t may
do them good. God, do Thou bless it to them! Would I could speak to
them, but I cannot. I am glad to be saved the trouble of travelling
to-day. My mind feels at rest for the present. I am looking about
me, and having my first look at the life I am likely to lead.
There are several more Mongol dwellings within sight, plenty of
camels, horses, and oxen. The Mongols have a tent of their own, and
the "commandant's" tent has also been put up. A Mongol has just
come up and changed his dress, his cloak serving him as a tent
meantime. I am hesitating whether to try to read in my cart or go
off a little way with my plaid and umbrella.

'Had not a very intellectual or spiritual day after all. Went in
the afternoon away to the east. Had a good view and a time of
devotion at a cairn from which an eagle rose as I approached.
Returned to the camp and bought milk and some cheese. Intended to
make porridge, but the fire was not good on account of the blowing,
so I drank off my milk, ate some bread, and went to sleep.'

The journey across the desert, including a visit to Urga, occupied a
month. It was full of intense interest for the traveller, and many of
the most abiding impressions of his life and work were then received.
His diary reveals the deep yearnings of his heart for the salvation of
the Mongols. Under the date September 11, 1870, he writes:--

'Astir by daybreak. Camels watering; made porridge and tea. This is
the Lord's day; help me, O Lord, to be in the spirit, and to be
glad and rejoice in the day which Thou hast made! Several huts in
sight. When shall I be able to speak to the people? O Lord, suggest
by the Spirit how I should come among them, and guide me in gaining
the language, and in preparing myself to teach the life and love of
Christ Jesus! Oh, let me live for Christ, and feel day by day the
blessedness of a will given up to God, and the happiness of a life
which has its every circumstance working for my good!'

His constant rule was to rest from all journeying, so far as
possible, on the Sabbath. After another week's experience, on
September 18 he thus records his impressions:--

'Encamped just over the plain we saw at sunset last night. We are
some distance from the real exit, but not far. This is the Lord's
day; God help me to be in the spirit notwi