Page:Life in Java Volume 1.djvu/302

284 a port in Sumatra. The replies of all we questioned were much to the same effect—the object desired being, of course, different with each individual, except in the case of health and long life, which many concurred in praying for.

One young girl seemed very shy about revealing to us her secret wish. " Depend upon it," said Drahman, "she has come here to ask for a husband, or else to get rid of one." It was a curious scene altogether, for, as the shed was open on all sides, to permit the devotees to gaze on the tombs, we could see them distinctly. Some were lying down, apparently asleep, supposed to be favoured with visions: others were seated, for what object I cannot say, with one leg under them, their sarongs wrapped tightly round the body, and their two hands clasped round the other leg, on the knee of which rested their chin. I was told they would sit thus for hours, gazing on vacancy.

The natives have a great veneration for these