The site of ancient JERICHO.—A bout 1/2 m. from the foot of the pass, a short distance S. of the road to Rîha, is an immense reservoir, 657 ft. long, by 490 wide; and around it, especially on the western side, are extensive ruins, consisting of low mounds of rubbish, and foundations of buildings. Turning northward we perceive similar remains extending at intervals to the banks of the Kelt, and even along its N. side. Fording the little stream, and advancing still northwards, we enter in some 15 min. a cultivated section of the plain, interspersed with clumps of the thorny nubk and other bushes. Riding 15 min. more through luxuriant corn-fields, we reach the fine fountain of 'Ain es-Sultân, bursting forth from the base of a high mound. The water is slightly tepid, though sweet; it was once received into a large semicircular reservoir, from whence it was conveyed in ducts over the adjoining plain. The principal stream now runs S.E. to Rîha. The mounds, as well as the whole section of the plain around them, are covered with the débris of former buildings, fragments of pottery, and. heaps of rough stones, now almost hidden by the rank vegetation. There cannot be a doubt that this is the fountain whose waters were healed by the prophet Elisha, and the surrounding ruins are, therefore, those of ancient Jericho. (2 Kings ii. 19-22.) From the Jerusalem Itinerary we learn that the Jericho of the 4th centy. was situated at the base of the mountain range, 1 1/2 m. (Roman) from the fountain; and that the more ancient city had stood by the fountain itself. This corresponds exactly with what we have seen. The ruins on the banks of the Kelt mark the site of the Jericho of Herod and the New Testament ; while those here around the fountain are the only remnants of the Jericho of the prophets.

.....