SURVEY OF THE GANGES. 637 



frnm the ecclesiastical granary. Two and a half sers of rice, for the 

 Temdsha^ equal to about seven sers for the rupee, was the established 

 price of this market; and other grain in tfie same proportion. These 

 exa61:ions do not escape observation; numerous complaints are vented 

 privately; but, as the profits are supposed to be applied to the use of the 

 divinity, it might be deemed impious to raise any open clamors : the only 

 resource, therefore, left to the deluded pilgrim, is to pay his devotions, 

 and take his departure, as quickly as possible. 



The territorial revenue forms, probably, the least part of the riches 

 of this establishment; for every person, who pays his homage to the 

 deity, is expected to make offerings, proportionate to his means. The 

 gift is included under three heads ; for each of which, a separate salver 

 is allotted. The first is called the Bh.e't, which is an offering to the 

 idol ; the second is the Bho'g, constituting his privy purse, the amount 

 being appropriated to the expences of his wardrobe and table; the third, 

 and last, is for the Rauhil. These presents, however, are voluntary; 

 and many persons assume the garb of poverty, to avoid a contribution 

 equal to their abilities ; while others lay the whole of their property at 

 the feet of the idol, and trust to charity, for the means of returning to 

 their homes. 



It is impossible to form a conjecture of the probable amount of these 

 collections ; for, although every person's name, with the sum presented, 

 he registered, the bopk is withheld from the inspection of profane eyes. 

 The merchants and Sdh.ucdrs from the Dekhin, are considered the most 

 welcome visitors; for, if we may believe report, many of them have 

 \}e^n known to distribute and expend lakhs of rupees, in this holy pil- 

 grimage. 



K 6 



