Page:Mongolia, the Tangut country, and the solitudes of northern Tibet vol 2 (1876).djvu/127

Rh, but from the summit of the pass leading to the second we could see, at a distance of upwards of a mile, about a hundred mounted Dungans escorting a flock of sheep. On observing us they fired a few shots and closed the defile through which we were marching. The effect of this manœuvre on our guides was astonishing. Paralysed with fear, they muttered their prayers in a trembling tone of voice, imploring us to return; but we knew very well that retreat would give courage to the enemy, who could easily have overtaken us on their horses; and we therefore determined to force a passage. We were four well-armed and resolute men: as we marched ahead of our caravan, the guides followed with the camels, and were only prevented from deserting by our threat of shooting the first who turned back. The danger was great, but there was no help for it, and we had full confidence in the excellence of our arms and the well-known cowardice of the Dungans.

Our calculations proved correct. On observing our forward movement, the Dungans fired a few more shots, and before we had approached within range fled to either side of the high road at right angles with our advance. Leaving the defile, we crossed the road and began the ascent of a very steep high pass. To add to our difficulties night came on and a violent snow-storm overtook us, rendering it extremely difficult for the camels to keep their footing. The descent was even worse; we had to feel our way down in the dark, stumbling and falling at every step. After an hour's advance,