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THE  LIBRARY 

OF 
THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  CALIFORNIA 

PRESENTED  BY 

PROF.  CHARLES  A,  KOFOID  AHD 

MRS.  PRUDENCE  W,  KOFOID 


THE  LAND  OF  THE 


OR  , 


COCHIN,  ITS  PAST  AND  ITS  PRESENT. 


BY 


FRANCIS  DAT,   ESQ.,  P.L.S. 

t 
B.  H.  MADRAS  MIDICAL  SEBVICK, 
CnriL  BITBOBOH  BBITI8H  COCHIN,  AKD  MEDICAL  OFFICER 
TO  THE  GOVKBMMENT  OF  HIS  HiaHVBBS  THE  BA^AH  OF  COCHISE. 


WlM(  can  ha  wn  who  ttMda  U17  »hon  'i 
No  kffead  of  tbiae  oidoa  UoM, 
No  thMM  00  wbioh  tlw  Mom  mlfht  toa 
Hlsh  Ml  thlna  owB  fea  daja  of  yora. 


MADRAS: 

PBIKTED  BT  QAKTZ  BBOTBEBB,  AT  THE  ADELPHI  PBESI*^ 
21,  BUia>ALL'8  BOAD,  YEPEBT. 

1863. 


\Ml  Bights  arc  ilewrrecf.l 


%> 


To 

GEORGE  PEARSE,  Esq.,  M.  D. 

Honorary  Physician  to  H.  M.  and 
Late  Director  General^  Madras 
Medical  Establishmetit. 

These  pages  are  dedicated,  as  a  slight  testimony, 
to  the  worth  of  one,  who  after  a  long  Indian  career, 
retired  from  the  Service,  carrying  with  him,  the 
sincere  attachment  of  his  friends,  the  gratitude  of 
Us  numerous  patients,  and  the  best  wishes  of  the 
Members  of  the  Medical  Service,  over  whom  he  had 
so  ably  presided. 


ii^aidL9 


PREFACE. 


DxJBiKG  a  residence  of  a  few  years  in  Cochin,  the  facts  were 
collected,  from  which  the  following  pages  have  been  com- 
piled. 

Owing  to  the  kindness  of  G.  Ballard,  Esq.,  the  present 
Collector  of  Malabar,  permission  was  obtained,  for  the  peru- 
sal and  emplojonent  of  official  documents,  which  proved  of 
great  assistance. 

H.  H.  the  Bajah  of  Cochin,  and  S.  Menone,  Esq.,  the  De- 
wan,  most  obligingly  afforded  information,  upon  many  sub- 
jects connected  with  the  Native  State.  Great  assistance 
was  also  received,  from  the  late  lamented  General  Cullen, 
who  for  nearly  twenty  years,  ably  held  the  post  of  British 
Resident^  and  was  intimately  acquainted  with  the  people, 
their  manners,  customs,  and  laws. 

C.  D' Albedyh'll,  Esq.,  Judge  of  the  Appeal  Court  of  Emac- 
oollum,  was  good  enough  to  translate  the  Memorials  of  the 
Dutch  Governors  of  Cochin,  and  some  of  their  Secret  Re- 
cords, which  give  an  insight  into  the  policy  of  that  nation, 
and  their  relationship  with  the  nei^bouring  native  States. 

Thanks  are  due  to  Conrad  Verndde,  Esq.,  for  his  assis- 
tance in  obtaining  personal  intercourse  with  Namboorie 
Brahmans,  and  other  Hindus,  with  the  view  of  facilitating 
enquiries  into  Hinduism,  as  it  now  exists  in  the  Cochin 
State.  G.  Garthwaite,  Esq.,  Inspector  of  Schools,  obligingly 
Romanized  the  Indian  words,  for  the  Index :  whilst  many 


Tl  PRKFArE. 

oiher  officials  and  friends  afforded  their  assistance,  to  all  and 
each  of  whom,  thanks  are  here  offered. 

Owing  to  the  civility  al  Messrs.  Smith  Elder  and  Co., 
some  old  books  on  Malabar,  now  out  of  print,  were  procur- 
ed in  London,  and  proved  of  great  asmstance,  with  reference 
to  the  early  history  of  this  portion  of  Malabar. 

The  following  are  the  principal  works  referred  to,  in  the 
ensuing  pages : — 

Herbert's  Travels,  1665.  Purchas,  His  Pilgrims,  1625. 
Tavemier^s  Travels,  1676.  Travels  of  two  Mahomedans  in 
ttie  9th  century.  Voyage  of  Captain  Walter  Peyton  to 
India,  in  1615.    Stavorinus's  Voyage  to  India,  \TJ7. 

FeaiA'a  Portuguese  Asia.  Notes  concerning  the  factory 
of  Cranganore,  from  the  Journal  of  Roger  Hawes.  Phillips' 
AocovM  of  Malabar,  1717.  A  voyage  round  the  world  by 
Commodore  Roggewein,  in  1721-1723.  Sonnerat's  Voyages 
and  Travels.  Cope's  Voyages  and  Travels,  ]  754.  Hamilton's 
Kew  aocovMt  of  the  Bast  Indies.  Paolino  de  St  Bartholo- 
meo's  Travels,  1800.  Ormes  History  of  Ind/ustan.  Kerr's 
collection  of  Voyages  and  Travels,  1824.  Discoveries  in 
India,  ficx>m  1497  to  1505,  by  Herman  Lopez  de  Castaneda. 
Dr.  Francis  Buchanan's  Jov/mey  through  Mysore,  Gamara, 
and  Malabar,  1807.  Memoirs  of  Dr.  Claudius  Buchanan, 
1817.  Forbes's  Oriental  Memoirs,  1834.  Elphinstone's 
History  of  India.  Taylor's  History  of  India.  MacFar- 
lane's  History  of  India.  Mill's  History  of  India.  Wilk's 
History  of  Mysore.  Asiatic  Researches  Calcutta  Reviews. 
Madras  Journals  of  Literature  and  Science.  Journals  of  the 
Asiatic  Society.  Records  of  Travancore  and  Cochin.  &c.,&c. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Genenl  DMcnption— Its  Divirions—Lflgiaadaiy  origiii  of  Tripooiitenil»— 
hofspodarj  diTiaion  of  lalandfl^CoriouB  PilgriiiMge»— Travuicora  liiie» 
— Tndioor  FortificatioDB—Verapoly— Devil's  Mouth^Alwayfr— Baildr 
ing? — Water  CommunlcatioiiB — Bw^-waters — Riven  —  ReaervoirB — 
Roads— Moontaiii»—<3eolog7 — Mineral  ProdtictioDS — Harboura  — >  Kar- 

Tikal  Mad  Bank 1 

CHAPTER  II. 

Legendary  origin  of  Malabar— Brahmanioal  Oovemment— Foreign  Gk>- 
vemora— Origin  of  Cochin  Rajahs — Legendary  division  of  Malabar — 
Arrival  of  Portuguese— ArriviJ  of  the  Dutoh— Wars  with  the  Samorin, 
and  Rajah  of  Travanoore— Hyder  Ali^Tippoo  Sultan— Battle  oi  the 
Travanoore  lines — British  treaty  of  1790 — Intrigues  with  the  Frenoh — 
Nair  disturbances — Laws  of  succession  to  the  Musnud — ^Ancient  and 
Modem  laws — Revenue 3S 

CHAPTER  III. 
Bady  voyagers  to  India— Bartholomew  Diaa— Don  Vasca  deOama  arrives 
at  Oalicut-^ Visits  Samorin — Returns  to  Europe — Gabral  takeb  a  fleet 
to  Calicut  and  bombards  the  town — Sails  to  Codun  and  estabtishes  a 
factory — DeOama  returns^  acts  most  inhumanly  at  Calicut — Proceeds 
to  Codiin— Port  erected  at  Cochin — Facheoo  Governor — Brutality  of 
Qobsalo  Vaz — ^Albuquerque's  wars — First  Minister  of  Finance  des- 
patched to  Cochin  and  disastrous  results — DeGama  returns  to  Cochin 
wfaerehe  dies— DeSousa  reduces  the  pay  of  the  Military,  so  they  re- 
fuse to  fight^Dutch  begin  to  appear  in  India — Government  employ 
and  honours  publicly  sold — Dutch  take  Cochin 70 

CHAPTER  IV. 
Origin  of  Dutch  power  in  India — Wars  with  Portuguese — Political  acts  in 
Cochin— Dutch  Governors— Dutch  Clergy— Reduction  in  the  sice  of 
Cochin  Fort— Disputee  vrith  Samorin— Chetwye  Fort— Van  Imhoff  ar- 
rives—Attack on  Travanoore— Pepper  treaty  and  consequent  decline  of 
Datch  power^-Samorin  invades  Chetwye— Hyder  sends  friendly  letter — 
Hyder  arrives  at  Cannanore,  and  foretels  British  supremacy  in  India — 


VUl  CONTENTS. 

Proposes  offensive  and  defenaive  aUiance  with  the  Dutch — Dutch  sup- 
ply Hyder  with  arms  and  Elephants — Hyder  demands  free  passage  to 
Travancore — Mysoreans  take  Ghetwye,  relief  frustrated — Dutch  pro- 
pose alliance  with  Hyder,  who  dedines  — Tippoo — English  Commis- 
sionera — Rajah  of  Travancore  attempts  annexing  Dutch  Quilon — Eng- 
lish attack  Cochin — Capitulation — Dutch  become  prisoners  of  War — 
Dutch  Institutions 119 

CHAPTER  V. 

Origin  of  British  trade  to  India->Euglish  Eoat  India  Company^Treaty 
with  Samorin — Cotme  of  events  on  the  Western  Coast — Hyder — 
Tippoo— Cession  of  Malabar  to  British — Slave  Trade —Capture  of 
Codiin — DistnrbanceB—^AUepey  Maasaere — Institatioiw  of  Codnn — 
ReTemie — Jndifiial—  Puiiee — Marine— Orphaiiage,  and  Fxiend-in-Naed 
Society— Medical,  and  SoholBstic  InstitutionB.  176 

CHAPTER  VI. 

Eax^  ChriatiaiiB  in  Malabar — St  Thomas's  arrival — Early  Ecclesiastics — 
State  in  which  Portuguese  found  the  Syrian  Church — Xavier — 
Menezea — Synod  of  Diamper — Jesuits  announce  themselves  as  Western 
Brahmansy  and  foige  fifth  Veda — Carmelites  sent  to  Malabar — ^Dutoh 
arrive — European  Catholic  Priests  ordered  to  leave — Dutch  try  to  dis- 
pose of  congregations  to  Portuguese — Agree  to  permit  Carmelites  to 
return— English  East  India  Company  Officials  make  first  attempt  to- 
introduce  Missionaries  to  India — Trial  to  regenerate  Syrian  Churches — 
Yirulenoe  of  disputes  inci'eaBe — Syrian  Architecture — Dress  of  Clergy 
— Means  of  support — Liturgies — Fasts — Feasts — Marriages— Births — 
Burials — Protestant  Missions — Court  of  Directors  advice  to  Mission- 


211 


CHAPTER  VII. 


Origin  of  Hindus— Their  ancient  faith— Its  Indian  oonniptions— Vedas — 
Laws  of  Menu — Puranaa — ^Origin  of  Hindu  triad,  and  Hindu  pantheon — 
Devil  worship — ^Feasts  and  fasts — Births — Marriages — ^Deaths— Fu- 
nerals— Suttee— Good  and  evil  souls— Hindu  protest  against  religious 
intolerance — Origin  of  castes — Namboorie,  Imbran,  Putter  and  Kon- 
kanie  Brahmans — Umbalavassies — Schatriyas — Vyaias — Sudras — Nairs 
— Chogans  or  lUovers- Muouas — Kanakas — Paravers — Cunnians- Vel> 
luna — Caroarlans  and  Nicomars — Soil  slaves — Hill  races — Mulchere, 
Kardars,  and  Niadis—Sicknesses— Funerals — Inheritance 266 

CHAPTER  VIIL 

Census  of  Jews — Their  various  communities — Jews  town — Synagogue — 

Division  into  two  classes — White  Jews — Costume — Copperplates — 

Translations — Date  of  its  grant — Black  Jews — War  between  Black  and 

White  Jews— Circumcision — Marriage — Death  —  Burial — Sabbat  h— 


CONTBITTS.  iX 

Day  of  wailinfc— Feast  of  Tabemaclei — SimiUrifey  of  Jewish  and 
Hittdn  Taberaaclee — Hiatoiy  of  Jews  of  Ooohin— Eaily  wtUeaieiit — 
First  ntlen—Destracfeion  of  Craogaiiora— Total  dsfMl  of  Jews  by  tlie 
Moors— Migration  to  Coehin— Datoh— Bnglish 33^ 

CHAPTER  IX, 
Mahomedans  in  the  Cochin  Sti^te — Mahomed,  his  riM,  teaching;,  and  death — 
The  four  Caliphi — ^The  Imams— Sheeas — Soonees — Rise  of  various 
achoob— Creed  spreads  to  India—Division  of  Indian  Mahomedan»-- 
Hinda  rites  become  engrafted  on  new  creed— Caste  distinctions  coiu- 
menoe — Origin  of  Moplabs— Persecntions  of  Portuguese— IB^bee  of 
Cannanore — Hjder — Tippoo — English — Priests— Ri  tes  —  Feasts  — Mar- 
riages—Uolnckv  days— Seclusion  of  women — Dirty  race— Burials- 
Fast  of  Mohormm — RamT4in. Zo5 

CHAPTER  X. 

l^cQiiiis— Ethnology — Lsoguage— Divisions  of  time — Birth — HoroBoope  - 
Children— 3iarriageB  —  Deaths—  Offences — Laws  —  Ordeals  —  Omenft— 
.SupersUtions — Etiquette  -Marks  of  distinotions  —  Letters  —  Poetry— 
Mudic— Theatricals— Nautches—  Amusements  -^  Dress  —  Omameots— 
UmVellas— Houses— Furniture— Hospitality— Food 374 

CHAPTER  XL 

Climate — Temperature — Monsoons — Rain  fall — Land  winda — Seabreec«-— 
Hailstorms-Offenaiveemanationsfrom  the  sea-— Native  ideas  of  disease- 
Cochin  Dispensary — Fevers— Natives  able  to  prodnoe  it  themselves— 
Native  Practitioners — Small  pox  and  vaccination — Conaomption — 
Cholera — Feasts  to  avert  Epidemics — Curioos  remedies — Rheumatisi^ — 
Elephant  leg— Leprosy  and  Leper  house — Fits  considered  to  be  the 
effects  of  evil  spirits — ^At  Births  AstrologerB  consulted — Witchcraft — 
Rnchantmentd— Hill  deity — Novel  mode  of  curing  all  diseases. 412 

CHAPTER  XII. 
Monkeys — Bats- Tigers — Legends  respecting  them— Cheetahs ;  curious 
method  of  destruction  of  one  of  tiiem— Jackalls^  Wild  Dogs,  their 
mode  of  hunting — ^The  Mongoose — Encounter  between  two  Bears — 
Orange  species  of  Porcupine — ^The  Gour  or  Bison — ^The  Malabar  Ibex — 
Massacre  of  Europeans  in  oonsequenee  of  their  killing  a  Cow — Elephants.  435 

CHAPTER  XIII. 

Tribes  of  birds  found  in  different  times  of  the  year — Period  of  niditica- 
tion — Legend  concerning  the  nest  of  the  Brahmanee  kite — Origin  of  the 
Owl  being  termed  the  *'  one  legged  carpenter" — Bulbul  drawing  off  atten- 
tion from  its  nest— Destruction  of  young  Larks  by  aats — Nest  of  the 
Tailor  bird — Nest  of  the  bottle  nested  sparrow — Mynah  acting  as  a  house 
dog — Impudent  Crows,  origin  of  their  being  considered  accursed  by  the 
Hindus — Sun  bird, audits  nest— Water  fowl 455 


X  CONTKNT8. 

CHAPTER  XIV. 

•Reptiles  in  Cochin  State— Colossal  tortoise  of  ancient  times — Hawks-bill 
turtle  and  mode  of  procuring  tortoise  shell — Crocodiles — Accounts  of 
its  seizing  human  beings — Its  enormous  size — Sacred  character — Mode 
of  capture — Lizards — Snakes,  objects  of  adoration — ^The  Cobra — Snake 
charmers—^fivil  spirits  in  the  form  of  onakes— Sea  snakes — Frogs  and 
their  reputed  evil  effects. 475 

CHAPTER  XV. 

Numerous  fish  in  Cochin  State — Fishermen— Modes  of  fishing — by  nets- 
Hooks  and  Lines — ^Trolling — Shooting — Labyrinths— Poison — Fish  em- 
blem of — Carnivorous  fish — Mackerel  Shoals,  and  mode  of  cure — 
Lancet  fish— Climbing  perch— Walking  fish — Legend  of  fish— Tame 
ones  in  river — Sardines — Sharks — Saw  fish,  its  extraordinary  eye— ac- 
cidents from  fish — Economic  aspect  of  Indian  fisheries 487 

CHAPTER  XVI. 
Molluscs — Cuttle  fish — Shells — Articulata — Insects  and  when  found — 
Beetles — Rose  Beetles— Gocoanut  Beetles — Carpenter  Bee — Wasps — 
Ants — Butterflies  and  moths — Mosquitoes — Fleas— Ant  lions — Dragon 
flies— White  Ants— Earwigs— Cockroaches— Mantis  and  St.  Francis 
Xavier — Walking  leaves — Walking  sticks — Mole  cridcets  and  uses  to 
which  put — Locusts— Bugs— Cicadoe— Fish  insects — Centipedes — Spi- 
ders— Scorpions— Crabs— Spider  crabs— Cray  fish— Hermit  crabs— Sea 
Mantis ,.... 510 

CHAPTER  XVII. 
Relationship  of  Botany  to  wealth,  beauty,  utility,  and  health  of  a  ooun- 
try— Water  kept  pure  by  weedsr-Grasses  rare — Oil  producing  plants 
common — Fruit  trees — Cocoanut^  its  origin,  and  uses — Plantain — Tama- 
rind— Jack  fruit— Mangoe — Vegetables — Shumack — Cork  tree — Casua- 
rina — Wild  almond — Flowering  trees — ^Pepper — Talipot  palm — ^Maroti 
— Cashew  nut — ^Bamboo — Banian— Teak— The  Poon  tree — Blackwood 
— Ebony— Sappan — Cotton — Coffee — ^Lemon  grass.  Van  Reede's  Hortus 
Malabaricus 532 

CHAPTER  XVIIL 
Imports  into  Cochin — ^Exports  from  Cochin — Cocoanut  oil^Fish  oil — 
Coprah — Coir—  Coffee — Settlers  in  land — Pepper — Timber — Native  pro- 
duce— Agriculture — Cattle — Fisheries — Houses — Chunam — Mercantile 
firms— Labour  Market— Shoemakers— Canarese — Carpenters — Hawk- 
ers— Sailors — Vessels  and  boats — Coinage — Weights  and  Measures 557 

Chronology i 

Index A xi 


ERRATA. 


Page     1  line  2  from  bottom  for  "  Horaloy"  read  "  Arthur. " 


,.       3 

„    5 

»> 

91 

omifPiUa." 

„     17 

„    5 

J> 

99 

for  «  ro"  read  « 

to." 

„     58 

„12 

» 

»» 

„  "forms" read  "reformR." 

„     66 

»11 

>> 

99 

.,"1762"     „ 

"  1785." 

„     66 

„    2 

3> 

J) 

,."1762"     „ 

« 1785." 

„     78 

„    * 

>J 

?> 

„  "August  „ 

"April." 

„   123 

,,    3 

» 

99 

„  «««e"        „ 

"is." 

„   156 

,,    6 

» 

99 

„  « 1795"     „ 

«  1793." 

„  236 

„    8 

y9 

top 

,,"1567"     „ 

«  1657." 

„   269 

„16 

» 

99 

„  "may"      „ 

«  might." 

„   305 

„    5 

Ji 

99 

„  "  a  Namboorie"  read  "  a  married 
Namboorie." 

„   320 

„    2 

If 

99 

„  "Choties" 

read«C!hogutties." 

„   446 

„21 

91 

» 

„  «  he" 

„    "it" 

V         >l 

„22 

9J 

99 

„  "his" 

„    "its." 

.,  496 

„last 

„  "karagurta" 

„    "  kanagurta." 

„  503 

„14 

)} 

91 

„  "rubripimus 

t"„    "  rubripinnis  ?" 

„  504 

„12 

}9 

99 

„  "voalisl" 

„     "ruaUagoo?" 

„   521 

„    6 

9> 

bottom 

„  "Tricopteroe 

"„    "Trichopteroe." 

„   538 

„15 

9f 

» 

„  "lightly" 

„     "tightly."       . 

„   545 

„18 

>y 

>> 

„  "Vetla" 

„     "Vetta." 

N.  B. — Besides  the  above,  there  are  a  few 

typographical  errors 

in  some  of  the  names 

CHAPTER  L 

TOPOGRAPHY  OF  THE  COCHIN  STATE. 
GeDeral  Description — Its  DiTisio&B— Legendary  origin  of  Tripoonterah— Le- 
gendary division  of  Islands — Curious  Pilgrimages — Travancore  lines — 
Trichoor  Fortifications— Verapoly — Devil's  Mouth— Alwaye— Buildings — 
Water  Communications — ^Back-waters — Rivers — ^Reservoirs — Roads  —Moun- 
tains— Geology — Mineral  Productions — Harbours — Narrikal  Mud  Bank. 

Thk  Native  State  of  Cocbin  may  be  called  a  Province  of  Mala- 
bar, situated  on  tbe  Western  Coast  of  Hindrntan,  and  lying  between 
the  9tb  and  lltb  degrees  of  Nortb  latitude,  and  75tb  and  77tb  of 
East  longitude.  It  is  bounded  on  the  West  by  the  Ocean,  on  the 
North  by  British  Malabar,  on  the  South  by  the  Native  State  of 
Travancore,  and  on  the  East  by  the  long  line  of  mountains  known 
as  the  Western  Ghauts.  It  contains  (including  Chittoor)  1,131  square 
miles,  of  various  descriptions  of  territory. 

The  Cochin  State  endrcles  several  portions  of  Travancore,  and 
one  large  town,  known  as  Cochin,  in  latitude  9°  58'  N.,  and 
longitude  76°  18'  30*  E.,  the  property  of  the  British  Govern- 
ment :  whilst  its  own  district  of  Chittoor  is  itself  surrounded 
by  British  territory.  The  State  is  divided  into  Kunneeanfir, 
Cochin,  Cranganore,  Kodachayree,  Mukundapurum,  Yainamakul, 
Thaullapullay,  Trichoor,  Chaylayekurray,  and  Chittoor.*  Ezclud- 
tag  this  last  division,  it  consists  of  hill»  and  low-lands  :  these 
latter  being  from  fifteen  ta  twenty  miles  in  width,  and  stretching 
from  the  ghauts  to  the  sea-shore.  The  low-knds  are  divisible  into 
two  portions,  a  long  sandy  or  Tnaritime  territory,  from  two  miles  to 

*  Many  of  the  following  measurements,  and  other  information,  are  taken 
from  the  excellent  Ofieial  Btporit  of  LieuUnanU  Conmn  and  Ward;  M.S.S. 
of  the  Surveyor  General's  Department :  also  M.S.S.  reoords  of  the  DaUih  Qo- 
vemnunt  of  Cochin :  the  report  of  Dr,  FixmeU  Buehanartf  1800 :  Lieutenant 
ffortiU^,  \^\(i,  and  AisUUmt  Surgeon  01  iphatU,  1884.  M.SItS.  Alterations  and 
additions  have  been  made,  to  bring  them  up  to  the  present  time. 


2:  KUNNEEANCTR, TRIPOONTEJRAH. 

ft  few  hundred  yards  in  width,  on  the  west  face  of  which  lies  the 
sea,  whilst  its^  eastern  side  is  bounded'  by  the  backwater,  sometimes 
two  miles^  wide^  but  more  commonly  a  few  himdred  yards.  This 
maritime  territory  i»  intersected  by  the  openings  of  the  Cranganore 
river  at  Ayacotta^and  the  Vypeen  river  at  Cochim  One>^  third  of  this 
tract  is  covered  by  water,  and  more  than  half  the  rest  by  cocoanut 
trees  :  it  is  essentially  the  land  of  the  fishermen,  and  along  it  went 
the  only  road  low  caste  men  might  use  in  oldent  times :  here  very  few 
Brahmans  and  no  Namboories  will  reside,  \mless  attached  to  apalace 
or  a  pagoda. 

The  remainder  of  the  low-lands^  or  the  plains^  ane  th£  portion, 
lying  between,  the  badcwater  and  the-  hills  :  which,,  instead  of  being, 
sandy,  are  more  commonly  either  alluvial,  or  composed  of  laterite,  and 
intersected  in  many  places  by  rivers.  This  portion  of  the  State  is 
more  holy  than  either  the  maritime  or  hilly  districts. 

The  Hilly  portion^,  or  the  Qhauts,  are  nearly  covered  by  magnifi- 
cent jungles,  mostly  upon  a  granite  formation.  Here  the  tiger  and 
cheetah^  the  bear  and  the  elephant,  dispute  with  man  his  claim  to 
be  the  lord  of  the  fovesta 

Munneeaniir  is  the  division  to  the  south-east,,  of  a  triangular 
figure,  having  a  circumference  of  about  55  miles,  and  comprehending 
a  superficies  of  63f  square  miles,  but  little  outlying  spots  pertain- 
ing to  it,  increase  its  siae  to  80|.  The  aspect  of  this  district  is  va- 
ried, and  its  capacity  very  great  :  it  presents  a  series  of  minute 
chains  of  steep  slopes,  much  overgrown  with  thick  stunted 
jungle,  whilst  about  one-third-  is  cultivatecL  The  intermediate 
vallies  and  flat  susfaces  have  nearly  two-thirds  under  cultivation, 
half  heixig  rice>  and  the  other  cocoa-nut  plantations. 

This  division  contains  fiVe  sub-divisions,  fProvertiesJ,  of  about 
equal  size,  including  detached  places,  viz.,  Kunneeanur,NeendacuTray,. 
Kettur,  Emaoolium,.  and  VuUarapullay,  comprised  in  99  villages. 
The  whole  oontain».  about  ^>000  procbictive:  trees.  The  most 
remarkable  place  is  Tripoonterah  (TeereepuneyHwrayJ^  the  principal 
sesidence  of  H.  H.  the  Rajah,  and  nine  miles  east  of  Cochiui  Though 
denominated  a  fort,  and  surrounded  by  a  moat  and  wall,  with  gates 
at  each  entrance,  it  may  be  said  to  be  incapable  of  offering  resis- 
tance to  a  foe. 


"8TAlt-DXCOBATINO''   FEAST.— -THI  PALACE.  3 

**  In  the  distress  which  followed  the  great  war,*  a  Brahman 
"  came  to  Khristna  and  Arjmia,  complaining  of  ^e  loss  of  his  nine 
"  children.  Khristna  was  silent,  bnt  Arjuna  hearing  the  Brah- 
^  man's  wife  was  likely  soon  to  become  a  mother,  guaranteed  the  life 
"  of  the  forthcoming  infant,  even  by  himself,  if  necessary,  entering 
'*  the  fire  as  a  sacrifice  to  Tama,  to  save  its  existence.  Khristna 
**  rebuked  Aijuna  for  his  rash  promise,  and  then  took  him  to  Vai- 
'^  cont'ha,  where  the  Brahman's  nine  children  were  fonnd  seated  in 
■**  Lachsmi'siap.  They  were  brought  back  to  earth  in  a  celestial 
''  car,  and  deseeded  at  Tripoonterah,  which  was  set  apart  as  a  holy 
^'  place,  in  the  fifty  first  day  of  the  Cali-ynga.*' 

Once  a  year,  ten  days  before  the  Ohnam,  (about  the  middle  of 
August,)  the  Rajah  goes  in  state,  wearing  his  star,  and  attended  by 
all  his  native  officials,  from  one  palace  to  the  other.  This  feast  is 
called  the  Uttum  Chumium,  Mai.  or  that  of  "  star  decorating." 
It  is  said  to  be  held  in  commemoration  of  the  day  when  the  first 
Cochin  Rajah  entered  into  possession  of  his  Malabar  dominions. 

The  palaoe  (Ciflgaunu,)  is  a  curious  pile  of  old  buildings,  entirely 
of  native  architecture :  its  small  windows,  narrow  stairs,  low  passages, 
and  confined  yards,  are  very  differently  formed  to  European  ideas 
of  comfort.  In  some,  rooms,  doors,  and  large  glass  windows,  have 
evidently  been  introduced  at  a  later  date,  than  the  erection  of  the 
building.  A  guard  is  stationed  at  the  gate,  within  which  no  low 
•caste  person  may  enter.  A  covered  passage  reaches  from  the  palace 
to  the  gateway,  hut  a  screen  or  scarlet  curtain  prevents  any  passer- 
by  from  being  able  to  gaze  within.  The  entrance  hall  is  square, 
and  leads  directly  into  the  room  where  the  Rajah  daily  transacts 
business  and  receives  visiters.  At  one  end  is  a  swinging  silver 
cot  and  an  almirah  full  of  books,  'Winkt  picftures  adorn  the  walls. 
On  the  opposite  side  of  the  road  is  a  handsome  reception  hail, 
built  by  the  Dutch,  consisting  of  two  very  fine  rooms,  of  elegant 
proportions,  and  well  lighted  by  means  of  laigeglaaed  windows. 

In  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  palace  is  a  email  bazaar  fPUlaJy 
into  which  no  person  below  the  rank  of  a  Nair  may  enter.  (Native 
Christians  are  admissible.)  There  is  also  a  pagoda  having  a  fine 
tank  and  a  large  Ootooparrah  where  any  Brahmans,  should  tney 

*  Machenzk  ManuKripU,  Book  No.  3.  Countermaik  899. 


