Page:Life in Java Volume 1.djvu/44

26 with Dutch regulations, sent our passport to the Wykemester, who is what we may term a kind of European Capalla Campong. His duties, however, are neither so heavy nor so multifarious as those of his native counterpart. The office is, I believe, honorary. An old resident in the district, who is regarded with respect and esteem, is generally elected to fill the post; and he is usually supposed to know each European resident within his circuit, and also to be perfectly well acquainted with their several professions and incomes.

Every visitor, on his passport being proved to be en règle, is required to fill up a certain form which is sent to him for the purpose. In this, together with other questions of trifling import, he states his profession, last place of residence, and what length of stay he purposes making in Java. The over-scrupulous and unaccommodating traveller often regards this measure on the part of the Dutch as "an infringement of personal liberty," &c.; but