Two-thirds of the European continent is flat; the remaining one-third is mountainous. The south consists for the most part of range upon range of mountains. Switzerland lies on the spine of this great mountain chain and the splendour of its scenery is renowned throughout the world. After our party had arrived at Berne and had been received by the president, we were told by our official host, Mr. Siber, that as the federal government did its best to avoid any expenditure which was not essential, it was unable to match the lavish hospitality which the Embassy had enjoyed in other countries. All that Switzerland had to offer visitors for their diversion was its beautiful scenery. A new mountain railway had just been built to the south of Berne, and the people there hoped that the Embassy would be able to join them to celebrate its completion. It would give them great pleasure, he said, if we were able to spare two days for such an excursion.

June 22nd, 1873. Fine.

At nine o'clock we left Berne Station by train. After half an hour's journey to the south-east we stopped at the station in Münsingen, a village of several dozen dwellings. We saw that flags were fluttering from all the houses, a tent had been erected beside the station to sell tea and fruit, and large crowds had gathered. We were told that a wrestling tournament was to be held here.