166 
WANDERINGS IN CHINA. 
Chap. X. 
the ground, and raised them to the perpendicular. The 
whole weight now rested upon the ground, and could be 
kept in this position without any exertion. This was 
very convenient in coming up the steep passes amongst 
the mountains, for in some of them the coolies can only 
proceed a few yards at a time without resting, and if 
they had not a contrivance of this description the loads 
would have to be frequently put down upon the ground. 
When stopping at inns or tea-shops for refreshment, the 
chests carried in this way are set up against a wall, and 
rest upon the ends of the bamboos. 
All the low-priced teas are carried across in the com- 
mon way ; that is, each coolie, with a bamboo across his 
shoulders, carries two chests, one being slung from each 
end of the bamboo. Whenever he rests, either on the 
