112 THE PALMS OF ASIA. 



as fans by the natives of Ceylon, for they can 

 be opened or closed like a fan, and almost with 

 as little exertion. The talipat leaf is, too, their 

 only umbrella and parasol, and it forms their 

 only tent -when in the field. It is so light that 

 an entire one can be carried in the hand ; but 

 as this, from its great size when expanded, 

 would be inconvenient, the natives cut sections 

 of it, which they use to defend themselves from 

 the scorching rays of the sun, or from the rain. 

 No handles are used, but the two sides of the 

 leaf are grasped by the bearer. Their ribs are 

 of the texture of cane, Avhich adds greatly to 

 their strength ; and when cut at the extremity 

 of the leaf stalks, they are said to be used to 

 protect the heads of travellers and fighting 

 men, who have to force their way through 

 the jungle. Eor this purpose only a portion 

 of the leaf is used ; the thickest pari, which 

 was attached to the leaf stalk, is placed tor- 

 wards, and the sides hanging over the ears, 

 a kind of wedge, or inverted keel, is formed, 

 wliich forces the branches aside as the wearer 

 pushes on. 



Knox says of this leaf, that " being dried it 

 is very strong and limber, and most wonder- 

 fully made for men's convenience to carry along 

 with them ; for though it be thus broad when 



