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empty, they proceed again with the second load, and thus continue 

 a trading journey, throughout the whole fair season. The van- 

 jarrahs are protected by all governments, pay the stated duties at 

 the frontier passes, and are never molested. For further security, 

 a bhaut generally accompanies the caravan; the bhauts or chur- 

 rons, are a caste feared and respected by all the Hindoo tribes; 

 an old woman of that description is a sufficient protection for a 

 whole caravan. If plundered, or ill treated, without reparation, 

 either the protecting bhaut, or one of the tribe, sheds his blood in 

 presence of the aggressors; a dreadful deed, supposed to be al- 

 ways followed by divine vengeance. The vanjarrahs are likewise 

 followed by conjurors, astrologers, jugglers, musicians, dancing- 

 bears, dancing-snakes, monkeys, and various entertainments; they 

 gain a livelihood by what they receive in the camp, or pick up in 

 the towns and villages through which they pass. 



The palanquin-bearers in India, are also a happy people. I 

 had the same set in Guzerat for many years. During a long 

 journey, which they generally contrive to pass very cheerfully, on 

 reaching their station in the evening, whether under a tree, a choul- 

 trie, or a shed, one immediately lights a fire, and cleans the cook- 

 ing utensils; another prepares the supper; the rest champoe each 

 other, or lie down to repose. A travelling set of bearers never 

 consists of fewer than eight; sometimes more; and in our party, 

 where each gentleman had his own set of bearers, they made a 

 considerable number. To prevent their falling asleep before the 

 rice and curry is ready, the wittiest man in the company com- 

 mences a story, similar to those in the Arabian Nights Entertain- 

 ments, which always gains attention and affords amusement. 



