Small-pox was raging in the place when Gerome left it; also a loathsome disease called the "Bouton d'alep "-- a painful boil which, oddly enough, always makes its appearance upon the body in odd numbers, never in even.

It is caused by drinking or washing in unboiled water.

Though seldom fatal, there is no cure for the complaint but complete change of climate.
We now set about making preparations for the journey.

Provisions, saddlery, both had to be thought of; and, having laid in a small stock of Liebig, tea, biscuits, chocolate, and cigarettes (for space was limited), I proceeded, under Gerome's guidance, to purchase a saddle.
Seventy-five roubles bought a capital one, including bridle.

Here let me advise those visiting Persia to follow my example, and buy their saddlery in Tiflis.