ABSTRACT
The starting-place and base of operations of force was at Siliguri, the terminus of the plains railway. It was now to be the advance of the representative of a superior Power, unclandestinely in a peaceful manner, yet with a sufficient force to compel an opening of the door if it were found closed. When, it was decided that the British Mission must force its way forward into the heart of Tibet, against armed opposition if necessary, so as to secure the safety of the Mission against all risks, and bear down all probable opposition. The Lepcha coolies in a few days made up forty of the basket chairs from the bamboo and cane of the adjoining jungle, and whilst they were so engaged their prince, the Raja's son and heir-apparent, paid people a visit. The Sikhimese accompanying the author considered that this was a great grievance to their people, and they lost no opportunity of loudly saying so.
