Page:Provincial geographies of India (Volume 4).djvu/142

126 a serious religious dispute but declined to give a decision when he found that the whole town was wagering on the event. When necessary, Burmans work hard enough, but they have no desire to work for the sake of working or to amass riches. Their standard of living is reasonably high. Their manners are really distinguished. The natural Burman is of a singularly humane disposition. "Kindness to



strangers is equally the precept and the practice of Burmans ." Good treatment of animals is another pleasing trait. One result is seen in the excellent sleekness of Burmese oxen. Children are indulged and in return respect their parents.

Women are not secluded but may be seen in their houses, in the fields, in the streets, by the village well. Girls marry at a reasonable age and to please themselves. Polygamy is allowed and practised, but is by no means universal.