Part 15 - To Changu Sikkim; TSOMGO stage, transport and cine film notes

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SUMMARY:
Notes on departure with mule transport, observations of conifers, magnolias and daphnes, and a dispute over extra pony rations. Ludlow indicates the route to Changu, Sikkim; arrival at TSOMGO (10 miles, 12,400') with snow starting at 12:30. Cine film B.1 taken between Kalimpong and near Lagyap La.

CONTENT:
50-60 ft high. A good many are in bloom, but all have been terribly spoilt by the hail. Magnolias & daphnes too are numerous: I think it is mag. campbellii - some of the trees being 70-90 ft high with huge blooms. Collected seven birds but no flowers. The transport is mule & far away the best I've seen: they did the full 10 miles in a little under four hours. We took one riding pony, but I walked. Once the order to load up was given, they were off in half an hour - a jolly good performance on the first morning. Had to pay Rs 6/- for three extra ponies = 1 per 6 baggage ponies for their rations. I'm sure that is not right, but Rai Bahadur Norbu said we should pay: he is probably in with the transport people. Williamson is too weak to tell them they can't have it. It is grand to be off, & to see conifers in the distance again.

Ludlow says "To Changu Sikkim"
6th May. TSOMGO. 10 miles. 12400'. A lovely morning, but clouded

Cine film No.
B.1. taken between Kalimpong and near Lagyap La. All with filter. Snows with f 5.6-11 at 6.30 am.

over by 1200. In at 1230, when snow started falling. Passed in zone of conifers and rhododend