Page:On the Coromandel Coast.djvu/172

 'Yes, sir ; please, sir.'

He put on an expression of mingled self-complacency and deprecation that disarmed anger.

'But you mustn't do it ; it is very wrong.'

'No, sir.'

'And I have nothing to give you. Go back to your work, or your employer will dismiss you.'

'He has given me leave for an hour, sir.'

'Well, I can't do anything more for you, and you must go, for I am busy.'

'Please, sir, the baby '

'The baby is all right. I saw your wife and child yesterday. They are doing very well indeed at hospital, and have everything they want.'

'Yes, sir ; but, master, please give '

'I won't give you anything more.'

'Please, one little thing your reverence can give, and I won't ask for anything more.'

'What is it?'

'Will your reverence please to give a little baptism ? '

'Oh, yes, when the time comes. Now go to your work, Lloyd, and don't come bothering up here again.'

'Not till next week, sir? '

'No, nor the week after that.'

They are but big babies themselves these poor Eurasians, and it is impossible to be very severe with them.

In the matter of dress they are favoured. The needs of the climate demand so little that it becomes more a matter of decency than of warmth. Abroad the women of the poorer classes wear the skirt, jacket, and shawl, as has already been mentioned. Their under-garments consist of a long 'camisee,' as they call it, and a petticoat. Boots are optional, and stockings only kept for special occasions. The men wear shirt, trousers, and