4  CHBI8TIAN   CHURCH. — RAJAH'S   HOSPITAL. 

desire  it,  may  be  gratuitoufiLy  fed ;  another  is  also  situated  close  to 
the  Fort.  A  Church  stands  outside,  in  which  the  Eoman  CaUiolics 
and  Syrians  officiate  at  different  times,  and  about  two  miles  to  the 
south  is  a  hill  upon  which  the  Rajah  possesses  a  bungalow. 

The  Christian  Church  mentioned  as  being  exterior  to  the  walls 
is  sixty  feet  long,  and  twenty-five  wide.  About  one-third  of  its 
length  is  enclosed  by  a  railing  or  s<»een.  The  oeilisg  is  divided  into 
little  squares,  in  which  angels'  faces  are  represented  :  at  the  altar 
is  a  large  f nune,  with  paintings  in  its  various  compartments,  intend- 
ed to  illustrate  New  Testament  scenes.  There  is  a  large  cross  in 
front  of  its  west  entrance,  and  close  by  a  box  for  the  reception  of 
alms  for  the  poor  :  near  to  this  is  a  stone  font,  and  holy  water  in  a 
recess  by  the  docMr.  About  one  mile  from  Tripoonterah,  at  Currin- 
gacherry,  is  a  Syrian  Church  dedicated  to  St  George,  within  which 
may  be  seen  a  representation  of  "Qod  the  Father;"  there  are  no 
images,  but  several  crosses.  At  the  west  entrance  is  a  place  for 
receivixilg  alms  of  rice  or  oiL 

Kunneeanir  is  the  largest  sub-division,  and  contains  a  small  pa- 
lace as  well  as  a  pagoda  :  scattered  over  the  northern  portion  of 
tMs  sub-division  are  several  small  bazaars :  in  that  at  Mulienthwrutti 
isalargev  sqnare  Church.  The  Proverty  (sub-division)  of  Nett(ir,  lying 
along  the  borders  of  the  lake,  is  rich  in  cultivation,  gardens,  and  in- 
habitants. The  Candenaad  Church  is  much  decorated,  and  about 
one  mile  from  it  is  that  of  Diamper,  or  Udiamper,  where  Menezes 
held  his  celebrated  Synod.  A  picture  of  Sir  F.  Drake  long  graced 
its  walls,  placed  close  to  the  cross.  Another  remarkable  one  was  a 
woman  confessing  her  sins,  and  the  devil  crouching  at  her  elbow. 

Emacollum  {YemacoUum)  is  perhaps  tiie  most  in^Kirtant  sub- 
division, and  it  is  in  a  great  degree  the  seat  of  the  Native  Qovemment. 
Here  is  the  Dewan's  (Prime  MinUier)  Cuteherry,  where  the  records 
(not  at  Tripoonterah)  are  kept.  The  Judges  of  the  Court,  the  Com- 
mercial Agent,  and  other  Officials,  also  transact  their  business  here. 
On  a  line  with  the  Cuteherry,  to  the  north,  is  the  Jail  where  half  the 
prisoners  are  kept,  and  a  little  further  on  the  Rajah's  Hospital,  raised 
.by  Rama  Vurmah,  Rajah  of  Cochin.  The  original  building  was 
constructed  in  1848,  and  opened  on  August  14th  of  that  year  : 
again  it  was  enlarged  in  1851,  and  again  as  well  as  being  tiled,  in 


OOCHIN. — BRITISH    KKSI)>ENCY,   A'C.  5 

id59.*     All  these  edifices  face  the    backwater,  from  which    they 
Are  divided  by  a  road  and  a  slight  expanse  of  gra&<9. 

Tlie  backwater,  dotted  with  isLinds,  is  here  aearly  two  miles 
Across  :  whilst  sea- wards,  or  to  the  westward,  is  the  town  of  Cochin ; 
a  little  to  its  north  is  perceived  the  opening  of  the  Vypeen  river, 
with  Yypeen  itself,  ncaily  imbedded  in  trees.  To  the  W.  N.  W.  is 
the  Island  of  Balghatty  (Pony&kurra),  on  which  is  a  bunga- 
low, where  the  British  Resident  lives  when  at  Cochin,  and 
€m  the  sumnit  of  oae  of  the  highest  trees  is  a  flag  staff,  from 
which  floats  the  British  ensign,  when  H.  M.'s  Representative  is 
present  A  short  distance  to  the  rear  of  the  EmacoUum  Cut- 
elieny  is  an  upstairs  durbar  room,  rarely  made  use  of :  it  is  a  fine 
•building,  of  modem  construction.  There  is  a  TraveUers*  Bungalow, 
also  a  straggling  village  and  bazaar,  containing  rather  a  large  popula- 
tion, who  are  mostly  Christians,  (many  of  them  being  fishermen,)  but 
Jews  and  Konkanies  also  reside  there.  There  are  two  Roman 
Catholic  Churches,  one  for  Europeans  and  Eurasians,  and  the  other 
for  natives :  although  close  together,  one  is  said  to  be  situated  at 
KoiTuthullay,theotherat  Unjikaimul  (meaning  literally  **  ^ve  nobles,*' 
•or  chieftains  holding  landed  property).  These  names  are  said  to  be 
'derived  frem  five  petty  chiefs,  all  of  whom,  in  ancient  times,  had  a 
share  of  ErnacoUum. 

Vullarapully  is  a  highly  cultivated,  populous,  and  beautful  little 
territory,  lying  along  the  northern  bank  of  the  Purreeaar  river,  which 
nearly  siiironnds  it  This  is  a  portion  of  the  Allungaad  district, 
obtained  by  the  Travancore  Rajah  about  1762,  at  w4iich  period  this 
small  spot  was  retained,  and  on  it  stands  the  palace  of  one  of  the 
eldest  Tumbaians,  or  Ladies  of  the  Cochin  Rajah's  family.  Passing  up 
the  Purreeaar  river,  above  the  much  frequented  sanitarium  of  Alwaye, 
is  Sherwurcah,  where  the  Cochin  Rigah  has  just  completed  a  hand- 
some palace,  close  to  the  remakis  of  a  former  one.  It  is  situated  on 
the  brow  of  a  low  slope  that  overlooks  the  stream.  Not  far  distant 
is*  a  Christian  village  and  Church :  and  near  to  this  stands  a  pagoda 
of  some  note,  in  the  vicinity  of  wiiich  the  Swinging  Festival  (l^hoo- 

•  lu  the  firat  eleven  years  2,008  in-jtatientt  were  treated  aud  dieted 
TTithin  this  hospital,  and  9000  received  advice  aod  medicine  as  out  patientsi. 
X>ut  of  those  treated,  123  died. 


^  ISLANDS,   POKYEKXTRRA   HKD   VEITDOORTT. 

hum,  Mai.)  is  annually  celebrated ;  when  deluded  Hindu  devotees 
imagine  they  aero  propitiating  the  deity  by  having  hooks  passed 
through  the  skin  of  their  backs,  and  thus  being  swung  around. 

Farther  up  the  river  is  Maliatur,  with  its  hill  of  the  Cross 
{GrucemdJi.)  It  is  coansidered  by  natinFes  miraculous,  that  the  timid 
wild  ibex,  from  the  neighbouring  forests,  come  to  this  rocky  place, 
where  unmolested  by  all,  they  are  regarded  with  wonder,  and  treated 
with  kindness. 

The  Cochin  division  of  the  State  is  a  maritime  district :  stretch- 
ing along  the  coast  for  twenty  six  miles.  It  includfes  an  area  of 
62f  square  miles,  nearly  17  of  which  are  under  moist  cidtlvation, 
21  are  covered  with  water,  and  the  remainder  by  magnificent  topes, 
gardens,  and  villages.  This  portion  of  the  country,  cursed  by  the 
Brahmans^  as  fit  only  for  outcastes,  and  uasuited  for  their  priestly 
race,  unless  Konkanies,  those  compelled  to  attend  a  pagoda,  or 
serve  in  the  Hajah's  Palace,  is  singularly  happy  in  its  natural  pro- 
<luctions,  perhaps  no  portion  of  tke  globe  is  richer  in  useful  vege- 
tation :  whilst  the  fii^  in  the  sea  and  backwaters  are  innumerable. 
Here  no  tiger  or  wild  beast  can  assail  the  inhabitaats,  very  few 
Mammals,  with  the  exception  of  jackalls  and  otters,  having  ever 
been  seen  along  these  sandy  islands.  It  is  sub-divided  into 
•Cochin,  Sherria  Anandapooram,  Vypeen,  Muluacaad  ;  and  these 
itgain  into  forty  four  portions  termed  Mooriesor  villages. 

The  Cochin  sub-division,  commenoes  from  the  Vypeen  river,  and 
lies  south  of  British  Cochin :  whilst  to  its  east  is  the  Island  of 
Vendoorty,  two  miles  in  length,  and  believ<ed,  according  to  tradition, 
to  have  been  divided  from  the  Island  of  Balghatty  {Ponyekurra\ 
which  is  now  more  than  a  mile  distant,  by  only  a  small  stream. 

It  is  asserted  that  a  cocoanmt  leaf  fell  into  this  stream,  when  a 
woman,  from  each  Island,  rushed  forward  at  the  same  time  and 
seized  it :  both  held  on,  but  at  last  the  Vendoorty  female  let  go, 
and  the  Island  of  Ponyekurra  at  once  drifted  away  from  ito  previous 
neighbour  Vendoorty ;  the  names  of  these  Islands  refer  to  this  legend. 
Ponyekurra,  meaning  "came  on  this  side,"  and  Vendoorty,  "  left  on 
that  side." 

This  Island  of  Vendoorty  in  the  time  of  the  Portuguese  formed  a 
portion  of  the  endowment  of  the  Cathedral  of  St  Cruz,  situated  in 


TYPEIN. — THK   FREE    KAJAIT.  J 

the  town  of  Cochin.  The  Dutch  probably  sold  it  to  the  llajah  an^  ao- 
eording  to-  theii  records,  it  belonged  to  them  in  the  year  1753 :  but 
not  when  Cochin  fell  to  the  British.  It  contains  a  Chruitian  popu- 
lation and  a  Boman  Catholic  Church  opposite  the  Canal,  leading  to* 
Tripoonterah. 

The  town  of  Cochin  will  be  described  io  the  Chapter  on  the 
English  :  it  includes  part  of  the  Cuivetty  village,  and  the  Mutten- 
eherry  bazaars,  although  the  greater  portion  of  the  latter  are  in  the 
Native  State.  Close  to  Jew's  Town  is  the  Ri^ah's  Palace,  one  of 
the  two  most  important  which  belonged  to  him,  when  Europeans 
first  arrived.  About  A.D.  1550  the  Portuguese  built  him  the  present 
edifice  or  a  great  portion  of  it,  as  probably  additions  and  alteiatione 
have  been  made  since  that  period. 

Sherria  Anandapooram  ia  the  most  southern  sub-division  of  the 
Cochin  districts  having  a  larger  proportionate  quantity  of  land  uur 
der  wet  cultivation  than  either  of  the  other  three  proverties. 

Typeen,  or  Baypeen^  ( Waipey)  extends  from  the  river,  which 
divides  it  from  Cochin,  to  the  Cranganore  or  Ayacotta  opening.  Ita 
most  southern  portion  is  Britiah  territory  :  its  most  northern  now 
belongs  to  Travancore. 

In  1743,  ''  the  Paliat  Achen,  or  free  imab,*  had  a  residence  at 
""  Chenotta  {fihennamungalum)^  close  to  Cranganore,  and  was  the 
"/r«  lord  of  the  Island  of  Vypeen,"  (with  the  exception  of  some 
gardens  and  landft  situated  at  ita  southern  extremity,,  opposite  to 
Cochin,  which  belonged  to  the  Dutch  East  India  Company ;)  ''  and 
''some  time  previously  he  had  become  the  ruling  sovereign  of 
"Manacotta  and  Mooloorcurra,  lying  above  Chetwye  :  also  hia 
"  rights  extended  over  the  old  kingdom  of  Williar  Wattalta,  above 
'^  Parda,  which  was  hardly  more  tlian  a  name."  The  Paliat  Achen 
is  represented  as  '^  fifty  years  of  age,  who  speaks  little  but  thinks 
well" 

The  meaning  of  the  word  Vypeen.  iS)  '^  a  place  whieh  has  arisen 
from  a  swamp  :''  and  there  is  an  era,  called  the  PootJiOo  Veppoo,  or 
new  Vypeen,  corresponding  to  A.  D.  1341.     Faoli  gives  a  legend 

*  Dutch  Goremment  Records,  1743  :  but  still,  the  Paliat  Achen  appears  to 
have  been  in  some  respects  a  Tasaal  to  the  Cocliiu  Rajah  and  Lis  hereditary 
Hiaisttr. 


S  CftUZ   MIRABILE. — ST.    THOMAS. 

to-  the  effect  that  iii  that  year  the  Vypeen  river  found  its  exit  in  the 
sea  and  Vypeen  was  formed  :  but  such  is  impossible,  as  the  river  audt 
the  Sinus  Goichicmy  or  large  expanse  of  backwater,  are  mentioned 
by  Ptolemy,  and  other  writers,  as  existing  anterior  to  their  time. 
It  is  remarkable  that  the  era  of  Colum,  or  Qnilon,  whicb  has  been  as- 
serted to  have  originated  at  the  building  of  that  city,  is  proved  by 
the  MackentU  M,S.S,,  to  have-  reference  only  to  a  great  religious 
festival,  when  water  suddenly  filled  the  tank.  The  era  of  Poothoo 
Veppoo,  which  Paoli  mentions,  as  used  in  the  Narrikal  Church,  may 
very  possibly  refer  to  th«  origin  of  the  first  Christian  Church,  built 
on  the  swampy,  but  sacred,  island  of  Vypeen.  Certainly,  according 
te^the  Kerula  Ulpati,  the  land  from  Vypeen  to  Navrikal,  in  this  year 
was  first  taxed,  as  being  in  a  fit  state  for  cultivation,  which  it  was 
not  previously. 

Beyond  Vypeen  is  Cruz  Mirabile  or  the  Wonderful  Cross,  a  small 
wooden  Church  on  the  banks  of  an  estuary,  formed  by  the  backwater 
and  erected  there  after  the  ancient  Church  became  submerged.  There 
is  a  sandy  ridge  to  its  south,  now  frequently  only  65  feet  wide,  over 
which  the  sea  occasionally  breaks  when  the  S.  W.  monsoon  continues 
strongly,  for  some  time  before  the  freshes  are  well  down :  people 
have  often  been  apprehensive  of  the  formation  of  a  new  opening 
here,  which  might  cause  the  overflow  of  all  the  low  inland  paddy 
fields,  besides  ruining  the  Cochin  out  let.  Various  reasons  have  been 
assigned  for  the  name  of  thia  Church;  one  being,  that  here  the 
Portuguese  cross  was  planted,  as  a  symbol  that  they  claimed 
sovereignty  over  the  country;  and  another,  that  St.  Thomas 
landed  here,  and  reared  the  cross  himself.  The  next  village  is 
Mallia|>ooram  {Mulhj  jyattgum,)  to  which  pertains  a  flag  staff  of  the 
Cochin  native  Government,  and  a  Master  Attendant.  A  sandy  ridge 
near,  is  known  as  "  the  old  bar,"  and  probably  a  river  once  foimd  its 
exit  here.  At  2^  miles  distance,  W.  N.  W.,  is  the  i>agoda  of  Yellura- 
gunnapuUay,  celebrated  for  an  annual, festival  held  there:  whilst  IJ 
miles  to  its  north,  is  Narrikal  (A7*awa),  a  Christian  vilk^e,  consist- 
ing of  a  street  ruuuiRg  east  and  west,  terminated  by  a  church.  A 
small  palace  and  pagoda  are  situated  to  the  north.  The  sea  is  here 
smooth  through  the  entire  year,  owing  to  a  "  mud  bank"  that  breaks 
the  force  of  the  waves. 


l^ALLIPOBT. — MIRACULOUS   PAIKTING.  9 

There  are  several  other  small  villages  of  no  note,  until  Palliport 
{PalUpuram^  or  Mannapaad)  is  reached.  Here  is  a  holy  pagoda, 
where  trials  by  crocodile  ordeals  took  place,  after  the  prisoner  had 
been  sworn  before  the  idoL  Just  to  the  north  of  this  is  a  ditch  divid- 
ing the  Cochin  territory  from  the  British  and  that  of  Travancore,  this 
ditch  is  probably  a  remnant  of  the  ''  Travancore  lines."  Hie  ground 
from  here  to  the  Ayacotta  opening  was  purchased  along  with  the 
Cmnganore  fort,  from  the  Dutch,  by  the  Travanccne  state.  In  1743 
this  territory,  as  already  observed,  was  under  ^e  free  lord  Paiiat 
Achen.  The  Cochin  State  claims  it  as  theirs,  but  it  is  also  said  to 
have  formed  a  part  of  Paroor,  when  that  State  fell  to  the  share  of 
Travancore  in  1763,  but  they  did  not  obtain  possession  of  this  out- 
lying place,  because  the  Dutch  held  it  as  their  own.  To  the  north, 
and  cloee  to  this  ditch,  is  the  Palliport  Lazaretto,  or  Leper  asylum : 
it  and  the  grounds  on  idiich  it  stands,  are  British  property.  Origi- 
nally a  Portuguese  building,  erected  as  a  Syrian  College  in  1587,  it 
was  tnmed  by  the  Dutch  to  its  present  use.  The  number  of  patients 
they  maintained  there  for  the  last  fifty  years  of  their  rule,  averaged  less 
than  ten :  now  there  are  usually,  above  forty.  Next  to  this  is  a  fine 
church,  where  the  feast  of  the  **  Virgin  Mary"  is  annually  held  with 
great  pomp :  it  is  said  that  an  oil  painting  of  her  floated  over  the  sea, 
and  appeared  off  the  shores  of  Palliport  A  short  way  to  the  north 
is  a  comfortable  honse,  and  close  to  it  a  small  octagon  tower,  built 
by  the  Portuguese,  to  command  the  neighbouring  backwater  : 
within  this  building  is  a  well  of  good  water. 

The  Muluacaad  sub-division  is  composed  of  ten  small  islands  in 
the  backwater,  most  of  which  are  under  wet  cultivation.  The  Bri- 
tish Residency,  as  already  stated,  is  situated  on  Balghatty  {Ponjfe- 
kurra)y  one  of  the  ten,  2|  miles  from  the  Cochin  flagstaff.  The 
position  of  this  house  is  delightful,  and  its  construction  very  superior : 
whilst  from  its  upstairs  verandah  a  most  picturesque  view  is  ob- 
tainable. About  these  islands,  moltitudes  of  ducks  are  reared,  which 
find  a  ready  sole  in  Cochin.  Ramanthoorty,  or  Candle  island,  was 
formerly  a  great  resort  for  smugglers,  but  is  now  rented  by  the  Ra- 
jah's Qovemment  Moorakumpard  is  another  island  in  the  back- 
water, the  property  of  a  Native :  or  rather  the  water  was  so,  where 
the  land  now  is.      He  has  for  twenty  years  the  right  to  any  portion 


10  CRANGANORB^  DKSERTED  PORT. 

where  the  water  does  not  exceed  the  depth  of  a  ky-kole,  or  a  boat- 
man's bamboo,  of  about  three  fathoms*  length.  He  sub-lets  any  part 
to  whoever  will  undertake  to  fill  it  in :  the  amount  of  space  is  one 
thousand  koles,  by  400  :  for  which  he  pays  ten  rupees  yearly  rent, 
and  at  the  termination  of  each  20  years,  it  is  to  be  re-adjusted  ac- 
cording to  the  produce  of  the  ground. 

The  Cranganore  {Kodungaloor)  division  has  been  the  scene  of  most 
momentous  changes  in  times  gone  by :  here  the  Jew  and  the  Christian 
obtained  footings  and  founded  towns  before  the  Portuguese  landed  in 
India.  Here  the  Government  of  the  Permauls  was  lield,  here  it  flour- 
ished and  decayed.  On  this  spot  the  Portuguese  fort  was  raised  in 
1523,  and  they  contemplated  at  first  making  it  the  seat  of  their  chief 
power  in  Malabar.  Here  fell  the  Portuguese  might  to  Dutch  prowess, 
whilst  Cochin  still  continued  in  their  possession.  Here  the  Dutch  had 
to  sell*  their  fort  and  territory  to  a  Native  Prince,  before  the  British 
would  fire  a  shot,  to  hold  back  the  victorious  Tippoo.  Now  it  is  a  ruin, 
mouldering  in  the  dust,  with  but  one  solitary  tower  overhanging  the 
broad  expanse  of  the  river,  which  rolls  on  slowly,  but  deeply,  beneath. 
Its  old  moat  is  the  resort  of  the  crocodile  and  paddy  bird,  and  its  once 
well  used  streets  resound  no  more  to  human  tread.  The  solitary 
stranger,  perhaps,  disturbs  a  snake  in  his  path,  or  on  owl  in  the 
dense  overhanging  trees,  but  rarely  a  mortal  will  meet  his  eye. 
Cranganore  fort  is  utterly  and  entirely  deserted. 

The  line  of  the  Rajahs  of  Cranganore  (the  Native  town  of  this 
name  is  some  considerable  distance  from  the  site  of  the  fort,) 
who  are  Schatriyas,  is  stUl  extant :  they  found  their  claim  to  this  terri- 
tory as  havuig  been  granted  to  their  family  by  Shayrum  Permaul,  the 
chief  of  whose  guard  was  their  ancestor.  Their  right  to  regal 
authority  they  have  long  been  forced  to  waive,  either  before  the 
superior  power  of  the  Cochin   Rajah,'|'  or  that  of  the  Samorin. 

*  In  the  Dutch  Records  for  1748,  it  is  expressly  stated:  the  Cranganore 
territory  owed  obedience  to  the  Dutch  Company,  and  was  not  under  the  Ra- 
jah of  Cochin.  That  they  obtained  this  territory  by  a  treaty  of  peace  made 
with  the  Samorin,  December  17th,  1717,  but  they  allowed  the  line  of  the  Cran- 
ganore Rajahs  to  continue  as  their  yassals. 

t  The  Rajah  of  Cochin,  in  1792,  unsuccessfully  laid  claim  before  the  Bri- 
tish Commissiouers,  to  the  whole  island,  called  by  Europeans,  Chetwye  {Ma* 
napvram) :  which  consisted  of  three  small  territories,  Cranganore  to  the  south, 
Paponetty  or  Ayroor  in  the  centre,  and  Chetwye  to  the  north. 


KELIOIOHS  LEGENDS.  11 

Cranganore  fort  is  N.  N.  W.  18  miles  distant  from  CochiiL  This 
territory  comprehends  an  area  of  18}  square  miles,  and  is  well 
covered  with  cocoonut  plantations  and  rice  lands,  though  some  por- 
tion is  merely  a  sandy  taract  It  contains  a  celebrated  pagoda,  dedi- 
cated to  Bhagavadi,  where  there  is  a  door  apparently  of  stone,  but 
fixed  in  a  half -opened  position.  A  tradition  is  attached  to  this  and 
believed  in  by  both  Hindus  and  Christians,  which  asserts  that  St. 
Thomas  and  Bhagavadi  held  a  discussion  at  Palliport,  about  the  res- 
pective merits  of  the  Christian  and  Hindu  religions.  Arguments 
waxed  warm,  and  Bhagavadi  considering  it  best  to  cease  further  dis- 
coaaions,  deCtimped,  and  jumping  across  the  Cranganore  river,  made 
iitraight  for  the  pi^goda.  St  Thomas  not  to  be  outdone,  rapidly 
gave  chase,  and  just  as  Bhagavadi  got  inside  the  door,  the  Saint 
reached  its  outside,  and  setting  his  foot  between  it  and  the  door 
post,  prevented  its  closing  :  there  they  both  stood,  until  the  door 
turned  to  stone,  one  would  not  allow  its  being  opened,  nor  the 
other  permit  its  being  shut. 

At  this  pagoda  the  feast  of  Baranee  b  held  in  the  middle  of 
^larch,  when  the  Nairs  and  other  Sudras  offer  up  cocks  to  Bhagava- 
di, beseeching  immunity  from  severe  diseases  during  the  suc- 
ceeding year.  Near  it  is  another  pagoda,  to  which  the  Konka- 
nies  and  the  higher  castes  resort  for  devotional  purposes.  The 
nimber  of  devotees  who  come  long  distances  to  Cranganore  is 
remarkable  :  even  the  road  to  eternal  bliss  in  some  portions  of 
Tiavaiicore  is  said  to  pass  through  this  temple.*  A  large  pagoda 
^'icred  to  luppen,  the  Hindu  deity  of  the  country,  stands  on  a  hill 
near  Cottayam  :  in  it  the  Hindu  god  luppen,  and  the  Mahomedan 
Hawa,  are  alike  objects  of  adoration,  as  it  is  asserted  they  are 
bosom  friends,  living  in  the  same  place.  From  this  the  pilgrim 
[»rooeeds  to  St  Andrea,  near  Allepey,  on  the  sea  coast,  where  having 
bathed,  prayers  are  offered  at  this  Christian  shrine,  for  St  Andrew  is 
^d  to  have  been  a  bosom  friend  of  the  other  two :  finally  he 
proceeds    to    Cranganore,    where  his  wanderings  are  completed. 

*  lu  the  Dutch  records  it  is  stated  that  Cranganore  is  deemed  specially 
ttcred,  on  account  of  its  having  been  built  whilst  Furesu  Rama  was  on  earth. 
At  Trichoor  it  is  said  the  name  Kudungaloar  is  merely  a  oorruption  of  Kodi  (a 
wore),  Imffum  (the  Indian  Phallus),  oor  (country).  In  the  Kodungaloor,  or 
Cranganore  pagoda,  are  numerous  figures  of  the  fingulu. 


1 2  A  YROOR. — KOD  ACHA  YREE. 

There  is  a  fine  upstairs  Cutcherry  at  Cranganore,  (the  native  town) 
situated  in  front  of  the  pagoda,  which  no  low  caste  man  may 
approach.  There  is  also  a  good  bazaar.  The  road  towards  Uie  south 
leads  to  a  palace  of  the  Cochin  Rajah,  ipHuch  is  about  one  mile 
distant. 

Stretching  between  Cranganore  and  Chetwye,  the  island  is  divided 
into  three  small  States,  Cranganore  to  the  south,  Chetwye  to  the 
north,  and  Paponetty  or  Ayroor  or  Belangainthe  centre.  In  1743 
the  ruler  of  Ayroor  was  nephew  to  the  Cranganore  Bajali, 
boUi  were  stated  "  to  be  poor  princes,  without  any  power.  Ayroor 
"  was  taken  from  the  Samonn  by  the  Dutch,  in  1717,  and  settled 
"  upon  the  Company,  as  were  the  lands  of  Trikonetty,  Aeraltoo,  Aral- 
"  tapala^  Moodde,  Coonattoo,  and  Pootenbare,  which  last  six  districts, 
"  comprising  18}  villages,  were  given  by  the  Extra  Councillor  General 
*^  in  Chief,  Willem  Backer  Jacobsz,  as  a  inresent  to  the  Rajah  of 
**  Cochin."  Subsequently  by  desire  of  the  Batavian  Supreme  Qo- 
vemment,  they  were  resumed  :  but  in  accordance  with  fresh  orders, 
contained  in  a  Secret  letter  from  Batavia,  dated  July  4th,  1740,  they 
were  restored  to  that  Prince. 

The  Kodachayree  division  consists  partly  of  plains  and  partly 
of  hills  f  and  is  of  a  most  irregular  form.  Its  eastern  side  is  bounded 
for  twenty  miles  by  the  Shallacoodee  river,  separating  it  for  much 
of  this  distance  from  the  Iddiara  and  Naithoad  hills,  belonging  to 
Travancore,  which  last  State  also  possesses  sovereignty  over  the  Al- 
limgaad  district^  which  bounds  it  for  about  twenty  miles  on  the 
south.  Its  arbitrary  lines  of  demarcation  from  other  districts,  and 
also  from  the  Tunnalapuram  talook  of  British  Malabar  on  its  east, 
are  too  complicated  to  define.  It  oomjNises  342  square  miles  of 
country,  and  is  divided  into  four  Proverties,  Kodachayree,  Paulathin- 
gul,  Thaulaycaad,  and  Koruttee. 

Kodachayree  is  one  of  its  largest  sub-divisions,  not  one  twentieth 
of  which  is  under  cultivation.  In  the  Dutch  Qovemment  records 
for  1743,  it  is  stated, "  the  lands  of  the  Kodachayree  petty  Kaimul 
"  lie  between  Paroor,  Cranganore,  the  Cocl^p  territory,  and  the 
"  ghauts,  and  annually  yield  125  candies  of  pepper,  whilst  the  best 
**  cardamoms  come  from  that  place  :  but  that,  and  the  wax,  are  in 
''  the  hands  of  the  Jesuits,  who  are  located  at  Ambalacatty,  and  their 


LKSCHBS. — WILD    ANIMALS,    TIUKUS.  13 

''  Chief  is  designated  Archbishop  of  Cranganore,  his  residence  being 
"  half  a  mile  from  Pootencherra,  in  the  Cochin  territory."  Up  to 
1706  this  Kaimul  had  been  nnder  the  Samorin,  he  then  shook  off 
his  authority,  and  joined  himself  to  the  Cochin  faction. 

Amongst  its  few  villages  (about  13)  is  seen  the  remains  of  a 
small  fort^  onoe  the  residence  of  a  family  which  exercised  sovereign 
sway  over  this  part  of  the  country,  and  whose  descendants  as  private 
individuals  still  live  in  the  neighbourhood. 

Shallacoodee  is  the  chief  place  in  this  sub-division :  here  the  of- 
ficials reside,  and  the  Rajah  has  also  a  small  palace.  It  is  a  great 
satia&ction  to  find  a  comparative  absence  of  the  rattan  and  allied 
climbers,  in  these  jun^es.  The  small  Ceylon  leech  is  here  a  great 
pest  to  the  traveller.  Shooting,  especially  for  bison,  is  very  good. 
The  Mnlch^rs  (a  tribe  of  hill  people)  assert  that  in  the  depth  of  the 
forest  there  is  an  enormous  tiger,  of  a  white  or  cream  colour,  and 
having  yellow  stripes :  it  is  reputed  to  be  most  ferocious,  and  its 
destruction  much  desired. 

