany. It is increased by several lesser Rivers, among which is the River Wiesetzca, which falls into it about 25 Miles from Solokamsko.

We left the River Kama on the 26^th of April, towards Evening, directing our Course to the Left, to the small River Vsolsko, from whence we had 7 Miles to travel to Solokamsko: But going against the Stream, we came not till the 27^th to Solokamsko, being a Place situate in a very pleasant Plain upon the River Vsolsko, built there on purpose by the Muscovites for the conveniency of such, as have oc∣casion to travel into those far distant Pla∣ces. It is inhabited both by Russians and Tartars, who trade in all sorts of Cattle, but especially in Horses; which being ve∣ry excellent hereabouts, are preferred be∣fore others all over Muscovy.

There being constantly fourscore Cop∣pers employed here in making of Salt, this makes this Place, as well as the adja∣cent

Villages, (where they follow the same Employment) very considerable, it being very fine, and from hence transported to Casan.

On the 29^th of April we had the mis∣fortune to have one of the Ambassador's Attendance to fall over-board, and to be drowned: He was a Muscovite by Birth, his Name being Simon Callaction, for the rest a good honest fellow; but being overcome by the strength of Aquavitae, came by this Accident, by tumbling over∣board, and was, notwithstanding all the care taken by his Comrades to save his life, carried away by the swiftness of the Current: His Body was found floating on the first of May, when it was interr'd near the Shoar.

On the second of May the Ambassador, with most of his Retinue, were invited by a certain Muscovian Gentleman, one of the Czar's Factors, whose Name was Alexi Astaffi Philatoff, to his Country∣house, about 20 Miles distant from Solok, where we were entertained with a very handsome Dinner, and pass'd the Day very merrily. Near this place his Czarish Majesty employs above 20000 Workmen in making of Salt. The Gentleman whom we mention'd before, had, at his own cost,

two large Vessels built in this place, of 400 Tuns each, for the Transportation of Salt; and hearing of our coming that way, had caused them to stay for some time, to make us eye-witnesses of the man∣ner of convoying these Ships, and what Or∣der and Discipline there was observed a∣mong them. Each of these Vessels had 500 Men on board, who were to labour without intermission at the Oars, relieving each other at certain and convenient times, under the Command of several Officers; so that by the continual supply of fresh Men, these Vessels could perform a great Voyage in a little time. Both these Ves∣sels being loaden with nothing but Salt, were bound to Casan, where they sold it to a great Advantage: For whereas the Pode (being 40 Pound weight) did not stand the Owner in above half a Copeck upon the Spot, it was sold at Casan for twelve or thirteen Copecks.

The night, betwixt the 3^d and 4^th of May, it began to Snow and Freeze so hard again, as if it had been in the Win∣ter; which continuing till the 6^th, put us to no small trouble, being obliged to stay here seventeen Days, which however we passed pleasantly enough. The worst of all was, that by the melting of the Snow,

and the overflowing of the Rivers, we were disappointed in our design of going by Land to Wergaturia, situate upon the Frontiers of Siberia; which being but a small Place, and furnished with very low and indifferent Buildings, notwithstand∣ing this has its own Waywode or Gover∣nor. But, as I said before, being disap∣pointed in our design, we were forced to make use of five Boats, each of them Mann'd with five Watermen, who, by the help of their Oars, brought us on the 14^th of May as far as Vskogorod; but the Wind veering about as we were within sight of the Place, drove us back down the River Vsolka, into the River Kama. They count it 50 German Miles from Solokamsko to Wergaturia. On the 16^th of May we entred the small River Susora. From Solokamsko to this River it is counted 30, and from hence to Vlko 40 Miles. Here we were again in no small Danger; for the Ri∣ver having overflowen all the circum∣jacent Country, just as we pass'd upon it, to such an extraordinary a degree, that our Boats often pass'd over the tops of the Trees; if there had happened a sudden Fall of the Waters, we must have infalli∣bly perish'd; but we happily escaped the Danger, and arrived safely on the 19^th of

May in a small City called Niesna Susowa, where we refresh'd our selves. On the 20^th we came to another small Town, the Inhabitants of both are employed in making of Salt. From hence upwards the River, the pleasant Woods and Hills on both sides afford a very delightful Pro∣spect.

In these Forests you meet with the Agarius Tree, whose spongeous substance is from hence carried to Archangel, and from thence into other Parts of Europe. We saw several Villages on both sides of the River; and on the 25^th of May took up our Lodgings in one of them, situate upon the very Banks of it. After we had a little recovered our selves from our past fatigues, we had the curiosity to enquire into the Manners and Customs of the Peo∣ple inhabiting those Parts.

They are called Wogultzoi, Subjects to the Czar of Muscovy, and are all Pagans, much addicted to Superstition. Their Stature is low and mean, not unlike the Tartars; their Habitations having also a great Resemblance to the Tartarian Huts, but they are never without a Chimney in them; They use a Language different both from the Muscovites and Tartars.

They being asked concerning their Faith, gave us for answer, That they believed a Creator, who resided in Hea∣ven, for whom they had a great Ve∣neration; They pay Adoration to the Heavens, Sun, Moon, and Water; they sacrifice Horses, Cows and Calves; They expose their Skins only upon a Pole or high Tree, to which they pay their De∣votion; the Meat they eat afterwards. They were altogether ignorant of any thing relating to Baptism; they only told us, that it was a most ancient Custom a∣mong them, to name the Child after the most ancient Person of the Village. They are very careful to inter their Dead in their best Accoutrements, being of opi∣nion that at the Resurrection (which they believe, without the least sense, whither they are to go afterwards) every one is to appear in the same posture and condi∣tion as he was buried. The Muscovites observe many Fasts throughout the Year, but these were ignorant of what Fasting meant; yet we observed that they did not eat any Fowl, but only their Eggs, which they look'd upon as a great Dainty.

Their Marriages are contracted and performed in a very odd manner: If a young Man, who intends to marry a

young Woman, comes to ask her Father's consent, the Answer is, If thou be'st in a condition to pay for her, thou may'st have her; so they make the bargain as well as they can, the Bridegroom being obliged to purchase the Bride from her Father, sometimes for 40, sometimes for 50 or more Rubles, which amounts to 20 or 30 Pounds sterling. The Money being paid, the Bride is surrendred to the Bridegroom without any further Cere∣mony; but if the Money be not ready, there is no Bride to be had; they are yet so civil to allow the Bridegroom a certain time to raise the Money, and in the mean while he has the liberty to court his Mi∣stress; who, when the bargain is fulfill'd, is carried veiled to his Bed-chamber. Af∣ter the Bridegroom has gathered the first fruits of his nuptial Bed, their Friends and Relations are invited the next day to a Feast, where they make themselves hearti∣ly merry with Eating, Drinking, and Dan∣cing till the next morning; when, after they have made some Presents to the young Couple, they part, to their own homes.

What was credibly related to us con∣cerning their Child-bearing Women, is no less surprizing than the former: For when

the time of their Delivery approaches, they retire into some Forest or another, where they stay for two Months after, till having recovered their full strength, they return to their Husbands. During their stay in the Woods, their Husbands dare not approach them under pain of Death; these ignorant Wretches being persuaded, that there are certain invisible Persons inhabiting these Forests, who, as they are very careful to preserve these Women against any misfortune that might befal them, so they would be sure to pu∣nish the Husband with Death, if he should be so presumptuous as to come near his Wife, whilst she is under their protection in the Forest.

We had the opportunity to be present at the Burial of one of their Dogs: He was of a very large Size, and had been, as it seems, a good Hunting-Dog in his life∣time; for which reason, these poor Wret∣ches made sad moans and lamentations for the loss of so serviceable a Creature: Af∣ter having uttered many things in his praise, they put him into a Grave dug for that purpose, with a piece of Wood under his Head, for fear he should lie uneasy; and as a Monument of their gratitude for his past Services, they erected a little Hutt

over his Grave. We were credibly inform∣ed, that it is a very ancient Custom among these People, to bury all their Dogs, and to reward their past Services in the same manner.

Their manner of living is very miserable, Husbandry being a thing unknown among them: Hunting is their only livelihood; Sables and the Reen-Deer being the only Commodities this Country affords.

We pursued our Journey on the 26^th of May, leaving the small River called Silva Reka on our right Hand, and towards Noon the small River Kine, on the same side, and towards Evening the River Sere∣brena Reka, to the left of us. On the 28^th of May, we passed by Vlko Mesovasa and Sul∣lem Reka to the left of us. On the 29^th of the same Month we left Vlko Serebrena Reka on the same side, and on the Right the River Doria Reka.

On the 1^st of Iune we came to Vlk••gorod, a Place fortified after the Russian manner, with wooden Fortifications, but very small, containing not above twenty Families.

We spent above three Weeks upon the River Susowa, our Vessel being sometimes drawn, sometimes rowed, but always against the Current; which, by reason of the many windings of the River, is very

swift, and so violent, that we were some∣times droven back for a quarter of a Mile before we could recover our selves; be∣sides, that we met with several Cataracts, which took up a whole day before we could pass them, and that not without great danger. To add to our affliction, we were continually pestered with such an infinite number of Gnats, that, whatever precaution we took, it was impossible for us to preserve us against their fury.

All the way betwixt Solamsko and Vlko we saw nothing but Desarts and Rocks on both sides of us, which are most dreadful to behold at a distance; and because we could not go further up the River, we were forc'd to tarry nine days at Vlko, be∣fore we could be furnish'd with Land-Car∣riages; which time we spent in providing our selves with Forage and all other ne∣cessaries; and on the 10^th of Iune set for∣ward again in our Journey to Newa, lea∣ving our Baggage to follow us the next day.

The 12^th of Iune we travell'd through a Town call'd Ajat, situate upon a River of the same name; and the 13^th to another Town called Romasheva, upon the River Resh. The Grounds hereabouts are very fertile and well peopled, abounding in all

sorts of Corn; and whereas, whilst we were upon the River Susowa, we scarce got sight of a Village in 60 Miles; we now could not travel a Verst, or English Mile, with∣out meeting with a good Village, where we were furnish'd with every thing we stood in need of.

Whilst we were in this Town, the In∣babitants received Intelligence by Messen∣gers and Letters sent for that purpose, that the Calmu••k Tartars, to the Number of 6000, had made an Inroad into the next Province; where they had made such mise∣rable havock, with Murthering, Burning, Plundering, and Driving away both Men and Cattle, that they had put all the Country round about under a great Con∣sternation, as dreading the same treat∣ment.

On the 14^th of Iune we reach'd Newagorod, a small, but very pleasant Town; it has but an indifferent Fortification, not much better than Vlko; but is remarkable for its Situation upon the River Newa, the Boundary of Siberia on this side. This Jour∣ney was very pleasant and diverting to us after our former Fatigues and Dangers, the Country being everywhere fill'd with Inhabitants, and the Fields well cultiva∣ted, the wild Roses, and other sweet

Herbs, affording a very agreeable scent, and a most delightful prospect. The plea∣santness of the Place invited us to tarry here a whole day, which we spent in walk∣ing about the Fields, and gathering of Roses, Lillies of the Valley, and such like▪ On the 16^th of Iune our Baggage arrived at Newa-Gorod; and the next following day we again received intelligence, that the above-mentioned Calmuck Tartars were advanced within four days Journey of this Place; and that after they had made them∣selves Masters of a certain Frontier Town, which they had besieged, they intended to march this way: The Inhabitants here∣abouts being sufficiently sensible of the Cruelties exercised by these Vagabonds in their Excursions, were in most dreadful fear of these Barbarians; and we forewar∣ned of the approaching danger, hastned the equipment of our Vessel; which being got ready in five days after, we stay'd not one moment longer: but after we had thus spent seven days betwixt hope and fear at Newa, we set out from thence on the 21^st of Iune, steering our course upon the River for Tobolsko, being provided with a Convoy of 12 Cossacks of the Garison of Newa, for our better security.

The River Resh falls 5 Miles above Newa into another River, where, with its stream, it loses its Name, and is from thenceforward called Niatza. The first Town we met with upon this River on the 22^d, is called Rudna; and not far from thence another goodly Town called Nig∣niske, situate in a very fertile and populous Country, fit both for Pasturage and Til∣lage, the Fields and Plains being sur∣rounded and covered with Rose-trees, which afford a most delightful prospect.

On the 23^d of Iune we pass'd by three very handsome Towns, to wit, Iebitzke, Kerginskoy, and Suborara. On the 24^th we came in sight of the Town called Ia∣lan, famous for nothing else, but that near it, this River joins its Current with the River Kira. Towards the Evening we saw another Town at some distance named Krasna Hobod; and on the 25^th, about Midnight, came to the City of Tu∣men.

It is a large and strong Place, being forti∣fied with a very good Wall; the Inhabitants are for the most part Tartars, who have setled here for the conveniency of Trade: They are much more civilized than any of the other Tartars, by reason of their frequent Conversation with Strangers. Most of

these Towns furnish'd us with fresh Wa∣ter-men; who being well rewarded for their pains, so warmly ply'd their Oars, that we advanced apace.

I cannot pass by here in silence the ex∣traordinary Liberality and Hospitality of the Inhabitants of these Parts; for we scarce could pass by a Town, tho' never so indifferent, but the Inhabitants would come forth and bring us Provisions, and sometimes Furs, without the least reward or recompence, to our no small astonish∣ment, who were not used to meet often with such kind treatment among such Barbarous Nations, they being generally of the Tartarian Race.

The next Town we met with, was cal∣led Makowa, situate on the Confluence of the Rivers Pishma Reka, and the Tura, which runs by the City of Wergaturia.

