OF SIAM. 



279 



are the moon pjilaan pjionla men. Wherever any great enterprize is to be 

 undertaken the moon must be engaged. 



They are tamers of elephants in times of peace, and are special boxers, 

 fencers, and swordsmen. When boxing they wrap cotton tape around 

 their knuckles to preserve them — and not out of regard to the adversary, 

 for the tape or string is soft inside and hard outside. All sorts of advantages 

 are taken, as it is allowable to use the knees and feet. Three rounds only 

 are permitted. The victor receives a gift from the entertainer. 



They fence with sword and shield, but the former is for the prevention 

 of wounds, generally a wooden one. A band plays sprightly airs during the 

 exhibition. Single stick is also a favorite game. 



They fence occasionally with a sword in each hand, that one in the 

 left hand serving chiefly for defence. 



The sword is nearly off the same construction as the Burman one. 

 The handle is without a guard, and so long that it serves to fend 

 off a blow. 



The Cha-mdon wai warranat, has charge of the guards or pages — and 

 under him are the C. Mn. Sau rak, C. Mn. See sarapjiet, and C. Mn. Samoo 

 cJiai. 



The following bear spears when the king goes abroad in state, and are 

 of higher rank than the Moon. 



C. M. Theeppjia rahsa. (^) C. M. Racha han. (') 



C. M. Chau t,hmi. C. M. Sa tjian montree. (*) 



C. M. Chau p,hosa. C. 31. TJieeppJiasena. (^) 



C. M. Racha mat. (^) C. M. Samoo pjieeman. (^) 



Men of these ranks are sent as special messengers and agents to dis- 

 tant provinces on affairs of consequence. 



(') P. Dibbarakkhd. (^) P. Rdjamacheha. (') P. Rdjahansa. {*) P. Chhad- 

 dantamantinl. (;') P. Bibbasena, (^) P. Samowimala, 



