July-August 1903, World Tour, Part II Image 18

ground is again given up to the wonderful birch mostly. In moonlight at 10:00 P.M. can still see the pine spreading its arms above the birches. August 7th 4:30 A.M. P. cembra, spruce and birch still with us. A few open meadowy spots, people at work before 6 o’clock, women mow, split wood, plow, etc. Yet seem able for the harvest work. 6:00 A.M. Yesterday’s time. Have just crossed fine stream, probably a branch of Yenesei. 7:00 Local time today A.M. Have just left Atchinsk where had tea. Both Cembra and sylvestris with birch, and think I saw larch. Spruce common and good-sized poplars. A great deal of hay, little grain. Dark cloudy morning. Temperature 65°. Elevation about 1200 feet, probably too high. Yesterday had heavy rain towards eveniing, and magnificent whole double rainbow. Met Mr. Brown at Taiga (Tomsk station) Sargent’s friend, came 200 miles from mining claim in Altai foothills to meet us (in 28 hours) in wagon and take us to his place for a good time, making all arrangements for relays of horses. Of course, was sorely disappointed when Mr. Sargent senior decided it was too far and would take too long. Young Sargent also disappointed. I feel sorry to see such eager hospitality foiled. Told of the game, blackcock, grouse, deer Maral (elk) etc., and a steamer trip on Yenesei where are bluffs like those on Hudson, the most beautiful and picturesque part of Siberia, etc.