From Pekin to Calais by Land

by Harry De Windt

"From Pekin to Calais by Land" by Harry De Windt is a travelogue written in the late 19th century. This narrative chronicles the author's adventurous journey across Europe and Asia, specifically detailing the overland trek from Pekin (Beijing) in China to Calais in France. The author, joined by a fellow traveler named Lancaster, expresses both excitement and trepidation about their planned route, which traverses relatively unknown territories, vast deserts, and multiple countries. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for a grand journey filled with anticipation and meticulous planning, highlighting the challenges faced even before the travelers embarked on their voyage. Introduced through a conversation with a young lady questioning the feasibility of overland travel to China, the author reflects on the lack of recent information regarding their intended route. The journey officially begins with their departure from Gravesend, capturing initial thoughts, encounters, and the underlying sense of adventure as they aim to navigate through various cities and landscapes, including the Gobi Desert and Siberia. As they begin, the narrative suggests a mix of humility and caution, foreshadowing the potential hardships they might encounter along this ambitious route.