CHAPTER XXI.

Preparations for leaving Nineveh.--Departure for Babylon.-- Descent of the River.--Tekrit.--The State of the Rivers of Mesopotamia.--Commerce upon them.--Turkish Roads.--The Plain of Dura.--The Naharwan.--Samarrah.--Kadesia.--Palm Groves.-- Kathimain.--Approach to Baghdad.--The City.--Arrival.--Dr. Ross.--A British Steamer.--Modern Baghdad.--Tel Mohammed.-- Departure for Babylon.--A Persian Prince.--Abde Pasha's Camp.--Eastern Falconry.--Hawking the Gazelle.--Approach to Babylon.--The Ruins.--Arrival at Hillah 372