ecting rock, which we could not remove. Here
the same sagacious examination took place, the elephant keeping his flat
side close to the side of the bank, and leaning against it. The next
step was against a tree; but this, on the first pressure of his trunk,
he did not like. Here his driver made use of the most endearing
epithets, such as "Wonderful, my life"--"Well done, my dear"--"My
dove"--"My son"--"My wife;" but all these endearing appellations, of
which elephants are so fond, would not induce him to try again. Force
was at length resorted to, and the elephant roared terrifically, but
would not move. Something was then removed; he seemed satisfied, as
before; and he in time ascended that stupendous ghaut. On his reaching
the top, his delight was visible in a most eminent degree; he caressed
his keeper, and threw the dirt about in a most playful manner. Another
elephant, a much younger animal, was now to follow. He had watched the
ascent of the other with the most intense interest, making motions all
the while, as though he was assisting him by shouldering him up the
acclivity; such gestures as I have seen some men make when spectators of
gymnastic exercises. When he saw his comrade up, he evinced his pleasure
by giving a salute, something like the sound of a trumpet. When called
upon to take his turn, however, he seemed much alarmed, and would not
act at all without force. When he was two steps up, he slipped, but
recovered himself by digging his toes in the earth. With the exception
of this little accident, he ascended exceedingly well. When this
elephant was near the top, the other, who had already performed his
task, extended his trunk to the assistance of his brother in distress,
round which the younger animal entwined his, and thus reached the summit
of the ghaut in safety. Having both accomplished their task, their
greeting was as cordial as if they had been long separated from each
other, and had just escaped from some perilous achievement. They
mutually embraced each other, and stood face to face for a considerable
time, as if whispering congratulations. Their driver then made them
salaam to the general, who ordered them five rupees each for sweetmeats.
On this reward of their merit being ordered, they immediately returned
thanks by another salaam.

At the top of this ghaut we left five companies of native infantry to
protect our baggage, that must necessarily follow through this pass.
Pioneers were also lef