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94 A.D.) was so charmed with its beauty that he would not quit the place even after a stay of two years. The courtiers, home-sick as they were, approached Rodaki, the poet-laureate, if he would do something to make the King return home. Whereupon the poet composed a few simple but touching verses, and when he recited them to the King, the effect was marvellous. It is said that he immediately left on horse-back for Bokhara without even waiting to put on his boots. Sabzwar or Sheendand, the old historic Isfazar another fertile district, lies to the south on the Herat-Kabul road. The soil of Herat is varied in its quality and character. Some districts are so fertile that grain there yields one hundred and rice two hundred-fold. The produce of Herat consists of fruits in great variety and most kinds of grain. It also produces some silk, saffron, large quantities of asafoetida, manna, tobacco, pistachio, nuts and gums. Herat possesses a pleasant and beautiful climate. Winters are not extremely cold, and summers would be hot but for the periodical wind from the west which generally lasts for 120 days. The mineral wealth of the province is said to be great. There are many signs of oil-bearing areas. Important oil fields are located at a place called Tirpul, west of the city on Herat- Meshed road. Salt is found in various parts in the shape of a thick effervescence. The province is also rich in iron and coal. Herat is celebrated for the beauty and durability of its carpets. It is also noted for its woollen cloth (called Kurk) and silken fabrics called Kanavez.