On Yuan Chwang's Travels in India, 629–645 A.D. v1.c7.s5.12

v1.c7.s5.12

Our author describes the country of Samarkand as being 1600 or 1700 *li* in circuit, greater in extent from east to west than from north to south. Its capital was above 20 *li* in circuit, exceedingly strong and with a large population. The country was a great commercial entrepôt, was very fertile, abounding in trees and flowers, and yielding many fine horses. Its inhabitants were skillful craftsmen, smart and energetic. All the Hu (胡) States regarded this country as their centre and made its social institutions their model. The king was a man of spirit and courage and was obeyed by the neighbouring states. He had a splendid army the most of his soldiers being Chei-kie (Chak or Tak 柘羯) men. These were men of ardent valour, who looked on death as a going back to their kindred, and against whom no foe could stand in combat.