On the 28^th of Iune we came as far as Sutska, situate on the Confluence of the Rivers Tura and Tobol. The next day we passed by Piesda Reka, and Turba Reka; and on the 30^th of Iune leaving the River Taffda to the Left of us, we arrived safely on the 1^st day of Iuly in the City of To∣bolsko.

This City, which is the Capital of Si∣beria, is situate near the River Tobol, about

3000 Miles from the City of Musco. It is situate upon a Hill of a large Extent, the Suburbs being most inhabited by Tar∣tars. There is here a very fair Mona∣stery, surrounded with a very strong brick Wall. Near this Place the River Irtish joins its Current with the River Tobol; Tobolsko is not only the Capital, but also the chief Place of Trade of all Siberia. Their Traffick consists most in Furrs, such as Sables, Ermins, Fox Skins, and such-like.

The Kingdom of Siberia is watered by a great many large Rivers, among which the River Oby is the chiefest. This River has many Islands, which by reason of the thick Woods are unpassable. In some places the Oby is a League, in other places half a League broad; it abounds in Fish, such as Sturgeon, White-fish or Belluja's, and others.

The principal Cities of Siberia are, Werchaturia, Iapahzeen, Tumen, Tobolsko, Narim, Tomskoy, Kosnezi, Krasnojer, Ker, Ienokisko, Ilim, Mongassy, most of which are very large and populous Cities. The Kingdom of Siberia is surrounded by se∣veral Tartarian Nations, such as the Cal∣muck Tartars, the Tartars of Mongul, and others, as the Tungoskoy, Bratzkoy, Osti∣acky,

Barrabinsy, governed by their own Princes, and each of them distinguish'd by their different Languages. The Sa∣moyedes are under the Jurisdiction of the Czars of Muscovy.

The Natives of Siberia are much ad∣dicted to Sorcery and Idolatry. The Rus∣sians inhabit most of the Cities; Czar Iohn Basilovits was the first who brought this Kingdom under his Jurisdiction, after he had conquered the two Tartarian King∣doms of Casan and Astrachan; since which time they pay their yearly Tribute of all sorts of Furrs which are found in Siberia, to wit, Sables, Martins, red and white Fox Skins, which amount to Two hun∣dred thousand Rubles per Annum.

The Sables are catch'd by the Inhabi∣tants by Traps, not unlike our Rat and Mice-Traps; but they have also another way of Hunting and Killing the Sables, of which we shall have occasion to speak anon. They go a Sable hunting with Sleds drawn by Dogs, who carry the Sleds with more ease over the Snow than Horses. The Czar of Muscovy has the Twentieth of all the Sables that are catch'd through∣out the Year; we being obliged to stay for some time at Tobolsko, as well to re∣pose our selves after so tedious and trouble∣some

a Journey, as to make all necessary Preparations for the future; we passed our time very pleasantly in the Company of the Waywode or Governor Stepan Iva∣novits Sotticove, and his two Sons Fedor Stepanovits, and Ivan Stepanovits, who shew'd us all the Civilities in the World, and there pass'd few days but that they either were with us, or we with them, and entertain'd one another with every thing the Place would afford.

The Ambassador having dispatch'd in the mean while an Express to their Czarish Majesties, and every thing being provided for the prosecution of our Journey, we put as many Provisions, Forage, and other Necessaries on board our two Vessels, as would serve us for three Months: For, from hence to Ienokisko, whither we were bound, is 6000 Miles, for the most part through a desolate Country, where there is but little Forage and Provision to be met with.

Accordingly after we had all taken our leave from the Governor and his Sons, we went on board our Vessels on the 22^d of Iuly, under convoy of 20 Strelitzes or Musqueteers, who were to conduct us to Surgutt, and directed our Course upon the River Irish, towards Ienokisko. The

24^th we sailed with a fair Gale by a Town called Dernjan; but having occasion for fresh Water-men, we went on shoar till we could be supplied with some. Near this place the River Derjansko falls into the Irtish on the Right hand, and the In∣habitants hereabouts being Ostiaky, a lazy and idle People, we changed our Water-men sometimes twice and thrice a day: Of their manner of Living we shall speak more hereafter.

On the 28^th of Iuly, early in the Morn∣ing, we came to a Town called Samurs∣kojam, where we stay'd till the 29^th, when we got on board again by break of day. We had scarce sailed two Miles upon the River Irtish, when we pass'd into ano∣ther lesser River; which being a Branch of the River Oby, we were towed up a∣gainst the Current, and at last, on the first day of August, entred that famous Ri∣ver Oby. This River rising among the Calmuck Tartars from the South-West, disembogues in the Tartarian Sea; it is very dangerous for Ships, by reason of its depth, and the many Rocks, which ren∣der its Waters very boisterous. The 6^th of August we reach'd the City of Surgutt, a Place which has nothing remarkable, but a small Garison; the Governor of

which having given us 16 of them to convoy us to Narim, we sent back those we had taken along with us from Tobol∣sko. Hereabouts you see nothing but a barren desolate Country, inhabited by a few miserable Wretches, who have scarce wherewithal to cover their Nakedness, all their Employment being Hunting of Sables, Ermins and Foxes.

They catch here the Sables in a quite different manner from what we have re∣lated before; for they shoot them with Arrows, or they make fire under the Trees where they know the Sables do shelter themselves; who being suffocated by the Smoak, fall from the Trees, and are soon catch'd. The Ermins they catch in Traps, and the Foxes they hunt with Dogs. We stay'd here till the 9^th of Au∣gust, when being furnish'd with fresh and sturdy young Water-men, who encoura∣ged by the hopes of a good Reward, stood briskly to their Oars, We passed the 13^th the River Wache to the Left of us, on the 19^th the River Tim, and on the 24^th ar∣rived safely at Narim, a City situate on the Left-side of us upon the River Oby.

It is worth observation, that in the Win∣ter-time there is no Travelling from To∣bolsko to Narim with Horses, but this

Journey must be performed in Sleds drawn by Dogs; they put three or four of them before the Sled, and whip them along as we do our Horses. When they go abroad a Hunting, they put their Provisi∣ons and Hunting tackle, such as Bows, Arrows, Launces, and such-like, in one of these Sleds drawn by Dogs, and thus tra∣vel to their rendezvouz, which is some∣times 14 or 15 days Journey from their Habitations, and many times don't return in two months.

The Ostiaky living in these Parts, make use of these Sleds in the same manner when they go abroad a Fishing; so that you may see them bring their Fish to Market in many Sleds all drawn (in the Winter-time) by Dogs.

We were provided here with new Barge-men, and 24 Cossacks, who were to convoy us to Ienokisko, and on the 25^th of August re-imbark'd upon the River Oby, which we left on the 29^th of the same month, and entred the River Ketto, where being obliged to Row against the Current, we were above a month before we could reach the Town of Mokuskoy, from whence we continued our Journey by Land to Ienokisko. We saw abun∣dance of Cedar-trees on both sides of the

River Ketto, and on the first of Septem∣ber refresh'd our selves at a small Town called Kettskoy. But meeting with very slender Accommodation, we got on board again the same night, and did not stir out of the Vessel till the 28^th following, there being nothing but Desarts on both sides of the River. On the 16^th of September we were all on a sudden put under a great Consternation; for it having frozen very hard the night before, we were in no small apprehension of the danger of perishing for want of Necessaries in these Desarts, which must have been infallibly our fate, if the Frost had continued longer; but, as good fortune would have it, we were soon freed from this Danger by a very agreeable Thaw; and being, besides this, encouraged by a fresh and favourable Gale, we made use of all our Skill; and on the 28^th of the same month came to a Monastery, situate upon the Banks of the River, where we reposed our selves for some days, after a long fatigue of a whole month; and in remembrance of the past danger, kept a Thanksgiving day there on the 2^d of October, to offer our Thanks to God Almighty for our Delive∣rance, and to implore his Mercy for the future.

After Prayers, &c. we set Sail again the same Evening, when we passed a small Village, which contained not above six Families. We saw hereabouts abundance of Currant-trees, both black and red; we had met with some of them before near this River, but no where else in so great a quantity, which made us judge, the Grounds hereabouts were more kind and fruitful than in other places. On the 3^d of October died one of the Ambassador's Retinue after 13 days illness: His Name was Iohn George Weltzel, a Native of Germany, of the City of Golding in Silesia, by his Profession a Painter. On the 7^th of the same month, we got safely to the so long wish'd for small City of Mokuskoy, where, among other things, we gratified our selves with a cool draught of very good Beer. By Orders from the Ambas∣sador we interr'd the dead Body of our Friend upon a Hill, upon the very Banks of the River Ietto, where we put a Cross; this being the only Monument we were capable of dedicating to the Memory of our deceased Fellow-traveller.

After we had a little recovered our selves from the past Fatigues, the Ambas∣sador, and most of his Retinue, pursued their Journey by Land on the 10^th of

October, leaving nine of his Attendance behind to take care of the Baggage, which was to follow us, as soon as the Roads should be rendred convenient for the pas∣sage of Sleds. We travell'd for two days and nights through a most dreadful Forest, till on the 12^th of the same month we came in sight of Ienokisko, where we made our publick Entrance the same night, with so much Magnificence, that the Inhabitants were surprized thereat. This City lies upon the River Ienska, famous not only for the conveniency of Shipping, but also for the most prodigious Plenty of Fish it affords. Betwixt this Place and Tobolsko the Ostiacky have their Habitations. They are low of Stature, and very deformed; besides which, both Men and Women con∣stantly are subject to a certain Weakness in their Eyes, the cause of which they at∣tribute to the want of Bread; which be∣ing a scarce Commodity among them, they seldom are masters of it, unless they are by chance furnish'd with it by Travel∣lers; which happening very rarely in so remote a Country, we supplied them with what we were able to spare: Their com∣mon Food is River-fish; and instead of Bread, they make use of the same Fish dried. Whilst we were as yet upon the

River Oby, we were every day suppli'd with great Quantities of the best River-fish by those Ostiacky, who refused our Money, but earnestly entreated us to give them in lieu of it some Salt, Bread, and Chinese Sharr or Tobacco, which we did accordingly.

Not far from the Banks of the River Ketto, I espied one day some wretched Hutts, which believing to belong to the Ostiacky; and being willing to satisfy my curiosity in taking a view of their Habita∣tions, I got on shore; and having easily got admission by the help of a small Pre∣sent of Bread and Salt to the Owners, I entred them, which made a wretched ap∣pearance, being made only of the Barks of Trees.

One among them, somewhat bigger than the rest, and distinguish'd by certain Figures, invited my Curiosity to take a full View of it. Being entred, I found three Women lying upon the Ground, who at the sight of me arose from their places, and by their noddings and threat∣nings sufficiently testified their displea∣sure of seeing a Stranger to interrupt them in their retirement; but being sensible that I had prepared my way by the Pre∣sents given to the Owners, I took, not∣withstanding

all their wry Faces, the li∣berty to search every corner of the Hutt. These three Women, as I was informed afterwards, were the Wives of so many Knezes or Dukes of the Ostiacky, but their Equipage appear'd little suitable to their Quality, for I could not meet with any thing worth taking notice of all over the Hall but their Sheitan, or (as they them∣selves call'd it) their God: This Idol was of Wood, of about a Yard in length, ap∣pearing most dreadful at first sight; the Head of it being covered with a strong Tin or Iron-Plate, which look'd as black as a Chimney-stock, by reason of the ma∣ny Incenses which they offer to this Idol. For the rest, it was dress'd up in a ragged Coat of woollen Cloth, patch'd together with 1000 pieces of all sorts of Colours; I don't remember that ever I saw the most wretched Beggar make so miserable an ap∣pearance as this their God, unto whom this superstitious People attribute a Power of preserving them from ill. All the while we were upon the River betwixt Sergutt and Mokuskoy, we had no other Barge-men but these Ostiacky; who, though they were young and lustly Fellows, and were well entertained on Board of our Vessels, yet were so lazy, that they would rather have

sate at home and starved, than to come and work for a good livelihood. It is by rea∣son of this their lazy Temper, that they seldom take the pains to go abroad a Hunting. And for the same reason it is, that they change continually their Habi∣tations, sometimes 16 or 20 times in a year, because, say they, we are willing to put our selves beyond the reach of such Travellers who come this way, and often∣times, sorely against our wills, force us to the Oars.

The Ambassador being willing to di∣vert us with the simplicity of these igno∣rant Wretches, he caused his Valet du Cham∣bre to bring forth a wooden Drummer; which being very artificially made with Clook-work within, beat the Drum, and express'd some other Motions of the Head, Eyes and Hands so naturally, that the Osti∣acky being at first surprized at it, started back; but having a little recovered them∣selves, and taken a full view of all his Po∣stures, they knock'd their Heads against the Ground, prostrating themselves before the wooden Drummer in the same manner as they do before their Sheitan, or God; at which we could not forbear laugh∣ing.

To continue the sport, a wooden Bear was brought forth by the Ambassador's Order, who, as he was made after the same fashion, so he beat the Drum with his fore-paws, and all the Motions of the Head and Eyes as artificially as the Drum∣mer; wherefore they also paid him the same Veneration. But they soon gave us to understand, that they were much more taken with the Drummer than with the Bear; for they with a very profound Re∣verence begg'd the Ambassador to bestow upon them the Drummer, offering to give the weight of him in Money. But the Ambassador, being unwilling to en∣courage their Idolatry, and for some other Reasons, denied their Request.

Their Garments are made of the Skins of Beasts, with the Furr on the out-side; in the Summer they cloath themselves with the Skins of Fishes. We also made this Observation among them, That some have their Sheitan or Idol made of Wood, others of Lead, and others again of Brass, ac∣cording to their several Abilities; and the poorer sort dress them up in Rags, the richer in Sables.

