THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
175 
never fail on meeting to present each other with the betel- 
leaf, their constant mark of respect and friendship. All 
ranks universally chew the betel-leaf; it is the dessert to all 
their entertainments, and the unfailing supplement to all 
their conversations. The betel-leaf in shape resembles ivy, 
but in colour and thickness it approaches more nearly to the 
leaf of the laurel. Along with the betel-leaf they mix to- 
bacco, areka-nut, and the lime of burnt shells, to render it 
more pungent, as is the custom with other Indians. When 
chewed this mixture becomes as red as blood, and stains 
their mouth, lips, and teeth, of a black colour which can 
never be effaced. This effect, which to an European would 
deform the countenance, with them is considered as beauti- 
fying it, for they look upon white teeth as only fit for dogs, 
and a disgrace to the human species. The hot mixture, how- 
ever, speedily destroys their teeth, and often renders them 
toothless at an early age. They also frequently stain their 
nails and fingers with the juice of the betel-leaf; but this 
seems to be attended with no bad consequence, as their 
hands are delicate and well formed in an uncommon degree. 
There is a wonderful degree of gravity observed in con- 
versation even among relations and intimate friends. It is 
not unusual to see a party of Ceylonese sit for a long time 
together as grave and mute as an assembly of Quakers when 
the spirit docs not move them ; and during all this while, 
they continue chewing betel-leaf as if for a wager, and appa- 
