Page:Life in Java Volume 1.djvu/216

198 in the solemn darkness and weird-like silence of night, was the spectacle on which we looked. On retracing our steps to the large sitting-room, we were much amused by seeing our servant peering into several rooms, first into one and then into another, till I really began to fancy he was seeking the Pungooroo Ruma, or House Spirit, which, according to a native superstition, presides in every dwelling.

"Well, how now, Drahman," said I, "what is the matter?"

"Are you not afraid, sir, to pass the night in this lonely house, after what the Mandor has told me!"

"What did he tell you?" inquired I, scarcely able to suppress a smile.

"Why, a tiger walks past the house every night; and one," he added, lowering his voice, "was actually seen on the verandah a few evenings ago."