A  fdw  miles  from  Shallacoodee  is  Angamale,  formerly  the  seat  oi 
the  Syrian  power  in  Malabar.  Tippoo  laid  this  town  waste  and  des- 
troyed the  churches,  but  that  dedicated  to  St.  George  was  subse- 
quently restored.  On  the  banks  of  the  backwater  stands  Tekkah  Pa- 
roor,  and  on  the  opposite  side  is  a  cross  which,  tradition  asserts,  was 
erected  by  St  Thomas.     This  Church  was  built  in  1712. 

Panlathingul  is  still  more  mountainous  than  Kodachayree,  whilst 
only  a  seventeenth  part  is  under  cultivation.  It  comprises  eighteen 
villages,  most  of  which  lie  along  its  western  boundary,  or  that  far- 
thest from  the  ghauts.  This  district  is  much  infested  by  elephants, 
rendering  cultivation  difficult ;  other  game  also  abounds.  From  its 
forests^  a  large  amount  of  timber  is  felled. 

Thaulaycaad  possesses  thirteen  straggling  villages.  It  was  for- 
m^ly  a  wealthy  district,  but  during  the  present  generation  its  opu- 
lence has  vanished,  owing  to  its  trade  having  declined.  There  is 
good  iidand  navigation  as  far  as  this  dirtrict  The  town  of  Auwut- 
tatoor,  with  its  large  pagoda,  is  said  to  have  been  one  of  the  32  di- 
visioos  into  which  Malabar  was  formerly  divided. 

Koruttee  is  the  most  southern  Proverty  of  the  Kodadiayree  Di- 
vision :  containing  twenty  villages,  and  is  also  the  most  populous. 


14  MILITARY   FR0NTIS8,   TRAVANCORE* 

one-half  being  under  cultivation.  The  most  celebrated  place  with- 
in its  limits  is  Armanuddee,  where  there  is  a  well  known  pagoda. 

The  military  frontier  of  Travancore  includes  a  large  portion  of- the 
Cochin  territory,  and  passes  through  the  southern  part  of  the  Koda- 
chayree  district.  The  celebrated  Travancore  lines  were  not  of  aiiy 
considerable  strength  :  they  occupied  the  greater  pai*t  of  the  crests 
of  a  series  of  slopes,  which  were  comparatively  open,  and  not  remark- 
able for  elevation  or  steepness.  They  commenced  at  Yellungayree 
to  the  eastward  of  which  the  hills  were  supposed  to  afford  some  defence  : 
they  then  extended  twenty  four  miles  to  the  westward,  and  termina- 
ted at  Jacotay — ^a  name  wluch  was  occasionally  employed  to  designate 
the  whole  work.  The  latter  consisted  of  a  rather  strong  embankment 
and  parapet  of  earth  :  the  whole  measuring  at  the  highest  part  above 
fifteen  feet,  but  the  elevation  was  not  always  the  same  :  the  ditch 
was,  generally  speaking,  about  naif  that  depth,  and  two  or  three  feet 
broad.  An  Abattis,  composed  of  a  bamboo  hedge,  was  planted, 
which,  in  some  places  where  it  has  been  carefully  preserved,  may  still 
be  seen  flourishing.  Along  its  inner  side  ran  a  broad  and  level  road, 
and  scattered  along  this  at  irregular  intervals  were  forty-two  small 
works.  The  greater  part  of  these  walls  have  now  been  levelled  by  the 
rains.  Tippoo,  when  he  attacked  them^  first  turned  the  eastern  ex- 
tremity, which  was  no  very  difficult  task ;  but  a  panic  occurring 
amongst  his  troops,  they  were  compelled  to  retreat,  and  for  months 
he  was  kept  outside,  what  he  termed,  "  that  contemptible  walL*' 

The  Muktindapuram  division  encloses  an  area  of  fifty-two  square 
miles,  but  twenty-three  and  a  half  more  belonging  to  it  are  situated 
in  detached  places.  Its  western  portion  is  most  fertile,  especially 
along  tlie  banks  of  the  Kodnngaloor  (Cranganore)  river  ;  but  little 
waste  ground  is  found  in  the  low  lands,  where  cocoanut  groves 
abound,  whilst  one-third  of  the  district  is  under  rice  cultiva- 
tion. It  consists  of  four  sub-divisions^  Arreepaolim,  Mahapoor- 
caunum,  Mookundapooram,  and  Poodoocaad,  to  which  may  be 
added  Paddiianutoulum.  Within  its  limits,  including  its  de- 
tached portions,  are  fifty  villages,  of  whid^  Irinyalacoday  is  the 
principal,  containing  many  Christian  inhabitants,  and  a  pagoda,  con- 
sidered peculiarily  holy,  which  the  Christians  are  prohibited  from 
approaching.     A  market  is  held  at  this  place  every  Saturday. 


PALLTPtTBAlff. — POLITICAL   INTRIGUES.  10 

The  Yainamakul  division  lies  south  west  of  Trichoor,  separated 
for  about  §rd  of  the  distance  by  the  lake,  and  {or  the  remainder  by  a 
itmall  stream.  It  contains  an  area  of  about  sixty  six  and  a  half 
square  miles,  but  nearly  a  quarter  of  tliis  is  occupied  by  the  lake,  and 
a  quarter  of  the  remainder  is  under  cultivation.  The  eastern  portion 
is  uplands,  the  western,  cocoanut  plantations ;  the  greater  part  of 
tlie  land  between  the  sea  and  the  lake  is  cultivated.  It  has  four  Pro- 
verties,  Yainamakul,  Payringoatucurra,  Ooraghum,  and  Arrumboor. 

Pallypuram  is  a  beautiful  little  spot  of  territory  belonging  to  the 
Bojah  of  Travancore,  who  obtained  it  amongst  the  Paroor  lands  :  it 
has  a  range  of  '  low  bare  topes,  the  most  elevated  of  which  is 
crowned  by  a  pagoda.  It  lies  on  the  borders  of  a  narrow  arm  of  the 
lake,  which  forms  its  northern  limita  Pallypuram  itself  is  merely 
an  ancient  pagoda,  shaded  by  an  immense  banyan  tree. 

The  ThauUapidly  division  contains  an  area  of  71^  square  miles, 
and  Gonsists  of  a  succession  of  minute  chains  of  hills,  or  rather  slopes, 
one-fourth  of  which  is  under  cultivation.  It  is  sub-divided  into 
four  Proverties,  Kunumkulumcurray,  Choondul,  Yecaul,  and  Chen* 
gaoilycotay,  which  include  ninety  four  villages,  ThauUapulIy  in 
1743*  was  divided  amongst  four  chiefs  termed  Ainecootty, 
Poonatoor,  Manna-Colam,  and  Kacattoo  :  the  last  died  away,  and  the 
t^toiy  passed  into  the  hands  of  the  other  three.  The  Aine- 
cootty  Nambuddy  was  driven  from  his  country  in  1690,  by  Hen- 
drick  Adriaan  Van  Reede^  who  made  it  a  present  to  the  Samorin, 
who  privately  resold  it  to  its  former  ruler  for  40,000  gold  fanams. 
In  1743  it  was  under  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  but  the  people  were 
said  to  be  very  fickle  in  their  aUegiance,  and  to  be  one  day  in  favour 
of  the  Cochin  Bajah,  and  the  next  of  the  Samorin.  The  Poonatoor 
chief  owed  allegiance  to  the  Samorin,  but  was  considered  equally 
inimical  to  him  and  to  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  :  he  carried  on  an  in- 
trigue with  the  French  at  Mahi  for  three  years,  in  hopes  that  they 
would  enable  him  to  shake  off  the  Samorin's  yoke.  Manna-Colam 
was  divided  in  its  allegiance  between  the  Samorin  and  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin,  and  caused  oonMderable  trouble. 

Kunumkulumcurray  may  be  considered  the  capital  of  the  district, 
and  is  one  of  the  largest  Christian  towns  in  this  part  of  Cochin  :  it 
^  DvLich,  Goverfiinent  lUcordt  of  Cochin  M.3.S. 


16  PROTESTANT   CHURCH — SCHOOL,   <feC. 

• 

is  situated  both  on  the  smnmit  and  the  declivity  of  a  low  hill,  which 
is  crowned  by  churches  :  amongst  which  at  no  great  distance  is  that 
belonging  to  the  Protestant  Mission,  the  foundation  stone  of  which 
was  laid  on  March  26th,  1856.  An  English  school,  five  vernacular 
schools  for  boys,  and  one  for  girls,  are  attached  to  the  Mission.  A 
distant  view  of  this  town  gives  a  more  favourable  impression  than 
is  realized  on  a  nearer  approach.  It  contains  about  four  hundred 
houses  of  a  better  class,  two-tiiirds  of  which  are  inhabited  by  Sy- 
rians, and  the  remainder  mostly  by  Bomo-Syrians.  This  town  was 
formerly  surrounded  by  a  bamboo  hedge,  and  had  two  gates,*^ 
which  have  either  decayed  or  been  destroyed.  There  is  a  good  ba- 
zaar, all  the  ordinary  produce  of  the  surrounding  countiy  is  procur- 
able, as  well  as  many  different  kinds  of  cloths  and  plenty  of  grain, 
some  of  the  neighbouring  British  districts  are  supplied  from  this  ba- 
zaar. A  Travellers'  Bungalow  and  a  Tannah  are  found  here :  but 
the  Cutcherry  is  at  Kukkaad. 

Yecaul  is  a  large  scattered  village,  the  temple  of  which  prettily 
caps  the  summit  of  a  low  isolated  rock.  Chemmuntiiulihay  has  a 
handsome  pagoda,  and  a  population  consisting  ahnost  entirely  of 
Brahmans. 

Mooloorcurry,  also  called  Irunaad,  is  a  small  district,  containing 
an  area  of  26^  square  miles.  In  1743  it  was  a  free  lordship,  lying 
close  to  die  Samorin's  territory :  it  is  said*  to  have  been  in  the 
possession  of  the  Achens  of  Mannacode,  but  wrested  from  them  by 
the  Paliat  Achen,f  Dewan  of  Cochin,  who  retained  it  until  1809, 
when,  on  his  rebelling  against  the  British,  it  was  assumed  by  the 
Rajah  of  Cochin,  and  transferred  by  him  to  the  Thaullapully  division. 
From  that  period  the  Paliat  Achen's  family  have  been  pensioned 
out  of  the  funds  arising  from  it.  This  territory  is  divided  in  the 
centre  by  a  low  chain  of  hills,  covered  in  places  by  small  jtmgle  : 
it  is  pretty  fairly  cultivated. 

The  Trichoor,  or  Trichoowapayroor  division,  has  been  subject  to 
many  disputes,  and  in  1815  permanent  marks  were  erected,  defining 
its  boundaries  from  those  of  the  two  neighbouring  Achens.  This 
division    contains   a  superficial  area    of    169   square  miles,  one 

*  Lieutenant  Connors'  and  Ward'a  RcporU 

f  Acfitix  now  bears  the  signification  of  Saih  in  other  paxis  of  India. 


TWCMOOB. — rajah's  PALACE.  17 

fifth  of  which  is  cultiTAted  with  paddy ;  dense  forests  are 
found  in  this  district,  aud  some  of  the  kke  is  also  within  its  limits, 
the  surface  of  which  in  the  month  of  August  is  covered  with  the 
beantiful  blossoms  of  the  sacred  lofflls,  the  seeds  are  eaten  and  con- 
sidered delicacies  by  the  natives. 

The  large  town  of  Trichoor  is  of  great  antiquity  and  sanctity,  said  to 
have  been  founded  by  Puresu  Rama,  the  sixth  incarnation  of  Vishnu. 
It  has  always  been  remarkable  for  its  splendid  pagoda,  and  college 
for  the  education  of  Namboorie  youths.  It  is  encompassed  by  a 
ditch  and  earthen  rampart,  having  para|)et8  of  the  same  material, 
which  were  erected  in  1794,  having  an  elevation  of  from  7  to  13 
feet,  and  a  breadth  of  about  15  feet,  with  a  ditch  along  the  outside 
from  2  or  3  feet  deep,  to  10  or  12.  On  its  west  face  it  is  2,485  yards  in 
length  :  on  its  east,  1,925:  its  north,  3,190  :  and  on  its  south,  2800  : 
<riving  a  cireumferenee  of  4^  miles.  llie  Rajah's  palace  may  be  called 
the  citadel  of  Trichoor,  and  is  310  by  200  yards  :  it  has  some  bas- 
tions, iH  entered  by  two  strong  gateways,  and  might  be  a  sufficient 
defence  against  cavalry.  As  the  lines,  or  outer  fortifications,  have 
never  been  completed,  it  is  probable  that  either  a  want  of  funds,  or 
A  conviction  of  the  inutility  of  the  undertaking,  induced  the  Rajah 
ti>  discontinue  it  It  was  evidently  couHtmcted  to  fortify  the  place 
4^inHt  the  Mysoreans,  should  they  again  descend  on  that  portion  of 
India  ;  aud  its  commencement  may  have  been  partly  suggested  by  the 
Rritiiih  Commissioners,  who,  in  1793,  adviaed  the  native  Princes  to 
nhake  off  their  allegiance  to  the  Mysoreoans,  if  possible.  Most  of 
tlie  Christian  population  reside  in  a  long  street,  near  the  Romo- 
Syrian  Church  On  the  highest  portion  of  the  town  stands  the 
largest  pagoda,  with  fine  entrances — ^north,  south,  east,  and  west : 
the  gateways  have  a  great  deal  of  carving  about  them,  with  pent 
roofs.  Tlie  building  is  an  exceedingly  picturesque  object.  There  are 
>r«iod  roads  running  along  its  four  sideis,  and  near  it  arc  several 
streets  of  Putter,  or  Potie  Brahmans,  who  are  almost  entirely  devoted 
to  mercantile  pursuits.  Should  low  caste  persons  dare  ro  intrude 
iuto  the  west  end  of  the  town,  amongst  the  residences  of  the  higher 
castes,  they  are  liable  to  receive  a  good  beating,  and  usually  get  it. 

The  Rajah's  palace  is  a  rather  commodious  upper  storied  build- 
ing, portly  of  European  architecture  ;  it  is  situated  on  a  gentle  eleva- 


18  SACBSD  COLLEGE. — SACKED  FEAST. 

tion,  commanding  a  fine  view  of  a  picturesque  country,  in  wliicli  a 
person  accustomed  to  the  sea  coast  is  struck  by  the  dearth  of  cocoa- 
nut  trees,  and  the  vast  increase  and  luxuriance  of  the  jack  and 
banyan.  The  Residency,  not  far  distant,  is  by  no  means  a  good 
building,  it  was  formerly  the  private  house  of  a  conservator  of  for- 
ests, from  whom  it  was  purchased  by  the  Sirkar.* 

The  small  pagoda  of  Wurrukanadu  is  situated  on  a  low  eminence, 
and  surrounded  by  a  high  wall,  which  conceals  it  from  prying  eyes  : 
a  number  of  small  temples  are  crowded  witliin  the  sacred  enclosure. 
The  four  turrets,  marking  its  four  entrances,  are  reputed  to  have 
each  been  built  by  a  different  prince,  namely,  the  Rajahs  of  Cochin, 
Palghat,  Calicut,  and  Travancore.  It  is  surrounded  by  a,  grove  of  teak 
trees,  whilst  it  is  imbedded  in,  and  partly  concealed  by,  the  thick  foli- 
age of  the  wide  spreading-banyan.  Here  also  stands  the  sacred  College, 
where  Namboorie  Brahmins,  who  are  to  be  ordmned  for  the  minis- 
try, learn  to  meditate  for  years  in  silence  and  solitude.  In  the  month 
of  May  a  large  feast  is  celebrated,  and  votaries  swarm  into  the  place. 
Elephants  assist  in  the  ceremonies;  and  disputes,  and  even  affrays, 
often  occur,  as  to  which  idol  has  the  right  of  precedence  :  in  former 
times  swords  were  frequently  drawn  and  blood  shed,  before  thi* 
question  of  rank  could  be  settled. 

Trichoor  has  a  ZiUah  Court  and  a  large  Jail  as  well  as  a  District 
Tannah.  Supplies  can  here  be  readily  procured  by  travellers.  A 
Captain*8  Detachment  of  two  companies  of  sepoys  from  Quilon 
is  stationed  here,  which  gives  ofif  a  small  guard  to  EmacoUum,  and 
another  to  Tripoonterah.  The  official  residence  of  the  Officer  Com- 
manding was  formerly  the  bathing  bungalow  of  the  Rajah  of  Cochin, 
who  thus  employed  it  until  the  tank  beneath  was  desecrated  by  the 
Mahomedans,  who  killed  cows  and  threw  them  into  the  water  : 
since  which  the  house  has  been  too  polluted  for  any  but  a  Euro- 
pean or  a  very  low  caste  native  to  live  in  ;  but  now,  as  the  troops 
have  been  increased  to  two  companies,  the  Dewan  purposes  charg- 
ing rent  for  this  polluied  abode,  so  it  is  to  be  hoped  that  it  has  re- 
covered its  caste.  Another  house  has  lately  been  built  for  the 
Lieutenant  The  spot  now  occupied  by  the  barracks  is  said  to  be  the 
site  of  the  house  for  feeding  Brahmans  :  and  the  small  building 

*  The  Cochin  l^^ative  Gorermncnt. 


PROTESTANT  CHUBCH,  SCHOOL,   &C.  19 

aronnd  which  the  sepoys  clean  their  amis  of  a  morning,  was  the 
centre  of  a  holy  pagoda^ 

There  is  an  English  school  here,  snpported  by  the  Rajah, 
but  inferior  to  that  attached  to  the  Protestant  Mission, 
which  has  both  boys  and  girls  as  boarders.  There  is  alsd 
a  very  large  Protestant  Church  situated  on  a  rising  hill,  near 
the  high  road,  a  little  way  out  of  Trichoor,  it  was  commenced  in 
1840*  Two  Travellers'  Bungalows  are  also  in  Trichoor,  one  near 
the  canal,  in  which  persons  either  going  or  coming  by  backwater 
usually  take  up  their  abode  :  and  the  other  in  the  centre  of  the 
town,  but  more  fitted  for  travellers  by  land,  not  being  so  far  from 
the  road. 

Trichoor  is  a  place  of  considerable  trade  ;  and  a  great  quantity  of 
cotton  cloth  is  manufactured  there.  All  the  rice  and  grain  from 
l^iUghat  must  also  pass  through  this  town,  on  its  way  to  Cochin. 
The  principal  market  day  is  Friday.  The  disease  called  Elephan- 
tiasis rarely  exists  so  far  inland  as  this  station,  but  leprosy  is  very 
prevalent.  From  June  to  January  cabin  boats  can  go  from  Tri- 
choor to  Cochin,  a  distance  by  water  of  fifty-two  miles  : 
whilst  nearly  all  the  year  round  cargo  boats  can  proceed  by  that 
route,  but  should  the  water  be  low,  passengers  and  goods  may  travel 
to  Kurriapudnam,  by  land  21 J  miles,  where  there  is  a  good  bunga- 
low, whilst  it  is  about  half  way  to  Cochin. 

The  two  large  Christian  villages  of  Amaatcurray  and  Ooloor  are 
near  the  Trichoor  lines:  the  former  S.  W,  one  mile,  and  1,100 
yards :  the  latter  S.  K,  3  J  miles.  It  is  curious  to  ride  through 
tliese  Christum  villages  about  the  time  of  their  evening  prayers  :  no 
one  is  stirring  in  the  streets,  and  no  sound  is  heard,  save  the  voico.4 
of  the  various  households  raised  in  prayer.  The  village  of  Paunun- 
jayree  is  situated  7  J  miles  E.  N.  E.  of  Trichoor,  in  the  midst  of  hill 
scenery,  on  the  eastern  skirts  of  this  village  is  a  pagoda  now 
in  ruins,  but  still  bearing  the  name  of  Gooroonaden  Umblum,  and 
very  celebrated  m  the  annals  of  Malabar.  Close  to  it  is  Putticaad, 
where  a  Travellers*  Bungalow  stands  on  the  side  of  the  road  from 
Trichoor  to  Palghat.  This  place  was  formerly  remarkable  for  the 
number  of  robberies  committed  on  travellers.  The  robbers  cauio 
down  in  the  woody  pass,  seized  their  booty,  and  rapidly  decamped. 


20  CHAYLAYKKURRAY.--CHITTOOB. 

It  is  now  a  celebrated  place  amoxkgst  Bportsmen,  as  large  game  is 
found  in  abundance,  within  an  hour's  walk  of  the  bungalow.  It  in 
necessary  to  take  a  guide,  as  a  European  is  very  liable  to  lose  hi:5 
road  in  these  forests,  and  in  that  case  would  probably  never 
be  heard  of  again.  Tlie  Botanist,  and  Zoologist,  woidd  find 
his  time  fully  occupied  here  amidst  the  most  beautiful  scenery, 
and  the  greatest  variety  of  animal  and  vegetable  life,  amongst  which 
numerous  species  of  magnificent  trees  and  ferns  flourish  in  rich 
profusion.     This  district  contains  many  large  village?. 

The  Chaylayekarray  division  is  a  frontier  one,  divided  from  Ma- 
labar by  the  Pooneear  river  :  it  contains  an  area  of  167  J  square 
miles,  about  25  being  under  wet  cultivation,  and  12  with  dry  grain  : 
thirty  miles  of  it  are  plain  slopes,  the  remainder  liills  and  forests.  It 
is  divided  into  the  Proverties  of  Chaylayekurray,  PuUianoor,  Mut- 
chat,  and  Moneduthecottay,  containing  47  villages.  Wamikknn- 
chairy  is  about  8J  miles  from  Trichoor,  on  the  road  to  Shemnoor. 
There  is  a  small  neat  palace  on  the  soutli  bank  of  the  river,  and  also 
an  Ootooparrah  about  I J  miles  to  the  N.  E.  of  this.  At  the  foot  of  the 
high  hill  of  Uggumalla  is  a  stone,  on  the  road  to  Pullaynoor,  at  the 
temple  in  which  place  a  yearly  festival  is  held  to  the  household  deity 
of  the  Kajahs  of  Cochin,  who  are  unable  to  attend  it  because  unless 
crowned  (which  they  now  never  are)  they  cannot  pass  this  stone. 

The  Chittoar  division  is  insulated  by  the  British  Talooks  of 
Malabar  and  Coimbatore.  It  is  15  miles  in  length  from  north 
to  south,  and  has  a  medium  breadth  of  eight  miles,  with  an  area  of 
118  square  miles  j  eleven  being  of  wet  cultivation,  fifteen  of  dry,  and 
about  ten  of  plain  slopes. 

Although  the  whole  of  the  Cochin  State  has  now  been  mentioned, 
two  places  belonging  to  Travancore  require  notice,  which  once  formed 
portions  of  Cochui. 

Passing  up  the  river  towards  Alwaye  is  Verapoly,  the  seat  of  the 
Carmelite  Mission  in  these  parts  :  it  is  situated  on  the  left  bank  of 
the  river,  9  miles  N.  E.  of  Cochin,  about  a  hundred  yards  from  the 
river's  edge,  and  only  slightly  raised  above  the  level  of  the  tide.  A 
number  of  cocoanut  trees  partially  conceal  its  massive  walk.  The 
buildings  occupy  a  large  space  of  ground,  and  the  Church  was 
commenced  about  the  year  1673,  when  the  island  on  which  it  now 


MiyiATURE  ST.  PET£E*S. — CATHOLIC  SCHOOL.  21 

Htands  was  destitute  both  of  kotiaea  and  coltivatiotiy  and  formed  n 
portion  of  the  territory  of  the  Rajah  of  Cochin.  The  building  consititi) 
of  three  straight  piles  of  masonry^  all  of  which  (excepting  the 
Church)  are  two  or  three  stories  high :  their  extremities  face  the 
rivers  bank«  A  passage  along  the  centre,  from  north  to  soath, 
forms  a  communication  between  various  parts  of  the  structure.  The 
C3iiirch  is  situated  at  the  northern  end  of  the  building,  and  i.s  a 
miniature  representation  of  St.  Peter's  at  Rome.  It  in  perhaps  the 
most  exquisite  little  building  in  tins  part  of  India.  In  its  various 
ehapels  are  rude  emblems  of  saints,  and  pictures  of  rather  a  primi- 
tive description. 

At  the  southern  extremity  of  the  building,  at  its  east  end,  in  a 
school  where  about  twenty  native  scholars  reside,  divided  into  two 
classes.  Their  appearance  gives  the  impression  of  extreme  content- 
meut.  Their  school  rooms  are  large  and  airy,  and  their  cots  arc 
Tciuged  along  the  sides  of  the  same  apartment,  serving  as  seats  by 
day,  and  couches  by  night.  The  books  from  which  they  are  educat 
ed  are  either  in  the  Latin  or  Makyalim  tongues.  At  the  eastern 
end  of  the  same  pile  of  buildings  is  the  refectory,  the  up[)er  room 
being  appropriitted  by  the  Vicar  and  the  otlicr  Europeans  :  and  tho 
lower  by  the  native  Clergy,  who  also  live  in  this  range. 

There  does  not  appear  to  be  any  distinct  library,  but  the  Vicar 
Apostolic,  or  Bishop,  possesses  some  excellent  works,  and  others 
especially  those  written  by  the  Carmelite  Friars,  may  be  seen  in  most 
of  the  rooms.  Some  Protestant  works  are  scattered  about,  labelled 
"  heretical,"  but  they  do  not  appear  to  be  prohibited. 

The  Bishop  and  the  European  Carmelites  are  dressed  in  suits  of  u 
ckooolate  colour,  the  native  Clergy  in  bUick,  and  those  under  train- 
ing m  white.  Their  mode  of  life  appears  very  simple,  and  the  eiioct 
produced  on  the  native  mind  is  no  doubt  good. 

The  private  rooms  of  tJie  Bishop  are  nearly  as  plain  as  the  rest  of 
the  building.  Altogether  a  visit  to  this  place  gives  an  impression  that 
these  men  could  only  leave  their  country  and  their  friends  to  toil  in 
comparative  poverty  amongst  strangers,  and  lay  their  bones  in  a 
foreign  land,  under  the  firm  conviction  that  their  cause  was  a  right- 
eous one.  The  amount  they  receive  from  Euroi^  is  said  to  be  only 
12,000  francs  a  year,  or  about  five  thousand  Rupees,  with  which 


22  ALWAYS. — ITS  PRODUCE,  <fec. 

they  have  to  support  all  tlieir  establisbmeuts,  assisted  partly  by 
their  congregations. 

Not  far  from  Verapoly,  on  the  way  to  Alwaye,  and  close  to  the 
margin  of  the  same  side  of  the  river,  is  a  cavern,  termed  "  the  depiUs 
mouth ;"  it  is  about  three  feet  high,  but  is  said  to  be  so  full  of  snakes 
und  bats,  that  no  one  will  venture  to  explore  it 

A  few  mUes  beyond  Verapoly  is  Alwayey  situated  about  twenty 
miles  from  the  town  of  Cochin,  and  about  two  miles  below  Sherwur- 
rah,  already  mentioned,  in  the  EniacoUum  division^  It  stands  on 
the  banks  of  a  river,  and  is  usually  reached  by  boat,  although  there  is 
a  road  leading  to  it  from  Emacollum.  It  is  a  tract  of  consider- 
able size  dotted  with  about  twenty  bungalows,  to  which  during 
the  hot  months  of  April  and  May,  many  persons  retire,  both  to  es- 
cape from  the  heat  of  Cochin,  and  enjoy  the  bathing.  The  Euro- 
pean houses  are  on  the  banks  of  the  river,  the  natives  form  encamp- 
ments upon  the  sands  :  some  persons  even  remain  tliere  all  the  year 
round.  The  water  is  believed  to  have  medicinal  virtues,  and  to  re- 
move the  ill  effects  of  prickly  heat,  boils,  and  even  to  reduce  ele- 
j)hantiasis,  or  rather  this  disease  is  not  indigenous  as  far  hiland  as 
this  fertile  spot,  wliere  coffee  grows  luxuriantly,  and  the  pepper  vine 
flourishes.  Cochin  is  supplied  with  di*inking  water,  either  from  Al- 
waye or  from  a  place  opposite  Verapoly.  Much  of  the  butter  aUo 
is  obtained  from  this  district  :  the  natives  here  make  good  baskets, 
and  a  variety  of  pretty  little  children's  toys  of  basket  work  :  besides 
umbrella'*,  (hodas,  Mai.)  of  palmyra  leaves. 

This  appears  to  have  been  the  sanitarium  of  Cochin,  from  the  ad- 
vent of  Europeans  to  India  :  being  mentioned  as  such,  both  in  the 
time  of  the  Portuguese  and  the  Dutch,  who  probably  used  the 
s.ame  primitive  style  of  bathing  houses,  as  are  now  in  existence,  viz., 
bamboos  fixed  into  the  water  at  intervals,  with  mats  tied  round  them, 
from  which  a  covered  passage  of  the  same  materials  leads  up  to  the 
house.  The  sands  of  the  river  are  excessively  fine  and  smooth.  Au 
observatory  was  kept  up  here  by  the  Rajah  of  Travancore  :  and  there 
is  a  Traveller's  Bungalow,  of  an  inferior  description  :  as  well  as  a 
Residency,  of  which  the  less  said  the  better.  The  banks  of  the  river 
are  rather  high  and  embellished  with  most  beautiful  trees,  that  in 
tlie  hot  months  are  often  covered  with  blossoms  :  whilst  magnificent 


REMARKABLE  BUILDINGS.  23 

butterflies  and  birds  of  gorgeous  plumage,  are  seen  in  every  direc- 
tion. This  stream  wliicli  is  apparently  both  very  gentle  and  tthallow, 
has  unhappily  been  the  scene  of  several  fatal  accidents  to  Eiiro- 
l^eaus  wlulst  bathing;  as  at  a  short  distiuice  to  the  south  there  is  .i 
ruck,  around  which  are  some  holes  in  the  bed  of  the  river. 

