Page:Pearl of Asia (Child JT, 1892).pdf/278

252 presents for the child, intended as a peace offering to make its spirit bold and courageous, denominated tam-k'wan There are many varieties of wedding ceremonies in vogue among the natives, but they all partake of the character of the one described, some being more elaborate than others and the presents more costly, while those of the lower classes arrange to have the ceremony concluded in one day. It is thought bad form for a man to take a wife without some kind of public ceremony to sanction the union, but many of the peons do so.

The Laos have a form of marriage which is i most cases performed and recorded by the Nai, magistrate, of the district it happens in. A divorce may also be obtained by the parties if they are not comfortably suited to each other, but it must be by mutual agreement, except in severe cases of inconstancy on the part of the bride. Then they are separated by consent of the husband. A young aspirant to the hand of a female begs for the flower in her hair. If she gives it to him, he knows that his suit is a favorable one; but if it is refused him he knows to the contrary. One great mark of honor, to be placed to their credit, is that a young couple engaged to be married have every confidence placed in them by the parents of the bride, and it is a rare case that it is ever violated, the Laos women being generally virtuous.