As to these, it will be well-nigh impossible to obtain an entrance, so jealously are they all guarded.

None save the garrisons are allowed to enter.

The paths, which are often so steep and difficult that men and provisions have to be slung up in baskets, are guarded night and day, and none are allowed to approach the foot of the rocks within musket shot--lest, I suppose, they might find some spot where an ascent could be made.

The garrisons are seldom changed.

The soldiers are allowed to take their wives and families up with them, but once there, they are as much prisoners as those in the dungeons.