In  the  Cochin  State  the  number  of  remarkable  buiUinr/s  is  ex< 
ceedingiy  smally  such  as  there  are,  genenilly  are  dedicated  to  religious 
purposes,  and  have  been  already  named  :  the  remainder  may  be  sum- 
med up  as  follows.  There  are  som^  old  ruins,  the  remains  of  pago- 
das, near  the  old  Fort  of  Cranganore,  also  in  ruins,  and  one  spot  is 
pomted  out  as  being  the  residence  of  the  Permauls,  when  they  were 
governors  of  Malabar.  At  Irinyalcoday  is  a  temi)le,  the  chief  of  which 
isasonnyassie,  who  must  bo  nominated  from  oci-tain  fumilics.  Ho 
enjoys  considerable  immunities,  and  when  he  goes  out,  is  preceded 
by  a  lamp  and  sword,  and  has  all  the  insignia  of  supreme  authority. 
He  acknowledges  no  superior,  and  will  reside  in  the  presence  of  no 
Prince.  He  watches  over  the  temple,  superintends  its  ministerial 
and  lay  concerns,  sees  to  its  revenues,  and  overlooks  its  ex|X'ncliture. 

The  Ootooparrahs  have  already  been  several  times  mentioned. 
In  some  places  a  portion  of  the  jxigoda  is  used,  in  lieu  of  erecting 
a  separate  building.  They  were  originally  instituted  for  pilgrim 
Brahmans,  and  even  now  a  rule  exists,  that  unle^4«  detained  by  sick- 
n«j8,  no  one  may  tiike  more  than  two  days'  food  in  the  same 
establishment.  In  Travancore  there  Jire  many  more  of  these  Ootoo- 
parrahs than  in  Cochin,  for  no  Namboorio  Brahman  will  reside  in 
the  former  State  although  the  Riijahs  have  in  vain  tried  by  every 
weans  in  their  power,  to  induce  them  to  do  so.  But  the  caste  of 
the  reigning  family  (Nair)  is  too  low  to  suit  the  bigoted  am)gunce 
(if  these  Namboories,  who  consequently  prefer  living  in  the  dominions 
of  the  Schatriya  Prince  of  Cochin  where  however  they  are  n«jt 
nearly  so  pampered.  Many  of  the  pagoda  lands  have  Ijeen  as.siinied 
by  the  State,  which  in  this  case  undertakes  the  exi)enses  of  the  es- 
tablishments, but  not  quite  in  the  style  desired  by  the  Brahmans. 
One  Namboorie  has  been  induced  to  raise  an  Ilium  at  Cottayani,  in 
Travancore,  which  is  giving  gi'eat  offence  to  others  of  Ids  caste. 
This  is  probably  the  first  of  them  who  has  settled  in  this  State. 
The  villages  of  foreign  or  Potie  Brahmans,  are  called  Agi^arxnnSy  ur 


24  MEANS  OF  COMMUNICATION. 

Gramams,  and  are  built  in  straight  streets.  The  Namboories,  or 
Brah mails  of  the  country,  and  the  Nairs,  live  in  detached  houses, 
surrounded  by  gardens,  called  collectively  D6sas. 

The  means  of  communication  are  of  two  kinds,  by  land  and  water, 
for  the  backwater  in  the  Cochin  State  takes  the  place  of  roads  in 
other  parts  of  India.  The  rivers  are  in  places  sufficiently  deep  for 
boats  to  pass  along.  The  backwater  from  Chetwye  at  the  extreme 
north  of  the  Cochin  State,  to  its  southern  limits,  runs  parallell  with 
the  sea,  from  which  it  is  only  divided  by  a  sandy  slip  of  ground : 
communications  exist  between  them  at  Chetwye,  Ayacotta  or  Palli- 
port,  and  Cochin,  these  three  places  being  the  respective  openings  of 
of  the  backwater,  the  Paroor  river,  and  the  Alwaye  river,  so  called 
from  the  places  they  pass  in  their  course,  or  at  that  where  they 
debouch  into  the  sea  as  the  Ayacotta  or  Cranganore,  and  Vypeen. 
Tliere  are  many  minor  streams  as  well  as  these  large  rivers,  which  take 
their  rise  in  the  ghauts  and  flow  down  to  the  ocean,  carrying  with  them 
an  enormous  quantity  of  debris,  and  such  a  large  body  of  water  that 
during  the  monsoon  time  the  sea  itself,  for  at  least  two  miles  from, 
tlie  shore,  possesses  no  saline  taste.  The  sandy  islands  dividing 
the  sea  from  Ihe  backwater  appear  to  have  been  formed  by  the 
action  of  these  enormous  streams,  flooded  with  the  freshes  of  the  S. 
AV.  monsoon,  and  laden  with  deposits  from  the  ghauts,  meeting  at 
their  outlets  the  full  force  of  the  ocean,  which  at  this  period  laslies 
the  shore  most  violently.  The  rivers  flow  towards  the  west,  the  sea 
txjats  from  the  west,  the  former  bring  down  mud,  the  latter  throw.s 
up  sand,  and  thus  islands  have  been  formed  :  as  they  have  increased 
in  size,  and  obstructed  the  course  of  the  rivers,  these  last  have 
opened  a  little  lower  down  each  year,  and  in  this  manner  the  present 
maritime  portion  of  Cochin  has  arisen  from  the  sea.  It  is  curious 
to  observe  recent  marine  shells,  far  in  the  interior  of  the  country, 
buried  in  the  laterite  in  vast  quantities. 

7%e  Backwater^  besides  extending  itself  nortli  and  south,  sends  off 
jiumerous  branches  and  many  sub-divisions.  In  some  places  it  is 
f^luillow,  es]jeeially  in  the  northern  portion  of  the  Chetwye  branch,  but 
between  Cochin  and  Qranganore,  and  between  the  fonner  place  and 
Allcpey,  about  thirty  miles  to  the  south,  it  is  at  all  times  navigable, 
for  both  cabin  and  cargo  boats.     From  Allepey  towards  Quilon  it 


BACKWATER, — NAVIGABLE.  25 

becomes  shallower.  But  from  the  commencement  of  the  S.  W.  mon- 
s>>on,  or  the  beginning  of  June,  this  krge  expanse  of  water  is  navi- 
gable throughout  its  whole  extent.  It  is  affected  by  the  flood  tides 
twice  in  every  24  hours,  when  it  rises  about  two  feet  and  flows  (ex- 
cepting during  the  monsoon,  when  the  rapidity  is  according  to  the 
amount  of  the  freshes)  at  the  rate  of  about  2}  miles  an  hour :  but  it 
cannot  in  any  portion  be  called  sluggish.  For  carrying  cargo,  canoes 
are  preferred,  which,  drawing  only  about  three  feet  of  water,  are 
adapted  to  all  seasons  of  the  year.  Tliese  canoes  are  sufficient  to  pro- 
tect produce  from  the  deleterious  effects  of  either  sun  or  rain,  being 
funushed  with  a  convex  bamboo  roof,  covered  with  mats  of  split 
bamboos  or  cadjans.  The  water  is  salt  (excepting  during  the 
monsoon  time,)  and  mostly  muddy ;  whilst  the  bottom  is  slimy,  the 
banks  low,  and  the  shores  generally  either  one  long  range  of  splendid 
cocoanut  plantations,  or  else  a  succession  of  paddy  fields.  In  some 
places,  more  especially  to  the  south  of  Cranganore,  houses  and  vil- 
lages are  dotted  along  its  banks,  often  nearly  hidden  by  the  trees  : 
whilst  at  intervals  the  white  and  picturesque  fronts  of  numerous  Hu- 
man Catholic  and  Romo-Syrian  Churches  are  perceived.  At  one 
spot  near  Cochin  seven  Catholic  Churches  may  be  seen  at  the  same 
time,  as  well  as  the  Protestant  one. 

Channels  and  canals  open  communication  between  the  backwater 
and  vs^ous  parts  of  the  interior  of  the  country,  or  join  two  back- 
waters together.  To  the  south  there  is  one  connecting  the  backwa- 
ter with  Tripoonterah.  At  Yeddacochi  a  branch  of  the  backwater 
strikes  into  the  interior,  where  it  divides  south  and  west,  forming  a 
broad  shallow  lake,  the  sides  of  wliich  are  cultivated  :  this  is  con- 
nected by  channels  with  other  places. 

The  Poonany  river,  called  in  the  north  the  Bahrahdum,  passesalong 
the  Bouthem  border  of  the  Uttle  district  of  Mooloorcurray,  its  banks 
are  high  and  steep ;  whilst  the  Pullianoor,  after  running  in  a  curve 
of  nine  miles,  discharges  itself  into  an  estuary  at  Poonany.  Tlie 
Yelliaut  rises  in  the  hill  Kudrapauree  :  flows  N.  N.  W.,  eleven  miles 
west  of  Chaylayekurray,  and  then  joins  the  Poonany. 

The  Sheranoor  river  rises  in  the  Vellany  HLlls,and  runs  for  four  miles 
in  a  rocky  channel :  it  is  then  joined  by  some  others,  which  increase  its 
size,  and  timber  can  be  easily  floated  down  from  thence  as  far  as  Pu- 

D 


26  BIVESS. 

chypauree,  wherelax*gemas8e8  of  rock  appear  in  the  stream  and  obstruct 
the  passage.  It  passes  for  twenty  miles  through  the  Trichoor  district. 

The  Veycoor  river  emerges  from  rallies  in  the  north  of  the  Tri- 
choor district,  through  which  it  runs  for  nine  miles  and  three  quar- 
ters ;  it  is  made  use  of  in  irrigation. 

The  Warrukknnchairy  river  rises  in  the  Kudrapauree  hills,  and 
runs  eight  miles  and  a  half  along  the  Yainamakul  division.  Near 
Muhnium  it  divides  :  the  largest  branch  joining  the  Cranganore  river^ 
up  to  which  spot  it  has  a  sandy  and  gravelly  bed.  The  tides  influ- 
ence it  as  hi^  as  Kurriavanoor,  where  a  baii^  is  thrown  across  to 
bar  their  fi&rth^  entrance. 

The  Shallacooddee  river  runs  a  course  of  nearly  seventy  miles,  but 
until  within  eighteen  of  its  mouth,  it  flows  through  a  wild  and  moun- 
xainous  country  :  as  it  gets  into  the  plains,  however,  bouses  and  cul- 
tivated spots  of  land  may  here  and  there  be  seen,  dotted  along  its 
high  banks,  which  decrease  in  elevation  as  it  approaches  the  sea.  It 
is  navigable  as  far  north  for  cabin  boats,  as  Shallacooddee,  excepting 
in  very  dry  weather,  when  the  traveller  must  land  at  Marlie,  half  way 
between  Cranganore  and  that  place,  and  then  proceed  by  land  :  ca- 
noes can  go  eighteen  miles  further  up^  but  beyond  this  is  the  Adram- 
pully  OB^taraot,  havii^  a  perpendicular  fall  of  eighty  feet^  and  forming 
a  fine  spectacle  in  the  monsoon  time« 

The  Paroor  river  divides  at  Alwaye,  and  its  branches  become  so 
intricate,  that  description  would  fail  satisfactorily  to  explain  its  course. 
Near  Cranganore,  its  main  branch  having  passed  Paroor,  divides  into 
several,  one  of  which  flows  in  conjunction  with  oth^  sfa-eams  und^ 
the  cliff,  on  which  the  remnants  of  the  old  fort  still  stand.  The  depth 
of  the  stream  just  here  is  forty  feet,  but  it  rapidly  shoals  :  and  from 
thence  may  be  computed  at  about  a  quarter  that  depth. 

The  Kaychayree  river  rises  at  the  foot  of  some  hills,  and  after  a 
eourse  of  twenty-seven  miles  through  the  TliaullapuUy  district,  it 
poura  its  contents  into  the  lake.  During  the  monsoon  time  its  wa- 
ters are  made  to  irrigate  certain  lands  by  means  of  dan^s  :  were  their 
construction  superior,  the  gain  to  the  cultivator  would  be  immense, 
whilst  the  cost  could  but  be  trifling.  This  river  is  only  navigable  a 
short  distance  from  its  mouth. 

The  Yainamakul  has  a  deep  sluggish  current,  influenced  by  the 


STREAMS. — RBSKBVOIBS. — BOADS.  27 

tides,  imd  is  always  navigable.  Its  banks  are  high  and  its  bed  slimy. 
During  the  rains  its  waters  are  fresh,  but  at  other  times  salt 

The  Poodoocaad  river  passes  for  some  distance  through  the  Koda- 
cliayree  district  Its  steep  banks  are  overgrown  With  forests,  but  its 
stream  is  shallow,  although  in  the  rains  timber  can  be  floated  down 
it  for  a  considerable  distance. 

In  the  Chittoor  district  the  AnnamuUee  flows  fifteen  miles  through 
the  forest,  and  the  Colimgode  defines  the  limits  of  Nemary  for  two 
miles  and  a  half  more. 

There  are  many  other  smaller  streams,  some  with  names  and  some 
without  :  but  all  rising  in  the  ghauts  or  hilly  ranges,  and  flowing 
westward  towards  the  sea.  In  a  country  intersected  by  water  like 
the  Cochin  State,  large  tanks  are  not  required,  and  do  not  exist,  but 
smaller  reservoirs  might  be  enumerated  by  thousands.  In  the  hotter 
and  drier  inland  spots,  hollowed  trees  and  granite  basins  are  kept 
full  of  water  under  sheds  for  the  use  of  cattle :  and  some  may  even 
be  seen  on  the  high  roads. 

The  roads  With  their  passes  and  defiles,  and  the  hilU  and  foresti 
next  chum  attention.  The  principal  road  runs  parallel  with  the  sea 
coast ;  from  Crauganore  it  passes  northwards  to  Chetwye,  and  on  to 
British  Malabar :  wliilst  to  the  south  it  joins  a  similar  road  in  the 
Travaneore  State,  going  through  Cranganore,  Palliport,  and  Cochin* 
There  are  ferries  at  each  of  the  rivers ;  and  for  the  conveyance  of  horses 
and  carriages,  a  wooden  platform,  with  raised  railed  sides,  is  placed  up- 
on two  boats  lashed  together,  and  termed  a  Jungar.  There  is  a  ferry 
from  the  Cranganore  side  of  the  backwater  to  the  mainland :  and 
another  short  one  to  Kurriapudnam,  where  a  good  Travellers*  Bunga< 
low  is  situated  on  a  fine  raised  piece  of  ground.  This  road  passes 
northwards  through  Kurriavanoor,  (10}  miles  distant,)  where  there 
is  another  excellent  bungalow :  ftom  thence  to  the  large  town  of 
Trichoor,  10  miles  further  on,  where  it  joins  the  main  road  to  Pal- 
ghat  :  passing  through  Putticaad  (8|  miles  from  Trichoor,)  where 
there  is  a  good  bungalow.  This  is  throughout  an  excellent  road,  and 
the  greater  part  of  the  way  it  is  planted  along  its  sides  with  trees, 
most  of  which  are  cashew  nuts,  banyans,  and  cocoanuts,  with  here 
and  there  maroti  trees  and  talipot  palms.  It  is,  generally  speaking,  flat^ 
and  in  some  places  sandy  and  heavy :  all  the  streams  are  bridged 


2S  ROADS. 

over,  and  at  Kurriavanoor,  where  the  river  is  crossed,  there  is  a  large 
wooden  bridge.  From  Trichoor  to  Putticaad  the  road  is  not  so  good, 
and  beyond  this  it  becomes  decidedly  worse. 

From  Trichoor  N.  N.  E.  to  Shoranoor  (18  miles  distant,)  where 
the  railway  station  is,  the  road  passes  through  Warrukkunchairy 
(eight  miles  and  a  half),  where  there  is  no  bungalow,  but  the  Cut- 
cherry  may,  if  necessary,  be  occasionally  used  as  one :  it  is  in  every  re- 
spect a  most  undesirable  room  to  remain  in.  The  road  in  this  part  is 
covered  with  very  fine  banyan  trees.  Sheranoor  is  ten  miles  far- 
ther on,  and  the  road  nms  through  rather  a  jungly  tract.  At  that 
place  a  new  bungalow  was  erected  in  1862,  and  a  magnificent  granite 
bridge  is  being  built  across  the  wide  but  shallow  river,  in  order  to 
connect  the  Rajah's  territory  with  the  railway,  a  branch  of  which  it 
is  proposed  shall  be  continued  over  this  new  bridge  to  Trichoor  : 
should  persons  be  found  willing  to  sink  their  money  upon  a  scheme, 
which  will  greatly  facilitate  travelling,  and  form  an  easy  mode  of 
transit  for  the  comparatively  small  amount  of  traffic  in  that  direc- 
tion. If  the  Overland  steamers  ever  stop  at  Cocliin  or  its  vicinity, 
a  line  will  then  be  necessary,  not  to  cease  at  Trichoor,  but  to  be  car- 
ried on  to  Kurriapudnam,  following  much  the  direction  of  the  pre- 
sent road,  only  adopting  a  shorter  course. 

From  Warrukkimchairy  a  road  branches  off  to  the  west  to  Kun- 
unkulum :  another  direct  from  Trichoor  to  the  same  place,  passing 
N.  N.  W.  through  it.  There  is  a  bungalow  not  far  from  the  house 
and  Church  of  the  Protestant  Mission.  There  is  also  another  road 
from  Kununkulum,  S.  W.  joining  the  sea  road,  already  mentioned, 
a  little  above  Chetwye. 

The  inland  road  of  olden  times  runs  nearly  parallel  with  the  sea- 
shore one,  commencing  in  the  south  at  Quilon  it  passes  up  to  the  Ma- 
villicurray,  and  on  due  north  to  Cottayam,  from  whence  it  proceeds 
in  a  very  circuitous  direction  to  Kulashayakaruh  Mimgalum,  wh  ve  it 
is  again  carried  on  north  to  Tripoonterah:  here  it  divides  into 
three,  one  continuing  north,  to  Allungaad,  from  thence  through 
Paroor,  and  joining  the  sea  road  at  Cranganore.  The  second  or  N.  E, 
}>ranch  terminates  at  Perrumbaloor :  the  third  goes  to  ErnacoUuni, 
about  three  miles  before  reaching  which  it  sends  off  abranchtoVerapoly, 

From  EmacoUum  ^  Alwaye  a  road  proceeds  N.  E.,  it  is  not  a 


TlLA.VEtLING   ROUTES. — MOUNTAINS.  20 

good  one,  being  constantly  encroached  upon  :  from  Alwaye  it  cxtend&t 
east  to  Pemimbaloor,  where,  tui'ning  to  the  south  east,  it  parses  on  to 
Kodhamnngalum,  and  along  the  base  of  the  ghauts  to  the  8.  S.  £. 

Another  road  requires  mention,  which  passes  to  the  east  from  Al- 
lungaad  through  Shewurray  above  Alwaye,  where  it  suddenly  tum^ 
to  the  north  through  Kodachayree,  Koruttee,  and  Bhallacoodie,  di- 
rect to  Trichoor :  it  is  not  adapted  either  for  riding  or  drivuig. 

Amongst  the  routes  mentioned,  Europeans  (with  but  few  excep- 
tions,) only  travel  along  the  following,  taking  the  town  of  Cochin  an 
a  centre.  To  Chetwye,  by  water  direct.  To  Trichoor,  during  the 
rains,  by  backwater,  the  whole  way  :  or  by  water  to  Kurriaijudnani, 
and  from  thence  on  by  road  through  Kurriavanoor.  From  Trichoor 
to  the  railway  at  Sheranoor,  by  land  through  Warrukunchairy.  From 
Trichoor  to  Palghat,  direct  through  Putticaad.  But  if  the  traveller 
intends  proceeding  in  a  bandy  he  has  a  very  bad  stage  before  him  to 
Wuddakunchairy,  for  in  the  depth  of  the  forest,  far  removed  from  all 
chance  of  assistance,  is  a  rocky  bit  of  ground,  with  large  pieces  of 
stone  in  the  road  and  on  each  side  of  it.  Tlie  bungalow  at  this  place 
k  unhealthy  to  sleep  in  from  the  feverish  locality  in  which  it  is  si- 
tuated. Wild  elephants  may  not  unfrequently  be  encountered  in  this 
road,  rendering  it  dangerous.  From  Trichoor  to  Kunnuukulum  by 
the  dhect  road.  The  other  roads  are  useful  to  8i)ort}flnen,  but  uu- 
adapted  to  easy  travelling.  Southwards  of  Cochin  travellers  pro- 
ceed to  Allepey  or  Cottayam,  by  water. 

The  MonrUainB  of  Cochm  are  entirely  confined  to  its  eastern  fron- 
tier and  the  Chittoor  district  In  the  KodaclLa3rree  division  two- 
thirds  of  it,  as  abready  mentioned,  is  hilly  and  mountainous,  and  amongst 
these  ranges  stands  Pamidjrmoodee,  or  Asses'  Ears,  a  name  which  well 
describes  the  appearance  of  its  two  conical  summits,  from  the  top  of 
which  the  other  hills  appear  like  plains.  From  this  an  immense  ridge 
runs  east  and  west,  the  extremities  being  terminated  by  the  Coombun- 
cha)Tee  and  Paullapidly  hills.  The  elevation  is  very  great,  and  the  sides 
precipitous,  measuring  thirteen  miles  to  the  valleys  beneath.  The 
ThaullapuUy  district,  although  containing  no  large  hills,  is  full  of  aspe- 
rities :  particularly  in  the  southern  part,  where  the  slopes  though  low,  fall 
with  great  rapidity.   The  amount  of  brushwood  and  timber  is  very  small. . 

The  Western  portion  of  the  Trichoor  district  exhibits  a  succession 


So  MotJNTAlifS. — POiiES*B. 

of  wavmg,  champaign^  uplands,  with  beautiful  and  varied  scenery ; 
whilst  the  eastern  part  is  moiintaihoas  and  woofdy,  the  forests  com- 
mencing a  few  nliles  east  of  Trichoor,  and  the  ramification  of  the 
PauUapully  hills  appearing  otL  its  south-east  At  the  pass  termed 
Koodrandotay  to  the  east  of  Putticaad  the  ridges  of  VellanymaU  and 
Moodumala  unite :  the  first  has  the  greatest  elevation,  and  its  wooded 
summit  spreads  into  a  flat  table-land,  nearly  half  a  mile  broad:  its 
north  and  west  sict^s  Are  steep  and  well  wooded.  Poneduthiimala  and 
Fonemala,  are  low  ridges  to  the  north  of  an  inferior  height,  present- 
ing the  appearance  of  si  green  wall^  their  siimmits  are  rocky.  Thwe 
are  many  ranges  of  hills,  all  portions  of  the  western  ghauts,  from 
whence  Come  much  of  the  timber  and  bamboos,  with  which  the  va- 
rious markets  are  supplied :  this  sUbjedt  Will  be  I'eferred  to  under 
the  head  of  Botany. 

In  the  Cochin  district  there  are  some  slopes  Covered  by  low  stunt- 
ed brushwood,  and  many  fruit  trees,  but  no  good  timber.  Around 
Kurriapudnam  and  its  vicinity  the  amount  of  brushwood  is  very 
great,  find  the  sportsmen  will  find  it  well  stocked  with  hares  :  much 
the  same  may  be  said  of  the  slopes  m  the  Yainamakiil  district. 

The  outlying  division  of  Chittoor  has  an  uneven  surface,  but  no 
very  high  hills;  the  Mutchat. range  funs  S;  E.  from  Uggamahi  to  a 
distance  of  nine  miles,  from  thence  its  slopes  branch  off  on  both  sides. 
Most  of  tins  district  is  overrun  with  forestSj  which  however  yield 
very  little  valuable  timber^  biit  the  axe  of  the  planter  is  at  work : 
one  coffee  plantation  has  been  commenced,  and  others  appear 
likely  to  follow.  Inhere  are  said  to  be  two  thousand  serpent  groves 
in  this  district,  which  are  all  objects  of  veneration  to  the  Hindus. 

The  Geology  of  the  Country  is  diffieult  to  define.  The  sandy  tract 
near  the  sea  has  already  been  alluded  to,  as  formed  by  the  action  of 
the  rivers,  when  antagonistic  to  the  waves  of  the  sea  during  the  mon- 
soons :  one  brmging  down  alluvial  deposit^  the  other  throwing  up 
sea  sand«  The  alluvial  territories  in  the  State  are  evidently  merely 
the  debris  of  the  hills  and  forests^  washed  down  by  the  monsoons, 
and  deposited  in  the  low  lands :  but  on  either  sides  of  most  rivers 
and  at  raised  spots,  the  laterite  (Bmhi)  comes  into  view  :  it  is  com- 
monly called  the  soap  stone  from  its  appearance ;  the  itch  stone, 
from  its  roughness  and  darkness  of  colour,  due  to  long  exposure 


LOCAB  GEOLOGY.  31 

to  tihe  air :  and  the  brick  stone,  from  its  employment  for  building 
porpoees.  It  is  a  species  of  indurated  clay,  in  which  both  ani- 
mal and  vegetable  ezavi»  are  said  to  have  been  found  ^  near  Al- 
ways, even  iron  spear  heads  and  axes  have  had  the  credit  of 
having  been  obtained  from  it.  Whilst  in  Kurriavanoor  and  either 
places,  numerous  species  of  pure  white  quartz  are  seen,  in  some 
of  whidi  nodules  of  iron  ore  are  occa<)ionaUy  foimd.  The  presence  of 
quartz  in  laterite  has  been  regarded  as  a  reason  for  believing  these 
formations  to  be  due  to  the  decomposition  of  primitive  rocks,  this 
quartz  being  the  only  portion  remaining  of  its  primaiy  component 
parts.  Laterite  has  been  well  described  by  Buchanan,  as  diffused 
over  the  country  in  immense  masses,  without  any  appearance  of  stra- 
tification. It  is  full  of  cavities  and  pores,  and  contains  a  very  Uirge 
quantity  of  iron,  in  the  form  of  red  and  yellow  ochres.  WhilHt  ex- 
cluded from  the  air,  it  is  so  soft  that  it  can  readily  be  cut  by  any 
iron  instrument  :  it  is  dug  up  in  enormous  masses  and  cut  into  the 
required  form  with  a  trowel  or  small  axe.  It  becomes  in  time  as  hard 
as  a  brick.  Dr.  GoUff^rw  its  varieties  as  follows : — **  sometimes  it  is 
"  very  hard,  oompaot,  and  heavy  :  highly  ferruginous,  of  a  deep  red 
'^  ecAoar,  penetrated  in  all  directions  by  sinuosities,  containing  the  red 
"  and  yellow  earths :  some  masses  are  nearly  half  composed  of  the 
^'  white  Uthomargic  earth,  which  renders  it  very  crumbling :  other 
'*  varieties  exhibit  a  pisiform  structure,  numerous  rounded  pebbles 
"  being  united  together  by  a  yellow  clayey  cement,  thii  seems  of  re- 
"  cent  origin,  Again,  in  many  superficial  situations,  it  is  a  mere  gra- 
*'  vel,  possessing  very  little  coherence,  and  apparently  formed  from 
^  the  debris  of  the  laterite  itself:  the  pebbles  composing  this  gravel 
''  still  exhibit  the  struoture  of  the  red  conglomerate  of  sandstone,  and 
''  of  the  ochrey  iron  ore."  One  variety  ia  of  a  light  colour,  having 
pinkish  white,  or  yellowish  streaks  or  mottles  of  various  shades,  run- 
ning through  it :  this  is  the  kind  most  commonly  employed  for  build- 
ing purposee.  It  is  cut  out  in  the  form  of  bricks,  in  the  quarry,  and 
becomes  very  hard  if  exposed  to  the  air  for  a  few  months.  It  should 
properly  be  kept  for  a  year  before  being  used,  but  not  longer,  as  it  is 
liable  to  become  rotten. 

Laterite  is  found  of  various  consistencies,  from  that  of  the  hard  black 
coloured  stone,  which  has  been  exposed  for  some  time^  to  that  of  soft 


32  LATERITE. — MINERAL  PRODUCTIONS. 

clay,  ill  which  wet  cultivation  is  carried  on,  and  from  the  mud  of  which, 
excellent  tiles,  bricks,  and  chatties,  are  made ;  as  the  rains  eat  oval  holes 
into  laterite  bricks  they  are  generally  chunamed,  but  as  chunam 
blackens  by  exposure,  buildings  become  of  a  dirty  colour  on  their  S. 
W.  sides.  Where  the  hard  laterite  is  found  near  the  surface  of  the 
earth,  the  ground  is  rendered  very  unproductive.  The  plains  in  the 
hot  months  are  like  sandy  tracts,  with  very  little,  or  rather  no  grass ; 
when  ridden  over  they  reverberate  as  if  caverns  were  beneath.  On  this 
formation  many  forms  of  animal  life  do  not  thrive :  the  guinea  worm 
does  not  exist,  and  the  tape  worm  is  also  unknown.  Here  trees  are 
often  stunted  in  their  growth,  but  in  localities  where  moisture  accumu- 
lates and  decomposes  its  substance,  some  species  occasionally  thrive. 

Beneath  the  laterite  is  granite,  or  allied  geological  formations.  It 
is  found  on  the  top  of  some  hills,  and  more  rarely  on  their  sides.  In 
many  places  the  soil  around  the  bases  of  the  mountains  is  a  dark 
permeable  rich  earth,  in  which  timber  grows  abundantly.  Wherever 
fiat  surfaces  occur  on  the  sides  of  the  hills,  their  decomposition  and 
debris  afford  materials  for  the  growth  of  trees  and  other  vegetables. 