They have a very odd way of paying their Devotion to this Idol: For, instead of saying their Prayers, they whistle a

certain Tune, with strange Postures, clap∣ping their Hands together, beating their Heads to the ground, and making many Gesticulations with their Feet as they lie prostrate before them, with many more such-like ridiculous Ceremonies, too many to insert here.

Whenever they Feast, they set a certain share of the best Dish aside for the Sheitan; which if they should neglect, they are of opinion, that the Victuals they eat, would turn to Worms in their Bowels; and if they should take it away again from be∣fore the Idol, they are persuaded, they should be struck Lame in all their Limbs. We were credibly informed, that at cer∣tain times they met in their Hutts, where they first began with Whistling, and after∣wards continued to make most horrid Out-cries and Lamentations, till a certain Spe∣ctre appear'd to them, which foretold them what was to happen to them the next year: as for instance, whether they were to be plagued with Famine; whe∣ther they should be fortunate or unfortu∣nate in their Hunting and Fishing; whe∣ther they should continue in Health or not; whether they should marry young or old Wives; whether they should die a Natu∣ral death, or whether they should be slain

or torn to pieces by the Bears and other wild Creatures; and more of such like Predictions: which done, they pay their Adoration to the Spectre; and that being vanish'd, they look upon its Predictions as infallible, and accordingly attend their Fate with an unshaken resolution. They also pay a kind of Veneration to the Bear-Skin, and swear by it. When they have shot a Bear, they cut off his Head; and paying their Veneration to it, they whistle and ask, Who is it that kill'd thee? the Russians did it. Who cut off thy Head? the Russian Axe did it. Who is it that has handled thee thus? the Russians have done it; laying thus all the fault upon the Russi∣ans.

These blind and ignorant Wretches have nevertheless this good Quality belonging to them, that they don't Curse nor Swear; for which they shew such an abhorrence, that they take care to make very lively Impressions against this Vice in their young Babes; being persuaded, That he who Swears falsely or foolishly, shall cer∣tainly be unfortunate the whole Year, and be in danger of being torn to pieces by the Bears, or other wild Beasts.

For the rest, the Ostiacky are great Ad∣mirers of Chinese Sharr or Tobacco, which they take in a manner peculiar to them∣selves: For when they intend to Smoak, they fill their Mouth with Water; and so sucking the Tobacco-smoak in greedily, swallow it down with the Water. For which reason it is, that generally at the taking of the first Pipe in the Morning, they fall down drunk and insensible, but soon recover themselves. They seldom take Tobacco sitting, but always standing. For want of Tobacco, they smoak the sha∣vings of their Tobacco-pipes, which are made of Wood, after a very course fa∣shion.

We stay'd in the City of Ienokisko, or Ie∣nessay, ten Weeks, where we were extream∣ly civilly treated by the Inhabitants, but most especially by the Governor. On the 13^th of December we sent our heavy Bag∣gage before upon Sleds, and the Ambassa∣dor with his Retinue followed on the 21^st of the same month, taking our way to∣wards Irkutskoy. We were conducted out of the Town to the next Village, as well by the Governor himself as the chiefest Inha∣bitants; and after having bid one another farewel, we continued our Journey for some time upon the River Ienska, which

we afterwards left to our Right, and pass'd all along the River Tungusko Reka, or Ton∣gusi, the Boundary of Tungoeses on this side, of whom we shall have occasion to speak more hereafter. We pass'd by several Villages on both sides of the River, and on the 30^th of December took up our Quar∣ters in the Village called Buhutsha, where we refresh'd our selves for four and twenty hours. Beyond this Village begins the great Wolock or Desart, where you travel 8 or 10 days, without meeting any Vil∣lage, or House fit for Entertainment.

In the Year 1693, on New-years-day, we left the above-mentioned Village, and entred the above-mentioned Wolock or De∣sart, which proved very troublesome to us by reason of the Coldness of the Wea∣ther, which was so excessive, that our Victuals and Drink (which was only fair Water) froze, and turn'd to Ice, before we could bring it from hand to mouth. And when we had occasion to travel upon the River, the Mountains of Ice, which often obstructed our passage, were such Obstacles as were not easy to be sur∣mounted, being obliged to cut our way through them with Axes. This prodigi∣ous Quantity of Ice, and the uneven Ways which are all over the Desart, deter most

Travellers from taking this Road in the Winter-time. We had once more the good fortune to overcome all these diffi∣culties, and on the 8^th of Ianuary came safely to the Village called Kasma. To re∣fresh our selves and our Horses after so troublesome a Journey, we were obliged to stay here 13 days, which time we em∣ployed in sending for fresh Horses, and in taking a view of the Habitations of the Tongueses, of whom I will give you a short Relation.

They were formerly a War-like Nation, governed by its own Princes, inhabiting a very large Countrey. But they have of late years been conquered by the Victori∣ous Arms of the Czars of Muscovy, unto whom they pay a yearly Tribute.

As to their Persons, they are very lusty and well proportion'd, their Cloaths be∣ing nothing but the Skins of Beasts, with the Furrs on the outside of divers Colours, neither Sex being to be distinguish'd by the least difference in their Habits. They take a particular pride to have their Cheeks stitch'd (whilst they are young) with black Thread through and through, some cross∣ways, some in imitation of a Square, or any other figure they like best. This un∣accountable piece of Pride, as painful as

it is, (as causing great Swellings in their Faces) they look upon it as Badges of Honour, transmitted to them from their Ancestors; the marks of which they re∣tain with a great deal of satisfaction till their dying-day.

Their Cabans or Hutts are generally made of the Skins of the Reens, or some other wild Beasts; those of the better sort of the Barks of Trees: It is a most sur∣prizing thing to conceive how these poor Wretches are able to defend themselves a∣gainst the Violence of the Cold, in such miserable Cottages; but Custom has inu∣red them to endure these Hardships with∣out the least inconveniency to themselves. For no sooner are their Children come in∣to the World, but they lay them in the Summer in cold Water, in the Winter in the Snow; by which means they are so accustomed to Cold, that they are the hardiest People in the World.

They are distinguish'd into three sorts: The first are called Kunny Tungoesi, who make use of Horses. The second Alenny, who live altogether upon Hunting. The third Sobaltzy, who live more like Dogs than Men.

Their Idols are made only of Wood, every one has his domestick or tutelar God.

There is one who is look'd upon as the Patron of Hunting, who sends them good fortune when they go a Hunting af∣ter the wild Beast or wild Fowl. Ano∣ther makes them successful in catching of Sables; another in Fishing: But some∣times they use their Gods but scurvily; for, if they have offered up their Prayers to them, and are deceived in their expecta∣tion, the God is thrown out of doors, till they happen to have better luck; then they are admitted again, and have their full and best share of what they have got abroad▪

If five or six of these Tonguese Families happen to live near one another (which is very rarely seen) they maintain be∣twixt them a Shaman, which signifies as much as a Sorcerer or Priest. At their Meetings this Priest appears in a Habit distinguish'd by many Figures of Beasts, such as Lions, Bears, Serpents, Adders, and such-like; which being all of Iron, weigh generally above Two hundred pounds weight. Then he beats a Drum in a very doleful manner, at which the standers-by break out into most dreadful Lamentations and Outcries, pretending that they see certain Spectres in the figures of Ravens and other strange Birds; and

the Priest, as if strucken with an Epilep∣tick-fit, falls down upon the ground, and is reverenc'd by these ignorant People as a Saint.

How mean and miserable soever their Condition is, they all of them have seve∣ral Wives, whom they look upon as their greatest Treasure: The richer sort have often 10 or 12, whom they buy from their Fathers, sometimes for 10, some∣times for 15 Reen-deers a-piece.

Their manner of taking an Oath is most abominable: For, he that is to confirm the truth of a thing by his solemn Oath, is obliged to suck the Blood of a Dog wounded for this purpose, with a Knife in his left fore leg, till he expires. They don't bury their dead Corps, but hang them on Trees, where they putrify, and at last waste away. They are very cau∣tious of Swearing or Cursing; the worst Curse they give one another, is to wish them to be forced to live among the Rus∣sians, or to Till the Ground, and such-like.

On the 21^st of Ianuary we left the Vil∣lage of Kasma, and continued our Jour∣ney in Sleds upon the River Tunguska, or Tongusi, till after some time leaving it to the right of us, we passed from thence to

the small River Ilim; both these Rivers are well peopled on both sides of the Shoar. On the 25^th we arrived in the small City of Ilimskoy, situate upon the River Ilim, in the very Center of some high Moun∣tains which surround it. On the 27^th we continued our Journey from thence through a great Forest, which by reason of the badness of the Ways, we did not lay behind us till after a troublesome Jour∣ney of three days and nights, when we came to the River Angara, where we pass'd by many others of less note, the Isle of Balagansko and Kamenko, which are well peopled. Hereabouts live the Brattskoy, who being of the Race of the Mongul Tartars, are Tributaries to the Czars of Muscovy. Betwixt Ienokitsko or Ienessay, and Irkutskoy, great Quantities of Martins and Foxes are caught in the beginning of the Winter; but about Ieno∣kisko are the best black Foxes, which are sold at 20, 25, and 30 Rubles a-piece.

On the 11^th of February we arrived safely in the City of Irkutskoy, situate up∣on the River Angara, where, for several Reasons we stay'd a whole month, in which time we receiv'd all manner of ci∣vility from the Governor Knez Ivan Pe∣trovits Gargaran. As he used often to

invite us to Dinner, I met several times there with a certain person, who being accounted a Saint among the Mongul Tar∣tars, used to mutter out his Prayers, which were very long, holding in his Hands a long String with red Coral Beads, which he told without intermission. On the 15^th of February the Ambassador dis∣patch'd a Messenger to the City of Naun, on the Frontiers of China, to notify our Arrival in those Parts. On the 9^th of March we left the City of Irkutskoy, and being conducted out of the Town by the Governor and the chief Inhabitants to the next Village, we spent the whole night there in making good Cheer; and having bid one another Adieu, the next morning we came on the 10^th of March in sight of the Lake of Baikala, where the River An∣gara has its rise.

This River was from the City of Ir∣kutskoy, to its Entrance into the Lake, quite free from Ice, and had been so all the Win∣ter long. They count it 30 Miles from the City to the Lake, the utmost Boundary of the Kingdom of Siberia.

The Lake of Biakala is about four days. Journey in length, but at this Season we passed its breadth with Sleds in six hours. It is more dangerous in the Summer by

reason of the changeableness of the Winds: The Inhabitants have this superstitious opinion concerning it, That whoever calls it Oser or a Lake, will scarce pass it with∣out danger; but those who give it the Title of Mor or Sea, need not fear any thing. We dined on the 11^th of March upon the said Lake, and towards Evening discovered six Cabans or Hutts belonging to the above-mentioned Brattskoy. Near these Hutts we saw a dead Sheep and Goat fix'd upon a Tree with the Heads upwards, which, they told us, were two Sacrifices made to the Heavens. I made the best inquiry I could concerning their Religion, but could get no satisfactory Account, only that they used to sacrifice a Sheep and a Goat once a year to the Creator of the Heavens, and that they adore the Sun. They are very industrious in Breeding of Cattle, but especially of Camels for the conveniency of the Caravans travelling to China.

We came the same Evening to a Mona∣stery on the other side of the Lake, situate upon the Frontiers of the Province of Dau∣ri, a very large and fertile Country. The next Morning, being the 12^th, we passed through the Towns of Kabania and Bol∣sko Sainko, both small Places, but well

fortified by the Inhabitants, they serving them as Bulwarks against the Tartars of Mongul, On the 19^th of the same Month we came in sight of Vdinskoy, and the Ambassador was met three Miles out of Town by an Officer at the Head of 50 Cossacks, who conducted him to the City, where he was received under the discharge of the Cannon. This Place, which is con∣sidered here as the Key of the Province of Dauri, has not been inhabited above six Years. The Castle, which is very well fortified after the Russian manner, lies up∣on a Hill, from whence they have at se∣veral times bravely repulsed the Mongul Tartars that assaulted them. We lay still here three Weeks, which time we spent (as we had done at Irkutskoy) in buying of Cattle for the conveniency of our Car∣riage. We bought Camels at 10 or 15 Ru∣bles apiece, and Horses for 4, 5, or 6 Ru∣bles. We provided our selves also with as many Oxen as might furnish us with Beef in our Journey to China, and back again.

Being now to travel through the great Desart belonging to the Mongul Tartars, we pack'd our Baggage upon Camels and Horses, the first carrying about 600 weight, the last about 250: We entred the Desart

on the 6^th of April, our Caravan consist∣ing of 250 Men, some Hundreds of Ca∣mels and Horses, and 400 Waggons, which in the night-time being drawn up in a Cir∣cle, enclosed the rest, and at some distance from thence we placed our Centries, to ad∣vertise us of the approach of our Enemies, if any should appear. But they not da∣ring to attack us, took another course to vex us to the utmost of their power; for during the space of three Weeks, that we travell'd through this Desart, where we often were in want of Water for Men and Beast, the Monguls and Tongueses burnt that small quantity of dry Winter-grass that was left, before us; so that be∣ing unprovided with Forage, we saw our Beasts, but especially our Horses, drop down dead for want of Fother; and what was the worst of all, the rest were become so lean, that they were almost rendred quite unserviceable. We lost above a hundred Horses in this Journey, to the great satisfaction of the Tongueses; who Iooking upon Horse-flesh as a great Dainty, devoured them so soon as we had left them. The Tongueses, who are dispersed through these Desarts, are of the same Religion with the Brattskoy, whom we have men∣tioned before. They bury with the dead

Corps of their Friends all their best Move∣ables; and if they become decrepit before they die, they lead them upon a high Mountain, where they burn them, and impale their best Horse near it.

