Travels Of Marco Polo: Thirty Seven

The Great Khan has appointed twelve barons for twenty four provinces. That means each baron had to look after the administration of two provinces. They were called Scieng, meaning greater officer of state.  Under the Scieng each province has an agent and a number of writers or notaries.  Each of these officials has been provided with his own house.  They conducted the provincial affairs according to the will and pleasure of Scieng.

The Scieng has his headquarters in Kambalu. He has the power to appoint the head of provinces.  They select and refer the candidate to the Great Khan who confirms him, and bestows a golden tablet corresponding to his command.  The movement of armies to various locations are managed by him according to the direction of the Great Khan.  The place in which they dwell is called Scien.  They have the power to do much good anyone they favour.

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1. The word Scieng is a transliteration of either the Chinese word Xiang, or the Mongolian word Cheng.