Monday, November 6th, 5:48 PM, 1872

Victoria Prison

  In the past three hours I have been going around Hong Kong with Aouda. We have visited the Victoria prison, the train station, the museums, the temples, the markets, and all were enjoyable.

 
We did not go much near the prison, though, for it wasn't allowed, nor do I think I should want to go closer than thirty feet away if I could.

  The train station was quite full, but we still were able to look up and see the paintings on the ceilings, and the exquisite carvings that adorned the whole place. It was unfortunate that it was time for a  train to come in, as I don't think it would have been so crowded.

Hong Kong Temple

  In the museums, we saw many rich artefacts they believed were from before this land was even inhabited; even, prehistoric animal skeletons and dinosaurs. Too, stuffs and jewellery from deceased rulers and visiting nobles were placed in glass cases, glinting brilliantly in the hot sun.

  In the temples, things I had never dreamed of before were before my eyes. Of course, it was forbidden to enter them, but I could see that everything inside was covered in gold through the open doorway, and the same outside. Statues were everywhere, and Chinese letters adorned the lintel. Incense filled the air, and I wondered how priests worked there everyday.



Hong Kong street

  In markets, it was hard not to buy everything. Spices filled my nose, cloth with golden letters and dragons, delicious food, smoking hot, beautifully carved tables and other pieces of furniture were everywhere, and there was not a moment of silence.

  On the
whole, it is a very lovely city. Aouda was constantly amazed with me, and I do not understand how Mr. Fogg does not come out to enjoy the scenery; he prefers to keep to his hotel.

  Now my companion wishes to return home, I must get up from the bench were I sit and write and pick my way back through the crowds. I shall write more tomorrow when I am on the boat.