The 24^th and 25^th of April we passed to the left of us by a Lake called Ierawena, abounding with all sorts of very good Fish; it is 20 Miles long, and 15 broad. Here it was we met with the Messenger who had been sent before by the Ambas∣sador to Musko. On the 26^th we came to a small Place called Ierawena, where we provided our selves with as many new Horses as we could get for Money.

It is to be observed, that in the Desarts round about Ierewena, there are the best black Sables; the Cossacks of Ierwena, who are the Sable-hunters hereabouts, go a∣broad a Hunting sometimes for three or four Months together; they make use of Scates, by the help of which they pass over the Snow with great Agility. We bought some of these Sables of them, from 8 and 10, to 20, 30, and 50 Rubles a pair.

On the 28^th of April we again entred the Desart, but met here and there with some Woods. The 29^th we pass'd on Horse-back the River Vda, which arises from a

great Lake, and is here not above three fathoms broad. The want of Fother con∣tinuing among our Cattle, occasioned by the revengefulness of the Monguls, we lost abundance more of our Horses, and the rest were so fatigued that we were in dan∣ger of wanting Provisions, before we could pass the Desarts. For which reason the Ambassador commanded 10 Men to go in quest of Horses, which they effected with good success; for on the 3^d of May they met us with a good number of fresh Horses near the Lake, called Schack's Oser, which is four Miles long, and two broad. We had the good fortune to find here some Fother for our Horses and Camels, which obliged us to stay here till the 5^th of the same Month, when leaving the Lake to our Left, we continued our Journey to another Lake, which we pass'd by on the 6^th in the Morning, and the same day in the Afternoon reach'd the end of this trou∣blesome Desart, after a most tedious and fatiguing Journey of near four Weeks.

The first Place we came to, is called Plotbus, near the small River Skieta, con∣taining not above six Families, who are settled there but very lately.

On the 15^th we continued our Journey from Plotbus by Water upon Floats of

Wood to Nartzinskoy. About a Mile from Plotbus the River Schieta falls into the River Ingeda, as the River Okkon joins its Current with the same at a small di∣stance from thence, and is afterwards cal∣led Schiteka. The Rivers Nertza and Ar∣gun fall afterwards into the same River, out of the last of which arises the famous River of Yamour, which disembogues into the Ocean. On the 20^th of May we came to the City of Nertzinskoy, the last Place of Note (unless it be Argun, a small Town eight days Journey from thence) under the Jurisdiction of the Czar of Muscovy. Nertzinskoy is situate upon the River Nert∣za, where about 6000 Tungoeses, all Sub∣jects to the Czar of Muscovy, have their Habitations; who have fortified them∣selves here against their Enemies. Here∣abouts are abundance of Lucerns and Sa∣bles, which are in great Esteem among the Chineses. We were fain to stay two Months in this place, to give time to our Horses and Camels to recover themselves in the adjacent Pastures. The Cossacks here∣abouts are very Rich, by reason of their Traffick with China, where they are ex∣empted from paying any Custom.

We then began to make all the necessa∣ry Preparations for our Journey through

the Desart; we provided our selves with Oxen, which were to be killed by the way as occasion should require; 50 Cossacks were allotted us as a Convoy to China, and to see us safe back again to Nertzin∣skoy, and the Ambassador appointed such Gentlemen as belonged to his Retinue to manage all the Affairs belonging to the whole Caravan, each in his respective Station; who having the Command both over the Russian Gentlemen and Mer∣chants, were treated by them with a great deal of Respect, especially the Germans, who led the Van, in regard they had had the Honour before their departure from Musco to be admitted to Kiss their Czarish Majesty's hands. On the 18^th of Iuly, when we were just ready to leave Nert∣zinsko, two Cossacks brought Letters to the Ambassador from Offdokim Andre Kurdi∣koff, who, as we said before, had been dispatch'd from Irkutzkoy to the City of Naun, on the Frontiers of China. The Contents of these Letters were, That he being not permitted to go to Peking, the Residence of the Emperor of China, had been obliged to deliver his Letters at Naun; which being dispatch'd from thence to Peking, a certain Person of Qua∣lity, attended by a great many Servants,

was come to Naun to expect the Ambassa∣dor's Arrival. That the said Chinese Lord having sent for him, had asked him, a∣mong other things, upon what account the Ambassador was sent to the Kams Hi Ammaogdo Chan? To which he had answered, That he did not know the least thing of it; but if he did, it would not become him to discover it. He had fur∣ther asked him, What Countreyman the Ambassador was, and in what Station at Court? To which he had reply'd, That he was not able to give him an exact ac∣count of the matter, he having been only taken into his Service at Irtkutskoy, from whence he had soon after been dispatch'd to Naun; That all what he could tell was, That the Ambassador was a German by Birth, and in great Favour at Court, de∣siring him to supersede to ask him any further Questions, which he was not in a capacity to answer.

We did not set out from Nertzinskoy till in the Afternoon, to wit, on the 18^th of Iuly, and reached the same Night with part of our Caravan the River Schileka, where we ferried over. But our whole Caravan consisting of 400 Men, we stay'd here three days, this being the place of our rendezvouz. From hence the Am∣bassador

dispatch'd a Messenger, whose Name was Andre Avonass Kruhoff, to their Czarish Majesty's in Musco.

There were abundance of Gentlemen and Merchants belonging to our Caravan, who traded with Furrs to China. Each of them had 30 Pounds weight of Bisket allotted him for his share, during our whole Journey through the Tartarian De∣sart, which took up two Months. This slender Allowance did not proceed from any Covetousness of the Ambassador, but because we were obliged to manage our Carriages to the best advantage. Besides which, our ordinary Food was good Beef, and sometimes Venison.

From the above-mentioned River Schileka, we travelled three days together through a great Forest full of Bogs, and three days after through a Desart; and further, two days again through a Forest, before we reach'd the River Samur, which falls into the River Schileka. In the night-time we lodged in our Tents, of which we had 50 in Number. There is other∣wise no Travelling hereabouts with Wag∣gons, but only with Camels and Horses. For several days after we met with very bad Ways, the Ground being very boggy till you come to the River of Argun. At

last we came on the 3^d of October to the City of Argun, where we stay'd till the 7^th, it being so long before our whole Ca∣ravan could pass the River. This River is at present the Boundary betwixt the Emperors of Muscovy and China, this City being the utmost Frontier place of the Province of Dauri, as far as it is under the Jurisdiction of the Muscovites. Some years ago the Territories of the Czars of Muscovy extended to the famous River of Yamour, but these were by vertue of a Treaty made in the Year 1689, (when Fedor Alexievits was sent Ambassador to China) betwixt both the Emperors, grant∣ed to the Chineses, as was also the strong Fortress of Albazin, situate upon the same River.

The Mongul Tartars being always a∣broad in Parties, we were obliged to be continually upon our Guard, for fear of our Baggage and Horses: These Monguls are generally great Cowards, ten well disciplin'd Men being able to beat a hun∣dred of them.

The Ambassador dispatch'd from hence some Cossacks to the before-mentioned Ci∣ty of Naun, on the Frontiers of China, to desire the Chinese Governor to send us some Carriages to a certain place. The

best of our diversion was Hunting in the Desart, where there was such vast Num∣bers of Deer, that one night, when we were drawing up our Waggons to make our usual Fence, some Deer leapt among us, of which we catch'd one with our hands. The River Denbu, which exone∣rates it self into the River Argun, is four days Journey from the City of Argun.

The 15^th of August we came to a large Navigable River called Gaun, whose Banks being overflown by the late Rains, we could not pass with our Camels; whereas at other times it is Fordable in many places. Being unwilling to lose time, we contrived a way to transport our selves and the Caravan, by killing a good many of our Oxen, the Hides of which we joined together; and with what Wood we could gather, we made a kind of Floating-Boats for the conveniency of Transportation. But the Hides were car∣ried two Miles lower by the Current, and were not brought on the other side with∣out great danger. Our Floating-Bridges succeeded better, which did us good ser∣vice: The Horses being unloaded, were forced to swim cross the River; We spent two days in passing the River, and lost but one Horse. On the 16^th of August

some Tongueses, who having surprized some Monguls in their Habitations, and after they had massacred 50 of them, had carried the young ones into Slavery, of∣fered us five of these Slaves, to wit, three Boys and two Girls, whom they would willingly have exchanged for Horses. We could have bought them at the rate of 4 or 5 Rubles apiece; but the Ambassador considering that we were entred the Chi∣nese Territories, would not allow us to buy any of them. On the 23^d of August we reach'd the small River Keilar, which falls into the River Arguin; we cross'd the same River the next day on Horse-back. The 26^th of August we cross'd again the River Saduma, a small, but navigable Ri∣ver, which likewise discharges it self into the River Argun. The 27^th we pass'd by the River Gnar, which joins its Current with the River Saduna; and on the 28^th we met a Caravan, consisting of 150 Rus∣sian Merchants, and 300 Camels, but no Horses. They had left Nartzinsko the last Winter, in their Way to China, and were now returning home. They brought us the good News, that the Chineses ex∣pected the Arrival of our Ambassador with a great deal of impatience. We tarried here two days, which time we

spent together as merrily as the circum∣stances of the Place would allow of; they presented us with some Tea, which was very welcome to us, who were grown quite weary of drinking cold Water.

After we had taken our leave of one another, we travelled for two days through a Countrey, very agreeable for its pleasant Hills and fertile Valleys, where the River Iall has its rise, and afterwards becomes a large navigable River. On the 31^st of Au∣gust our Messenger Kundikoff (whom the Ambassador had dispatch'd from Iokutskoy to Naun) returned and brought advice, that a certain Person of Note, in the Quality of an Adogeda (or Conductor of Ambassa∣dors) was arrived from Peking to Naun, where he expected the Arrival of the Am∣bassador. On the 1^st of September there came a Messenger from the said Adogeda to the Ambassador, who having compli∣mented him in his Master's Name, brought us the first Chinese Carriages, and a Present of 10 Sheep, some Rice and Oatmeal, he was sent back immediately.

On the 2^d of September we reach'd the first Out-Guards (consisting of 12 persons) of the Chineses, on the 3^d we came to the second, and on the 4^th to the third. These Scouts lay concealed upon the Hills, and

as soon as they perceive any Caravans or other Strangers coming that way, they give notice to one another by certain Signals, which reach to the Cities of China. For se∣veral days together we travelled through very pleasant Forests, where, among other Trees, we found abundance of Oaks, which were very low, but spread their Branches in a very large Compass. We saw here al∣so Filbird-trees in the Plains, differing in shape from those we have in Europe, as be∣ing not above half or three quarters of a Yard high, and their Stalks very thin; they bear a prodigious quantity of Nuts of a very large size.

The next Place we came to, was inhabi∣ted by the Targuts Chinay, who are Pagans, subject to the Chineses; they are good Hus∣band-men, the Countrey abounding in Oats, Barley, Oatmeal and Tobacco; and we being in want of some Oatmeal and Salt, we furnished our selves with as much as we stood in need of. These People live on the utmost Confines of the Province of Dauri; for that part of the Province which is under the Muscovite Jurisdiction, extends only to the River Argun, from whence to the Village of Suttegarshe, all the rest be∣longs to the Chineses, by vertue of the above-mention'd Treaty. On the 10^th of

September several other Messengers arrived from the Adogeda, who were sent back im∣mediately. After we had travelled three days longer through a Desart, we arrived at last to the Village of Sutt••ga, belonging to the Chineses; where meeting with the Adogeda, whose Attendance consisted of 50 persons, he invited us the same Evening into his Tent, where he presented us with some Thee boil'd in Milk, with Flower and Butter, in wooden Dishes, and some Pre∣serves and Sweet-meats. The 13^th of Sep∣tember the said Adogeda invited the Ambas∣sador, with all his Retinue, to Dinner, where he met the Ambassador at some distance from his Tent, and after a very obliging Salute conducted him with his left hand thither. We stay'd about half an hour be∣fore Dinner was brought in, which time they bestow'd in entertaining one another with several Questions: The Adogeda ask'd the Ambassador, How long he had been travelling from Musco to this place? Unto which he reply'd, A year and a half. He ask'd him further his Name; which he told him was, Ilesar Ilesarevits Isbrand. Whilst they passed their time in such-like discour∣ses, Dinner was served up, upon a small Table, without a Table-cloth, the Ambas∣sador and the Adogeda having each his own

Dish, as had all the rest: Our Dishes were filled with Mutton and Pork; the second Course was Pottage, wherein was a mix∣ture of fine Flower, made in the nature of a Pudding, but very long and thin, not un∣like a Gut: We were put to a nonplus how to manage this Dish; but two Secretaries belonging to the Adogeda, who were much better acquainted with it than we, shew'd us the way. For, instead of Knives, they had two Bonesticks; betwixt these they took up these Puddings, which they thus conveyed to their mouths, which they held over the Dishes; and after they had bit off a good mouthful, they let the rest drop in the Dish again. These Sticks used by the Chineses, in lieu of our Knives and Forks, are streight, of about a quarter of a Yard long, made either of Ebony-Wood, Bones or Ivory, tipp'd on the end where they touch the Victuals, with Gold or Silver, which they use with a great deal of dexte∣rity, without touching the Victuals with their Fingers.

After Dinner two Silver Cups fill'd with Brandy were brought to the Adogeda, one of which he presented to the Ambassador, the other he drunk himself. All the rest had also Purcelain Cups with Brandy pre∣sented them, which they were to take off

to the bottom. The Feast concluded with a Service of Sweetmeats in wooden Dishes.

