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Rh I was surprised to learn that it had been hewn out of the solid rock by the Neuroomians ages ago. There were appliances by which we could ascend from the harbour to the observatory in a very brief space of time. However I preferred to walk, in order to see more of this stupendous structure. The steps, which were cut out of the cliff, went zigzag up the mountain, at the top of which was a broad fenced-in avenue, surrounding the observatory itself, which appeared to be as high as the mountain, and built of the most durable metals found on the continent.

We began to ascend the enclosed stairs, which wound round and round the building, itself circular in form. At certain intervals were small platforms that led to rooms on different floors. We entered a few of them; some were almost empty, but others, again, were filled with machinery, in which, however, I took but little interest.

On reaching Yondozi's quarters, the first room we entered (his studio) was well stocked with books, maps, diagrams, and mathematical instruments. It could not, however, be said to have had a tidy appearance, for books and instruments were happily mixed up together on tables and shelves as if they had been recently used. After