53 
of Ramini, it is evident that their descent is noble, 
since the natives still hold them in veneration; and 
they have the privilege, in common with the usurpers, 
of killing the beasts belonging to their subjects, pro¬ 
vided they have the good fortune to arrive before a 
Rhoandrian or Anacandrian.* 
The Lohavohitz have much less power than the 
last-mentioned. They can never possess more than 
one village; and how great soever their wealth in 
slaves and cattle may be, they are not allowed, on any 
account whatever, to kill the animals that serve as 
food for themselves and their subjects; but must 
go and seek a Rhoandrian, be it ever so incon¬ 
venient. 
The Ontzoa are nearly related to the former, but 
they possess no power, authority, or privilege what¬ 
ever, except personal freedom. 
The Ondeves are slaves by extraction; their name, 
in the Madegasse language, implies “ a man un¬ 
done !” These are “ the hewers of wood and drawers 
of water” for the higher ranks, and are kept in entire 
subjection.! 
* This privilege is no empty honour. It is attended with 
considerable profit; for the noble butcher is allowed to help 
himself to a part of the ox, or whatever animal he is kil¬ 
ling. 
f There is a piece of curious tradition current in Madagas¬ 
car, respecting the origin of the several classes, corresponding 
with the foregoing subdivision. It was first promulgated by the 
Ombiasses, doubtless with a view to strengthen the power of 
the Zafe Ramini. 
It 