The 14^th of September the Ambassador invited the Adogeda to his Quarters, where we observed, that our way of Entertaining seem'd to them as strange as theirs had done to us the day before.

After Dinner the Ambassador desir'd the Adogeda to provide us the necessary Carri∣ages and Passes, which he performed to our satisfaction. The Ambassador had for his daily allowance two Sheep; for each of his Secretaries, one Sheep; for each of his Gen∣tlemen, one Sheep; for the rest of his Atten∣dance, some two, some three, some four to a Sheep; for the Cossacks, Labourers and Grooms, ten Men to a Sheep; for the ordi∣nary Fellows, a Measure of Oatmeal each a day; and for the better sort, a Paper with Tea, which was a very plentiful Allow∣ance, but that we wanted Bread, which is a Commodity as little known among the Chineses, as some other Asiaticks.

The Inhabitants of the City of Naun, 5 Miles distant from the Village of Sutti∣gatt, are Idolaters, adoring the Devil in the night-time, with most horrid Out-cries. Their Houses are very commodious and neat, their Livelihood being most Planting of Tobacco. On the 16^th of September the

Ambassador sent to the Adogeda the follow∣ing Presents:

• 10 Sables.
• 50 Ermins.
• 5 Yards of black Cloth.
• A looking-glass with a gilt Frame.
• Another Looking-glass with a black Frame.
• Several Glass-bottles with Aquavitae.
• Some pieces of gilt Leather.
• And several rare pieces made at Augs∣burgh, that moved by the help of Clock-work.

It was a great while before the Adogeda could be prevailed upon to accept these Presents, by reason they are under an obli∣gation not to receive any Presents; for which reason it is, that, when any Presents are offered them, which they cannot in ho∣nour refuse; they have them valued, and are to return double the value of it to those who presented them. On the 21^st the Ado∣geda sent to the Ambassador six Tables co∣vered with Sweetmeats, and two Earthen Bottles of Chinese Brandy. On the 23^d he invited the Ambassador to Dinner, and he was invited by us again on the 24^th.

Having thus diverted our selves for 14 days in the Village of Suttigett, in the mean while that our Carriages were got

ready, we continued our Journey on Mi∣chaelmas-day. Each person of the first Rank had a Waggon drawn by Oxen, and a Horse allowed him. The rest of the Attendance were provided with Waggons, three, four, five and six in a Waggon; we came the same night to a Village, where we took up our Quarters, and the following night to another, where we also stay'd all night, after we had pass'd the day before through a Desart.

It ought to be remembred here, to the great Honour of the Chineses, that they treat Strangers with a great deal of civility: For, tho' we passed through uninhabitable Desarts, yet did we never want Conveni∣encies for Lodging; a sufficient number of Cabans being brought from distant pla∣ces, which were always ready provided a∣gainst our Arrival. They were stor'd with all necessary Utensils for the Kitchen, and each Hutt had a Servant, whose Business was to take care of the Fuel, Water, and other Necessaries. Every other day we had fresh Horses ready at hand, and the Chi∣neses kept all night a constant Guard round our Waggon fence, to prevent any surprize; they were provided with Bells, to give the Alarm to one another in case of necessity.

The Adogeda keeping constant Compa∣ny with our Ambassador during the whole Journey, they often fell in discourse toge∣ther concerning the Nature and Policy of several Nations, which commonly ended in the Praise of China, of which the Ado∣geda, but especially of the Chinese Wall, (round which he told us, a Man could not travel in three years time) related us such Wonders, that we could not but be surpri∣zed at it. Nothing was so troublesome to us in this Desart, as the want of fresh Wa∣ter, which we were forced to dig for very deep, and was commonly so muddy, that it went against our stomachs. If we met with any that was tolerably good, we took care to carry some of it along with us in Leathern Flasks. Our best comfort was, that the Ambassador had every Morning a small Kettle-full of boil'd Tea allowed him for his Breakfast, of which some of us had our share, which was served us in Ca∣bans or Hutts set up for that purpose, at certain distances. We often used to divert our selves with Hunting, these Desarts be∣ing full of all sorts of very good Game. I and another, a particular Friend of mine, rid out one Morning a Hunting, to shoot some wild Sheep, but paid dearly for it; for having lost our Caravan, we rid two days

and nights up and down the Desart, not knowing where we were, till at last we came in sight of some Hutts belonging to the Mongul Tartars, but durst not approach for fear of being assassinated by them. But they having espied us at a distance, came up with us, inviting us to their Cabans, where, beyond all expectation, they treated us very civilly: It is possible they had heard of our Ambassadors coming that way, and judged that we belonged to his Retinue. Our greatest Trouble was how to find out means to send to the Ambassa∣dor, who had sent several of his Men in quest of us: We made them at last under∣stand by many signs who we were, and what our Errand was with the Ambassa∣dor; upon which they sent a Messenger to give him notice where we were: It is easy to be imagined that we were very ea∣ger of going along with the Messenger; but our Horses being quite tired, we were forced to tarry there till our Caravan came by that way.

On the 15^th of October we arrived near the River Casumur, which exonerates it self in the River Naun, where we halted 24 hours, and refresh'd our selves with fair Water, which was as welcome to us as if it had been the best Wine, because we had

been in great want of it before. Having provided our selves with as much as our Leathern Vessels would hold, we continu∣ed our Journey, and on the 19^th passed by the Ruins of several Cities, where we ob∣served the Remnants of very ancient stone Monuments, representing several Figures, quite different from those we meet with in Europe. They say that these Places were destroyed by Alexander the Great. We saw also hereabouts several large stone Pillars of an excessive bigness, which being hung a∣bout with small Bells, made a great noise when they were put in motion by the Wind. Beyond these we saw again the Ruins of several Places, and several Figures cut in Stone, representing Men, Women, and se∣veral sorts of Beasts. Deer, Hares, and wild Sheep we meet in vast numbers, of the last we saw sometimes 2 or 300 together; but they are very difficult to be catch'd, they being nimbler than a Deer. The Hares are hereabouts very small, not much bigger than our Leverets. Pheasants are also here in great quantities, but not easily to be reach'd by the Gun, for they don't settle upon the Trees, but run all along upon the Ground, swifter than other Birds can fly in the Air. We took a great deal of delight in the dexterity of the Chineses, who with

their Arrows would shoot any Bird flying. The Adogeda had very fine Falcons, who seldom let escape any Pheasant or Hare they met with.

The nearer we approached the Chinese Wall, the more populous we found the Country: For three days together, before we came in sight of it, we travelled all o∣ver Rocks and Precipices, through which there was cut a safe Road for the conveni∣ency of Travellers; and in the midst of these Rocks there is a goodly City, called by the Russians, Schoma Gorod, or Kora Ka∣ton. All hereabouts are abundance of Ti∣gers, Leopards, and Panthers, for which reason the Ambassador, upon the persua∣sion of the Adogeda, ordered that no body should ride at any distance from the Cara∣van, unless there were at least three or more in Company. In the City of Kara∣katon some Alterations were made in our Provisions by the Chineses; for, instead of Sheep we had Hogs allowed us, and a Measure of Rice for each person. The Hogs in China have such hanging Bellies, that they touch the Ground.

From hence we had a long days Journey to the Chinese Wall, betwixt Rich, and the City of Naun; the Country is inhabited by the Mongul Tartars, who acknowledge the

Dalaclama for their Head. They keep their Idols in their Houses, and present their Of∣ferings to them, which is commonly Victu∣als and Drink. When they bury their Dead, they put a white Cock upon the Coffin. A Mongul Nun, who was continually mut∣tering her Prayers with her Beads in her hands, being asked by the Ambassador, who it was she adored, she gave for an∣swer, I adore the same God, who being de∣prived of Heaven by your God, will certainly return thither, and put your God out of his place; when you will see strange Alterations upon Earth.

On the 27^th of October, towards Even∣ing, we came in sight of the famous Chi∣nese Wall, which is four Fathoms high, and of such thickness that eight persons may ride upon it a-breast. It is 1500 English Miles long in a straight Line; for if you will count the Hills and vast Mountains upon which it is built in some Places, it would amount at least to 500 more. At each Miles distance there is a Tower. At the first Gate we entred, the Wall appear'd to be much decay'd; but at a Musket-shot from thence we passed through ano∣ther Gate, which resembled a large Basti∣on. We were conducted through two more, and those three last enclosed a large

place with their Walls, the three Gates ser∣ving for as many Bastions. Upon the first Wall we saw a very large Corps de Guards, where, as they told us, there was kept a constant Guard. At some distance from the first Wall without the Gate, there was also a Watch kept, consisting only of 20 Soldi∣ers. About a Mile within the Wall we pas∣sed by to the left of us the City of Galgan, which is surrounded with a very fine stone Wall. Near this Place we met with the first Chinese Idols. It is to be admired what vast Numbers of Temples the Chineses have dedicated to their Idols, all their Cities and Villages are full of them, nay you meet with them upon unaccessible Mountains; they shew very well at a distance. But as to the Figures of their Idols, they are so dreadful as if they had been contrived on purpose to strike Terror into the Beholders. They are made either of Wood or Clay, and are sometimes gilt. In all their Tem∣ples you meet with a certain Idol, which being of a terrible aspect, holds a Scepter in his hand, him they call the God of War, and pay a great deal of Veneration to him. This God is surrounded with Drums of all sizes, which are beaten whilst they are at their Devotion.

We were Quartered in the Suburbs, and

at our arrival were met by their Pipers and others who play'd upon Cymbals, and beat the Drums, but made a very doleful noise. The Adogeda invited us to Supper, where we were very well entertain'd, and were treated with Tarrasun, a Liquor made of Rice. After Supper the Adogeda diverted us with a Play, or rather Farce, acted by the Players that were sent from Peking to meet him. What was most remarkable was, that they acted the Mimicks to the life, and changed their Postures and Cloaths, which were extraordinary Magnificent, frequent∣ly to our great astonishment. On the 28^th of October we passed by another Chinese Ci∣ty, and towards Evening arrived in the Ci∣ty of Xantuning, where the Ambassador was entertained by the Governor with a magnificent Feast, and another Play. All the Apartments were hung with very rich Tapistry, and the whole Entertainment was very noble. The Ambassador, the Go∣vernor and the Adogeda, were plac'd each on a Table by themselves, but we were all put together on one Table. The dishes were brought in one after another, but none taken away till after the Feast was ended. There were in all eight Courses, and as often as a dish (which were all of Purcelain) was brought in, the Clerk of the

Kitchen led the way, admonishing the Guests to eat heartily. At the beginning of the Feast, the Adogeda putting out his Sticks, show'd them to the Ambassador as a Signal, that we should follow his Exam∣ple. Before Dinner we were entertained by a Boy of 10 years of age, who very natu∣rally acted the Mimick, and made strange Postures upon the Ground, which was co∣vered with Tapestry: Which done, seven Purcelain Cups were placed upon a Table, which he took up backwards with his mouth; which he repeated afterwards, holding his hands upon his back. This was followed by an Entry, where a Man and a Woman acted the Lovers, and, to conclude the matter, a Man dressed up in a Tigers Skin pass'd through the Room upon all-fours, to the no small astonishment of those who were ignorant of the contrivance. The Feast lasted above three hours, and the Adogeda desiring the Ambassador to take a Walk with him, they were just going to take their leave, when one of the Adogeda's Servants whispering his Master, that the After-course was going to be served up, they changed their Resolution, and stay'd near two hours longer; during which time they were again diverted by the Players, who changed their Cloaths 8 or 10 times.

The 29^th of October we came in sight of the City of Xunguxu; in this as well as in all other Cities where we pass'd, the Ambassador was treated with all imaginable Respect and Civi∣lity. We were again entertain'd in this City with a Play, in a Play-house fitted up for that purpose. In one of their Temples there, we saw a Goddess, which being of Stone 128 Feet high, had 700 Hands. I had often the curio∣sity to enter their Temples, and to take a view of their Idols, who are of very different shapes and figures, and very terrible to behold, but most magnificently dress'd. Near this Place there is a famous Pagan Temple built upon a very high Rock, near the Monastery of Iu∣gangu.

On the 30^th of October, as we were travel∣ling upon the Road, we met a great Num∣ber of Men and Women, who followed an Idol carried by two Men, and play'd merrily upon their Pipes, Cymbals and Drums. The Ambassador asked the Adogeda, What the meaning was of this Procession? To which he answer'd, That they were going to a neigh∣bouring Temple to perform their Devotion.

The same day we pass'd in sight of a goodly Place, called the Red City, the Residence of the Sister of the Bogdegan, and famous for the Tombs of several Chans. This City lies near the Chinese Wall; we were fain to take up our Lodgings that night in a Village. Early

the next morning the Adogeda sent word to the Ambassador, that, having some business of moment to dispatch, he begg'd his pardon that he could not wait upon him immediate∣ly, but that if he would be pleased to go be∣fore, he would follow him as soon as possibly he could. We had scarce rid three or four hours, when the Adogeda's Steward overtook us near one of their Temples, desiring us to tarry a little in this place, his Master being upon the Road to overtake us. We took this opportunity to take a view of the Temple, where meeting with three more of the Ado∣geda's Servants, we saw them prostrate them∣selves first before the Idol that stood in the middle of the Temple, and afterwards to per∣form the same Ceremony to two others that stood on both sides of it. Towards noon we got to the City of Xangote, where having been entertained with a very handsome din∣ner by the Governor, we continued our Jour∣ney, and took up our nights Lodging in a Countrey Town. The first of November the Ambassador was again treated at dinner by a Governor of another City, and was Quar∣tered also in another Countrey Town at night.

All the way as we passed along the Roads we met with such a prodigious Number of most magnificent Temples, that we could not but admire at the ignorance of these peo∣ple,

who shew so much Veneration to these Idols.

