Introductory material

VIEW OF MOUNT ARARAT. This is taken from a celebrated painting, not from a photograph, but is, perhaps, even better than a photographic view as it sets out the peculiar nature of the country. In the foreground is a caravan of camels such as is found less and less frequently, most of the merchandise being now carried upon mules or horses, or in wagons.

GENERAL VIEW OF THE GARDENS OF VAN. The hill in the background is the Acropolis, occupying the site of the ancient city, which dates back beyond the time of Christ. The light trees in the foreground are poplars, which are planted in numbers where there are streams, to furnish timber for the houses.