Page:The costume of China, illustrated in forty-eight coloured engravings.pdf/251



It is more common in China to breed quails for fighting, than to bring up game-cocks, for the same purpose, in Europe. The male quails, descended from a good stock, are trained with great care; their owners teaching them to fight most furiously, and with a spirit equalling the best of our game-cocks. These battles, though forbidden by the laws, are countenanced and even practised by the Mandarins; and it is a favourite diversion among the eunuchs in attendance at the palace, who often hazard large sums in bets on the issue of a contest. If during a conflict between these little furies, both birds should happen to fall together, that which last endeavours to peck at his adversary, is deemed the victor.

It is said, that oftentimes on the result of these battles, not only the fortune, but even the wives and children of the parties wagering, are put to the chance of being given up to the winner as concubines and servants.

The figure smoking, holds in his hand some Chinese money threaded on a string; the man with a feather behind his cap is betting with him.