CHAPTER XIV - NEGOTIATIONS

Summary

POLITICS OF TIBET AND NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES.

About seventy years ago, the Emperor of China acquired the sovereignty of Tibet, in the way that sovereignties are generally acquired, by interfering in the quarrels between two contending parties. In consequence of a revolution, which happened about twenty-five years ago, the government of Tibet was committed to the former Dalai Lama. Upon his death, Gesub Rimboché, his cup-bearer or confidant, procured the supreme administration of affairs, partly through his own interest at the Court of Peking, and partly by the recommendation of Teshu Lama, who came now to be considered as the first man in the country. After two years, Teshu Lama discovered the child into whose body the Dalai Lama's spirit had passed, and gave notice to the Court of China, He was immediately recognized by the Emperor. Changay Lama, the high-priest who resided at Peking, came to visit him, and after passing some months at Teshu Lumbo, returned to court. For many years after Gesub's promotion, Teshu Lama continued to have great influence in the government; but for some time past Gesub has endeavoured by his own interest to maintain himself in office, and although he appears to pay great deference to the Lama's opinion, he consults him as seldom as possible.