Herzegovina

In August 1861, George Arbuthnot leaves Trieste to investigate unrest in the Ottoman provinces of European Turkey. Conflicting reports about the rebellion draw him towards Omer Pacha and his army. His account combines coastal travel with observations of Herzegovina, Bosnia and Serbia, bringing political questions into contact with roads, rivers, towns and the practical arrangements of travelling with troops.

On the march beyond Stolatz, a river suddenly disappears, infantry cross rough ground in the heat, and officers pause for coffee beneath scattered trees. Arbuthnot also records hospitality and watches Omer Pacha speak with local people. Chapters on trade, taxation, religious communities and government widen the account beyond military events. Readers interested in the region's history can examine both these everyday details and the author's openly stated opinions, including his favourable assessment of the Ottoman commander.