"As to the nature of the country, I myself know but little, for my dealings with the natives have been few and simple.

There are, however, several Christian communities dwelling among the heathen.

They are poor, and are forced to live in little-frequented localities.

Their Christianity may be suspected by their neighbours, but as they do no man harm, and carry on their worship in secret, they are little interfered with.

There is one community among the hills between this and Jerusalem, and I can give you instructions for reaching this, together with a token which will secure you hospitality there, and they will no doubt do their best to forward you to another station.