Mr.Chase told me at Nicolayevsk that he thought one of the monuments was used as an altar when the monastery flourished.

There are no historical data regarding the ruins beyond those found on the stones.
Many of the Russians and Chinese believe the site was selected by Genghis Khan, and the monastery commemorated one of his triumphs.

The natives look upon the spot with veneration, and frequently go there to practice their mysterious rites.
Before leaving Nicolayevsk I asked the captain of the Irigodah how fast his boat could steam.

"Oh!" said he, "ten or twelve versts an hour." Accustomed to our habit of exaggerating the powers of a steamer, I expected no more than eight or nine versts.

I was surprised to find we really made twelve to fifteen versts an hour.