The  Mineral  productions  of  this  fertile,  agricultural,  and  timber 
producing  country,  are  comparatively  few :  or  perhaps  more  correct- 
ly speaking,  but  few  have  been  discovered.  Qold  is  found  in  small 
quantities  in  the  sands  of  the  Cranganore  river  near  the  ruined  fort, 
but  at  present  is  not  known  any  where  else  in  the  territory.  Old 
Portuguese  iSthors  mention  its  having  been  collected  along  the  sea 
shove,  even  opposite  Cochin.  The  sands  of  most  of  the  rivers  appear 
as  if  gold  dust  were  present  in  enormous  quantities :  their  beautiful 
yellow  glitter  is  sufficient  to  deceive  any  casual  observer,  whilst 
even  the  quartz  contains  iron  in  small  golden  coloured  nodules,  which 
give  it  something  of  the  appearance  of  auriferous  quartz.  But  un- 
fortunately, the  little  flakes  of  floating  yellow  substance  are  merely 
golden  mica  without  one  trace  of  the  precious  metals ;  this  mica  ex- 
tends up  the  coast,  certainly  as  far  as  Cannanore,  but  there  the  silver 
variety  partially  takes  its  place.  Yellow  mica  may  be  found  in 
small  flakes  on  the  summits  of  hills,  where  there  is  no  laterite ;  its 
glitter  may  be  distinguished  in  the  black  alluvial  deposits  in  the 
river  banks,  in  their  sands,  and  on  the  dusty  roads. 

Iron  is  not  dow  worked  in  the  Cochin  State;  but  it  has  been  in 


ntON. — SALT.— >HA£BOUBS.  33 

days  gone  by :  several  old  furnaces  for  obtaming  it  from  laterite  are 
in  existence  at  Sheranoor.  From  the  appearance  of  the  pipes,  a  con- 
siderable amount  was  procm«d.  In  the  Chittoor  district  it  has  also 
been  obtained.  It  is  found  in  masses  or  veins,  in  the  substance  of 
the  kterite. 

Though  various  authors  have  attributed  "  cat's  eyes/'  beryls,  and 
several  species  of  precious  stones  to  Malabar,  the  Cochin  State  can 
lay  claim  to  be  the  native  country  of  but  few. 

Salt  is  not  at  the  present  time  manufactured,  though  such  was  at- 
tempted some  years  since  on  one  of  the  islands  close  to  Cochin.  The 
amount  obtsdned  from  the  salt  pans  was  insufficient  to  repay  for  the 
labour  expended. 

The  Harbours  and  sea-board  of  the  country  still  remain  undescrib- 
ed.  The  mariner  would  be  venturesome  indeed,  who  brought  his 
vessel  near  the  shores  of  Cochin  during  the  violence  of  the  S.  W. 
monsoon,  or  from  the  beginning  of  June  to  the  middle  of  August. 
The  roll  of  the  sea  and  the  violence  of  the  winds  are  then 
too  great  for  vessels  to  beat  about  on  this  unsheltered  coast, 
unless  the  seasons  prove  unusually  mild,  or  there  should  be  such  a 
place  as  the  Allepey  mud  bank  to  run  into.  There  is  no  indentation 
of  the  shore  worthy  the  name  of  a  harbour,  and  only  two  outlets  of 
rivers,  viz.,  at  Cochin  and  Palliport,  respectively  ;  elsewhere  vessels 
have  to  lie  in  an  open  roadstead.  During  a  violent  storm  in  May 
1859,  all  the  vessels  lying  outside  Cochin  hod  a  most  narrow  esca|)e  : 
some  slipped,  eventually  all  got  safely  away. 

The  harbour  of  the  town  of  Cochin  is  the  most  important  in  this 
part  of  India,  and  is  a  very  excellent  one :  consisting  of  the  wide  river, 
which  having  a  straight  course  of  little  more  than  half  a  mile,  divides 
Cochin  from  Vypeen  with  a  width  of  680  yards  opposite  the  flag 
sta£  This  river  forms  a  connecting  channel  between  the  sea,  and  a 
lai^  expanse  of  backwater  of  sufficient  size  and  depth,  to  contain 
more  vessels  than  are  ever  likely  at  any  one  period  to  visit  the  place. 
The  bar  is  about  1|  miles  from  the  shore  at  the  mouth  of  the  river. 
It  is  a  very  narrow  ridge*  of  sand  extending  in  a  semicircular  direc- 
tion, from  the  shoal  water  off  Vypeen  point  to  that  off  Cochin  pomt. 

*  Lieutenant  Taylor's  Qficial  report,  H.  M.  sarveyiiig  vessel  Bheema. 

£ 


H  SSA'BOABD  BASS. 

Although  this  is  all  literally  speakiiig  ''bar/'  the  bar  proper,  or  deep- 
est part  of  this  ridge,  is  an  arc  of  a  drdey  the  chord  of  which  is  600 
yards,  and  its  versed  sine  about  100  yards.  At  the  lowest  water,  on 
the  shoalest  part,  there  is  a  depth  of  13  feet  :  and  the  extreme  rise 
and  fall  of  the  tide  is  3  feet,  generally  not  above  1^.  The  ridge  at 
this  depth  (13  feet)  is  broader  (L  e.  from  E.  to  W.)  in  some  places 
than  at  others.  The  best  channel  is  100  yards  wide,  and  its  cross 
section  not  more  than  10  yards ;  but  in  some  spots  so  narrow  that  it 
is  frequently  missed  in  sounding  for  it.  It  must  not  be  supposed 
that  it  is  here  meant  that  when  the  amount  of  water  covering  the  bar 
|s  13  feet,  vessels  with  that  draught  can  enter  without  bumping,  as 
the  dip  of  the  wave  makes  a  difference.  About  11  or  9  feet  at  times 
can  only  pass  over  in  perfect  safety. 

The  cause  of  these  bars  is  the  ocean  swell  and  the  ebb  tide,  by 
which  also,  according  to  their  relative  strength,  their  direction  is  de. 
termined.  The  tidal  wave,  Lieutenant  Taylor  points  out,  comes 
from  the  N.  W.,  whilst  the  ebb  tide  finding  an  exit  to  the  same  direc- 
tion, occasions  the  shallows  off  Vypeen.  The  alluvial  deposits  brought 
down  by  the  freshes  have  a  tendency  to  accumulate  on  the  bar. 

One  of  the  requirements  of  the  port,  or  rather  of  the  mercantile 
shipping,t  is  a  steam  tug,  to  tow  vessels  in  and  out,  and  also  to  be 
employed  when  its  services  are  not  otherwise  required,  in  working  a 
steam  rake,  or  dredge  for  the  purpose  of  deepening  the  bar.  The  sea 
k  now  carryinj^away  the  S.  W.  extremity  of  Vypeen,  and  it  is  feared 
that  if  the  bar  is  not  deepened,  the  great  body  of  the  freshes  will 
pass  more  and  more  to  the  N.  W.  Should  a  channel  form  here,  the 
bar  will  inevitably  become  more  or  less  silted  up,  and  in  time  it  may 
be  impassable  for  all  but  small  vessels.  Such  a  consummation  need 
not  be  expected,  at  least  for  many  years,  as  a  century  since  the  water 
on  the  bar  was  14  feet.  The  currents  shift  continually,  and  the  set 
now  against  the  Vypeen  side  of  the  river,  may,  before  another  season 
has  passed  over,  be  against  the  Cochin  bank. 

*  It  cannot  be  supposed  that  xncreaaing  the  depth  of  the  bar,  so  as  to 
permit  larger  vesaeU  to  enter  the  Cochin  river,  will  increase  the  amount  of 
produce  shipped  from  the  port  Any  one  who  has  seen  the  Britidi  harbours 
along  the  Western  Coast,  must  be  persuaded  Cochin  is  far  superior  to  any  of 
the  others. 


TIDS8. — ^IfUD  FLATS.  35 

The  tides  are  very  irregolar,  not  only  with  Teq>ect  to  tlie  stream 
of  the  ebb  and  flood,  bat  also  to  their  rise  and  fall  The  flood  stream 
oocasionaHy  lasts  four  hoon,  yet  with  an  absohitely  imperceptible  rise 
in  the  water.  The  average  amotint  of  water  on  the  bar,  at  i^t  time, 
Is  15  feet. 

Hie  entrance  to  the  Cranganore  or  Ayaootta  rivo-,  at  Palliport,  is 
voy  intricate,  and  only  small  native  crafts  enter.  But  south  of  itisa 
mud  flat,  stretching  a  littie  to  the  south  of  Narrikal,  a  large  village 
Ave  miles  by  sea  ncnth  of  Cochin.  The  ^^iftance  from  the  backwater 
to  the  sea  shore  is  about  |  of  a  mile,  along  a  landy  road,  leadittg 
through  the  village.  There  is  littie  to  add  to  the  description  given 
of  it  by  the  Dutch  Admiral  Stavarinui  in  1777,  who  stated  that  a 
reef  existed  at  the  mouth  of  the  Cranganore  river,  at  its  north  side 
(now,  owing  to  a  new  opening  having  formed,  being  at  its  south  side). 
This  stretches  out  to  sea  about  |  of  a  league,  forming  a  harbour  or 
place  protected  by  mud  banks,  and  into  which  vessels  may  run  with 
safety  during  bad  monsoons,  and  lis  there  tecure  in  20  or  less  feet 
of  water,  almost  without  cables.  This  soft  mud  partially  prevents 
the  roll  of  the  sea,  which  breaks  its  foroe  upon  its  dreumferenoe,  and 
is  totally  imperceptible  as  the  land  is  approached,  the  pUu»  appear- 
ing more  like  a  fresh  water  lake.  Tlie  mud  flat  is  now  said  to  extend 
for  half  a  mile  south  of  Narrikal,  and  to  the  north  for  about  four 
miles.  The  smoothest  portions  of  the  sea  are  between  the  villages 
of  Narrikal  and  Nairumbalum,  1^  miles  to  its  north9  W.  N.  W  from 
Narrikal  the  sea  at  soundings  less  than  3  frithoms,  invariably  retains 
its  stillness  :  between  3  and  5  fathoms  there  is  a  slight  swdL  To 
the  south  of  Narrikal  the  mud  bank  is  narrower,  and  the  deep  water 
and  stillness  nearer  the  shore.  To  the  north,  the  soundings*  are 
shallower  and  the  water  smooth  farther  out  to  sea. 

During  the  8.  W.  monsoon  the  swollen  rivers  of  the  Western 
Coast,  loaded  with  alluvial  matter,  rush  impetuously  towards  the  sea. 
Should  any  obstruction  occur  at  their  outiets,  deposits  are  occasioned^ 
as  at  the  Cranganore  and  Quilon  rivers,  where  mud  banks  have  so 
arisen.  Whether  this  impediment  to  these  alluvial  deposits  being 
carried  out  to  sea  is  m^ne^y  owing  to  the  action  of  the  waves  being 

*  lluter  AtiendonVi  Ojfieial  report,  1802. 


36  ALLUVIAL  DEPOSITS. — MtTD  BANKS. 

directly  antagonistic  to  the  course  of  the  river,  or  whether  other 
causes  are  also  in  operation,  may  be  questioned.  For  the  formation 
of  the  Narrikal  mud  bank,  a  reef  of  rocks  formerly  existed  (the 
Ayacotta  reef)  at  the  mouth  of  the  Cranganore  river,  which  long  pre- 
vented the  divergence  of  the  course  of  the  stream  to  the  northward, 
as  invariably  occurs  in  all  those  of  the  Western  Coast.  This  reef 
is  now  on  the  southern  side,  owing  to  the  stream  having  taken  a 
circuitous  direction  behind  it. 

The  whole  of  the  long  islands  (the  maritime  districts  of  Cochin,) 
between  the  sea  and  the  backwater  are  evidently  alluvial  deposits 
brought  down  by  the  river,  and  sand  washed  up  by  the  sea.  The 
direction  of  these  mud  banks  being  tha  same  as  the  long  islands, 
and  the  character  of  the  soU  nearly  identical  :  the  same  cause  may 
fairly  be  considered  as  giving  rise  to  both.  Though  Narrikal,  as  be- 
ing the  point  nearest  Cochin,  has  given  its  name  to  this  mud  bank, 
the  density  of  the  sea  increases  proceeding  northwards.  The  mud 
becomes  very  thick  antf  black,  and  large  pieces  of  flat  hard  flakes  of 
it  are  perceived  lying  on  the  shore,  about  one  mile  north  of  Narri- 
kal, where  they  have  been  thrown  up  by  the  sea.  Passing  onwards 
still  towards  Cranganore,  at  Nairumbalum,  a  large  bank  of  the  same 
substance  is  found,  of  from  6  to  10  feet  deep,  evidently  brought  down 
by  the  river,  which  continues  supplying  this  mud  harbour,  with 
deposits. 

Every  little  stream  and  gully  forms  an  excellent  diminutive  re- 
presentation of  the  large  rivers,  bringing  down  alluvial  matter.  On 
UGiaking  sections  of  the  sand,  layers  of  it  are  found  alternating  with 
those  of  dark  mud  :  the  larger  the  stream,  the  thicker  the  vari- 
ous layers ;  no  gases  arise  from  the  water,  and  no  oily  matter  (as 
suggested,)  floats  upon  it  It  is  simply  the  action  of  the  sea,  which 
prevents  the  subsidence  of  the  mud,  for  as  soon  as  placed  in  a  still 
vessel,  it  sinks. 

The  mud  feels  unctuous  and  sticky,  but  is  not  gritty,  unless  mixed 
with  the  sand.  It  is  of  a  very  dark  greenish  colour,  and  has  but  a 
slight  odour.  Under  the  microscope  it  shows  "  very  minute  angular 
"  fragments  of  quartz,  the  largest  hardly  visible  without  a  lens :  this  is 
**  the  sand.  Secofidly,  Foraminiferous  sheUs,  of  the  genus  Eotalia,  and 
"  a  few  fragments  of  larger  shells.    Thirdly,  Diatomaceoe,  of  which 


EI.A8TIC  MUD.  37 

'^  were  discovered  species  from  upwards  of  20  genera.  Fourthly ^  a  few 
"s{HiCiiles  of  8p<»iges  and  corals,  very  minute  :  and  some  amorphous 
^^  matter,  which  was  not  destroyed  after  long  boiling  in  strong  acids." 
On  a  more  elaborate  enquiry*  the  mud  was  found  to  be  very 
toiadoas  and  resistant  of  pressure,  like  a  stiff  piece  of  jelly  :  and  it 
is  supposed  that,  acting  like  an  immense  springs  it  yields  to  the 
pressure  of  the  waves,  that  the  water  thus  loses  its  force  and  be- 
comes quiescent  :  whilst  the  mud  expanding  is  prepared  for  a  fresh 
encounter.  An  examination  into  its  composition  resulted  in  the  dis. 
coveiy  of  sixty-two  species,  belonging  to  30  generae,  of  the  class 
Cryptogamia,  and  sub-group  Diatomece, 

The  AUepey  mud  bank,  about  30  miles  south  of  Cochin,  in  the 
TriTancore  State,  is  much  largerthan  that  at  NarrikaL  This  bank 
has  evidently  shifted,  and  b  still  shifting  gradually  southwards : 
thus  between  1693  and  1723,  it  moved  three  miles  to  the  south- 
ward :  from  1723  to  1825  it  had  again  moved  on  15  miles,  or 
at  an  average  of  nearly  one  mile  in  eight  years.  It  does  not  appear 
at  the  present  time  to  be  progressing  so  rapidly. 

•  MadroM  Journal  of  LiUnUurc  and  Scier^ee.  New  Serie«,  No.  XII,  page 
264,  by  Ueut.  Mitchell 


CHAPTER  11. 

THE  NATIVE  STATE  OF  COCHIN. 

Legendary  origin  of  Malabar — Brahmanical  Govenunent — Foreign  Governors— 

Origin  of  Cochin  Rajahfl—LegendAry  division  of  Malabar — Arrival  uf  For- 

tugueae— Arrival  of  the  Dutch— Wars  with  the  Samorin«  and  Rajah  of 

Travineore-»Hyder  Ali— Tippoo  Sultan— Battle  of  the  Travanoore  linee— 

Britiflh  treaty  of  1780 — Intrigues  with  the  French — Nalr  disturbaocefr^ 

Laws  of  Buooeasion  to  the  Musnud — Ancient  and  Modem  laws—Revenue. 

The  Native  State  of  Cochin  appears  to  have  fonned  a  portion  of 

the  ancient  kingdom  of  Eeralam^  the  name  of  which  was  derived 

from  Veera  Ktralam^  the  first  Prince  who  ruled  over  it :  Ktroolem^ 

the  son  of  layenthen,  grandson  of  Indra,  and  Son-in-law  of  Veruma  : 

or  the  Sanscrit  word  Keram,  a  oocoanut    The  monarch  may  have 

been  known  as  the  ^'  king  of  the  cocoannt  country/*  that  species  of 

palm,  growing  to  perfection  along  the  whole  extent  of  its  fertile 

coast. 

Keralam,  or  Farasu  Ramah*s  territory,  Malayalam,  (Malay  hill, 
Ala^  s^) :  the  country  below  the  Sukhein,  or  Western  ghauts,  is 
bounded  on  the  north  by  the  river  Chandraghiri,  in  latitude  10^  30' : 
and  extends  as  far  South  as  Cape  Comorin.  It  has  been  by  some 
authors  considered  as  forming  one  of  the  fifty-six  districts  of  the 
Bharata  division  of  Hindustan. 

The  origin  of  Malabar,  according  to  Hindu  tradition,  may  be 
traced  back  to  the  time  of  Parasu  Ramah,  (the  sixth  incarnation  of 
Vishnu,)  who,  it  is  asserted,  after  destroying  the  Schatriyas,  was 
seized  with  remorse  concerning  the  blood  he  had  shed,  and  wishing 
to  offer  an  atonement,  made  his  territories  a  present  to  the  Brahmans. 
He  then  proceeded  to  Kailasa,  and  recounted  his  adventures  to  Pa- 
ramayswaren,  entreating  that  god,  to  grant  him  another  kingdom  : 


PABASU  BiJCAH  OBTAIKS  HALASAB.  89 

bat  he,  unable  to  meet  his  wishee,  advised  his  applyixig  to  the  god  of 
the  aea^  Aooordingly  having  proceeded  to  the  southern  extremity  of 
India,  accompanied  by  Snbhramanien,  they  there  oonsectated  a  small 
apot  of  temtOTy,  and  imagining  the  presence  of  a  Virgin  goddess,  wor« 
shipped  her  under  the  name  of  Canniya  Coomaury,  (the  words  being 
almost  synonymous  and  signifying,  **  Virgin  girl'')  Subsequently, 
the  {dace  received  the  same  designation,  which  was  gradually  cor- 
rupted into  " Cape  Comorin" 

The  sea  god»  Weruma,  (pronounced  Veruma,)  thus  invoked,  soon 
i^peaced :  and  on  hearing  Parasu  Ramah's  request^  granted  him 
land,  as  fJEur  as  he  could  throw  his  Chuckram,  (disc,  or  axe,)  across 
the  sea,  promising  that  the  water  should  recede,  up  to  the  spot, 
where  it  should  falL  Parasu  Ramah  then  exerting  all  his  strength, 
threw  his  Chuckram,  in  a  N.  W.  direction,  for  a  distance  of  about 
1,500  nulee  (so  states  the  Kerala  UlpaU)  in  length,  and  IM  in 
breadth! 

The  gods  then  directed  Parasu  Ramah,  to  build  24,000  ChtUrufMy 
(t^nples),  promising,  that  so  long  as  charities  were  continued  to 
Brahmans,  they  would  reside  in  the  country,  and  preserve  it  from 
harm.  Vishnu  then  presented  him  with  his  Chuckram^  assuring  him, 
that  whenever  he  was  invoked  by  that  weapon,  he  would  personally  ap- 
pear. Parasu  Ramah  then  proceeded  northwards,  and  as  directed, 
built  houses  and  temples  for  the  Brahmans,  and  at  Trichoor,*  he 
consecrated  the  image  of  Siva,  calling  the  place  Thrmvamayru^  Ik 
word  derived  from,  Thri,  a  syllable  often  affixed  to  the  names  of 
Hindu  Deities,  Siva,  the  god,  and  MayrUy  or  Meru,  the  sacred 
motmtain. 

\  Parasu  Ramah  then  proceeded  to  the  river  Ehristna,  and  shortly 
afterwards  returned,  accompanied  by  a  Brahman,  his  wife,  and  eight 
sons,  all  of  whom  he  located  at  Trichoor.  The  father  he  made  the 
head  of  all  the  Makbar  Brahmans,  giving  him  the  title  of  Yogiyar  : 
whilst  to  the  eight  sons,  he  presented  dght  villages,  over  which  he 
installed  them  as  Lords,  and  where  they  subsequently  resided. 

Next  he  went  to  the  district  of  Tanjore,    whence  he  brought 
another  Brahman,  with  his  wife  and  sons.   The  father  of  this  family, 
was  installed  as  Wadiyar,  (spiritual  preceptor,)    over  the  temple 
*  A  large  town  iu  the  Coohin  State. 


40  MALABAR  GIVEN   TO  THE  BRAHMANS. 

Parasu  Ramah  had  built  at  Trichoor.  He  made  various  journeys  to 
other  localities,  sometimes  obtaining  treasure,  and  sometimes  Brah- 
mans,  for  this  new  country  :  and,  thus  he  was  enabled  to  people  24 
Gramams,  or  villages.  He  next  procured  Schatriyas,  Sudras,  and 
Hindus  of  all  the  Castes,  including  carpenters,  and  labourers^  as  well 
as  seeds  of  plants,  and  grains.  All  appeared  to  be  going  on  well ; 
Faraau  Ramah  was  quietly  governing,  under  the  personal  direction  of 
the  gods,  when  the  Brahmans  began  to  return  to  their  Native  lands, 
carrying  away  with  them,  the  riches  they  had  accumulated.  To 
obviate  this  emigration,  Brahma  having  visited  Keralam,  gave  the 
Inhabitants  a  new  language,  termed  "  Malayalim,"  appointing  certain 
ceremonies,  and  directing  that  all  the  people  of  Eeralam  should  wear 
the  Cudumi,  on  the  forepart  of  the  head ;  he  likewise  instituted  other 
changes.  After  Brahma  had  left,  Ganesha  made  some  further 
changes,  in  the  manners,  and  ceremonies  :  the  principal  of  which 
were,  that  the  eldest  son  only  (of  Brahmans)  should  marry,  and  that 
those  of  this  superior  caste  should  only  wear  one  Poonool,  or  sacred 
string,  worn  by  the  twice  bom  classes,  across  the  left  shoulder,  and 
meeting  like  a  belt,  over  the  right  hip. 

Parasu  Ramah  ordained  that  all  Brahmanee  women  should  carry 
with  them  an  umbrella,  whenever  they  stirred  out  of  doors,  to 
prevent  their  being  seen,  by  those  of  the  male  sex.  That  a  Sudra  ser- 
vant girl  should  go  before  them  :  that  they  should  be  well  covered 
by  a  large  cloth,  but  should  wear,  neither  omalbents,  nor  jewels. 

The  whole  of  Keralam  being  peopled,  it  was  given  to  the  Brah- 
mans, by  Parasu  Ramah,  to  be  kept  exclusively  for  the  support  of 
Temples,  and  religious  establishments,  To  this  day,  Malabar  is 
distinguished,  as  the  Kerma-Bhoomi,  or  ''  land  of  good  works,  for 
the  exi)iation  of  sin." 

Another  version  is,  that  having  obtained  the  land  from  Veruma^ 
as  described,  and  peopled  it  vrith  Brahmans  :  before  long  they  re- 
turned to  their  Native  countries,  asserting  the  new  country  was 
too  full  of  snakes  to  be  safe,  and  too  swampy  to  be  healthy.  A 
fresh  set  of  Brahmans  were  then  despatched  there,  and  directed  to 
propitiate  the  reptiles  by  worship :  whilst  to  set  a|  mark  upon  this 
new  race,  Parasu  Ramah  seized  each  one  by  the  hair  of  his  head,  and 
hurled  him  over  the  mountains  into  Malabar.    The  consequence  of 


BBAHMAKICAL  ABISTOCBACY  IN  MALASAB.  ^1 

this  roisgh  procedure  was,  that  the  unshaved  lock  on  the  top  of 
the  head  (eudumi)  was  dragged  forward  half  way  to  the  forehead ; 
in  which  position  it  is  still  worn  by  this  class  of  Brahmans,  dis- 
tingnishing  them  from  all  others. 

Shortly  after  this  period,  Ptunsn  Ramah  visited  Makibar,  and 
requested  some  of  the  chief  Brahmans,  to  give  him  a  small 
piece  of  ground,  on  which  to  erect  a  hut  for  lus  own  residence* 
And  on  his  request  being  refused,  he  cursed  the  whole  tribe,  and 
prophesied  that  however  great  and  holy  they  might  consider  them- 
selves, they  would  in  reality,  be  a  degraded  race,  to  the  end  of 
time. 

He  then  retired  to  the  Western  Ohauts,  but  subsequently  becom- 
ing tired  of  a  solitary  life,  he  assumed  the  form  of  an  ascetic,  and 
proceeding  to  Venima,  implored  the  gift  of  a  small  piece  of  land, 
extending  only  as  far  as  he  could  shoot  an  arrow  over  the  sea. 
The  request  was  granted,  but  Veruma  being  soon  afterwards  in- 
formed by  some  Brahmans  who  his  kte  visitor  had  been :  became 
alannejiy  and  repented  his  promise  ;  but  as  he  could  not  break  it,  he 
prevailed  upon  the  god  of  death  to  assist  him  in  thwarting  Farasu 
Ramah. 

The  time  fixed  upon,  for  shooting  the  arrow  arrived  :  but  the 
god  of  death  having  changed  himself  into  a  white  ant,  had,  dur- 
ing the  previous  night,  eaten  two-thirds  through  the  bow  string, 
consequently  the  arrow  was  not  discharged,  as-  the  string,  when 
pulled,  snapped  asunder.  Parasu  indignantly  declared  that  his  in- 
veterate and  revengeful  enemies,  the  Brahmans,  had  been  concerned 
in  this  occurrence,  and  decreed,  that  to  the  end  of  time,  the  souls 
of  any  of  them  who  died  in  Eeralam,  should  be  transmigrated 
into  the  bodies  of  asses.  He  forthwith  retired  to  the  Qhauts, 
where  he  is  believed  stiU  to  be  watching  over  the  Western  Coast, 
and  at  long  intervab  appearing  in  some  terrible  form,  to  af&ighted 
travellers. 

The  Brahmans  now  established  an  aristocratic  form  of  govern- 
ment under  chiefs :  but  each  wishing  to  be  independant  of  his 
neighbour,  dissensions,  and  their  results,  the  insecurity  of  life  and 
property  ensued. 

About  B.  C.  63,  a  great  congress  was  held,  when  the  rulers  of  Ke- 

r 


ii  OBIOINAL  BULESS  OF  MALABAB. 

ralam  agreed,  that  they  would  send  to  Chera*  for  a  Fermaid,  or 
Qovemor  who  should  rule  over  them  for  twelve  years,  at  the  end  of 
which  period,  he  should  retire  from  public  life  :  the  most  approved 
mode  of  doing  which  was  by  cutting  his  own  throat  on  a  scaffold 
erected  for  that  purpose.  After  having  joined  in  a  great  farewell 
feast,  this  tragedy,  enacted  in  view  of  the  assembled  guests,  com- 
pleted the  eutertunment.  His  body  was  then  burnt,  and  the  post 
refilled.  These  governors  were  bound  to  observe  certain  Brahmanical 
regulations,  and  in  matters  of  doubt  the  decision  of  the  Brahmans 
was  final. 

The  term  Cheramal  Permaul,  or  Cheraman  Perumal,  which  merely 
signifies  *'  a  governor  from  Chera,''  has  been  erroneously  considered, 
to  mean  a  family  who  ruled  Malabar,  when  in  truth  it  was  simply 
an  official  designation.  In  olden  times  the  country  was  always  called 
"  Cheraman  lokouTi!'  or  Cheraman's  country. 

Rejecting  Hindu  traditions,  it  appears  most  probable,  that  the 
ancient  rulers  of  Keralam  were  dispossessed  by  a  Brahman  named  Pa. 
rasu  Bamah,  who  invaded  the  cotmtry,  and  that  when  he  died,  th^Chiefs 
divided  the  territory  amongst  themselves,  until,  in  consequence  of 
disagreements,  they  found  it  necessary  to  send  to  Chera  for  a  Gover- 
nor, whom  all  would  agree  to  serve  under,  whilst  he  himself  was 
boimd  down  by  certain  restrictions. 

The  Brahmans  without  doubt  divided  themselves  into  two  sects, 
the  worshippers  of  Varahou,  (the  incarnation  of  the  Boar,)  and 
those  of  Sharabou  (the  incarnation  of  the  Bird,)  and  these  distinc. 
tions  are  even  now  partially  maintained.  These  two  divisions  had 
each  two  TalUf  or  species  of  ^*  Councillors  or  Secretaries  of  State:'' 
these  four  were  located  at  Cranganore,  where  the  Governor  also 
resided.  Besides  these,  there  were  other  petty  Talis  in  various 
places.  In  the  course  of  time  the  power  of  the  Permauls  aug- 
mented, whilst  that  of  the  Talis  gradually  dwindled  into  insigni- 
ficance. Many  of  even  these  titles,  were  given  to  nephews  of  the 
Permauls,  thus  still  further  increasing  their  power. 

*  Ch^ra  is  stated  by  Elphinstone,  to  be  a  small  State  between  the  territury 
of  the  Pandyas,  (Madura)  and  the  western  sea  :  comprehending  Travancore, 
part  of  Malabar,  and  Coimbatore,  It  is  mentioned  by  Ptolemy,  and  may  bare 
existed  at  the  conmienoement  of  our  era.  It  was  subdued  and  divided  in  the 
10th  oentury. 


mmDEK  OF  SAJAH   KISHEN  RAO.  43 

In  this  manner  a  species  of  hereditary  nobility  was  formed,  and 
when  the  Ri^ah  of  Anagoomty  was  preparing  to  invade  Keralam, 
many  distinctions  and  mottoes  were  conferred,  amongst  which  the 
Cochin  Chief  had  that  of  Baveeloke  Sharajay  given  him :  Uus 
occurred,  A.  D.,  325*  (351  ?)  The  last  Permaul,iB  stated  byZeir- 
reddien  Mokhdom  to  have  been  of  the  Vysia  or  Sudra  caste,  and 
called  ShtikerunUty,  or  ChttckertnUtt/,  But  this  statement  is  gene- 
rally receiYcd  with  incredulity. 

