THIS book is an attempt at combining a record of exploration with the teaching of a little elementary physiography. Facts newly observed and theories of my own are also woven into the general description of a characteristic region. May the difficulties of the experiment in some measure reconcile the general reader, desirous of hearing something interesting or amusing, and the critical scholar in search of information. The style of the book sufficiently accounts for the omission of an incubus of footnotes and literary references. I have absorbed the writings of others, not quoted them. The bibliographical list at the end will, I hope, form the necessary acknowledgment of intellectual property. Scientific discussion has been reserved for the Appendix, where I have laid stress on the intricacies of many problems, also drawing attention to various questions to be cleared up by future travellers. The student of physical geography for whom this book has chiefly been written need not despair when faced by frequent doubts. Scepticism tempered with enthusiasm is the attitude of true science.

I express my deepest gratitude to the Council of the Royal Geographical Society and to the Syndics of the University Press who, by their munificent help, have both enabled me to publish this work. Nor can I forget that invaluable guide behind the scenes, the Corrector.

My sincere thanks are due to the Imperial Russian Government and its political representatives, as well as to His Royal Highness the Amir of Bokhara, for permission to travel in their dominions and for the invaluable assistance they always gave me. I also include many kind friends and helpers in Russian Turkestan and the Caucasus.