Chapter I Summary and Analysis

The first chapter begins as David-Neel and Lama Yongden, her adopted son, are about to enter into independent Tibet from China. They have stayed near the border with a missionary, from whom they have concealed their intent to enter into forbidden Tibet. They have made extensive preparations to travel in disguise as Tibetan pilgrims, and chosen a route that is traveled often by such religious travelers. This road, which enters the country through the Dokar Pass, will undoubtedly lead them into more frequent contact with people than she prefers, David-Neel writes, but because it is traveled by people from all over the country who have different appearances and accents, she hopes any small flaws in her disguise may be overlooked, allowing her to pass without challenge from any officials who would immediately expel her.

David-Neel and Yongden follow the...