170 
BOOTAN. 
famous for having been the place of his last regeneration, and the scene 
of his early studies. A small palace, on a similar plan to all the other 
consecrated habitations in Bootan, has been erected on this memorable 
spot: it supports a gilded canopy on its centre; and a forest of flag- 
staves, with inscribed banners, surround it on all sides: there is also 
a considerable settlement in its vicinity. 
On the summit of this mountain, which is named Pomsela, we found 
an extensive monastery, consisting of many separate buildings: the 
most commodious of the cluster was occupied by a senior Gylong, 
who, as president, is stiled Lama; the rest were inhabited by the infe¬ 
rior monks. The religious of this description are numerous in Bootan. 
Their sole occupation lies in performing the duties of their faith. They 
are exempt from labour; enjoined sobriety and temperance ; and 
interdicted all intercourse with the other sex. Though many become 
voluntary members of this establishment, yet its numbers depend most 
upon the custom, which obliges every family that consists of more than 
four boys, to contribute one of them to the order: and the same rule, 
under particular circumstances, extends sometimes to all the males of 
a village. At the age of ten, they are received into the association, 
and commence their tutelage. Their first years are passed in learning 
the rudiments of their profession, and in performing a variety of servile 
offices to their instructors; in which drudgery, unless elevated by 
superior talents, they continue beyond the age of twenty. However, 
though cut off from the enjoyment of some of the most exquisite plea¬ 
sures of life, there are yet many advantages annexed to this class. 
They are certain of a liberal education; and, as their minds are more 