The 2^d of November we came to the great and famous City of Tunxo, situate on a Ri∣ver, where the Ambassador was invited also to dinner by the Governor, who conducted us afterwards out of the Town. That night we were Quartered in the next Town to the City of Peking. The City of Tukxe is fa∣mous for its, Traffick in Purcelain, which is sold here much cheaper than in Peking. The Chinese have a way of Pleating their Sails together in a very small Compass.

On the 3^d of November, towards noon, we made a publick Entry in the Capital Ci∣ty of Peking, in very good Order and great Splendor, the Streets being crowded with vast Numbers of Spectators on both sides of the way, which raised such a dust, that we scarce could see one another: We had our Lodgings assigned us in the Court, which is the ordinary Residence of Foreign Ambas∣sadors.

On the 12^th of November the Adagada and his Tawares or Associate, waited upon the Ambassador, to give him notice that he was to be admitted to his publick Audience the next day, and to be conducted thither by 30 Horses, desiring him to get his Cre∣dentials and the Presents ready against that time. He asked the Ambassador who was

to carry the Presents? and being answered, That this was to be performed by the Cos∣sacks, he shew'd his dislike, desiring that it might be done by some of his Retinue; which the Ambassador refused, telling him, That when they were carried to the place where they were to be delivered, he would do it with his own hands, wherewith he was very well satisfied, desiring only, that they might be conveyed with good Cou∣verts. Matters being thus settled, the Am∣bassador drank to him a Glass of Spanish Wine, to the Health of the Dorgamba; who being one of the first Men of the Empire, he took it off to the bottom; whereas before this time, we could never persuade any of them to pledge us, they being a very ob∣stinate people, and very noisy with their Tongues, if not gratified in their desires.

It was the 14^th of November before the Ambassador could be in readiness to deliver his Credentials, when we were conducted to Court in the following manner: 15 Cos∣sacks, who carried the Presents, led the Van; these were followed by one of the Masters of the Jewel-Office belonging to the Czar of Muscovy. After him the Secretary of the Em∣bassy, who carried the Credentials After him came the Ambassador betwixt the two Ado∣geda's; and lastly, the rest of the Gentlemen belonging to the Ambassador.

At the Entrance of the Castle, we did alight from our Horses, and marched on foot through a long Gate, arch'd on the top. Before we entred the second Gate, we pass'd over a very fine Stone-Bridge, about 50 or 60 Paces long, on both sides of which we took notice of a Wall about three foot high, with many Figures cut in Stone. Within the Gate we were conducted through a very spacious Court, where we saw two large Pillars, very ar∣tificially wrought with variety of Figures. From thence we went into a very fine Hall, where we found two Tables. No sooner were we entred there, but the Adogeda desir'd the Ambassador to sit down upon the Ground upon such Bolsters as were brought thither for that purpose; and soon after we saw four Lords, who are the Chiefest of the whole Empire, to enter the Room before the Bogdegan him∣self. These four were the Dorgamba, the Askamba, the Aligamba, and the Adogam∣ba. After the Credentials were deliver∣ed to the King himself, the Presents were given to the Adogeda, who laid them up∣on the two Tables. Which done; the Dorgamba, with the other three Lords, came up to the Ambassador, and after having made their Compliments, and

given him each both their Hands, the Dorgamba, after his congratulatory Speech upon our happy arrival, enquir'd after Health of both their Czarish Majesties, telling him, that his Credentials should be forthwith translated, and he to receive an Answer to the same. After which, he told him what allowance was to be given to himself and his Retinue; to wit: eve∣ry day for the Ambassador himself, two Sheep, one Goose, three Pullets, three Fish, a large measure of Flower, a large measure of Rice, two Pound of Butter, two Papers of Thee, Salt, and other Things proportionable, besides two Gal∣lons of Tarrasun. The rest of his Re∣tinue and other Servants, had the same Allowance as before, with some addition of Flower, Butter and Tarrasun.

The Ambassador being reconducted to his Quarters by the two Adogeda's, scarce three hours were pass'd, before the young∣est of the two Adogeda's brought word, that the Czar's Letters had been receiv'd with a great deal of Satisfaction, desiring him in the Bogdegan's Name, to come and take a share, with all his Retinue of his own Table. As they were going a∣long the Streets to Court on Horse-back, the Adogeda told the Ambassdor, that he

ought to look upon this Invitation as a most particular Grace, it being not custo∣mary for Ambassdors to receive this Ho∣nour immediately after the delivery of their Credentials.

Being entred the same Hall where the Credentials had been deliver'd before, the Adogeda invited the Ambassador to sit down, and soon after entred the same four Lords before the Bogdegan, and sa∣luted the Ambassador very obligingly. Immediately after, four Tables were brought into the Room, two of which were cover'd with forty Silver Dishes, full of all Sorts of Sweet-Meats, for the Amhassador, the other two (where there were also some Sweet-Meats, and a Dish with boil'd cold Mutton) fell to our share. After Dinner, we were treated with Thee boil'd in Milk, in wooden Dish∣es, which we took, and re-delivered to the Servants, with making deep Reve∣ences. So soon as the Ambassador arose from the Table, all his Sweet-Meats were given to his Attendants; but what was left upon our Tables, was divided among the Cosacks.

The 16^th of November, the Dorgam∣ba, with several other Chinese Lords, and the two Adogeda's, came to pay a Visit to

the Ambassador; who entertain'd them with a Sett of very good Musick, at which they seem'd to be extreamly well satisfied; and after they had staid some time, the Ambassador made to the Dor∣gamba these following Presents.

A large Looking-Glass with a black wooden Frame. A less Looking-Glass.

A round Looking-Glass with a gilt Frame. Two Watches.

Twenty pieces of gilt Leather.

Several fine Cuts.

Six very fine Crystal-Glasses.

A large Case for Glasses.

Three large Dogs spotted like Tygers.

A fine black Gun-Dog.

A piece of fine Hollin Linen-Cloth.

Four Lac'd Handkerchiefs;

Besides some Sables, black Foxes, Er∣mins, and other Siberian Commodities, which were received in a most obliging manner by the Dorgamba. On the 17^th of November, two Heralds at Arms, were sent to invite the Ambassador and four∣teen of the Gentlemen of his Retinue, to the Bogdegan's Table; and we were not a Musket-shot from our Quarters, be∣fore we were met by the Adogeda's, who conducted us into the Castle. Being en∣tred the same Hall, where we had deliver'd

our Credentials before. The Adogeda presented the Ambassador and his Retinue, with Chairs; immediately after, came the four abovementioned Lords, who af∣ter having paid their Complements to the Ambassador, asked him, whether he could speak Latin; and being answer'd, he did not: they asked further, whether any of his Retinue were Masters of the said Language; and it being told him, that there was one who had some Knowledge of it, but not to perfection; they left us to return our Answer to the Bogdegan. We sat above four or five hours before word was brought us, that we were to come to the Bogdegan; but were in the mean while treated with Thee boil'd in Milk by the Adogeda. An account was likewise taken of our Names, how many there were of us; which done, the Ado∣geda receiv'd Orders to conduct us. We pass'd through three several Gates, and as many large and handsome Courts; among which, one deserves to be particularly taken notice of. For in the midst of it, there was a Bridge of Marble, sustain'd by very fine Arches; under which was a Water, which being call'd, the Bogdegan's Fish-Pond, had the resemblance of a fair small River, and surrounded the Castle.

So soon as we entred the Room, where the Bogdegan was seated upon his Throne, the Ambassador was plac'd by the Adoge∣da's on one side of the Throne, which was surrounded with above three hundred Courtiers, who all wore the Emperour's Armes upon their Breasts and Backs. The Roof of this Room was extraordinary high, and the sides adorn'd with a great number of Marble Statues. Just oppo∣site to it was the Emperour's Temple, a most magnificent Structure. On the o∣ther side of the Room, you look'd into an∣other Court, where were the Lodgings of the Enuchs and other Women, that attended in the Emperour's Seraglio. The Ambassador was placed on the left-hand of the Throne, and his Attendance about four Rods behind him, on the right-hand; just opposite to the Ambassadors were the four abovementioned Lords; About forty Persons, armed with Half-Pikes and Bat∣tle-Axes attended about the Throne. We had not sat very long, before we saw a Table cover'd all over with Dishes of Massive Gold, and fill'd with Sweet-Meats brought in, which was set before the Emperour; After this, two Tables with Sweet-Meats were brought in for the four Lords; and next to them, another Table

with Sweet-Meats for the Ambassador; several Tables were placed for us, three belonging to a Table; The Sweet-Meats were all serv'd in Silver Dishes; besides which there were Grapes, Apples, Pears, Chesnuts, China-Oranges, Citrons, and other Fruits. As for the Chineses, of whom there were above a hundred, each had his own Table, with several Dishes of Meat.

So soon as we saw the Emperour be∣gin to eat, we were obliged to pay our Reverence by a low inclination of the Head, and then we eat of what was be∣fore us. After Dinner, which lasted a∣bove three hours, two large Cups of Brandy were presented to the Bogdegan, who ordered the Dorgamba and another Great Lord, to conduct the Ambassador upon the Throne; Being advanc'd upon the Steps, the Dorgamba, by orders from the Emperour, presented one of these Cups to the Ambassador, telling him, that he must make a low Reverence, and drink it all off at a Draught.

In the mean while, some Iesuits having been sent for, they appear'd instantly, and by Orders from the Emperour, spoke to the Ambassador in Latin; who an∣swering them in Italian, that he was not

very well vers'd in the Latin Tongue, one of the Fathers began to talk in Itali∣an with the Ambassador, whom he ask∣ed many Questions, and among the rest, How long it was since he left Muscovy? Unto which he having given a suitable Answer, he was re-conducted to his place. We were also each in his turn, placed op∣posite to the Throne, and presented with a golden Cup of Brandy, which after we had taken up, with a very low Reverence, we were re-conducted to our respective places. Soon after we as well as the Chi∣neses there present, had some Thee boil'd in Milk presented to us in wooden Dishes, which as before we received, and return'd with a very low bow to the very ground. The Tables being remov'd, we were con∣ducted out of the Room, which done, both the Adogeda's made a sign to the Ambassador to follow them into another Apartment, which was done, because we should not see the Bogdegan descend from his Throne. He is originally a Mongul Tartar, of a brown Complexion, of a∣bout 45 years of Age.

The Ambassador desir'd to be dismiss'd for that time, but the Dorgamba return'd from the Emperour, and asked the Am∣bassador, whether he could tell any tidings

concerning some Iesuits, who about three years before intended to travel to China, by the way of Muscovy, but were stopt in their Journey? The Ambassador hav∣ing answer'd that he knew nothing of them, the Dorgamba return'd with this Answer to the Emperour. In the mean while we were conducted to our former places, where the Adogeda desir'd the Ambassador to sit down a little, till the Sweet-Meats that were left, could be given to our Servants; which was done accordingly; it being a very antient Cu∣stom among the Chineses, always to let the Remnants of the Emperour's Table to be carried home. Our Servants being well loaden with Sweet-Meats, the two Adogeda's reconducted the Ambassador to his Quarters.

On the 18th of November, we as well as the Cosacks were entertain'd at our Quarters from the Emperour's Table. There was a Table in the Ambassador's Appartment for his own use, those for the Gentlemen was laid in the Hall. All the Tables being cover'd with Meats, two of the Bogdegan's Courtiers came to de∣sire the Ambassador and his Retinue in the Emperour's Name to sit down, which we did with a profound Reverence, in

respect to his Imperial Majesty. Our Dishes were, boil'd Geese, Pullets, Eggs, and all sorts of Meats; Grapes, Apples, Pears, Wall-nuts, Chesnuts, Citrons, China-Oranges, all sorts of Preserves and Sweet-Meats. The Cosacks din'd in the Court; and before Dinner, were all pre∣sented with Thee boil'd in Milk. Towards Evening the two Adogeda's came to tell the Ambassador, that the Bogdegan was going to make a Progress for 20 days; and on the 7th of December, they came to give us notice of his return to Peking.

On the 8th we were again invited to the Bogdegan's Table, where we were treated in the same manner as before. On the 11th the Askamba and Surgushey, were sent by the Bogdegan, to invite the Ambassador and his Retinue to be present at a great Feast at Court, and to be con∣ducted through the left-side of the Castle, whereas before, we had been brought in through the Great Court on the right∣side.

