10 
BENGAL. 
santness, but because it had been inhabited by the first English gen¬ 
tlemen who resided here, before these districts were reduced under 
entire subjection to the Company. A lofty artificial bank of earth, which 
still surrounded it, shewed that its original proprietor chose rather to 
rely for his security on the strength of his fortifications, than on the 
fidelity of the people. The ground around it was extremely low, and 
the situation acknowledged to be singularly unhealthy; but as we 
intended only a short stay, we set up our tents, and in the course of 
the day a messenger arrived, with offers of assistance, from Nazir 
Deo h . We also received visits from the Dewan*, the Buckshee k , and 
other officers belonging to the household of the Raja, who offered me 
every service in their power : indeed we stood much in need of their 
assistance, to supply the deficiency of carriage, which, at every stage, 
occasioned us much perplexity and trouble. 
The Raja of Bahar, an infirm old man, was absent at a place called 
Bahrisser, about ten miles off, performing his devotions. I was strongly 
pressed by his officers to wait his return; but I excused myself in 
consideration of the advanced season, and resolutely withstood the 
solicitations, both of his servants and of my own, who were equally 
urgent for my stay. 
In the district of Cooch Bahar an usage of a very singular kind has 
prevailed from remote antiquity, and I was assured by many of the 
inhabitants of its actual existence at this day. If a Reiat, or peasant, 
owes a sum of money, and has not the ability to satisfy his creditor, 
he is compelled to give up his wife as a pledge, and possession of her 
h Superindant. i Treasurer. k Paymaster. 
