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the solemnity according to some rituals, but later according U, 

 others. The hospitable rites are then concluded by letting loose 

 the cow, at the intercession of the o-uest, who says " kill not the 

 innocent harmless cow, who is molher of Rudkas, daughter of 

 Vasus, sister of A'dytas, and the source of ambrosia. May 

 she expiate my sins ! release her that she may graze." It is 

 evident that the bridegroom's intercessions imply a practice, now 

 become obsolete, of slaying a cow for the purposes of hospi- 

 tality. 



Many pages of ceremonies then follow, which lead to one of 

 more consequence: when the bridegroom puts his left hand under 

 the bride's hands, which are joined together in a hollow form, and 

 then taking her right hand in his, he recites the six following texts. 

 " First, I take thee for the sake of good fortune, that thou mayest 

 become old with me, thy husband. May the generous, mighty, 

 and prolific sun render thee a matron, that I may be a house- 

 holder. Second, Be gentle in th}' aspect, and loyal to thy hus- 

 band; be fortunate in cattle; amiable in thy mind, and beautiful 

 in thy person; be mother of surviving sons; be assiduous at the 

 five sacraments; be cheerful, and bring prosperity to our bipeds 

 and quadrupeds. Third, May the lord of creatures grant us pro- 

 geny, even unto old age; may the sun render that progeny con- 

 spicuous. Auspicious deities have given thee to me. Enter thy 

 husband's abode; and bring health to our bipeds and quadrupeds. 

 Fourth, O Iicdra, who pourest forth rain ! render this woman 

 fortunate and the mother of children: grant her ten sons, give her 

 eleven protectors. Fifth, Be submissive to thy husband's father, 

 to his mother, to his sister, and to his brothers. Sixth, Give thy 



