270 



embosomed in the Brodera groves, add a sombre beauty to the 

 scenery near the capital. They contain many superb mauso- 

 leums to the memory of wealthy Moguls, and humbler tombs, 

 or graves of turf, for the inferior classes. In these cemeteries 

 are displayed the amiable propensities of the female character: 

 to these consecrated spots the Mahomedan matrons repair, at 

 stated anniversaries " with fairest flowers to sweeten the sad grave." 

 The grand tombs are often splendidly illuminated; but the 

 meanest heap of turf has its visitors to chant a requiem, light a 

 little lamp, suspend a garland, or strew a rose, as an affectionate 

 tribute to departed love, or separated friendship. 



The funeral ceremonies of the Mahomedans in Guzerat, and 

 other parts of India, resemble those in Turkey, Persia, and Arabia. 

 Widows and matrons, like the ancient Prajic\r, arc hired to 

 weep and wail, and beat upon their breast with loud lamen- 

 tations. 



" Smiting upon his breast, he began to chide his heart." 



This was practised, not only amongst the Greeks, but adopted 

 by the Jews and many other nations. The howling and lamen- 

 tation, on such occasions, by the vociferous females in the suburbs 

 of Baroche, frequently reached to Vezelpoor, and disturbed the 

 tranquillity of our retreat. It is to these noisy exclamations, rather 

 than to the dignified and affecting effusions of silent sorrow, to 

 which Lucan alludes. " With hair dishevelled, and smitten breast, 

 'twas thus she spoke her grief." 



" Effusas laniata comas, concussaque pectus 



" Verberibus crebris.' sic moesta profatur." 