Accordingly next Morning, five hours before day-light, the two Adogeda's came to our Quarters, and conducted us on Horse-back to the Castle, where being entred on the left-side, the Adogeda's de∣sired the Ambassador to sit down, where

we were treated several times with Thee; in the mean while that one of the Ado∣geda's was gone to receive his further In∣structions. At break of day, both the Adogeda's led us into a Court, where we saw two Elephants of an extraordinary bigness, with very rich Furnitures: Op∣posite to them, we saw a great many Drums plac'd upon the Ground, near which stood the Emperour's Guards, cloath'd in red Damask, and all round the Court we saw above a hundred Chairs, belonging to the Chinese Lords. Being from thence conducted to the place where the Bogdegan was to make his Appearance, we entred on the left-side, where we saw several hundreds Chinese Lords very mag∣nificently dress'd, with the Emperour's Armes upon their Backs and Breasts, sit∣ting upon Bolsters or Cushions, upon the ground. Their Caps were adorn'd with the Feathers of Peacocks, which were fastn'd to them with fine Crystals. Those of the first Rank had very large Saphirs upon their Caps. Near to these we had our Seats assign'd us; and scarce had we thus sat an hour, when by the discharge of a Cannon (which made no great noise) a signal was given for the Chi∣neses to rise, whilst the Bogdegan was

coming in to mount his Throne, which stood directly opposite to the Door, thro' which we were introduc'd. All on a sud∣den we heard a Chime of Bells, which being the signal for the Chineses, they in very good Order made their appearance before the Bogdegan: In the mean while, a certain Person who stood near the Bog∣degan, read for above an hour with a very loud and audible Voice out of a Book, which done, we heard very fine singing at some distance from us; After this two Drums were beat, which being another signal to the Chineses, they fell upon their Knees, bending their Heads to the ground, three times, one after another. Then they rise, and several Musical Instruments made an agreeable Harmony for some time, during which they performed the same reverence twice more, and so took their Seats again. We were then con∣ducted by the two Adogedan's in the pre∣sence of the Bogdean, where we perform∣ed the same Ceremony in the same man∣ner as the Chineses had done; And the Ambassador being led by the Hand by the Adogeda up to the Bogdegan's Throne, had the honour to receive a dish of Thee from the Bogdegan's own hands. We were likewise, after we had taken our Seats,

again treated with Thee boil'd in Milk, being obliged every time we took and re delivered the Cup, to turn our left-Leg under our Bodies, and so to make a low Inclination with our Heads. Soon after, the Ambassador being re-conduct∣ed by the Adogeda to his Seat, the Chine∣ses, all on a sudden, plac'd themselves on the right-side upon their bended Knees, knocking their Heads against the Ground three times, whilst the Bogdegan was de∣scending from the Throne. We were led by the two Adogeda's to the same place, where we were obliged to perform the same Ceremony. That part of the Court where the Bogdegan's Throne was plac'd, was lin'd with his Guards, cloath'd in red Damask, and arm'd with Battle-Axes and Half-Piques. The Solemnity being ended, we pass'd again through the place where before we had deliver'd our Cre∣dentials, in order to our return to our Quarters; but the Adogeda's desiring the Ambassador to stay a little longer, there being some Chinese Lords, who were ve∣ry ambitious to see the Ambassador and his Retinue, he granted his request. As we were coming out of the Castle, we saw one of the Elephants, which was shewn us before, draw a great Waggon,

in which was the Bogdegan's Throne; we were scarce return'd to our Quarters, when the Adogeda again entreated the Ambassa∣dor to go along with him to the Bogde∣gan's Play-house, vvhere a very diverting Play vvas acted that day. He invited not only the Ambassador's Retinue, but also all the Merchants and Cosacks, to partake of the Shovv. And as vve vvere on our way thither, we met several Chi∣nese Lords, among whom was the As∣kamba, who came on purpose to bear the Ambassador Company thither. Before Dinner we had the diversion of seeing a Fellow play all sorts of Tricks. He took a stick, which was sharp at one end in his Hand, on which he fixed a large round wooden Ball, which turn'd it self with∣out intermission upon the Stick, till he threw it in the Air, and catch'd it again upon the point of the Stick, where it rowl'd about like before; Secondly, he took another Stick, but not so big as the former, which he fixed upon his upper Lip; in the middle of this Stick was a small wooden Horse, which continually turn'd about the Stick, as did another wooden Ball on the top of the Stick. Sometimes he put the Stick upon his Thumb, where it perform'd the same o∣peration.

Thirdly, he put the same Stick through a certain Instrument, not unlike our Flutes, which he held in his Mouth. On the point of the Stick he had fixed two Knives, not unlike our Shoe-maker's Knives, with their Edges to one another, which turn'd themselves upon the Stick to the no small astonishment of the Specta∣tors. Fourthly, he took three ordinary Knives, two of which he kept steady in his left-hand, but no sooner had he thrown the third up in the Air, but the other two follow'd, which he catch'd all three by the Handles. He shew'd us also several fine Postures on Horse-back, and whilst we were very magnificently treated at Dinner, we had the diversion of the Play, which lasted till night; when we return'd home well satisfied with our En∣tertainment.

The 18th of December, hoth the Ado∣geda's came to salute the Ambassador in the Name of the Dorgamba, and to in∣vite him and the Chiefest of his Dome∣sticks to pass the next day at his House. The next Morning his Horses stood ready to attend us at our Quarters, from whence we went directly to the Dorgamba's Palace. We were conducted by the A∣dogeda's in a small appartment, where

we found the Dorgamba ready to receive the Ambassador, which he did in very obli∣ging terms. Soon after we were treated with Thee boil'd in Milk, and the Am∣bassador having communicated for some time with the Dorgamba, concerning the Instructions, he had received from their Czarish Majesty's, the Ambassador was conducted from thence into the Dining-Room. As we entred the Room, the Players who were very magnificently dress'd, stood ready to begin the Play, which they did accordingly; It is the Cu∣stom in China for the Actors to give a Book, containing the Contents of many Plays, to the Master of the Feasts, out of which he chuses which he likes best, which is commonly perform'd by sing∣ing in the nature of our Opera's.

The Dorgamba sat at a Table by himself, next to him was plac'd the Ambassador at another Table, and next to him the two Adogeda's at another. Two other Tables were brought in for the Ambassador's Retinue; we were treated with great deal of Splendor. Our Drink was Aqua vitae prepared with Cinnamon, which was brought to us in golden Cups, and we were forced to take it off quite to the bot∣tom, the Dorgamba shewing us the way

by his own Example. The Floor was covered all over with Tapistry, and be∣hind the Dorgamba stood a little Page with a Basket made of Straw-work, which was the Dorgamba's Spitting-Pot. Thus we spent the greatest part of the day with a great deal of Diversion, and on the 19th, being a great Feast day at Court, we were again splendidly Entertained at the Bog∣degan's Table.

In the year 1694. on the 6th of Ianu∣ary, and on the 16th, we were again in∣vited to the Bogdegan's Table. On the 26th of the same month, the Dorgamba obliged us with the sight of a very fierce Panther, and the same day we were again ad∣mitted to the Bogdegan's Table. On the 27th we paid a visit to the Jesuits, who treated us with a very good Breakfast; Their Church is a very curious piece of Architecture, with a fine Organ, which is placed on the outside of it towards the Street. There were at that time eight Fathers of that Society at Peking. On the 29th it was a hard Frost, with a strong North Wind and abundance of Snow. On the 4th of February both the Adogeda's brought Orders for the Ambassador to make his Appearance at Court. Accor∣dingly we went on Horseback to Court on the 5th of February, where after we

had been entertain'd very splendidly at the Bogdegan's Table, the Ambassador was told, that according to his desire he should be dismiss'd in twelve nights.

Accordingly on the 15th of Febr. the Bogdegan sent one of his Coutiers to the Am∣bassador to desire him to come to Court the next morning with all his Attendance, and the Cosacks, to receive the usual Pre∣sents of the Bogdegan. The day be∣fore we went to Court we were treated at the Bogdegan's Charge at our Quarters, when the Ambassador with his whole Attendance went on Horseback, being conducted by the Adogeda's into a spacious Court, where we received the following Presents.

A Horse, with Bridle and Saddle, and all other Accoutrements.

A Chinese Cap, with a Silk Puff on the top of it.

A Sur-toot of Damask Brocaded with Gold Serpents, and lined with Lamb-Skins.

A Scarff, a Knife, 6 Handkerchiefs, and 2 Tobacco Bags.

A pair of Leather Boots, and a pair of Silk Stockings.

A piece of Black Sattin of 10 yards.

A piece of Ludan of 20 yards. 16 pieces of Kitaick.

7 Lan of Silver worth 14 Crowns.

The Ambassador's Gentlemen had each of them the following Presents.

A Chinese Cap, with a red Silk Puff on the top.

A Damask Surtoot lined with Lambs-Skin.

A piece of Sattin of 10 yards.

A piece of Ludan of 10 yards.

A Scarff, with a Knife, 2 Tobacco Baggs, and 6 Handkerchiefs.

One pair of Leather Boots, with a pair of Silk Stockings quilted with Cotton.

16 pieces of Kitaick.

One Lan and a half of Silver worth 3 Crowns.

The Cosacks and Servants received each the following Presents.

A piece of Sattin of 10 yards.

Eight pieces of Kitaick.

One Lan of Silver.

On the 18th of February, the Ambassa∣dor being again invited to Court, the Dorgamba told him, that if he were ready for his departure, the Carriages should attend him the next morning at his Quarters. I am not ignorant that in this place I ought to give the Reader a particular Account of the Manners, Cu∣stoms and Religion of the Chineses; but I will content my self to give only in this

Journal a general Account of the Empire of China, and its Capital City called Peking.

The most Potent Empire of China is known under several Names among Fo∣reign Nations. The Tartars call it Katay, those of Siam, Sin, the Iapanneses, Than, and some of the Tartarian Nations call it Han. The Chineses themselves have given it many Sir-names; for among the many Families that have sway'd the Chi∣nese Scepter, each Founder of its Race has assigned it its particular Title. Thus it is called Than, (broad without measure) Iu, (Peace), Tha, (large), Sciam, (pleasant), Cheu, (complea••); but among all the rest, the Chineses have retain'd two, the first of which is, Chungehoa, that is, the Middle Empire, and Chunque, which is the Middle Garden, being of Opinion that the Earth was four Square, and their Empire in the midst of it.

This vast Country was in the year before the Birth of Christ 2254, divided into 12 Provinces by their Emperor Xucus, and by his Successor Iva into 9, which at that time comprehended only the Nor∣thern Provinces, as far as the River Kiang. But after the Southern Parts were united with this Empire, it was divided into

fifteen Provinces. Most of them were formerly under the Jurisdiction of their own Princes, but after they were Conquered and United with the Chinese Crown, were Governed by Viceroy's, who to this day have the Administration of Affairs in those Places. It is divided into the Northern and Southern Part. The first is that which is properly called Katay by the Tartars, and comprehends 5 Provinces: to wit, Peking, Xantung, Xansi, Xiemsi, Honan, to which some add the Province of Leaotung, and the Penin∣sula of Corea. The other 9 Provinces, are; Nanking, Chekiang, Kiangsi, Hu∣quang, Suchuen, Queicheu, Iunnan, Qu∣angsi, Quantung, Fockien, which by one general Name are called by the Tartars, Mangin. The North and Southern Pro∣vinces are divided by the River Kiang, (by the Chineses,) called the Son of the Ocean.) The Empire of China borders on the East on the great Eastern Ocean, cal∣led by the Chineses, Tung. Towards the North, on the Chinese Wall, which di∣vides it from the Great Tartary; on the West it has the Mountain of Thebet to the Confines of Bengala: On the South-side is the Kingdom of Couchinchina, which is Tributary to the Chineses Empire. Its

whole Breadth, from the Isle of Hanon, situate under the 18th Degree of North Latitude, to the 42th Degree of North Latitude, is 330 German Leagues. Its length from the West, under the 112th Degree, till East under the 34th Degree, near the City Ningpo or Nampo, is 450 German Leagues.

This whole Empire seems both by Art and Nature made impregnable. For on the West side is the Mountain of Thebet, and the great Desart of Xama; On the North side the famous Chinese Wall, which was begun to be built in the year 215 be∣fore Christ's Birth, and was finished in 5 years; On the South and East it is sur∣rounded with the Ocean, where by reason of the many Rocks and Sands there is no no safe Landing unless it be in a few places.

The City of Peking, the Capital of the Empire, and Residence of its Kings, has borrowed its Name from the Province of Peking, which on the East Borders on the great Gulph betwixt Corea and Iapan; on the North-East upon the Province of Leaotung, on the North upon the Great Tartary, and part of the Chinese Wall, and on the West the Province of Xansi. This Province has 8 famous Cities, to wit;

Peking, Paoting, Hokian, Chinting, Xunte, Quanping, Taming, and Iunping: The City of Peking is situate under 39 De∣grees 59 Minutes upon the Northern Con∣fines of the Province of Peking, not far from the famous Chinese Wall. On the South side it is fortified with two very strong and high Walls. The Suburbs are enclosed in one single Wall, with 3 very good Bastions on each side of the Gate. You enter these Suburbs by a Bridge built over a River, which to the North side surrounds the Wall; from the Suburbs through the South-Gate, it is half an hours walking before you come to the Body of the City, where, at the Entrance there is a very high Bastion, and as you turn to the left, another well-mounted with Cannon, from whence you may go into the City through the Old Gate. There are many other Bastions to be seen all round the Walls, where every night the Garison keeps as strict a Guard as if an Enemy were near at hand; but in the day time, the Emperor's Gentlemen of the Bed-Chamber Guard the Gates, not so much for its Defence, as to look after the Customs, which are to be paid there. The Citizens Houses are gene∣rally finely built, and the Palaces of

Persons of Quality very stately Structures, but their greatest Magnificence appears in their Triumphal Arches. Their Temples are Adorned with Steeples of an extra∣ordinary height, and most Artificially built: But the Streets of this so stately City are in no wise suitable to its Gran∣deur, there being very few among them Paved with Stones, which seems to be strange in a place where they don't want these Materials, the Streets being extreamly inconvenient and trou∣blesome to walk both in fair and fowl weather. In dry weather, when the Wind blows from the North, the Dust is raised all over the City to that degree, that it spoils every thing in the Houses. The Inhabitants preserve themselves a lit∣tle when they go abroad, by wearing a thin Veil almost like our Gawses, over their Faces, which comes down to their Breasts; besides that, they can see every body that passes without being seen by them, and without exposing their Fa∣ces to the Dust; they enjoy by it this conveniency, that they are not obliged to those frequent Salutes and other Cere∣monies which are so much admired, and otherwise practised among the Chineses.

