A Personal Narrative of a Visit to Ghuzni, Kabul, and Afghanistan, and of a Residence at the Court of Dost Mohamed
With Notices of Runjit Sing, Khiva, and the Russian Expedition

An important early description of Afghanistan, published in 1840, by a barrister and traveller, describing local life and customs.

Godfrey Thomas Vigne (Author)

9781108046626, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 16 August 2012

516 pages, 12 b/w illus. 7 colour illus. 1 map
21.6 x 14 x 2.9 cm, 0.65 kg

Published in 1840, this is an important early description of travels in Afghanistan. Leaving behind a career at the Bar and a talent for first-class cricket, Godfrey Thomas Vigne (1801–63) turned to travel and spent seven years (1832–9) in the north-west of the Indian subcontinent. His Personal Narrative is a compelling account of local life, scenery and customs, enhanced by his own accomplished drawings. Perhaps the first Englishman to reach Kabul, he had several interviews with the emir, Dost Mohammad Khan (1793–1863). Vigne's account, with its insights into the resources and influential people in the region, was read keenly by players of the Great Game, as Russia and Britain vied for influence in this remote yet strategically significant area.

Preface
1. Prepare to depart for Multan
2. The Kayser Mountain
3. The caravan sets out
4. Arrival at Karandur
5. Ghuzni
6. Character of the country between Ghuzni and Kabul
7. Durbar of Dost Mahomed
8. Afghan horses
9. The author quits Kabul
10. Remarks on Rungit Sing's conduct and character
11. Afghan music
12. Eating the Hulym
Appendix.

Subject Areas: Asian history [HBJF]