THE WRINKLED IMAGE OF LOST CITIES 25

The utter calm that reigns over the uncovered
ruins of Taxiafs cities and monasteries, the simple and
admirable repose insfcinct even in the mutilated
sculptures, seem to reflect the peace and renunciation
of the Buddha. They are eloquent of the transience of
this world and of the spiritual comfort attained by
Eight ThinldDg, Eight Living, and Eight Knowledge.

Like a beacon that throws much light on the past
of these ruins, on the summit of a hill not far from Bhir
Mound stands a modern building. Its walls guard the
priceless treasures that are a tribute to the men who
fashioned them, and to the men who discovered them,
archaeologists. From the lawns of this Museum spreads
the panorama of the Hathial Hills and the Haro river,
the valley with its mounds and ruined cities. The
prospect below bears thafc very peaceful expression so
characteristic of the images of the Buddha that had lain
buried since Taxila fell and faded out.