Kibitka

Three kinds of conveyances are available: the telega, or cart without springs, which has to be changed at every station, and for which a charge of about 8d. is made at every stage; the kibitka, or cart (in winter a sledge) with a hood; and the tarantas, a kind of carriage on wooden springs, which admits of the traveller lying down full length, and which can be made very comfortable at night.

On 12 January, having hired horses for himself, his servant and the guide, and three camels to carry their baggage, including a kibitka, or Turcoman tent, he left Kazala, ostensibly bound for the Russian garrison town.