t M. Gabet, who, with his frozen face, and his singular
envelope of many-coloured wrappers, was by no means unlike those alarming
idols that we see in pagan temples. After contemplating for awhile the
famous Lama of the western sky, the brigand addressed some further words,
in an under tone, to the Thibetian merchant; then, making a sign to his
companions, they all jumped into their saddles, set off at a gallop, and
soon disappeared behind the mountains. "Do not let us go any further
to-day," said the Thibetian merchant; "but set up our tents where we are;
the Kolo are robbers, but they have lofty and generous souls; when they
see that we place ourselves without fear in their hands, they will not
attack us. Besides," added he, "I believe they hold in much awe the
power of the Lamas of the western sky." We adopted the counsel of the
Thibetian merchants, and proceeded to encamp.

The tents were scarcely set up, when the Kolo reappeared on the crest of
the mountain, and once more galloped down upon us with their habitual
impetuosity. The chief alone entered the encampment, his men awaiting him
at a short distance outside. The Kolo addressed the Thibetian who had
previously conversed with him. "I have come," said he, "for an
explanation of a point that I don't at all understand. You know that we
are encamped on the other side of the mountain, yet you venture to set up
your tents here, close by us. How many men, then, have you in your
company?" "We are only eighteen; you, I believe, are twenty-seven in
number; but brave men never run away." "You'll fight, then?" "If there
were not several invalids amongst us, I would answer, Yes; for I have
already shown the Kolo that I am not afraid of them." "Have you fought
with the Kolo? When was it? What's your name?" "It's five years ago,
at the affair of the Tchanak-Kampo, and here's a little reminiscence of
it;" and, throwing back the sleeve of his right arm, he showed the
cicatrice of a great sabre cut. The brigand laughed, and again requested
his interlocutor's name. "I am called Rala-Tchembe," said the merchant;
"you ought to know the name." "Yes, all the Kolos know it; it is the
name of a brave man." So saying, he dismounted, and taking a sabre from
his girdle, presented it to the Thibetian. "Here," said he, "accept this
sabre; 'tis the best I have; we have fought one another before; in
future, when we meet, it shall be as brothers." The Thibetian received
the