of the Taotai at Lanchow, I had not asked the Viceroy for an introduction to Labrang, which he would probably not have refused and which would have been of great importance. Two days before leaving Lanchow I had actually informed the Taotai, as agreed, and had asked for a passport and introduction. Various excuses and prolonged negotiations, however, induced me to start without any other papers than my passport from Peiping. At Hochow I was given a passport by the Taotai, but the letter for Labrang failed to arrive and the mandarin at Hochow could not write direct to Labrang, but had to do so through Syn hua ting.
In view of the situation, in which I was placed, there was nothing for it but to make March 26th.
the best of a bad job and try to overcome the difficulties by my own diplomacy. The po- Labrang
pulation seemed to be anything but friendly. When I showed myself, I was hooted at and monastery.
hissed from some part of the large yard. My »brave» Dungan soldiers, who were also to act as interpreters, seemed to stand in great awe of everything Tangut. When I gave orders this morning that the horses were to be saddled for a ride to the monastery, they said that they did not dare to accompany me unless Ma laoje came with us. We risked being stoned. It was only when they realised that I was determined to ride there by myself, if necessary, that they obeyeJ my orders and saddled their horses. I took specimens of all my modest presents with me, had a large piece of red silk cut into long, narrow strips and started off. It is the custom to exchange gifts of silk sashes or cloths, when paying a visit.
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IIIFカラー高解像度
