152 
THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
they can procure it. All day long they chew the betel or 
penang, and smoke bang. From this last herb a species of 
opium is prepared, which they chew in great quantities, as 
Europeans use strong drinks, to exhilarate their spirits. Too 
much of it, however, entirely deadens their senses, and reduces 
them to a state of complete stupefaction. I have frequently 
seen these people, after having chewed too large a portion of 
this noxious drug, lying speechless on the ground with their 
eyes fixed in a ghastly stare. Yet, such is the effect of habit, 
that they get completely infatuated with fondness for this drug, 
and absolutely cannot do without it. 
The amusements of the Malays are suited to their disposi- 
tions, and are either bold, vigorous or ferocious. Both the 
men and women are intemperately fond of bathing, and often 
go into the bath several times in one day. They have a game 
which very nearly resembles our football ; only the ball they 
use is made of twisted ratan. But the amusements of which 
they are particularly fond, are gaming and cock-fighting. 
Their passion for these is frequently carried to such excess, 
as to be attended with the most dreadful consequences. The 
poorer sort in particular, (like what is told of the ancient 
Germans), after having been stript of every thing else, will 
sell themselves and their families to procure the means of 
gratifying their passion for play; and after having lost their 
last stake, they often sacrifice themselves and their lucky an- 
tagonist to their despair. 
The Malays have a great variety of musical instruments, 
