Page:The Land of the Veda.djvu/74

64 mistake them for the milder race whom they have so long crushed down and ruled. They are descended from original Asiatics of Persia. Arabia, etc., while the Hindoos are of western stock. “The natives of India attach far more weight to form and ceremony than do Europeans. It is considered highly disrespectful to use the left hand in salutation or in eating, or, in fact, on any other occasion when it can be avoided. To remove the turban is disrespectful; and still more so not to put off the shoes on entering a strange house. Natives, when they make calls, never rise to go till they are dismissed, which among Mohammedans is done by giving betel and sprinkling rose essence, and with Hindoos by hanging wreaths of flowers around the visitor's neck, at least on great occasions. Discourteous Englishmen are apt to cut short a long visit by saying Ab jao—‘Now go!’ than which nothing can be more offensive. The best way is to say, ‘Come and see me again soon,’ or, ‘Always make a practice of visiting my house,’ which will be speedily understood. Or to one much inferior you may say, Rukhsat lena—‘Leave to go,’ or, better, Rukhsat lijiye—‘Please to take leave.’ A letter closed by moistening the wafer or the gum with the saliva of the mouth should not be given to a native. The feet must not be put upon a chair occupied by them, nor must the feet be raised so as to present the soles to them. One must avoid touching them as much as possible, especially their beards, which is a gross insult. If it can be avoided, it is better not to give a native three of any thing. Inquiries are never made after the female relations of a man. If they are mentioned at all it must be as ‘house.’ ‘Is your house well?’ that is, ‘Is your wife well?’ There are innumerable observances to avoid the evil eye; and many expressions seemingly contradictory are adopted for this purpose. Thus, instead of our ‘Take away,’ it is proper to say, ‘Set on more;’ and for ‘I heard you were sick,’ ‘I heard your enemies were sick.’ With Mohammedans of rank it is better not to express admiration of any thing they possess, as they will certainly offer it; in case of acceptance they would expect something of more value in return. To approach a Hindoo of high caste while at his meal is