Embarking from a steamer at Makri, the intrepid Elwes hired a horse and a guide and began his explorations. With no advance planning, he frequently had to sleep on the floors of huts and eat meals consisting of "bad bread, onions and sour milk." Despite the hardships, over the following weeks he found numerous unfamiliar plants and returned to Britain with samples to be scientifically categorized. He also travelled through some spectacular scenery and enjoyed the hospitality of some uncommon people.

Elwes documented his journey in his letters home to his wife Margaret which form the basis of this account. It is a story of great fortitude and perseverance whose results can be seen in our gardens today.