GHAZIPORE. 
63 
in a spiral form, hung pendent from the centre. At 
the urgent petition of the old man I did not enter this 
sacred arbour, hut I was rather encouraged to gaze 
upon it from the entrance by his communicative dis- 
position, although by his continual allusions to his 
extreme poverty and my unlimited wealth, I was per- 
suaded that his forward civilities were prompted by 
the hope of alms. I promised him some small coin 
if he would relate to me the story of 
THE SUTTI. 
He very readily complied, to the following effect; 
having first begged permission to seat himself, on 
the plea of his great age and infirmity ; for it fortu 
nately happens that all, or nearly all the natives 
whom we find in these picturesque situations are 
tottering with venerable years ; the young and active 
being required to devote their powers to the support 
of their families. Having seated himself upon his 
heels, a gymnastic feat which all the natives of Hin- 
dostan practise from infancy, he thus commenced 
his tale with a proem worthy of a court. 
“ Protector of the Poor, good fortune is written 
upon your brow ; may your proper destiny never he 
thwarted by your evil genius; may you be as suc- 
cessful in all your great undertakings as you are 
fortunate in the less important objects of your will. 
Yes, chosen of heaven, you are very fortunate in 
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