All the Chinese Women are of a verylow Stature, those of Quality have very little Feet, in which they take a particular pride, for which reason they keep them extraordinary streightned, to such an ex∣cess, that many thereby quite lose the use of their Feet. It is look'd upon as very ignominious among the Chinese Ladies to shew their naked Feet. There is scarce a Street, Bridge or Gate in the City of Pe∣king, where you don't meet with Horses or Asses, which may be hir'd for a small price to go up and down the Streets, where a Servant attends you and your Horse. The Streets are always crouded with People; here you may see one dance upon the Rope, in another place you see one upon the Stage, who is surrounded with many Auditors, unto whom he relates certain Stories, and these reward him for his pains with a kind of Brass-Money, which being four square, sign'd on one side with four Characters, and a hole in the middle for the conveniency of carry∣ing them upon a string, ten of them make no more than a Penny. But when any thing is to be bought or paid with Silver they use this method: they always wear by their sides a pair of Shears, and Weights enclosed in wooden Cases in their

Pockets, by which means they cut the Silver Plates, and weigh of it as much as they have occasion for at that time. You meet sometimes in the Streets certain Chi∣neses, who beat their Breasts with stones, others knock their Heads against Stones, till the Blood follows. There is scarce a Street but what has many Publick-houses, which are distinguished by their Sign-Posts, where you find it written what sort of Liquor they sell within. These Houses are very neatly kept, and afford∣ing good Accommodation.

But it is time to look backwards, and to give you a short Account of our re∣turn to Muscovy.

On the 19th of February towards Even∣ing, we began our Journey from Peking, being conducted out the Town by the two Adogeda's, and several other Persons of Quality to the next Village. About five days Journey from Peking, the Sur∣gushey (who was to conduct us as far as to the City of Naun) brought us through an old ruined City, where in one of their Temples, we saw an Idol made of Clay but richly gilt, representing a Woman; it was about 15 yards high, and had ma∣ny Heads and Hands. Not far from thence in a Gallery, you saw another Figure, re∣sembling

a Woman kind, which they said, was her Daughter, lie in a Bed of Damask Quilt, cover'd with rich Chinese Carpets.

On the 30th of May, we came to the City of Naun, and took up our Quarters in the Village Suttigart. On the 5th of April, I was surprised in my Quarters by a very strange Spectacle; For my Host's Daughter appear'd all on a sudden, as if she had been possess'd by the Devil, mak∣ing such horrid out-cries, as put us all in a fright. After she had thus continued for some time, she began to sing very agreeably for half an hour, when the o∣ther Women there present, having begun to sing certain Verses, she answered them immediately. I was so curious as to en∣quire, what could be the meaning of all this; to which they reply'd, that there being a Neighbour's Child very ill, this Virgin had been consulted concerning her Recovery, she being one vvho vvas in great Esteem among them, and look'd upon as a Saint. The Neighbours vvere no sooner departed, but an Aunt of hers took a fevv Coals, upon vvhich she threw certain Incenses, vvhich holding near her Face, she soon opened her Eyes, and re∣covered her Senses.

On the 14th of April, vve set forvvard in our Journey from Naun, in Company of a Chinese Envoy, vvho being a native of the City of Margenn, vvas sent by the Bogdegan, to the Waywode of Nartzinskoy. On the 23th of April, vve pass'd over a very high Mountain, not vvithout a great deal of difficulty, the Snow being above a Yard high on the top. On the 25th, vve changed our Course, being forevvarn'd by our Guide, vvho vvas a Tungoese, that three or four thousand Mongul Tartars laid in Ambush for us, expecting our coming at a certain place. This obliged the Ambassador to chuse an∣other Road more to the right. On the 27th, vve came to the River Laduna, vvhere vve halted for some time. On the 2d of May, vve pass'd over the River Keilar, and vve had not travell'd very far, before on the third of May, vve vvere overraken by a Fire: For the Mon∣gul Tartars, finding they had miss'd their Aim, had out of Revenge, set fire to the long and dry Grass, which was remain∣ing, after the Winter Season, in the Desart, which being augmented by the violent Winds that blew towards us, surprised us so on a sudden, that we had not time enough left us, to save our Tents. If this

Fire had surprised us as we were upon our march, scarce any body would have es∣caped the Flames that surrounded us on all sides. But now we had the good for∣tune to save our Cattle, and the damage received by the Fire was inconsiderable on our side, what was endamaged in our Carriages, being all repair'd in one day. The worst was, that being depri∣ved of Forage, some of our Cattle died daily for want of it, and we our selves be∣gan to be much streightned for Provisions. For which reason the Ambassador dis∣patched three Cosacks to the Waywode of Nartzinskoy, to solicite prompt Succors of Cattle and Provisions. And wherever we could light of any Horses or Camels, we bought them up at a dear rate; the first at 40 and 50, the last at 70 or 80 Rubels a-piece.

The 8th of May, we came to the Ri∣ver Margenn, where meeting with good Forage, we staid two days to refresh our Cattle. And as we were travelling, we lost one of our Russian Servants, who having lost his Horse, was lost himself in looking after it. On the 12th, we pass'd the River Gann with our loaden Camels and Horses; and finding the Trees here∣abouts full of green Leaves and a plea∣sant

Country, we staid here two days. On the 15th of May; we met the Con∣voy, which by order of the Governour of Nartzinskoy, was sent us from Argunn. They came to us in very good time; for if they had staid two days longer, our Cattle must all have perish'd, and we been dro∣ven to the necessity of feeding on Horse-Flesh; for most of our Servants had lost their Horses before, and were fain to march on Foot through the Desart. On the 21th of May, notwithstanding there was a deep Snow faln the night before, we Ferry'd over the River of Argunn, a long days Journey from the City of the same name, where we staid till the 25th and provided our selves with all Neces∣saries, enough to serve us till we came to Nartzinskoy. Most of our Attendance began to be very sickly hereabouts, by reason, that having not been used to any Bread before these six Months, they eat of it with too much greediness. At some distance from Argunn, the Ambassador, with some of his German and Russian At∣tendance left the Caravan, making the best of thei•• way towards Nartzinskoy. On the 1st of Iune, we came to a small River, which being by the late Rains rendred impassable by Horses, we were

feign to strip, and so to swim over our selves and our Horses. On the second, we arriv'd safely at Nartzinskoy, as did our Caravan on the 9th following. The 13th of Iune, three Tungoeses brought the Russian Servant, whom we had lost on the 8th of May in the Desart to Nart∣zinskoy. He had swarved about the De∣sart for three days, having no other Food, but Herbs and Roots, and meeting at last with these three Tungoeses, whom he believed to have been Mongul Tartars, he put himself in a posture of defence, and would not have surrendred himself, if his Horse had not been so tir'd, as not to be able to stir any longer. On the 3d of Iuly, we set forward from Nartzinskoy, after the Ambassador had dispatch'd two Messengers to Mosco, to notifie our safe arrival, to Their Czarish Majesties; and on the same day the Chinese Envoy, whom we mentioned before, return'd from thence to Naun. This last Winter, whilst we were at Peking, 350 Cosacks of Nartzinskoy, and 500 Tungoeses, had made an Incursion into the Territories of the Mongul Tartars, through the Desarts of Nartzinskoy, with such Success, that they had attack'd and ruin'd their Habi∣tations on two several places, put all the

old ones to the Sword, and carried off the young ones into Slavery. The 13th of Iuly, we came to Plotbus, the 15th to the Lake of Shock, the 19th to the Lake of Ierawena, near which are three Lakes more. On the 21th of Iuly, our two Messengers, who had been dispatch'd to Mosco, as we mention'd before, return'd to us in a pitiful Condition, they having been overtaken about 10 Miles from V∣dinsko, by some Mongul Tartars, who had robb'd and stript them, but had not taken their Letters from them. On the 22th, we foarded the River Ana, which falls into the River Vda: And on the 26th the River Kurba, which running with a very swift current, disembogues likewise in the River Vda. On the 27th, in the Afternoon, we arriv'd safely at Vdinsko; where we sold our Camels and Horses at five Rubels a-piece; whereas the Camels had cost us 35 and 40 Rubels, and the Horses 10 and 15 a-piece. On the 28th, we embarqu'd our selves on board two large Vessels; and towards Evening went on shoar in a great Village, call'd Saimko∣jam Linsko, on the left-side of the River Selinga. On the 29th in the Afternoon, we set Sail from thence, and on the 31th came to the entrance of the Lake of Bai∣kela,

where we were fain to lay by for two hours, and afterwards row'd three miles further, before we could make use of our Sails. Towards Evening the wind chopping about, we were droven back for several miles, and at last met with a place fit for Anchorage. The Winds be∣ing somewhat laid, we early in the Morn∣ing set Sail again, and happily made the River of Angara, and so arriv'd on the first of August, toward Noon at Irkutskoy. On the 5th, we again set Sail from hence to∣wards Ienekiskoy. On the 11th, we went on shoar in a Town belonging to the Bratskoy, on the left-side of the River of Angara, into which falls hereabouts an∣other very large River. We left that Place again the same day in the After∣noon, and had not sail'd above a Mile, when we were forced to pass a very dan∣gerous Cataract (or Water-fall) call'd Pogmaly. Not far from thence we pass'd another, call'd Pyan, much longer than the former; and no sooner were the Vessels brought over this dangerous Place, but they were in danger of having been swal∣lowed up in a Whirl-pool. On the 12th of August, we came to another Cataract, call'd Poduna, where we were fain to un∣load our Vessels; the Passage being very

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streight and dangerous. On the 13th, we pass'd another Cataract, not so dan∣gerous as the former, but which conti∣nued for four or five miles. On the 14th, we came to an Anchor near the Cataract, call'd Skamansko, till we could be provi∣ded with expert Watermen, who being acquainted with the River, brought our Vessels safely without being unloaden (the Water being very high) over the Cataract, tho' it was near three Miles long. On the 16th, before Noon, we pass'd by the River Itim, which falls on the right-hand into the River Tungusko, as the Angara does to the left. We pass'd the same day over another Cataract; and on the 17th left the River Ketto to the right of us. On the 19th, we pass'd o∣ver three several Cataracts, near the last of which, we were met by a Messenger, whose name being Andreknihoff, had been dispatch'd by the Ambassador from Nart∣zinskoy to Musco. On the 22d, we left the River Kama to the right of us; and on the 25th in the Morning, pass'd over another most dangerous Cataract, and ar∣rived safely the same Evening at Ienekis∣koy. We continued our Journey from thence on the 1st of September by Land to Makoffsko, where we arriv'd the 3d day,

and on the 7th, set forward again to∣wards Tobolsko. On the 12th, we din'd in a Monastery, but did not stay longer than till night. On the 23d, early in the Morning, we came to Iam-Kutskoy; and on the 26th towards Evening, to the Ci∣ty of Narim, about a Mile distance from the River Oby, where we embarqu'd on the 28th, but came on shoar again in the Afternoon, by reason of a strong North-wind, which was quite contrary to us; we were fain to lie here till the 30th. On the 3d of October, the Wind veering about again to the North, we were obliged to come to another again till night; when we pass'd by the River Wache. The 4th, the Wind blew strong again from the North, so that we were fain to lie still till the next Morning. On the 6th, we were stopt again by the North-wind, besides which, it froze very hard that night. On the 8th, we got on shoar at Surgutt; and on the 9th the North-wind blew very strong against us, with great Snows and a hard Frost, so that we were obliged to stay on shoar till the 11th, when it began to thaw; but the North-wind continued till the 13th, in the Morning, when we set Sail again, and pass'd by two Villages; the 14th, in the Forenoon, we entred

the River Irtish; and on the 15th, early in the Morning, arriv'd safely at Samors∣kojam.

The Ambassador being indisposed staid there till the 14th of November, when, being restor'd to his former Health by the use of proper Remedies, and the River Irtish being quite frozen up in the mean while, we continued our Journey from Samarskojam in Sleds. On the 19th, we came to Demjansko; and on the 20th to Tobolsko. Betwixt Samarskojam and To∣bolsko, we pass'd by abundance of Huts belonging to the Ostiaki, most of Wood, and the Roads were hereabouts very nar∣row and not well beaten. On the 17th of December, we left Tobolsko; and the 20th in the Afternoon arrived at Tumen. From thence we went on the 21st, and came on the 23d too early in the Morn∣ing to the City of Iapantshin, where we staid only till the next day; and on the 27th early in the Morning, arrived in the City of Wergaturia, from whence we went further on in our Journey the 28th.

In the Year 1695, on New-years-day, we came to the City of Sotokamskoy, where we staid till the next day; On the 5th we reach'd Kaigorod, which we left again the 6th; and on the 9th came

to Iam-Vsga, situate upon the River Si∣sella. The 9th we din'd at Iata Pyoldie, and the 11th at Ianrspas Vspilsco. The 12th we reach'd St. Soto Witzogda, where we staid the next day till towards Even∣ing. The 14th we came to the City of Vtingha, and left it again the 15th to∣wards Evening. The 18th we din'd in the City of Totma, where we staid till the 19th towards night. The 21st, early in the Morning we reach'd Schusca-jam, and continued our Journey from thencethe next day. The 25th we came to Ieresla, where we only staid till night. On the 27th to Peresla, from whence we set forward a∣gain in our Journey on the 29th, and on the 31st of Ian. at night, arrived safely in a Vil∣llage, call'd Alexeshe on the River Ianse, not above five miles from the City of Musco.

Here the Ambassador received Orders to stay till the next Morning, when Czar Pe∣ter Alexievits came to this place to confer with him in private. After they had spent some hours together, the Czar took the Ambassador along with him to Ischmei∣loff, and from thence to Brebolensko; and we arrived the same day, being the 1st of February, safely in the City of Musco, where we repos'd our selves after our Jour∣ney to China, in which we had spent 3 years, wanting 6 weeks.

FINIS.