CEYLON. 
303 
fishermen is numerous and powerful, but the Mahomedans also 
carry on that occujDation. The other casts are distinguished by their 
several trades, which they follow exclusively : thus the washermen 
only wash cloaths, and the barbers only shave; and upon a late 
quarrel between these two casts, the washermen remained unshaven, 
and the barbers in their foul cloaths, till Mr. North, disgusted with 
their appearance, mediated a peace between them. The Chalias, 
or cinnamon-peelers, are a numerous and turbulent cast. They are 
not originally of this island, but, from their importance, obtained 
great privileges from the Dutch Government. These were abolished 
by Mr. North, who gave them additional pay as a compensation. 
Their lands were free of taxes, and their causes were judged by 
their own chief, who was called Captain Cinnamon ; a title which 
Mr. North took himself. The Governor is ex officio head of the 
Vellalas, as the chief Secretary is of the fishermen. Of the others 
there are native heads. 
The higher casts are extremely jealous of their privileges, and 
severely punish those of the lower casts who presume to usurp 
them. A man who ventured to cover his house with tiles, without 
being entitled to that distinction, had it pulled down to the ground 
by order of his superior; and a poor taylor, whose love of finery 
led him to be married in a scarlet jacket, was nearly killed at the 
church door. The privilege of casts extends to the dress of the 
females, and many are prohibited from wearing a petticoat below 
their knees, or covering their breasts. Vanity is the predominant 
passion of the Cingalese; they are therefore continually attempt- 
ing to dress above their condition, which occasions perpetual 
disputes. 
