In their ears they wore long pendants, and their dresses were generally arranged with taste.
When recalled by the steam whistle we left the village and took a short route down a steep bank to the boat.

In descending, my feet passed from under me, and I had the pleasure of sliding about ten yards before stopping.

Had it not been for a Cossack who happened in my way I should have entered the Amoor after the manner of an otter, and afforded much amusement to the spectators, though comparatively little to myself.

The sliding attracted no special attention as it was supposed to be the American custom, and I did not deem it prudent to make an explanation lest the story might bring discredit to my nationality.
[Illustration: TAIL PIECE--A TURN OUT].