All  the  Permauls  do  not  appear  to  have  been  desirous  of  ter- 
minating their  rule  in  self-destruction,  some  retired  for  life  to  a 
pagoda — a  custom  subsequently  adopted  by  the  Samorins.  Finally, 
OM  Governor  arose,  who  set  the  authority  of  the  Kings  of  Chera 
at  defiance,  refusing  to  resign  hia  Government :  but  the  then  Rajah 
Kishen  Boo  was  not  disposed  to  give  up  his  power  over  Malabar 
without  a  struggle :  so  at  the  head  of  an  army  he  marched  to  dispos- 
sess this  recusant  Permaul,  whom  he  defeated  and  compelled  to  take 
refuge  in  the  Ohauts.  The  people  had  soon  cause  to  regret  the  change 
of  masters ;  and  when  Kishen  Rao  had  firmly  established  himself  at 
Tiruwanji  Collum,  a  place  now  in  the  Cochin  State,  close  to  Cranga- 
nore,  the  Namboories  (Malabar  Brahman.?)  considered  it  time  to 
effect  a  revolution  in  favour  of  their  friend  Cheraman  Permaul,  (as 
he  is  commonly  called.)  One  of  their  Chiefs  therefore  went  to  see 
Kishen  Rao,  and  owing  to  his  high  rank  and  sacred  character,  readi- 
ly gained  admission  to  his  presence.  The  wily  Brahman  flattered 
and  caressed,  and  after  a  short  time  gained  permission  to  introduce  to 
the  king,  a  few  friends  of  the  same  priestly  caste.  One  day  whilst  en- 
gaged in  conversation,  they  availed  themselves  of  a  favourable  oppor- 
tunity, and  murdered  Kishen  Rao.  Great  confusion  ensued,  during 
which  Cheraman  Permaul  regained  the  sovereign  power.  A  native 
Prince,  in  laying  his  claims  before  the  British  Commissioners^  in  1793, 

*  It  ifl  very  difficalt  to  ascertain  anything  respecting  the  accuracy  of  these 
very  early  dates,  even  when  they  relate  to  European  history.  Th4>ina9  Cana 
certified  that  he  taw  the  last  of  the  Permauls  alive  in  the  year  3  45,  whilst  on 
a  referenoe  to  the  Brahman  College  at  Trichoor,  an  answer  was  received,  which 
corroborateB  his  statement  asserting  that  Cheraman  Permaul  ascended  the 
Kiunud  about  March  24,  A.  D.  341,  and  reigned  86  years  and  four  months  :  - 
but  the  date  of  Hay  878,  is  then  given  as  that,  at  which  he  was  last  seen  : 
making  the  length  of  his  reign  37  years  and  two  months. 


44  THE  LAST  "PBRMAUL." 

to  a  small  tract  of  land,  pleaded  that  it  had  been  presented  to  his 
ancestors,  by  Cheraman  Permaul  as  a  reward  for  murdering  Kishen 
Eao. 

Some  believe  that  the  last  Permaul  was  permitted  to  be  Gover- 
nor for  thirty-siz  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  retired, 
and  was  induced  by  the  Majains,  commonly  known  as  Jains,  A.  D. 
378,  (352 1)*  to  proceed  to  Mecca,  at  which  place  many  of  that 
faith  were  established :  carrying  on  a  trade  with  India,  which,  in 
subsequent  centuries,  fell  into  Moorish  hands. 

From  this  last  Permaul,  or  Governor,  whose  name  has  been  various- 
ly given  as  Sheo  Ram,  Shennanoo,  Permaloo,  and  Cheraman  Per- 
maul, <&c.,all  the  present  Rajahs,  Chieftains,  Nobles,  and  Landhold- 
ers, assert  that  their  ancestors  received  grants  either  of  territory, 
nobility  or  estates. 

Malabar  had  scarcely  been  portioned  out,  when  an  Erary,  or  person 
of  the  caste  of  cowherds,!  arrived  from  Poondra,  on  the  banks  of 
the  Cauvery  near  Errode  in  the  Camatic :  and  claimed  his  share 
of  the  IdngdonL  He  reminded  Cheraman  Permaul  that  his  independ- 
ence was  achieved,  owing,  in  a  great  measure,  to  his  assistance,  and 
that  of  his  brothers.  The  Prince  replied,  that  he  had  little  left  to 
bestow,  excepting  his  own  palace,  which,  with  the  ground  lying  around 
it,  and  leading  to  the  sea  beach,  he  had  retained,  that  he  might  leave 
the  shores  of  India  still  the  monarch  of  the  soil  on  which  he  stood. 
But  he  presented  him  with  his  sword,  (kept  to  this  day  by  the 
Samorin*s  descendants,  with  the  greatest  reverence,)  bracelets,  and 
sovereignity  over  as  much  land,  as  a  cock  could  be  heard  crowing 
from  a  neighbouring  temple,  completing  the  transfer  by  placing  a  gar- 

*  Seo  an  account  by  Koohel  Jseho  Nair  in  an  interesting  paper  in  the 
Madrtu  Quarterly  Journal  of  Literature  and  Science.  Referring  to  thia  subject 
the  writer  observes  that  the  Jains,  or  Bhu  Idists,  "  as  a  people,  were  settled  in 
"  Arabia,  and  many  Tinted  Malabar ;  the  original  name  was  Hahajain,  and 
**  became  in  time  corrupted  to  Magains,  or  Magans.  The  Hindus  through  mis- 
**take  call  the  Mussahnen  also  Bhuddists,  and  from  thia  arose  the  idea,  that 
**  the  last  of  the  Permauls  became  a  Mahomedan." 

t  The  gowlees,  (cowherds,)  in  the  Deccan,  appear  to  belong  to  the  same  race 
as  the  people  of  Malabar,  and  have  Canarese  and  Malayalim  words,  mixed  up 
with  the  Mahratta. 


DIVISIOK  OF  ILLLABAfi.  45 

land  ronnd  liia  neck,  and  •prinkling  it  with  otta  of  roaes  *  He  then 
gave  him  the  titla^f  Samarin^  or  Lord  orer  the  other  Riyahs,  leav- 
ing him  to  acquire  his  authority  over  them,  and  extend  his  terri- 
tjry,  as  he  could. 

llie  ancient  name  of  the  town  of  Calicut,  whence  Chenunan 
Permaul  is  said  to  have  embarked,  has  escaped  record,  but  Uie  na- 
tive name  for  it^  at  the  present  time,  is  Cotee-cota,  a  contraction  of 
CotK-coo^hee-eoia,  the  fort  from  whence  the  cock  crew. 

Another  version  is,  that  Cheraman  Permaul,  tired  of  sovereignity, 
divided  his  dominions  amongst  his  Chiefs  and  friends  in  the  fol- 
lowing manner  :*-giving  the  northern  portion  to  the  Rajah  of 
Colastria  :  that  part  immediately  south  of  this  to  the  Samorin,  or 
Samoory  Rigah  :  from  thence  as  far  as  the  Travancore  State,  to  the 
Bajah  of  Cochin  :  and  that  lying  to  the  extreme  south,  to  the  Ra- 
jah of  Travancore. 

The  Butch  Ocvemmeni  Records  state  that  Cheraman  Permaul, 
after  dividing  his  territories,  retired  for  life  to  the  pagoda  of  Tiru- 
vanj'i  CoUum.  In  the  Dutch  Road  book,  dated  1742,  quite  a  dif- 
ferent version  is  given  of  the  origin  of  the  four  great  Rajahs  of 
Cochin,  Colastria,  Calicut,  and  Travancore,  and  one  which  appears 
by  no  means  unlikely  to  be  correct,  viz.,  that  the  first,  or  Rajah  of 
Cochin,  only  was  a  Schatriya  :  the  others  were  Sudras  :  that  the 
first  was  the  son  of  the  sister  of  the  last  of  the  Permauls,  and  con- 
sequently the  rightful  heir :  whilst  the  other  three  were  merely 
his  own  children,  who,  according  to  the  laws  of  Malabar,  could  not 
be  his  heirs,  all  inheritance  going  through  the  sister's  children. 
Thus,  if  the  kst  Permaul's  wife  were  a  Sodra,  this  would  account  for 
the  Samorins,  the  Rajahs  of  Colastria,  and  those  of  Travancore,  all 
being  Sudras. 

Sixteen  lesser  kingdoms  of  the  first  rank,  were  placed  under  the 
authority  of  Kaimuls,  who  possessed  the  power  of  deciding,  in  cases 
of  life  and  death,  regarding  their  own  subjects ;  these  posts  were 
given  to  the  friends  of  the  Permauls,  and  comprehended  Repelim, 
Porca  (Chambagacherry),  Teckencoor,  Quilon  (Coilam),  Culli  Quilon 
(Kayencoilam),  Berkencoor  (Wadacancoor),  Arangolla  (Walluanatty,) 

*  Thif  appears  to  bare  been  an  anciCut  symbol,  of  the  gift,  or  trantfer  of 
propertT. 


46  SUBDIVISIONS   OF   THE   TEERITOEY. 

Tannoor  (Bettette),  besides  many  others,  (apparently  of  lesser  size), 
such  as  Cranganore,  Ayroor  (Iroor),  Mangatty,  Par0Qr,  Ac.  There  were 
also  still  smaller  districts,  the  rulers  of  which  had  no  power  over  the 
lives  of  their  subjects.  The  superior  Rajahs  (such  as  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin)  considered  these  Kaimuls  their  vassals,  merely  holding  land 
as  feudatories,  whilst  they,  on  the  other  hand,  did  not  always  remain 
faithful  to  one  Prince,  and  only  obeyed  orders  when  it  suited  their 
convenience  to  do  so.  The  smaller  States  were  again  subdivided,  and  so 
on  '^ad  infinitum,''  until  it  became  a  proverb  in  Malabar,  that 
^*  though  two  steps  might  be  made  in  one  territory,  a  third  must 
''pass  the  boundary.''  The  claims  of  the  four  superior  Rajahs  to 
sovereignty,  appear  to  have  been  founded  in  justice,  if  Cheraman 
Permaul  had  the  right  to  invest  any  one  with  such  authority.  But 
as  Kaimuls  merely  held  their  lands  by  the  same  tenure,  they  would 
hardly  have  argued  its  illegality.  In  those  days,  right  existed  by 
the  force  of  the  sword,  and  appeals  were  unknown,  except  to  arms. 

The  early  histoiy  of  the  Cochin  Rajahs  is  involved  in  obscurity  : 
their  lives  seem  to  have  been  passed  in  warfare,  either  attempting 
to  extend  their  territories  at  the  expense  of  their  weaker  neighbours, 
or  defending  themselves  against  those  who  were  stronger,  in  which 
they  were  assisted  by  the  Kaimuls  or  subordinate  petty  chiefs,  who 
in  their  turn,  expected  assistance,  against  more  powerful  neighbours. 

Little  can  be  collected  respecting  this  country  prior  to  the  arrival 
oithe  Portuguese,  A.  D.  1500,  when  the  Rajah  evidently,  under  the 
impression,  that  their  assistance  would  enable  him  to  check  the  in- 
creasing power  of  the  Samorin,  gave  them  a  friendly  reception  as  will 
be  detailed  in  the  next  chapter.  For  the  Samorin  had  entered  into 
an  alliance  with  the  Moplahs,  who  had  given  him  material  assistance 
against  the  Cochin  Rajah,  by  which  he  had  defeated  him  on  several 
occasions.  On  the  arrival  of  the  Dutch,  in  1663,  they  found  the  Ra- 
jah, kept  a  State  prisoner  by  the  Portuguese,  and  a  Ranee  (his  aunt,) 
governing  the  kingdom,  who  appears  to  have  been  devotedly  attach- 
ed to  the  Portuguese  nation. 

The  Dutch  Governor  of  Cochin,  Jacob  Loho,  about  1678  speaks  of 
"  the  Cochin  Rajah,  with  his  four  kingdoms  of  Porca,  Berkencoor 
Mangatty,  and  Paroor,"  and  obseo^es  that  hy  adoptions  and  deaths 
he  had  obtained  the  territory,  stretching  to  within  half  a  (Dutch 


THE  T&AVANCOKE  RAJAH's  CX)KQtnESTS.  47 

mile,  of  the  town  of  Cochin.  Van  GoUeneste  in  1743,  speaks  of 
''  the  Cochin  Rajah  and  his  four  states,"  mentioning  the  same  as 
were  detailed  by  Jacob  Lobo,  65  years  before. 

In  the  year  1715,  the  Samorin  perceiving  that  the  Dutch  had 
eitiier  become  lukewarm,  respecting  their  ally  the  Cochin  Bajah : 
or  else  were  unable  to  protect  him,  over<ran  and  conquered  a  por- 
tion of  his  territory.  From  this  period  the  dissensions  connected 
with  the  State,  became  so  mixed  up,  with  the  history  of  the  Dutch 
that  an  account  of  them  must  be  deferred,  until  speaking  of  that 
nation. 

On  October  15th,  1753,  the  Cochin  Rajah  met  the  Dutch  Am- 
bassador at  Mavillicurray,  where  they  attempted  to  n^otiate  a 
lasting  peace  with  Travancore,  but  the  Dutch  had  to  attend  to 
the  interests  of  the  Company  and  therefore  left  the  Rajah  to  make 
his  own  terms;  and  although  peace  was  agreed  upon,  it  was  of 
short  duration.  The  Cochin  Rajah  was  induced  by  the  chiefs  of 
Teckenooor,  Wadacancoor,  and  other  places,  to  assist  them  in 
throwing  off  the  yoke  of  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  who  had  an- 
nexed thdr  territories.  Accordingly,  some  thousands  of  Nairs  from 
Cochin,  in  conjunction  with  those  of  Teckencoor,  the  Coddacheny 
Kaimuk  and  other  great  personages,  marched  to  Porca,  to  attack 
the  Travancore  troops.  But  they  were  completely  routed,  and  the 
second  Coddacherry  Kaimul,  the  young  Paliat  Achen,  and  one  of 
the  chief  Ragiadoors  (Province  Governors,  Tahsildars)  of  Cochin 
were  made  prisoners.  Travancore  then  seized  the  whole  of  the 
Poica  district,  along  the  sea  coast,  nearly  as  fiar  as  Cochin  :  and 
it  was  remarked  at  this  time  by  the  Dutch  Commandant,  that 
"the  Rajah  is  in  great  danger  of  losing  the  whole  of  his  terri- 
"tory,"  and  in  1756,  he  also  reports,  "Travancore  since  1753,  has 
"  conquered  Teckencoor,  Wadacancoor,  Porca  and  the  greatest  por- 
''tion  of  Cochin,  including  Culli  Quilon,  Quilon,  Attinga,  Martha 
"andPeritally." 

The  Travancore  Rajah  undoubtedly  intended  to  annex  any  terri- 
tories he  could  conquer.     Many  of  these  little  States,  although  per- 
haps not  at  that   time,  paying   tribute   to  Cochin,    certainly    had 
be^  vassals  to  that  Rajah. 
In  1755  the  Samorin   again  invaded  the  Cochin  State,  and  at- 


48       TREATY  BETWEEN  COCHIN  AND  TKAVANCOEE. 

tacking  the  Island  of  Chetwye,  drove  in  some  Dutch  outposts,  and 
over-ran  a  portion  of  the  Cochin  territory.  He  was  joined  by  a 
number  of  petty  Princes,  and  gradually  possessed  himself  of  most 
of  the  Cochin  State. 

In  1757  it  was  agreed  between  the  Rajahs  of  Cochin  and  Tra- 
vancore,  that  as  the  Chembagacherry  and  Wadakencoor  chiefs,  had 
combined  against  Travancore,  and  given  that  Rajah  much  trouble  : 
he  should  be  allowed  to  reimburse  himself,  out  of  their  revenues, 
for  his  expenses ;  and  that  the  Cochin  Rajah,  should  not  interfere, 
or  have  any  intercourse  with  these  Princes,  who  nevertheless  were 
l)ermitted  to  reside  at  Trichoor. 

The  Rajah  finding  that  he  could  gain  no  assistance  from  the 
Dutch,  against  the  Samorin,  sent  an  embassy,  to  his  old  enemy,  the 
Rajah  of  Travancore,  whose  General,  a  Fleming,  named  JSustachiua 
de  Lanoy^  was  considered  at  that  time,  the  most  successful  comman- 
dant in  South  India.  He  had  10,000  Nairs  under  him,  whom  he 
had  disciplined  as  regular  Infantry,  and  double  that  number  as  ir- 
regular foot,  but  no  Cavalry. 

The  following  was  the  agreement  then  entered  into,  between 
these  two  Princes.  "  The  Cochin  Rajah,  having  requested  the  assis- 
"  tance  of  the  Travancore  Rajah,  to  drive  the  enemy  away,  and  to 
"  extend  his  territorieSj  as  formerly :  namely,  to  Pookaitha  on  the 
"  west,  and  Chitatu  on  the  east :  as  also  to  recover  for  him,  all 
'^  those  lands,  which  he  had  in  Walapanaud  district^  has  agreed  to  c/ive 
"  up  to  Travancore,  that  portion  of  Carapooram,  lying  to  the  south 
"of  Pamba  Azi  (Andar-azi),  and  north  of  Allepey,  with  the  ex- 
"  ception  of  Andicadow  Chellana,  and  Combalum  :  and  also  to 
"  give  up  the  Paroor,  and  Allungaad  districts  :  and  has  also  agreed, 
"  that  one-half  of  the  revenues  of  the  reclaimed  lands,  which  are  to 
"  be  collected  by  the  Cochin  officials  (with  the  knowledge,  and  super- 
"  vision  of  those  of  Travancore)  shall  go  towards  defraying  the  ex- 
"  penscs  of  the  Travancore  army,  as  long  as  its  presence  may  be  re- 
<^  quired  in  those  parts  :  and  that  if  the  army  pushes  into  Walapa- 
"  naud,  all  that  part  of  the  district,  which  is  the  Samorin's,  shall 
"  become  Travancore  property."* 

•  CocAin  Sircar  Records  M.  S.  S,^  dated  December  26th  1761. 


TBAVANOOBS  ASSISTS  COCHIN.  40 

The  Travancore  Rajah,  now  erected  works  on  a  strip  of  land,  com- 
mencing opposite  Cranganore,  and  extending  to  the  Ghauts ;  which 
it  was  anticipated  would  be  a  check  upon  any  future  advances  of  the 
Samorin.  Whilst^  just  flanking  their  western  extremity,  were  the 
Dutch  Forts,  of  Cranganore,  and  Ayacotta  or  Azi-Cotta,  (the  month 
of  a  river,  and  a  Fort).  From  ten  to  thirty  miles,  of  the  Cochin 
State,  lay  to  the  northwards,  and  exterior  to  these  lines  :  although 
by  far  the  largest  portion  was  on  the  south,  and  within  them. 

This  treaty  was  satisfactorily  concluded,  for  the  Samorin's  troops 
being  divided  into  three  portions,  one  at  Cranganore,  one  at  Paroor, 
and  the  third  at  Verapoly  :  the  Travancoreans  attacked  them  sud- 
denly, and  routed  them  with  great  slaughter.  In  1762  the  provisions 
of  the  treaty  were  fiilly  carried  out,  and  the  following  year  with  the 
same  assistance,  the  Rajah  was  enabled  to  take  part  of  Chowghaut ; 
whilst  about  the  same  period  Maprana  and  the  Mangatty  lands  also 
fell  to  him ;  the  two  last  territories  lie  to  the  South  of  the  river 
Innemaka,  and  formerly  belonged  to  a  Nambiar,  from  whom  ihe 
Samorin  took  them,  and  in  1717,  made  them  over  to  the  Dutch  : 
who  in  returning  to  the  Cochin  Rajah  the  lands  he  had  lost  to  the 
Samorin,  retained  Maprana,  which  they  let  out  to  the  old  Nam- 
biar, for  4  lasts  of  paddy  annually,  (16,000  Dutch  pounds).  It 
was  again  retaken  by  the  Samorin  in  1753,  and  now  it  was  by  the 
assistance  of  the  Travancore  Rajah,  again  annexed  (in  1763)  by 
the  Cochin  Rajah,  and  the  Nambiar  deprived  of  all  authority. 
The  Dutch  Qovemment  then  demanded,  that  the  Nambiar  should 
either  be  replaced  as  their  tenant,  or  that  the  Rajah  should  pay 
them  the  stipulated  rent;  the  last  course  was  agreed  to.* 

The  power  of  Hyder  AH  about  this  time  became  known  in 
Malabar  ;  and  the  Rajah  of  Palghaut,  (part  of  whose  possessions  had 
been  taken  in  1758-59  by  the  Samorin,)  applied  to  Hyder  for  assist- 
ance, agreeing  in  return  to  become  his  vassal.     In  1760-61  Hyder'a 

*  In  1 762,  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  mortgaged  the  CkxmpuUy  landa,  lying 
north  of  Vypeen,  to  the  Dutch,  for  Rs.  15,000,  in  order  to  meet  the  expenses 
of  the  small  army,  which  in  accordance  with  his  agreement  with  the  Rajah 
of  Travancore,  had  been  equipped  for  the  field  against  the  Samorin.  If  these 
lands  were  not  redeemed  by  the  Rajah  before  September,  the  Dutch  were  to 
collect  the  revenues. 

G 


50  HYDEB  ALl's  INVASION. 

troops  relieved  liim ;  Hyder  and  the  Samorin  now  continued  n^o- 
tiating  on  vanous  subjects  until  1766,  when  the  former  at  the 
head  of  his  victorious  Mysore  army,  swept  down  into  Malabar, 
and  possessed  himself  of  the  entire  country  from  Cannanore,  to  the 
Cochin  territory,  when  the  Bajah  of  the  latter  State,  agreed  by  the 
advice  of  the  Dutch,  to  pay  to  Hyder  a  sum  of  Bs.  200,000  and  eight 
elephants,  if  he  would  not  invade  his  territory. 

In  1772  several  disputes  occurred  between  the  Dutch  and  the 
Rajah  of  Cochin,  respecting  the  boundaxies  of  their  respective  pos- 
sessions. The  Dutch  claiming  the  whole  of  Muttencherry  as  theirs 
by  right,  and  apparently  with  foundation,  as  their  territory  ex- 
tended one  mile  south  of  Jews'  town.  The  Dutch  Commissioners 
however  gave  in,  judging  it  advisable  to  await  a  more  favourable 
opportunity  to  enforce  their  claims,  probably  aware,  that  power  was 
then  on  the  lUgah's  side. 

^  Previous  to  this,  as  already  mentioned,  the  BoQah  of  Travancore, 
hai  erected  a  long  earthen  wall,  thirty  miles  in  length,  from  Palli- 
port^  along  a  great  portion  of  the  Cochin  State  on  a  slip  of  land  ceded 
to  him  by  the  Cochin  R^gah  :  and  in  1775,  this  wall  which  had 
been  constructed  f ourte^  years  previously,  was  improved  :  and  the 
ground  at  PaUiport  belonging  to  the  Dutch,  was  purchased  by  the 
Rajah  of  Travancore.  These  w<»rks  checked  the  advance  of  the 
Mysoreans,  and  saved  two-thirds  of  the  Cochin  State  from  invasion. 
But  Sirdar  Khan,  the  Mysore  General  established  his  head  quarters 
at  Triohoor,  and  demanded  eight  lacs  of  rupees  from  the  Cochin  Rajah 
as  a  gift,  on  which  this  prince  sent  ambassadors  to  Seringapatam,  to 
treat  with  Hyder  personally  :  when  it  was  finally  settled,  by  his  being 
ebliged  to  give  4  lacs  of  rupees  as  a  nuzzer,  and  4  elephants  ;  and  to 
enter  into  an  agreement,  to  pay  an  annual  tribute  of  Rupees  120,000. 
The  Rajah  of  Cranganore,  was  also  compelled  at  this  time,  to  give 
Rupees  120,000  as  a  nuzzer  :  and  a  tribute  of  Rupees  20,000  yearly. 
After  satisfactorily  concluding  these  arrangements,  Sirdar  Khan 
moved  off  to  the  north. 

The  atrocities  of  the  Mahomedan  invaders,  soon  alarmed  all  the 
Natives  of  Southern  India ;  Prince  after  Prince,  Chief  after  Chief, 
and  thousands  of  their  followers,  fled  to  Travancore :  and  the 
forcible  conversion  of  Hindus,  created  terror  in  the  minds  of  all. 


TIPPOO    INVADES  MALABAB.  51 

None  were  safe,  even  Ambassadors  were  forcibly  compelled  to  join 
the  Mahomedan  sect,  and  the  victims  of  self-destruction,  might 
have  been  counted  by  thousands.  Agreements  respecting  mon^ 
were  violated,  as  although  the  tribute  remained  the  same,  large 
gifts  were  frequently  enforced :  whilst  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  was 
obliged  to  maintain  1,000  troops  at  Galicut  lor  Hydex,  to  coeroe 
theNairs. 

In  1786,  the  Rajah  of  Cbchin,  and  the  first  prince  of  Travan- 
oore,  met  at  Mattencherry  :*  and  remained  in  conference  six  days, 
upon  these  Mahomedan  atrocities  :  and  a  fortnight  subsequently, 
a  second  interview  was  held. 

August  13ih,  1790,  the  Rajah  died  of  smaU  pox,  and  was  suc- 
ceeded by  hiJB  younger  brother,  Virdlam  Tandfuran,  a  proud^  brave 
man,  who  was  exceedin^y  oppressive  to  merchants,  in  and 
around  Cochin.  He  appears  to  have  been  greatly  influenced  by 
Mysore  councils,  and  caused  two  of  the  overseers  of  the  Temple,. 
Tirumala  Davossam,  to  be  put  to  death,  for  refusing  to  deliver  up 
its  treasures,  into  his  hands.  He  plundered  the  bazaars,  and  in- 
formed the  Dutch,  that  he  was  determined  to  nde  all  the  Pagans 
himself,  and  that  they  were  only  there  to  trade,  and  not  to  govern. 
The  Dutch  then  attacked  him  in  his  palace  at  Muttencherry,  retook 
his  plunder,  and  compelled  him  to  retire  to  Tripoonterah,  from 
whence  he  was  scarcely  ever  permitted  to  move^ 

In  1789,  Tippoo  swept  through  Malabar,  to  punish  the  Nairs 
who  had  lisen  in  arms  against  him,  three  thousand  men  pre- 
ceded this  merciless  tjrrant,  and  his  own  body-guard  numbered 
30,000.  Many  of  his  victims  were  hung,  even  mothers  with  their 
children  around  their  necks :  others,  were  dragged  to  death  by 
elephants :  no  mode  of  execution  was  too  terrible,  no  torture  too 
great,  to  satiate  his  fiendish  vengeance.  Churches  were  plundered,  and 
the  roofs  of  all  places  of  worship  blown  off :  whilst  Hindu,  and 
Christian  women,  were  compelled  to  accept  Mahomedan  husbands 

*  The  next  meeting  between  members  of  these  two  Royal  houses,  occurred 
on  January  16th,  1862,  when  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  received  the  First  prince  of 
Travancore,  at  his  Palace,  at  Mattencherry ;  after  the  return  of  the  latter,  from 
a  visit  to  Madras. 


52  TIPP00*8   DESIGNS   ON   COCHIN. 

No  Hindu  was  allowed  to  wear  the  lock  of  hair  on  his  head.  Tlio 
rack  and  starvation,  were  used  as  instruments  of  conversion  :  and 
those  obstinate  unbelievers,  who  refused  to  be  convinced,  by  these 
persuasive  arguments,  were  put  to  death. 

Cochin  at  this  time,  was  the  only  State  in  Malabar,  at  peace 
with  Tippoo.  The  latter  now  ordered  the  Bajah  to  meet  him,  but 
he  having  had  that  honour  the  previous  year,  declined  a  repetition. 
Tippoo  on  this,  became  suspicious  of  his  fidelity  :  whilst  he  on  his 
side,  was  alarmed  at  a  report,  that  the  Mysorean  army,  was  on  its 
road  to  convert,  or  otherwise  exterminate,  all  the  Hindu  population. 

Tippoo  now  made  the  existence  of  the  barrier  wall,  a  cause  of 
complaint  as  it  divided  him,  from  two-thirds  of  his  vassal  state  of  Co- 
chin, and  consequently  obstructed  his  passage  thereto  ;  and  gave  the 
Eajah  of  Cochin  orders  to  claim  it,  as  being  on  his  territory.  He 
also  complained,  that  Nairs,  and  others,  fleeing  from  his  power, 
obtained  refuge  in  Cochin :  therefore  as  the  Rajah  would  not  obey 
his  summons,  he  determined  to  fetch  him  by  force,  and  made  pre> 
parations  for  assaulting  the  Travancore  lines. 

Between  July  and  November,  1788,  upwards  of  30,000  Brahmans, 
including  their  families,  escaped  from  the  Calicut  districts,  into 
Travancore. 

In  1789,  Tippoo  commenced  his  march  from  Coimbatore,  with 
20,000  regular  infantry,  10,000  spearmen,  and  matchlock  men  ; 
5,000  horse,  and  20  guns. 

The  troops  of  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  were  received  into  the 
Dutch  Forts  of  Cranganore,  and  Ayacotta,  and  the  Rajah  applied 
to  the  Madras  Government  for  assistance.  The  English  had  not 
calculated  on  the  left  flank  beiDg  thrown  on  the  Dutch  Forts,  and 
two  battalions  were  marched  to  assist  the  Rsgah  of  Travancore,  but 
only  on  his  own  lines. 

