It is a country of mountains. The river Kurry,
also called Cyrus, flows through the midst. On this river the
famous conqueror of Persia, Cyrus, was exposed in his childhood.
Tiflis was formerly one of the finest towns of Persia.
{312} His wives I dare not speak of, as the Mussulmen consider this
an affront.
{314} The River Ribon, also called Rione, is considered to be one of
the four rivers of Paradise, and was known by the name of Pison.
Its waters were formerly held sacred. On account of the number of
trunks of trees, it is unnavigable for large ships.
{320a} The Circassians are so wild and warlike that no one dare
venture into the interior of the country. Little is known of their
habits, customs, or religion. Bordering on Circassia are the
Atkans, who inhabit the coast country between Mingrelia and
Circassia, and are also wild and given to plunder.
{320b} Large plains covered with short grass.
{321} Mithridates lived in Pantikapaum. The hill at Kertsch is
called to this day "Mithridates' Seat." During the excavations in
it, which have been made since 1832, many remains were found, such
as funeral urns, implements of sacrifice, Grecian inscriptions,
handsome figures, and groups.
{330a} Constantinople is not lighted - whoever goes out without a
lantern is considered suspicious, and taken to the next watch-house.
