There were mud villages, poor and falling into ruins; there were everywhere signs of poverty and famine.

Children ran about naked, or in rags.

We passed the likin-barrier, known by its white flag, and I was not even asked for my visiting card, nor were my boxes looked into--they were as beggarly as the district--but poor carriers were detained, and a few cash unjustly wrung from them.

At a crowded teahouse, a few miles from the city, we waited for the stragglers, while many wayfarers gathered in to see me.
Prices were ranging higher.

Tea here was 4 cash, and not 2 cash as hitherto.