So  the  Forts  of  Cranganore,  and  Ayacotta,  were  sold  by  the  Dutch 
to  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  a  transaction  which  gave  rise  to  much 
discussion,  as  although  the  Dutch  had  taken  them  from  the  Portu- 
guese in  war,  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  claimed  the  ground  on  which 
they  stood,  asserting  that  its  transfer  to  Travancore,  without  his 
consent,  was  illegal  But  on  the  other  hand,  as  the  political  existence 
of  the  Cochin  State,  depended  on  this  transfer,  it  was  considered  a 


THE   TRAVANCOREANS   DEFEAT   TIPPOO.  53 

ease  of  necessity,  aiid  carried  out  on  the  law  of  expediency.  It  w;i.h 
finally  sanctioned  by  the  Madras  Government,  in  1790. 

On  the  night  of  December  28th,  1789,  Tippoo  had  established  his 
camp,  six  miles  to  the  Northward,  of  the  principal  gate  of  the  lines. 

Leaving  most  of  his  forces  to  manoeuvre  at  day-break  before  thcra, 
he  marched  with  14,000  Infantry  and  500  Pioneers,  by  a  circuitous 
route,  and  gaided  by  a  Native  of  the  country  passed  round  their 
right,  or  East  flank :  believed  by  the  Travancoreans,  to  be  inaccessible. 

At  day-light,  the  guards  on  the  walls,  saw  the  Sultan  s  army, 
amongst  which  shone  the  bright  uniform  of  his  body-guard.  But 
Tippoo  was  then  nine  miles  away,  and  at  day-break,  had  turned  the 
lines,  with  very  feeble  opposition.  Having  advanced  three  miles 
aloQg  them,  on  their  inner  side :  he  commenced  making  a  road,  by 
levelling  the  rampart,  into  the  ditch  :  which  was  about  IG  feet  wide, 
and  20  deep. 

But  the  Pioneers  were  tired,  and  the  work  difficult,  so  Tippoo  con- 
tinued his  advance  along  the  rampart^  the  enemy  retreating  before 
him,  mitil  at  last  they  made  a  stand,  in  a  small  square  building,  em- 
ployed as  a  magazine,  and  storehouse;  and  having  drawn  a  small 
gan  inside,  they  poured  grape  upon  the  advancing  Mysoreans. 

Tippoo  ordered  up  a  new  corps,  and  directed  them  to  take  the 
place,  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet :  but  just  as  they  were  advancing, 
a  party  of  20  Travancoreans,  poured  in  a  close  fire,  killed  the  officer 
commanding,  and  caused  a  panic.  The  panic  became  a  rout,  and 
the  day  was  lost.  The  Sultan  was  carried  away  in  the  rush,  the 
rear  became  the  front,  and  the  troops  broke  over  the  rampart,  into 
the  ditch,  to  escape,  and  here  2,00ik  men  are  said  to  have  perished 
The  Sultan  fell  with  the  rest,  and  was  lamed  for  life  ;  his  bearers 
were  trodden  to  death,  and  his  seals,  rings,  and  ornaments,  fell  to  the 
lot  of  his  enemies,  clearly  demonstrating  his  own  narrow  escape.* 

*  The  Hindus  aaaert^  that  Tippoo's  defeat^  was  a  dispeiiBation  on  him,  for 
his  cruelty  in  the  Annimallia.  Knowing  that  the  deatruction  of  a  female  ele- 
phant, IB  considered  one  of  the  worst  violation  of  Hindu  laws,  for  the  preeerva- 
tion  of  animal  life,  he  practised  it.  Female  elephants  were  chained  to  the 
ground  by  their  forefeet,  and  the  Sultan  then  tried,  how  deeply  he  could  cut 
irith  his  sword,  through  the  necks  of  the  poor  animals.  He  then  ordered  Mus- 
Balmen,  and  lastly  even  Brahmans,  to  take  their  turn,  in  the  amusement. 
Oaaesha  was  no  doubt  incensed,  and  retribution  followed. 


54  TIPPOO   FORCES   TRAVANC?ORE   LINES. 

Tippoo,  deeply  mortified  and  enraged,  reached  his  tent  in  a  com- 
mon  doolj,  and  swore  he  would  not  quit  the  spot,  until  he  had 
stormed  "  that  contemptible  wall."  He  called  in  detachments,  order- 
ed siege  guns  from  Seringapatam  and  Bangalore,  and  for  three 
months  and  a  half,  remained  awaiting  the  necessaiy  materials,  for 
making  the  attack.  In  April  these  arrived,  and  rendered  opposition 
impossible.  A  series  of  approaches  were  made,  the  ditch  was  filled, 
and  a  breach  effected,  of  nearly  |  of  a  mile  in  extent  On  his  ap- 
pearing before  Cranganore,  the  garrison  fled,  but  the  leading  fugitives 
being  put  to  death,  the  remainder  returned.  Tippoo  then  tried  to 
menace  the  Dutch,  and  make  them  surrender  Cranganore :  when  Col- 
Hartley,  with  one  regiment  of  Europeans,  (British),  and  four  of  Na- 
tives, who  arrived  firom  Bombay  and  elsewhere,  deeming  the  post 
untenable,  it  was  abandoned  on  the  night  of  May  7th,  and  occupied 
by  the  Sultan  the  next  morning.  The  Travanoore  troops,  retreated 
to  their  own  country,  and  Cochin  was  open  to  the  advances  of  the 
merciless  Tippoo,  who  determined  at  the  head  of  his  army,  to  demo- 
lish the  lines,  for  which  purpose  he  set  apart  six  days.  The  Sultan 
himself  set  the  example  by  striking  the  first  stroke  with  a  pickaxe, 
courtiers  and  chiefs  followed  the  fashion,  and  followers  of  every 
denomination  were  obliged  to  assist  in  this  work  of  destruction.  The 
money  changer  was  compelled  to  leave  his  hoards,  the  shopkeeper 
his  goods,  to  help  in  breaking  down  the  inanimate  waU.  Whole 
regiments  of  soldiers  were  marshalled  up  for  this  purpose,  and  some 
long  breaches  made. 

A  little  before  this  time,  Tippoo  established  a  second  Mysore 
Collectorate  at  Trichoor,  desecr^Ring  the  Hindu  places  of  worship,  as 
well  as  both  the  public  and  private  schools,  inside  which,  cows  were 
slaughtered  to  pollute  them,  the  bodies  of  some  of  them  being 
afterwards  flung  into  the  tank,  behind  the  bathing  house  of  the  Rajah 
of  Cochin.  He  also  seized  a  petty  Hindu  chief,  and  numerous  others 
of  that  persuasion,  and  forcibly  converted  them  to  Mahomedanism. 

Trichoor  being  now  established  as  his  head  quarters  in  the  rear, 
and  the  Travancore  lines  having  been  broken  through,  the  Mysorean 
Army  on  April  15th,  1790,  had  extended  their  outposts  as  far  as 
Verapoly,  the  monastery  of  which  was  taken  by  them,  and  everything 
they  could  find  either  plundered  or  destroyed.     Tippoo,  himself  with 


TIPPOO  SUCCUMBS  TO   THE   BRITISH.  55 

lus  main  body,  had  reached  Alwaye,  when  he  received  the  astounding 
news,  that  Lord  ComwalUs,  at  the  head  of  an  English  army,  was 
r^idly  advancing  on  Seringapatam.  No  time  was  to  be  lost,  and 
collectiiig  all  his  forces,  he  immediately  left,  to  protect  his  captial. 
The  Travancore  general,  reported  him  as  flying  from  his  valorous 
Nairs,  and  regretted  he  could  not  overtake  him,  and  sweep  him  from 
the  eaith :  but  in  the  mean  time,  he  had  the  satisfaction  of  feeling, 
that  he  had  driven  him  out  of  the  country ! 

In  April,  1789,  the  great  league  between  the  English,  and  the 
Native  States  of  Mtilabar,  was  entered  into.  The  latter  stipulated 
to  pay  the  same  rate  of  tribute  to  the  BritiBh,  that  they  had  done  to 
Tippoo,  and  to  become  their  vassals,  provided  the  English  would 
recover  their  dominions,  and  in  future  protect  them  from  foreign 
invaders.  On  S^tember  26th  of  this  year,  Chowghaut  was  taken 
by  the  British  forces. 

There  is  no  need  to  follow  the  course  of  events  here,  Tippoo  suc- 
cumbed to  British  arms,  and  the  Dewan  of  Travancore,  was  permit- 
ted to  make  the  final  settlements,  with  the  native  Princes.  The 
Cochin  state  amongst  other  places,  was  ceded  to  the  English,  as 
Tippoo  stated,  it  had  been  his  territory.  At  Trichoor  he  had  esta- 
blished a  Cutcherry,  nominated  Collectors  of  the  Revenue,  over  that 
portion  of  Cochin  exterior  to  the  Travancore  lines,  and  exercised 
other  rights  of  sovereignty. 

It  18  unnecessary  here  to  describe  the  awful  retribution,  to  which 
Tippoo's  followers  were  subjected.  Vengeance  had  long  waited,  so 
when  it  came  it  was  of  the  most  cruel  descriptioiu  The  desecrators 
of  the  Hindu  temples,  appear  to  hav^been  treated  the  most  severely : 
the  tardiest,  and  most  painful  deaths,  even  roasting,  or  burning  by  a 
alow  fire,  were  commonly  practised.  A  chieftainess,  on  being  re- 
proached as  one  of  the  foremost  in  these  deeds  of  vengeance,  replied, 
^  those  impious  monsters,  burnt  the  temples  in  which  our  forefathers 
prayed,  and  cast  out  and  broke  in  pieces,  the  images  of  our  gods 
which  had  been  objects  of  adoration  from  the  remotest  antiquity." 

About  September  1790,  a  treaty  to  which  there  is  no  date, 
was  entered  into  between  the  Rajidi  of  Cochin,  and  the  English 
Government,  in  which  the  former  promised  to  throw  off  allegiance 
to  Tippoo,  and  become  tributary  to  the  East  India  Company  instead : 


56  MALABAR   IN   BRITISH   HANDS. 

who  on  their  part,  agreed  to  assist  him,in  recoTering  the  land  wrested 
away  by  Tippoo,  in  1789,  the  said  Rajah  paying  a  tribute  for  the 
first  year,  of  Rupees  70,000  for  the  second  year  80,000,  third  90,000, 
and  the  fourth  100,000,  the  same  to  be  continued  every  year  subse- 
quently, in  equal  quarterly  payments.  It  was  expressly  stipulated, 
that  he  was  only  to  be  tributary  for  those  lands,  which  should  be 
recovered  by  the  British  from  Tippoo  Sultan,  ''and  ndth  which  t/te 
Dutch  East  India  Company  have  no  concern,''  and  over  which  ho 
agreed,  that  the  English  East  India  Company  shall  be  for  the  future 
acknowledged  sovereigns. 

By  the  end  of  1791  all  the  Native  States  of  Malabar  had  fallen  into 
British  hands,  and  at  |)ie  treaty  of  Seringapatam,  dated  March  16th, 

1792,  the  districts  of  Calicut  and  Palghaut,  were  ceded  to  the  British. 
The  English  Commissioners,  in  their  able  report*  on  Malabar,  in 

1793,  stated  that  they  had  concluded  their  agreement  with  the 
Cochin  Rajah,  who  was  to  pay  two  lacs  of  Rupees  a  year,  for  the 
whole  of  his  country,  whilst  he  was  repossessed  of  that  portion, 
taken  from  him  by  Tippoo  in  1789-90:  but  many  disputes  arose, 
respecting  various  places,  as  the  Rajah  claimed  those,  taken  from 
him  by  Hyder  Ali,  and  even  other  possessions,  which  his  ancestors 
had  lost,  upwards  of  a  centuiy  previously.  In  some  instances  he 
had  a  show  of  right,  in  others  none  at  all ;  it  appeared  probable, 
that  he  was  at  this  very  time,  in  correspondence  with  Tippoo 
Sultan :  and  it  was  discovered,  that  he  had  forbidden  his  people  on 
pain  of  death,  to  give  the  British  any  information. 

The  Rajah  remained  in  possession  of  all  his  rights,  subject  to  the 
control  of  the  company,  in  case  of  persons  complaining  of  oppression : 
whilst  a  British  resident  was  appointed,  one  of  whose  duties  was  to 
enquire  into  any  case,  which  might  be  brought  before  him.t 

♦  Report  of  the  Commissioners,  dated  Ayacotta>  October  11th,  1798. 

+  The  various  British  Residents  of  Travancore  and  Coohin,  have  been  as 
to\\ovm:—CoL  Macauley,  1800,  until  March  1810.  Col  T.  Munro,  1810,  to 
January  1819.  Col.  S.  McDovxM,  1819,  died  in  November  1820.  Col.  D. 
Netcall,  February  1821,  until  May  1827.  Col,  Morison,  1827  to  December 
1829.  Lieutenant  Colonel  E,  Cadof/an,  (acting)  1829,  to  June  1834.  T.  A.  Casa- 
maijor,  Eaquire,  1834,  to  Janiuvry  1836.  Cohnel  Frascr,  1836,  to  1838.  Captain 
Douglass,  (acting,)  1888,  to  November  1839.  Lieutenant  Colonel  T.  Maclean, 
1839,  died  in  July  1840.  Lieutenant  General  Cullen,  1840,  to  January  1860.  /^. 
y.  Maltby,  Esquire,  1800,  to  May  1862.    W.  Fisher,  Esquire,  1862. 


IKTBIOU10  AGAINST   SNOUBH  EOLS.  61 

It  -WBA  conokkred  unwise,  to  attempt  introdaoiiig  BritiA  kwi 
and  ngulationSy  which  were  quite  iuaufficient  to  curb  a  populationy 
the  members  of  which,  walked  about,  not  merely  armed,  but  wit& 
tbeir  we^K>iia  drawn  in  their  hands,  ready  for  immediate  aaciaalt  or, 
defence,  as  the  interest  or  passion  of  the  moment,  might  dictate. 

In  the  beginning  of  the  present  century,  French  councils  appear 
to  have  been  predominant,  with  the  Rajah  of  Cochin :  and  in  1802, 
acme  persons  from  the  town  oi  Cochin,  presented  H.  H.  at  Tripoon- 
terah,  with  a  picture  of  Buonaparte.  As  the  head  of  this  deputa- 
tion was  a  Dutchman,  and  one  suspected,  or  rather  Imown,  to  be  in 
commnnkation  with  the  Fr^ch,  and  surreptitiously  supplying  them 
with  cargoes  of  rice,  at  the  Mauritius,  a  cUse  scrutiny  was  kept, 
upon  all  that  occurred  The  Dewan  now  became  very  troublesomf^ 
int^iered  coosiderably  with  British  subjects,  and  evem  went  so  far 
as  to  arrest  several,  within  the  Company's  limits. 

At  the  termination  of  the  year  1803,  a  bitter  feeling  against  the 
En^sh,  appears  to  have  arisen  in  Travancore  :  the  Dewan  of  that 
State,  being  hostile  to  Briti^  rule,  and  having  acquired  such  power 
over  the  Bajah,  that  he  was  kept  almost;  in  a  state  of  bondage  :  tiie 
subsidy  was  left  unpaid,  and  the  directions  of  the  Resident,  for  dis- 
baoding  some  of  the  Rajah's  troops,  disregarded.  He  also  appears  to 
have  made  arrangements,  with  the  Qovemment  of  Cochin,  to  assist 
him  in  his  machinations.  No  animals  could  be  obtained  by  the 
British  troops  for  slaughter,  and  attacks  were  made  both  on  the  town 
of  Cochin,  and  the  British  Cantonment  of  Quilon.  In  January 
1809,  a  boat  contaimng  bullocks  for  the  troops,  was  seized  near 
Quilon,  and  the  unfortunate  Peon  in  charge  murdered  by  the 
natives,  as  a  warning  to  others,  to  deter  them  from  attempting  to 
bring  in  cattle. 

Preparations  were  now  made  for  war,  and  the  troops  were  direct- 
ed to  annex  the  Cochin  state,  and  imprison  the  Dewan  of  Tra- 
vancora  But  on  February  7th,  1809,  the  Cochin  Minister,  or 
Paliat  Achen,  sued  for  pardon,  promising  to  surrender  all  armsy 
with  the  exception  of  two  small  guns,  and  five  hundred  muskets^ 
which  were  only  to  be  retained,  to  do  honour  to  the  Rcgah  :  and 
also  agreeing,  to  increase  the  subsidy,  to  Rs.  276,037  annually. 

He  was  then  ordered  to  resign  his  administration,  and  proceed 


88  BBITIBH  BSVOKHS   IN  OOGHiy. 

to  Bombay.  This  he  proimsed  to  do,  but  went  to  Trichoor  instead, 
from  which  place  he  was  obliged  to  be  conveyed  to  Bombay  by 
force.  After  the  installation  of  the  new  Dewan,  Eoniye  Erisht- 
nen  Menon,  a  fresh  treaty  was  entered  into :  all  Fortresses,  and 
Military  stores,  being  handed  over  to  the  British.  But  the  state 
still  continued  imquiet,  the  new  Dewan  was  restless,  and  appeared 
influenced  by  the  same  hostile  counsels,  that  had  ruined  his  prede- 
cessor. Constant  disputes  occured,  between  the  Bajah  who  was 
friendly  to  the  British,  and  the  Dewan :  whilst  the  whole  country 
was  in  a  discontented,  turbulent  state. 

The  Dewan  was  in  consequence  removed,  and  his  duties  under 
taken  by  CoL  Mmiro,^the  Resident,  until  a  trust-worthy  successor 
oould  be  found.  The  Rajah  was  perfectly  satisfied  with  this  arrange- 
ment, and  stated  his  conviction,  that  it  was  the  only  one  capable  of 
restoring  order,  and  reducing  the  country  to  tranquility  :  adding; 
that  he  had  passed  his  time  in  reading  the  Shastras,  and  in  medita- 
tion :  that  now  his  days  were  drawing  to  a  close,  and  he  felt,  that  he 
was  incapable  of  personally  undertaking  these  onerous  duties: 
whilst  the  next  in  succession,  was  too  young  aild  inexperienced,  to 
do  so.  He  was  consequently  convinced,  that  committing  his  com^ 
tiy,  temporarily  to  the  care  of  the  British,  was  only  an  act  of  jus- 
tice to  his  subjects,  ^diilst  at  the  same  time,  it  was  gratifying  to 
himself. 

The  Resident  at  once  commenced  retrenchments  by  reducing  his 
own  allowances,  and  those  of  the  other  European  officials  :  many 
forms  were  introduced,  especially  amongst  the  xmscrupulous  and  extor- 
tionate revenue  Collectors  :  whilst  the  Brahmans  who  were  eating  up 
the  finances  of  the  country,  were  shorn  of  some  of  their  emoluments 
The  British  government,  on  August  16th,  1814,  gave  up  all  control 
over  Christians,  residing  in  the  Cochin  and  Travancore  states  :  in 
order  that  in  future,  there  should  be  no  distinction  between  them, 
and  their  fellow-subjects,  as  it  appeared  that  there  existed,  a  jealous 
and  antagonistic  feeling  against  them,  occasioning  many  disputes 
whilst  the  under  Officials  treated  them  harshly,  whenever  they  had 
an  opportunity.  As  a  matter  of  conciliation  to  the  Christians 
they  were  allowed  to  lay  any  complaints  before  the  Resident,  and 
Christian  Judges  were  appointed  to  all  Courts  of  justice.     Unfor- 


LAW  OF  SnOOBBSIOir  TO  MUSVUD.  59 

tunaftely  this  ezoellent  arrangement^  whkh  has  acted  so  henstdaUyy 
WIS  met  by  the  Christians  in  a  very  hostile  spirit:  they  refused  to 
eitiier  submit  to  the  Rajah's  authority,  or  to  pay  their  taxes,  and 
.  frequent  riots  and  disturbances  ensued. 

In  1818y  the  subsidy  was  reduced  to  two  Lies,  with  the  proviso, 
that  should  this  sum  not  be  forthcoming  at  the  appointed  time,  the 
Eogfish  are  at  liberty  to  annex  the  country :  giving  the  Bijah  and 
his  Family,  Rupees  35,000,  and  one  fifth  of  the  surplus  revenue: 
from  that  period,  uninterrupted  harmony  has  prevailed. 

His  Highness  Rava  Virmah  *  the  Moota  Tumbaran,  (the  designa- 
tion by  which  Cochin  Rajahs  are  known,)  the  present  Riyah,  ascend- 
ed the  musnud,  on  May  5th,  1853,  when  t^p^ty-five  years  of  age. 

The  succession  descends  in  the  female  line,  the  eldest  nephew  by 
&e  sister^s  side,  being  the  heir  to  the  musnud.  Should  there  be  none, 
such,  the  eldest  female  Tumbaran,  ascendEi  as  Regent,  until  the 
birth  of  a  son  in  the  family.  Females  may  be  adopted,  to  cany  on 
the  line  of  succession,  should  there  be  any  danger  of  its  eztinctioB 
The  members  of  the  present  Royal  family,  are  as  follows : — Sitten  of 
the  Rajah,  H.  EL  Coonjee  Amah  Tumbaran,  bom  in  1814.  H.  H. 
-Coonjee  Pillah  Tumbaran,  bom  in  1822.  H.  H.  Coonjee  Kava  Tum- 
beran,  bom  in  1832,  and  H.  H.  Mungoo  Tumbaran,  bora  in  1839. 

Nephews  and  Heirs,  H.  H.  Rama  Wurmah,  Ellia  Rajah  of  Cochin, 
bom  May  11th,  1835.  H.  K.Veera  Kerala  Wurmah,  first  prince,  bora 
in  1845.  H.  H.  Rama  Wurmah,  second  prince,  b^  in  1848.  H. 
H.  Veera  Kerala  Wurmah,  third  prince,  bom  in  1850.  H.  H, 
Rama  Wurmah,  fourth  prince,  bora  in  1852.  H.  H.  Ravee  Wurmah, 
fifth*  prince,  bom  in  1863.  H.  H.  Veera^erala  Wurmahy  sixth 
prince,  bom  iu  1854,  and  R  H.  Ravee  Wurmah,  seventh  prince, 
bam  in  1859. 

The  Rajahs  of  Cochin^  for  the  last  three  centuries,  have  been  as 
follows.  Veera  Kerala  died  28th  April,  1549  :  R^jah  and  two 
Princes  slain  in  a  battle  with  the  Samorin  January  27th,  1565  :  the 

*  In  olden  times^  the  Cochin  Rajah,  had  the  token  of  unlimited  power  ear- 
ned before  him:  oonsifltmg  of  the  branch  of  a  ooooanut  tree,  the  lower  end  of 
which,  was  bound  with  a  bandage,  leaving  the  top  quite  free.  Petty  Princee, 
if  subject  to  any  higher  authority,  were  obliged  to  have  the  branch  bound  at 
each  end. 


60  ADMIinsntATIOK  OF  JUBTIOV. 

ocdct  Rajah,  killtd  in  battle  at  Poodiakavoo,  February  10th,  1565  : 
A  Bajah,  (who  wient  to  Benares,)  died  May  drd,  1601  :  Veera  Ke- 
rala, died  April  25th,  1615  :  Ravi  Virtnah,  died  September  30th, 
1624 :  the  next  at  Cochin,  July  1 1th,  1637 :  his  successor  at  Trichoor,. 
Febniaiy  2nd,  1645  :  the  succeeding  one,  at  Iiinyalacooday,  July  4th> 
1646  :  Veerya  Arya^  at  Cochin,  January  27th,  1665  :  the  next,  on 
June  Ist,  1697 :  his  successor  at  T^rroovullah,  November  22nd,  1697 : 
the  next  at  IMchoor,  October  25th,  1722  :  cmother,  on  April  19th, 
1742  :  Bama  Vurmah,  died  at  Cooreckaad,  January  7th,  1746  :  the 
next,  at  Ttipoonterah,  January  1st,  1750  :  the  next,  at  Cochin,  Au- 
gust 16tliy  1760 :  his  successor,  at  Tripoonterah,  September  24th, 
1775  :  the  next  of  small  pox,  August  13th,  1790  :  Virolam  Tumba- 
nm  about  179B :  Rama  Vurmah^  died  at  Trichoor,  S^tember 
28th,  1805:  Rama  VurmaKy  died  at  Vellorapully,' January  14th, 
1809 :  Veera  Kerala,  died  at  Tripoonterah,  August  6th,  1828  :  Rama 
Vurmahf  died  at  Tripoonterah,  November  8th,  1837 :  Rama  Vurmah, 
died  at  Irinyalacooday,  3l8tMay,  1842 :  Rama  Vurmah,  died  at 
Trichoor,  July  10th,  1861 :  Veera  Kerala,  died  of  small  pox,  at 
Benares,  Febru«ry  22nd,  1853*. 

The  retgn  of  His  Highness,  Rava  Virmah,  the  present  Rajah,  has 
been  marked  by  a  series  of  reforms  ;  the  general  prosp^ity  of  lus 
subjects,  is  now  nearly  on  a  level  with  that  of  the  people  residing 
in  the  nei^bouring  British  possessions.  He  has  also  shown  his 
wisdom,  in  not  (Aopting  the  English  abolition  of  compulsory  labour, 
h  law  doubtless  very  beneficial,  in  large  towns  like  Calcutta,  Madras, 
and  Bombay;  but  hardly  stated  to  the  wilds  of  Malabar,  where  com- 
bination takes  the  pla<%  of  competition. 

The  laws  for  the  Administration  of  Justice,  have  since  1833,  been 
much  the  same  as  in  the  British  territory  :  perhaps  in  some  cases 
not  quite  so  tardy  in  obtaining  decisions  :  but  in  others,  especially 
<$fiminal  proceedings,  dra^^ing  over  a  long  and  weary  course  of  time. 
The  prisoner  awaits  his  sent^ice,  sometimes  for  years,  and  then  at 
last  meets  the  doom  of  death ;  such  protracted  misery,  is  happily 
unknown    in    the  British    territories.     A    singular    custom    has 

•  The  above  liBt»  ia  compiled  from  one  furnished  by  T.  Shungoony  Menon 
Esq.,  the  Jhwan  of  Cochin,  Adoption  occurred  A.  D.  1689  according  to  the 
Dutch  records  of  Cochin. 


AOOOUNT  or  AKCIBKT  LAWS.  61 

prevailed  from  <Adea  times  of  never  patting  eitiier  women  or 
BcibmaDs  to  death;  no  matter  how  horriUe  a  mnrder,  or  even  a 
BerifiB  of  them  they  may  have  committed,  they  escape  with  per- 
petoal  imprisonmenty  as  their  heariest  punishment.  In  prison,  the 
diffiarence  between  those  who  are  confined  for  murder,  and  others, 
b ;  that  the  former,  have  irons  on  their  arms,  as  well  as  legs. 

The  ancient  laws  respecting  judicial  cases,  now  obsolete,  are  inter- 
esting, from  being  entirely  the  result  of  Native  legislation,  and  carri- 
ed out  by  Native  officials :  a  short  summary  of  them  is  therefore 
given.'  Hindus  were  formerly  tried,  according  to  the  laws  laid 
down  in  the  Shastras ;  Mahomedans,  by  those  in  the  Koran ;  and 
Christians  by  persons  of  their  own  creed.  The  Hindus  being  the 
most  numerous  class,  and  that  of  the  ruling  powers,  are  referred  to 
in  the  following  account : — 

Oourts  of  Justice,  were  nominally  open  at  all  hours,  and  on  most 
days,  being  only  closed  on  some  few  holidays.  The  evidence  of 
women,  slaves,  and  persons  of  infamous  character,  was  inadmissible. 
Chogans  being  comprehended  under  the  designation  of  slaves,  the 
evidence  of  what  is  now  the  largest  proportion  of  the  community^ 
was  then  unavailable.  The  laws  were  founded,  on  the  dogmas  of 
the  Brahmanical  faith,  and  no  independent  code  appears  to  have 
existed.  Questions  involving  religious,  or  moral  differences,  were 
judged  by  a  council  of  Brahmans,  with  the  High  Priest  at  their 
head  :  the  Bajah  also  had  a  seat  with  them,  and  the  last  vote. 

The  Adigarhi  or  local  Magistrate,  at  times  made  a  circuit,  attended 
by  four  soldiers :  and  punished,  certain  minor  offenders  on  the  spot 
Cases  of  a  more  heinous  description,  were  tried  in  a  species  of  Court  of 
Justice,  in  the  house  of  the  Magistrate,  which  was  invariably  near  a 
temple,  some  of  the  Brahmans  being  always  members  of  the  Court : 
here  cognizance  was  taken,  of  all  civil  and  criminal  affairs,  except 
those  against  the  laws  of  caste,  and  morality.  These  Courts  were 
under  the  supervision  of  the  Northern,  and  Southern  Lieutenants, 
(KarriakarsJ  of  the  Kingdom,  who  acted  according  to  orders  received 
from  the  Rajah  through  the  head  Karriakar.  Bobbery  was  rather 
rare  offence,  but  falsehood,  and  perjury,  so  common,  that  torture  was 
frequently  found  necessary,  to  induce  mtnesM  to  state  the  facts,  or 
prisomrs  to  confess  their  crimes. 


62  H0DE8  OF  PUNI8HHXNT. 

The  most  hemous  offences^  and  hardened  offenders^  were  punished 
by  deatL  If  the  criminal  were  a  Nair,  persons  of  his  own  caste,  had 
the  privilege  of  despatching  him :  if  ,  of  a  lower  station,  that  office 
fell  to  the  executioner,  and  was  almost  invariably  effected  by  hangiiig. 

Death  was  decreed,  for  slaying  a  man  of  a  higher  caste,  killing  a 
cow,  committing  treason,  exciting  insurrections,  or  wounding  so 
severely  as  to  draw  blood  The  same  sentence  was  passed  on  any 
low  caste  man,  who  should  form  a  fugitive  connection,  with 
the  wife  of  a  Brahman:  on  any  person  robbing  either  a  tem- 
ple, or  the  Rajah's  treasmy;  committvig  great,  or  highway 
robbery :  breaking  into  houses,  or  being  guilty  of  petty  larceny, 
for  the  third  time.  Murderers,  if  of  low  caste,  were  either  hung, 
or  suspended  by  a  hook  through  the  chin.  No  sentence  of  death 
was  put  in  execution,  until  the  culprit  had  himself  acknowledged  its 
justice  :  but  if  he  took  too  long  in  reflecting  on  the  su)>ject,  torture 
was  employed  to  convince  him. 

