After climbing down to the river-bed by the waterworks, we proceeded to climb up the opposite slope, where numbers of people seemed bent on holiday-making, and there was a Japanese tea-house half-way up to Pioneer Point, whence a magnificent view is gained over a large stretch of country. The old city walls and a watch-tower surmount the pine-clad hill, and a short walk brings one to a tomb of historic interest. In the heart of the pine forest is Kicha’s grave, but the entrance was tightly shut and barred, so that we were only able to get a glimpse of it. Like all important Korean graves, it is a mound surrounded by stone animals and figures of servants for the use of the deceased, and an altar on which sacrificial food is placed. Kicha is said to have come to Korea in 1122 B.C. as a refugee from China, to be the founder of the empire, and to have given it its name of “Land of Morning Freshness.” His dynasty lasted nearly a thousand years. The old city wall of Pyöng Yang is said to date from Kicha or Kuei-ja’s reign, but it is, alas, now in course of demolition. This synchronises with the coming of the first party of Cook’s personally conducted tours! SHORT SUMMARY OF RECENT KOREAN HISTORY. It is possible that some readers of this book may wish to have their memories refreshed about the events which have crowded so rapidly on one another’s heels during the last half century, so I have ventured to set down a table of dates with notes, which can easily be skipped by those whose memories do not require it. 1876. First foreign treaty with Japan—unsuccessful attempts had previously been made by the Russians and Americans to obtain permission to trade. 1883. Trade relations opened with Great Britain, America, and Germany. Owing to internal factions, the Chinese, representing the conservative forces of government, got decided hold in Korea over the radical party, represented by Japanese factions. 1885. Treaty between China and Japan guaranteeing that neither country should send troops to Korea without previous consultation. 1890 (approximately). First Protestant missions sent to Korea—mainly American. 1894. China sent troops (without advising Japan) to put down the Tonghak rebellion; hence resulted the war with Japan, in which China was completely defeated. 1896. Russian influence became powerful. The Emperor took refuge in Russian legation. Lobanoff Yamaga agreement between Russians and Japanese to respect the independence of Korea, and not to send troops except by mutual agreement. 1903. Russian intrigue won large timber concessions on the Yalu, and demanded port on the N.W. coast opposite Antung-Yongampo, which they renamed Port Nicholas. This was applied for by Great Britain and United States of America as an open port, but Russian influence prevented this being granted.