Afghanistan and the Anglo-Russian Dispute by Theo. F. Rodenbough
page 33 of 129 (25%)
page 33 of 129 (25%)
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on a hill about three hundred feet high, in which are a number of
cells excavated in the rock, not unlike those found in the Zuni country in the western part of the United States. The male figure is about 160 feet, the female 120 feet, in height; they are clothed in light drapery, and a winding stair may be ascended to the head. Eight miles eastward of Bamian lies the ancient fortress of Zohak, attributed to the fabulous Persian serpent-king of that name. It is still used as one of the defences of the pass. [Illustration: Castle of Zohak, First March from Bamian, on the Irak Road to Kabul.] The animals of Afghanistan adapted to military transport purposes are the camel, the _yabu_ (mountain pony), and the donkey. From certain professional papers, on the camel, by Captain Yaldwyn and other officers of the Indian Army, we learn that this beast of burden has been often utilized by the British in Afghanistan, and the supply of camels raised in that country has generally been augmented by drafts from India, although the last mentioned do not thrive under the transition. The camel is docile, capable of abstinence in an emergency, well adapted for the imposition of loads and for traversing over flat or sandy ground, adapts itself to rough roads, has acute sight and smell, and, during progression, moves both feet on one side, simultaneously. Its flesh and milk are wholesome articles of food. It is deficient in muscular power behind, and cannot readily climb hills. Those found in Afghanistan |
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