Page:Burke, W.S. - Cycling in Bengal (1898).djvu/41

 Between Dhunwa and Shergotty three rivers are crossed—two are bridged, over the third we are carried on charpoys in the dry season, and ferried on rafts in the rains. This is the Teelajan, the stone bridge over which was swept away many years ago. It has never been repaired, and in approaching it after leaving Barah (about midway), tourists must be cautious, otherwise they may topple over into the bed of the river, as the approaches to the ruined bridge are not guarded in any way. But there is a road leading off the avenue just before the bridge is reached; this leads down to the bank, where charpoys or boats are always available. We are now in the Gaya district, of which Shergotty is a good-sized municipality situated on the point where the Grand Trunk Road crosses the Murahar river. It used to be a flourishing place, but the construction of the E. I. Railway has caused its decline. Vestiges of its old industries in brass, wood and iron can still be traced, for the descendants of the skilled artisans of days gone by continue business on restricted lines. It has a large population—largely criminal. Inside of three hours after leaving the Dhunwa pass, we should be seated at breakfast in the Shergotty Dâk Bungalow, and if we get under way in good time, we ought to be resting during the heat of the day in the Narungabad bungalow. Narungabad is a large place, but supplies are of the poorest; therefore we suggest carrying a cold collation from Shergotty. There are seventeen miles between us and Dehree, and it will take quite four hours, for the Sone river (three miles wide) has to be crossed. If we do not reach the river bank till late, we can stay the night at the Baroon dâk Bungalow and cross in the