As to those going through to Pekin, I have no doubt of Ephrinell and Miss Horatia Bluett nor the German baron, nor the two Chinese, nor Major Noltitz, nor the Caternas, nor even for the haughty gentleman whose bony outline I perceive in the corner of the second car.
As to these travelers who are not going across the frontier, they are of most perfect insignificance in my eyes.

But among my companions I have not yet found the hero of my chronicle! let us hope he will declare himself as we proceed.
My intention is to take notes hour by hour--what did I say?
To "minute" my journey.

Before the night closes in I go out on the platform of the car to have a last look at the surrounding country.

An hour with my cigar will take me to Kizil Arvat, where the train has to stop for some time.

In going from the second to the first car I meet Major Noltitz.