142 THE TROTTING RHINO 



notable testimony to the eminent success of British 

 rule. There are lessons here for American Con- 

 gressmen if they but have sense to take them, that 

 will serve us well in the Philippines. 



My few days in the little kampong were inter- 

 esting and peaceful. No mangy intrusive dogs 

 sniffed at my heels, and nearby mothers kept sooth- 

 ing care of their babies. Eoom was made for me 

 in one of the largest and newest appearing houses 

 and every possible attention shown. Particularly 

 the absence of curiosity on the part of my host and 

 family and their consideration and respect for my 

 solitary position impressed me. It was in strik- 

 ing contrast to experiences elsewhere, in my own 

 country as well as in other foreign lands. They 

 studiously avoided intruding and allowed no 

 crowds of wide-eyed and open-mouthed stragglers 

 to stand gaping at me or fingering my belongings. 

 I was not, in other words, a subject of idle curiosity 

 for either the residents or the native travellers that 

 were passing by. I was not on exhibition, as I 

 had often been when placed in similar positions in 

 my wilderness wanderings. Really I was having 

 a very comfortable time. During the day I ex- 

 plored nearby streams and wandered in the jungle 

 trying to get a look at some of the birds; and at 

 night I was always abundantly entertained by the 

 delightful native music, which tuned up after the 



