406 
HISTORY OF MADAGASCAR. 
Wishing a school. It being impracticable to remain there 
at the time, the people ran up the hill to fetch the chieftain 
part of the way down to meet Mr. Griffiths. In the mean 
time there came about forty children, already collected 
towards forming a school, a few of whom had been scholars 
at Ambohimanga, and repeated what little they had learned. 
4 Then,” said the people, 44 our children can learn as well 
those of other villages. Let us have teachers. We are 
next in rank and in importance to Ambohimanga, and our 
village is ancient and renowned.” In a short time the old 
judge made his appearance. 44 Come,” said he, 44 and stay 
at my house for the night. The sun has set, and it is 
fifteen miles from Tananarivo. You cannot reach the 
capital in safety—the pamosavy* will seize you.” 44 We 
have no fear of the pamosavy,” was the reply. 44 Oh, well,” 
continued the chieftain, 44 perhaps you white people have 
some effectual charm to keep them from injuring you.” 
44 No,” was the reply again; 44 we have no charm of the kind, 
but put our trust in the living God.” 44 Then,” said the old 
judge, 44 if he will not remain with us to-night, go fetch him 
a present of food; for no man can live without eating. 
But,” he continued, 44 we must have a school; and it is of 
no use to hesitate about giving us teachers. We are next 
to Ambohimanga in every enterprise.” He was then asked, 
44 How many children he would promise there should be ?” To 
which he answered, 44 Fifty.” “No,” said Mr. Griffiths, 44 give 
us a hundred.” 44 Very well,” replied the old man, 44 give 
us teachers, and there shall be a hundred provided.” A 
school was accordingly established. 
The principal benefit conferred by the idol called Rama- 
havaly, is, to preserve from, or expel, epidemic diseases. 
He is regarded as the physician of Imerina; and is 
Bewitched. 