Should  a  murderer  have  absconded,  the  corpse  of  the  victim,  was 
burnt  inside  the  house  of  the  former,  whose  relations  had  to  provide 
for  the  family  of  the  dead,  during  the  period  of  mourning,  which 
lasted  about  a  fortnight  The  murderer  was  now  outiawed,  and  every 
one  who  met  him,  was  justified  in  slaying  him. 

Nairs  were  not  always  subject  to  the  above  laws.  If  a  Nair 
killed  any  person,  of  a  lower  caste  than  himself  without  the  Rcgah's 
order  to  do  so,  he  was  fined  Bs.  400,  and  was  obliged  to  promise, 
not  to  commit  a  similar  offence,  or  in  case  of  doing  so,  to  suffer 
death  without  a  murmur.  If  he  wounded  another,  he  had  to  pay 
his  expenses,  until  he  was  cured  ;  but  if  two  persons  were  both 
wounded  when  fighting,  each  had  to  maintain  himself. 

Next  to  the  punishment  of  death,  that  of  slavery,  was  the  most 
severe.  It  was  principally  reserved  for  females,  reprieved  from 
execution.  Should  the  conduct  of  a  Brahmanee  woman,  have  been 
light  with  a  low  caste  man,  she  was  tried  by  Brahmans,  and  if 
found  guilty,  became  the  B^jah's  slave.  A  low  caste  woman, 
allowing  any  improper  intimacy  with  a  Brahman,  was  sold  to  the 
Moplahs. 

Incorrect  Brahmanee  women,  were  punished,  by  loss  of  caate :  as 
also  were  Brahmans,   for  theft,  or  eating  with  those  of  inferior 


ANCIIKT  AND  PBBSSrr  SMUOOLSBS.  63 

caste :  and  though  they  were,  and  atUl  are  permitted  to  form  fugitive 
connections  with  Nair  women,  and  act  as  Fathers  to  their  families  : 
they  were  not,  neither  are  they  now  allowed  to  form  intimacies, 
with  those  of  a  lower  grade.  , 

Minor  offences,  were  leas  severely  sentenced  :  thus,  the  penalty 
for  petty  .thefts,  was  the  restoration  of  the  article,  and  a  certain 
number  of  lashes  on  the  back.  The  extent  of  the  punishment,  being 
increaaed,  according  to  the  number  of  times,  the  offence  was  com- 
mitted ;  in  some  instances,  mutilation  of  a  finger,  or  a  hand,  was 
injflicted.  The  Rajah  of  Cochin,  in  1793,  reported,  that  in  his 
State,  "  if  any  one  commit  a  small  theft,  he  is  to  be  kept  for  six 
^  months,  or  a  year,  in  confinement :  after  being  so  exemplarily 
"  punished,  and  a  fine  taken  from  him,  a  little  of  his  flesh,  or  his 
"  nose,  ia  cut  off,  and  he  is  set  at  liberty/' 

At  one  period,  drunkards,  and  persons  who  sold  arrack,  opium, 
or  bhang,  were  condemned  to  lose  their  property.  Smugglers,  espe. 
daily  of  pepper,  were  punished  by  the  loss  of  their  noses  and  ears; 
but  at  the  end  of  the  last  century,  this  sentence  was  commuted  to 
imprisonment  Probably  these  evaders  of  the  revenue,  carried  on  the 
same  system,  as  the  smugglers  of  the  present  day  :  who,  in  British 
Ck)chin,  are  divided  into  three  strong  gangs  :  one  of  which,  always 
proceeds  by  the  sea  :  another  by  the  backwater  :  and  a  third  by 
land  They  first  endeavour  to  pass  by  bribery,  and  consequently 
are  rarely  obliged  to  resort  to  force.  It  appears,  that  during  the 
last  eighty  years.  Natives  in  this  part  of  India^  have  been  impaled 
alive,  for  selling  cows  to  Europeans. 

AU  matters  of  a  religious  nature,  were  determined  by  a  council  of 
Brahmans :  as  were  also  subjects  relating  to  marriages,  the  settle- 
ment of  daughters,  and  every  species  of  offence  against  caste ;  as 
well  as  hatred,  enmity,  assaults  in  which  blood  had  not  been  drawn, 
and  quarrels  between  parents  and  children.  In  some  of  these  cases, 
in  which  decision  was  no  easy  matter,  the  parties  occasionally  sub- 
mitted to  trials  by  ordeaL*  These  were  of  several  kinds,  and  will 
be  described,' amongst  the  maiiners  and  cuttoms. 


•  A  late  Governor  of  Madras,  about  1860,  when  making  a  tour  of  the  Preri- 
dency,  wbb  expected  at  Tanjore.  The  Brahmana  accordingly  met^  and  agreed 
to  petition,  that  IricUt  hy  ordeal  should  be  re-eaUblished,  such  being  a  partof 


64  CRIMINAL  JU6TI0K. 

When  a  person  was  to  be  arrested  fw  debt,  the  Judge  sent  an 
official,  who  drew  a  circle  on  the  ground  wilii  a  stick,  around  the 
prisoner,  charging  him,  in  both  the  Rajah's  name,  and  the  Judges', 
not  to  quit  it,  until  his  creditor  was  satisfied,  either  bj  payment  or 
security.  Breaking  this  cirde,  was  punished  by  death,  or  outlawry 
If  this  plan  for  enforcing  payment  did  not  succeed,  a  sharp  stone 
.  was  placed  on  the  prisoner's  head,  and  heavier  ones  continually  piled 
above  it,  so  that  in  time,  if  he  refused  to  satisfy  the  claim,  his  skull 
was  broken  in,  and  death  ensued.  If  the  debtor  were  inside  his 
house,  a  wand  of  green  twigs,  was  placed  in  the  door  way,  or 
bushes  of  green  shrubs,  were  fastened  to  a  stick,  and  secured  on  the 
door,  which  precluded  any  one  from  crossing  the  threshold. 

Tlie  Judicial  Department  at  the  present  time  is  composed  as 
follows : — ^for  Civil  Justice,  one  1st  Judge,  a  Hindu :  one  2nd  Judge, 
an  European :  and  one  Shastry.  There  are  two  Zillah  Courts,  one 
at  Emacollum,  the  other  at  Trichoor :  the  composition  of  each  of 
which  is  the  same.  Though  a  European  or  Eurasian,  always  enters 
as  2nd  Judge,  he  is  eligible  for  promotion  to  the  higher  post :  but  in 
that  case,  the  office  of  2nd  Judge  must  be  held  by  a  Hindu.  There 
are  two  MoonsifTs  Courts,  one  at  Chittoor,  the  other  at  AogikaimuL 

Criminal  Justice, — In  police  cases,  the  Dewan  is  Chief  Magistrate, 
and  the  Talook  Tassildars  are  Police  Officers.  Should  the  crime 
have  been  a  serious  one,  the  case  is  referred  to  the  Zillah  Criminal 
Court,  which  i»  empowered,  to  inflict  corporal  punishment  to  the 
extent  of  36  stripes  with  a  rattan,  or  to  fine  as  high  as  the  sum  of 
Eupees  200 ;  and  also,  to  take  security,  to  the  amount  of  Rs.  500,  for 
one  year.  Any  cases  bdieved  to  merit  heavier  punishments^  than  the 
above,  are  committed  to  the  Sessions'  Court  at  Emacollum,  which  is 
presided  over  by  one  of  the  2nd  Appeal  Court  Judges.  Here  they 
have  power  to  infiiet  48  stripes,  to  imprison  for  7  years  with  hard 
labour,  and  to  take  security  for  good  conduct  for  three  years,  to  1^ 
amount  of  Bs.  t500.    The  Sessions'  Court  can  refer  cases  to  the 

their  religiun:  and  a  prodamatioa  had  stated,  that  the  various  religions  were 
to  be  exercised  without  restraint.  Checking  ordeals,  had  therefore  been  a 
hardship,  under  which  their  religion  was  still  suffering,  and  consequently  an 
injustice:  and  they  prayed  for  the  removal  of  the  prohibition  on  them.  Sub- 
sequently other  oouQcHs  prevailed,  and  the  petition  was  not  presented. 


SLAVERY. — SXVENUS.  C5 

Appeal  Conrty  wLen  tbey  aiie  tried  by  the  two  Judgee,  and  tlie  Shas- 
trj.  The  power  of  this  Court  is  mdimitedy  but  no  heavier  punish- 
ineut  than  14  years'  imprisonment^  can  be  carried  ovt,  without  the 
aanctioB  e€  the  Bigah,  and  sentenoea  of  death,  must  be  also  eonfirmed 
by  the  British  Beaident,  acting  under  the  (Mrders  of  the  Qovemment 
of  Madrasu  Tliere  are  two  jaU^  one  at  ErnaeoUum.  and  the  other  at 
Trichoor^  and  they  each,  generally  contain,  about  eighty  prisoners. 

Slavery  had  been  finom  the  earliest  agea^  an  institution,  both  in 
Travanoore  and  Ckichin,  and  was  only  abolished  in  1854.  It  is  not 
improbable,  that  many  of  these  miserably  debased  slaves^  are  still 
unaware  of  the  change  in  their  condition,  and  do  not  understand 
that  they  cannot  now  be  legally  sold  as  cattle,  ar  made  aver  with 
the  estate,  upon  whidi  they  work.  **  This  measure  was  never  i^- 
*'  tended  with  any  advantage,  even  to  the  poor  slaves,  for  whose 
"  heat&t  the  concession  was  intended.  Deprived  of  even  the  most 
*'  (Ustant  contact  with  their  high  caste  proprietors^  and  prevented 
''  from  appearing  in  places  of  public  resort,  they  are  confined  by 
**  force  of  circumstances,  to  their  swampy  fields,  on  a  level  with  the 
''  brute  creation.  To  such  a  class,  freedom  is  no  boon."  In  1854, 
there  were  6,589  sUves  in  the  Codun  State,  or  including  soil  slaves, 
above  fifty  thousand,  more  than  one-sizA  of  the  entire  pqiulation. 

In' course  of  time,  the  revenue  has  considerably  changed,  wherein, 
the  reforms  of  the  Mahomedan  conquerors,  have  no  doubt  eflfected 
much  good.  To  prove  a  sovereign  right  over  a  territory,  it  is  neces- 
sary to  bring  evidence,  that  the  person  has  received,  ''either  customs, 
'^  or  Poorespandmm,  (the  essential  attributes  of  dominion  in  Mala- 
''  bar,)  for  the  country.''  Previous  to  the  Mussulman  invasion,  the 
Brahmans  and  Nairs,  were  the  only  landowners,  and  laige  landhold- 
ers in  Malabar,  with  l^e  exception  of  the  Riyahs,  who  had  some 
estates  for  their  maintenance,  and  certain  religious  establishments 
were  likewise  thus  provided  for.  The  revenue  of  the  Malabar  Ra- 
jahs, was  not  at  first  a  fixed  one,  as  they  called  i^kmi  their  vassals 
for  military  service.  A  land  tax  was  unknown.  Extraordinary 
emergencies  called  for  extraordinaiy  contributions,  but  these  were 
rarely  exacted,  except  to  meet  a  foreign  invader. 

As  times  rolled  on,  another  system  gradually  supervened ;  the 
Bajahs  levied  from  the  lands,  (exempting  those  belonging  to  th^ 


66  SCALE  OF  TAXK8. 

temples,  and  to  Knlimana,)  a  settled  revenue  in  money,  or  kind, 
equal  to  one-fifth  of  the  produce.  They  also  received  the  crops  from 
the  crown  lands,  and  the  customs  on  trade,  and  import  and  export 
duties  :  as  well  as  fines  for  offences,  and  protection  money,  or  a 
kind  of  black  mail,  levied  on  the  subjects  of  neighbouring  Princes  : 
also  the  estates  of  all  (with  the  exception  of  Brahmans,)  who  died 
without  heirs  :  and  a  species  of  poll  tax,  upon  the  living.  Presents 
had  also  to  be  given,  at  the  two  great  festivals  of  Omum  and  Yishoo. 
All  precious  metals  or  stones  which  might  be  discovered  >Rrere 
claimed  as  Eoyalties,  as  also  elephants  when  alive,  or  their  tusks 
when  found  dead.  Cardamoms,  teak,  jack  and  blackwood  trees  : 
ebony,  bamboos,  honey,  and  wax :  the  sKins  of  tigers,  the  fins  of 
sharks,  and  the  wrecks  of  stranded  vessels.  In  the  territories  of  the 
Samorin,  (but  whether  also  in  Cochin  is  unknown,)  a  certain  share 
of  the  estates  of  all  who  died,  went  to  the  crown. 

At  a  still  later  period,  another  plan  was  enforced,  and  in  addition 
to  the  articles  named  as  Royalties,  and  the  presents  received  at  the 
feasts  of  Yishoo  and  Omum,  about  half  the  crops  from  the  land, 
were  claimed  as  the  property  of  Qovemment.  The  farmer  received 
las  rice  for  seed,  and  the  produce  was  considered  to  increase  ten 
times :  five  and  a  half  shares  of  which  went  to  the  cultivator,  or 
tenant,  and  the  remaining  four  and  a  half  were  divided  between  the 
Qovemment,  and  the  Brahman  landlord,  the  first  having  two-thirds, 
the  latter  one-third.  In  betel-nut,  pepper,  cocoanut,  and  jack  fruit, 
the  cultivator  had  only  half :  because  there  was  not  much  trouble 
in  looking  after  thenu 

In  1762*  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  levied  duties  on  the  following 
scale,  around  the  Fort  of  Cochin :  one-eighth  of  cocoanut,  and  froit 
bearing  trees:  three-tenths  of  the  paddy;  the  cocoanut  trees  were 
estimated  at  two  poothens,  (one  anna^  eight  pie,)  rent :  betel-nut  toees 
at  a  quarter  of  a  poothen  ;  jacktrees  at  eight  poothens :  but  this  was 
not  paid  upon  freehold  property,  which  was  untaxed.  There  were 
great  complaints,  that  the  Revenue  Officers  exacted  too  much,  whilst 
they  on  thdr  part  declared  that  they  could  collect  nothing.    The 

*  According  to  a  treaty,  between  Mr.  Van  Angelbeck,  Qovemor  of  Cochin 
and  the  Rajah  of  Coohin,  dated,  October  11th,  1762.  Government  Mecordi  of 
Cochin,    H.  S.  S. 


INCIUSASE  OF  BSVXNUE.  ^7 

lUjali  abo  claimed  tolls  on  the  backwater,  upon  rice  going  into 
Cochin,  for  which  purpose  he  had  chowkies  at  Angikaimnl,  Yypeen, 
Balghatty,  and  Pftloorte :  but  produce  which  had  once  paid  custom, 
wms  exempt  firom  further  toll 

Hyder  for  the  short  time  his  people  held  Trichoor,  and  the  sur- 
rounding territoiy,  would  allow  no  land  to  go  untaxed,  not  even 
those  set  aside  for  the  maintenance  of  the  temples,  or  other  places 
of  worship.  Tippoo  in  his  turn,  followed  the  same  course,  and 
subaeqoently  destroyed  all  pepper  vines,  and  cocoanut  trees,  as  he 
believed,  such  a  proceeding  would  keep  away  European  merchants 
&om  Malabar.  This  wanton  destruction,  was  carried  to  such  an 
extent^  that  in  the  QJicut  district,  in  1793,  not  one  pepper  vine  in 
fifty,  was  found  standing,  and  the  destruction  of  cocoanut  trees,  had 
also  been  enormous. 

About  the  year  1778,  large  tracts  of  land  were  cleared,  reclaimed 

and  planted  by  private  persons,  in  the  Cochin  State  :  they  holding, 

the  ground  rent  free,  until  the  trees  began  to  bear,  when  a  small 

ground  rent  was  imposed  :  because  according  to  the  Hindu  laws  of 

Cochin,  it  is  wicked  to  part  with  land  entirely,  excepting  to  a 

Brahman.    This*was  continued  until  1793,  when  the  Rajah  after 

consultation  with  the  Dutch,  on  the  best  means  of  raising  money, 

to  pay  his  subsidy,  placed  a  tax  of  12}  per  cent,  on  the  produce  of 

the  trees,  and  30  per  cent,  on  that  of  rice  cultivation.     In  1802, 

money  was  again  urgently  required,  and  the  Rajah  resumed  all 

these  lands,  which  however  owing  to  the  indifference  of  the  officials, 

and  the  damage  often  wantonly  perpetrated,  by  the  late  owners,  soon 

again  became  waste  :  consequently  it  was  judged  advisable,  to  re-farm 

tiiem  out,  at  a  lower  rate,  than  in  1793. 

After  a  time,  the  Sircar,  or  Native  State,  found  that  it  was  a 
loser,  by  receiving  rent  in  produce,  as  in  the  event  of  bad  seasons, 
it  obtained  nothing  ;  so  a  fixed  amount,  payable  in  money,  was  deter- 
mined upon,  computed  according  to  the  productiveness  of  the  land, 
and  the  value  of  the  rice.  In  1858,  a  revision  of  the  value  of  the 
measure  of  rice,  was  made,  the  cost  of  which  had  much  risen  :  this 
increased  the  revenue,  by  20  per  cent. 

The  land  revenue,  of  the  Cochin  State,  for  forty-eight  years,  or 
from  1812  to  1850-60,  has  risen  from  320,000,  to  Rupees  474,147. 


6S  REDUCTION   OI'  TAXES^ 

There  is  one  curious  exemption  from  house  i;axation,  a  Brahman 
cannot  be  taxed  for  the  dwellii^  in  which  he  resides. 

Up  to  the  year  1836,  tnmnt  duties  were  levied  upon  all  articles,, 
which  passed  &om  one  Talook  to  another  :  a  most  irritatmg  system^ 
l>oth  to  Merchants,  and  levellers,  and  consequently  obstructive  to> 
trade,  Chowkies  were  placed  in  all  directions,  and  Peona  stationed 
in  them,  to  examiitift  the  boats  :  they  levied  a  species  of  lAa/ck  mail 
on  the  boatmen,  and  detained  them  as  long^  as  they  liked.  This- 
injudicious-tax  waa  abolished^  and  in  1847,  the  Customs  were  exclu- 
sively frontier  and  sea^duties :  whOst  British  produce  going  from 
one  British  possession  to  another  passed  tdl  free.  The  yearly 
revenue  of  the  Cochin  State  from  1800  to  1811  was  four  and 
three  quarter  lacs  of  rupees :  to  1821,  sevoi  and  a  quarter :  to  1831, 
seven  and  ahalf  :  to  1841,  seven  and  three  quarters  :  to  18M,  nine  r 
and  to  1859,  nine  and  a  quarter. 

The  lai^gedt  source  ol  revenue,  were  the  monopolies^  consistii^  of 
tobacco  and  salt :  the  latter  of  which,  was  originated  in  I8IO1 
Cardamoms  and  pepper  are  so  little  cultivated,  that  monopolies  on 
them  have  never  realised  sums  in  Cochin,  as  in  the  l^vancore  State. 
The  chief  monopc^es  therefore  consist  in  the  purchase  of  tobacccv 
and  salt,  which  are  disposed  of,  at  advanced  rates  to  the  people.* 

Many  little  vexatious  duties,  have  been  swept  away.  In.  ISiT, 
that  on  the  second  crop  of  paddy,  which  amounted  ammaUy  to- 
Bs.  9,676  was  given  up,  as  alsa  some  ot^er  small  imposts :  the  sell- 
ing price  of  tobacco  was  reduced  one-sixth,  and  also  again  another 
sixth  in  the  year  1852.  Amongst  the  items  of  expenditure,  there  ia 
one  whidi  a{^>ears  curious :.  viz.,  that  for  feeding  Brahmaas>  but  this- 
is  regarded  as  a  religious  duty.  The  expenditure  for  public  works,, 
[excluding  the  laat  three  yearsj  has  been  annually  as  mnch  as  half  a 
lac  of  Rupees. 

In  1840,  when  Qeneral  Culkn  became  Resident,  the  Revenue  firom 
all  sources  was  7  lacs.  The  cocoanut  trees  increased,  and  the  pro- 
ductions of  the  country  augmented  so  nvuch,  that  no  additional  bur- 
dens were  required,  and  taxes  could  be  remitted.  On  hi»  retirement 
in  1860,  after  a  most  prosperous  administration,  the  revenue  was  9* 

♦  Whilst  these  pages  were  going  through  the  Pk-eas,  the  tobacco  monopoly 
-wraa  abolished,  August  15th,  1 802:  and  a  liceuse  tax,  im[>osed  in  lieu  of  it. 


REFORBCS,   Ain>   IMPKOVEKENTS.  €9 

lacs,  whilst  a  reserve  of  teo  lacs,  had  accumulated  in  the  Qovemment 
securities* 

It  is  unnecessary  to  enumerate  the  various  reforms  which  have 
successively  been  instituted.  At  Emacollumi,  a  small  English  School 
for  40  ho>f9  has  been  establiiE^ed,  another  at  Tricboor  for  20,  and  a 
third  at  Muttencherry  for  the  Jews.  There  are  six  vernacular  schools 
maintained  by  the  Sircar  in  different  Talooks,  irrespective  of  about 
300  private  ones.  Hospitals  have  been  erected ;  and  subscriptions 
to  charities  have  formed  a  part  of  the  policy  of  this  enlightend 
state.  A  Conservator  of  Forests,  has  been  appointed,  and  lands  let 
for  coffee  {Mutations.  A  road  was  completed  a  few  years  ago  by  the 
Rajah,  at  the  expense  of  the  State,  to  connect  Trichoor  with 
Rklghaot,  so  that  cotton  could  be  brought  down  to  Cochin  for 
export,  firom  the  Coimbatore  district,  and  screws  were  erected  by 
traders  in  the  town  for  preparing  it  for  shipment.  This  road  was 
then  continued  from  Trichoor  to  Kurriapudnam,  about  20  miles 
of  Cochin,  and  firom  whence  water  communication  is  open  at  all  sea- 
sons. 

Following  up  improvements  to  the  present  day  :  the  Rajah  with 
the  desire  of  advancing  the  interests  of  his  country,  has  drawn  out 
his  investments,  and  is  making  a  noble  bridge  at  Shoranoor,  to  connect 
his  territory  with  the  railway.  The  Ghauts  will  no  longer  be  a 
barrier  between  Cbchin  and  the  rest  of  the  world,  and  with  the  in- 
creased facilities  of  mingling  with  their  fdlow-men  which  will  be 
aflSorded  the  people  of  this  state,  it  is  to  be  hoped,  that  many  local 
customs  may  soon  pass  into  oblivion,  and  only  be  found  amongst 
the  records  of  things  gone  by. 


CHAPTER  111. 


THE  PORTUGUESE  IN  COCHIN. 

Early  voyagera  to  India —Bartholomew  Diaz—Don  Vasca  deOama  arrivoa  at 
Calicut— VisitB  Samorin— Retumt  to  Europe — Cabral  takes  a  fleet  to  Calicut 
and  bombards  the  town— Sails  to  Cochin  and  establishes  a  factory — De  Qama 
returns,  acts  most  inhumanly  at  Calicut— Proceeds  to  Cochin — Fort  erected 
at  Cochin — Pacheoo  Qovemor — Brutality  of  Gonzalo  Yaz —Albuquerque's 
wars — ^First  Minister  of  Finance  despatched  to  Cochin  and  disastrous  results 
— ^De  Qama  returns  to  Cochin  where  he  dies— DeSousa  reduces  the  pay  of 
the  Military,  so  they  refuse  to  fight— Dutch  begin  to  appear  in  India— 
GoYemment  employ  and  honours  publidy  sold — ^Dutch  take  Cochin. 

In  the  middle  of  the  fifteenth  oentnryy  Europeans  began  to  specu- 
late on  the  existence  of  unknown  Iftndis,  and  enquire  into  the 
produce  of  distant  climes.  Rewards  slamulated  the  adventurous, 
America  and  other  r^ons  were  discovered,  and  inexhaustible 
wealth  appeared  within  the  grasp,  of  which-ever  nation  should 
prove  boldest  in  the  searcL  There  was  one  peninsula  reputed  to 
possess  fabulous  riches,  its  shores  were  believed  to  be  rolling  in 
gold,  its  hills  to  be  enriched  with  precious  stones,  and  its  land 
everywhere  yielding  pepper,  ginger,  and  other  valuable  spices: 
this  wonderful  region  was  India,  said  to  be  peopled  by  a  dusky  and 
effeminate  race,  who  though  timorous  of  strangers,  were  ready  to 
barter,  their  rich  natural  and  artificial  producflons,  for  simple  inex- 
pensive articles  of  European  manufacture.  Columbus  believed  that 
India  could  be  reached  by  steering  westward,  but  his  maps  were 
rather  in  error,  respecting  longitude,  and  it  has  been  asserted,  that 
whilst  in  search  of  it,  he  stumbled  on  America. 

In  this  emulation  for  discoveries,  and  thirst  for  gain,  which  sud- 
denly seized  on  the  nations  of  Europe,  Portugal  bore  a  very  pro- 
minent i>art,  whiUt  its  king   Heniy,   stood  pre-eminent  amongst 


BISCOVIBY  OP  TBE  CAPE.  71 

the  Princes  of  Chriatendom,  his  greatest  ambition  being  to  open  a 
route  to  India  by  sea,  with  which  view  he  spared  neither  trouble, 
nor  expense :  but,  although  the  various  expeditions  sent  out  by  him, 
made  many  discoveries  along  the  coasts  of  Africa,  he  was  not  des- 
tined to  obtain  the  object  of  his  wishes.  About  the  year  1486, 
John  II,  who  had  added  to  his  other  titles,  that  of,  '<  Lord  of  Gui- 
nea," 2^>plied  to,  and  obtained  from  the  Pope,  a  grant  of  all  coun- 
Uies,  lying  to  the  East,  which  should  be  discovered  by  the  Portu- 
guese, or  evoi  by  any  other  nation.  All  Christian  Kings  and  Princes 
were  prohibited  from  intruding  on  such  lands,  which  were  bestowed 
by  his  Holiness,  in  perpetuity,  on  the  Portuguese,  who  were  directed 
to  place  a  stone  cross,  six  feet  high,  on  any  spot  they  might  dis- 
cover :  whilst  to  prevent  mistakes,  it  was  to  be  engraved  with  the 
name  of  the  discoverer,  and  the  arms  of  the  reigning  King. 

The  first  Adventurer  who  achieved  any  great  result,  was  Bartholo- 
mew Diazy  who  in  1486  succeeded  in  rounding  the  southern  extremity 
of  Africa,  which  he  designated  "  the  Gape  of  Storms.''  But  whilst 
congratulating  himself,  upon  the  honour  and  glory  to  which  he 
shonld  attain,  as  the  discoverer  of  the  long  wished  for  route  to 
India,  the  jMrize  eluded  his  grasp,  for  owing  to  a  failure  of  provisions 
he  was  cranpelled  to  return. 

The  Monarch's  hopes  were  greatly  raised,  on  hearing  of  this  par- 
tial success,  and  he  consequently  changed  the  name  of  *'  the  Cape  of 
Storms,"  to  that  of  « the  Cape  of  Good  Hope." 

Another  expedition  was  forthwith  planned,  and  volunteers  called 
for,  from  all  the  sea-port  Towns  ;  but  various  causes,  prev^ited  its 
being  carried  into  eflect,  until  ten  years  later. 

A  suitable  Commander  was  during  this  time  nominated,  in  Den 
VoMca  de  GamOj  who  was  appointed  Admiral  and  General  of  the 
Expedition.  He  was  a  man  of  noble  birth,  whose  indomitable  will 
knew  not  fear,  whose  opinion  brooked  not  control,  besides  being 
justly  celebrated,  for  his  courage,  and  experience,  on  the  seas. 

The  Squadron  under  De  Gama's  command,  consisted  of  three  ves- 
sels ;  the  Angel  Gabriel,  the  San  Raphael,  and  a  Caravel;  besides 
a  provision  ship,  which  accompanied  them  only  as  far  as  a  place 
subsequently  known,  as  St  Blaze,  where  she  was  burnt,  and  the 
provisions,  distributed  amongst  the  other  vessels.     The  complement 


72  VASCA    DE   GAMA   LEAVES   £IJR0P£. 

of  the  fleet,  consisted  of  148  men.  This  expedition  oceasioned 
great  excitement,  it  was  regarded  by  many,  as  tempting  Providence  j 
and  it*8  total  annihilation,  confidently  predicted. 

But  Vaaca  de  Gama^  was  aot  a  man  to  be  det^red  by  such  prog- 
nostications, he  took  leave  of  the  King,  and  accompanied  by  the 
Captains  of  the  other  two  vessels  under  his  command,  Paulo  de 
Ckima,  and  Nicholas  Ooello,  he  left  Lisbon  for  the  place  of  embark- 
ation. They  were  preceded  by  some  monks,  of  '^  Our  Lady  of  Belem/' 
chanting  prayers  for  their  safety,  and  followed  by  crowds  of  the 
inhabitants,  weeping,  and  lamenting  the  departure  of  relatives,  and 
friends,  whom  they  considered  doomed  to  certain  destruction. 

On  July  8th,'  1497,  this  little  fleet,  destined  to  immortal  fame, 
bore  away  from  the  shore.  The  Cape  De  Verd  Islands,  having  been 
appointed  as  the  place  of  rendezvous  in  case  of  sepamtion. 

Bartholomew  Diaz  accompanied  the  Squadron,  in  a  small  Caravel, 
until  August  3rd,  when  he  returned,  to  report  progress  to  the  King. 
On  November  20th,  the  Cope  was  safely  doubled.  About  this  time 
very  stormy  weather  was  encoimtered,  on  which  the  sailors  and 
the  pilots  mutinied,  and  demanded  an  immediate  return  to  PortugaL 
The  officers,  however,  stood  by  De  Gama :  the  ringleaders  were  seized 
and  ironed,  when  the  remainder  submitted,  and  the  fleet  proceeded 
on  its  voyage.  On  March  2Uik,  they  arrived  at  St  Blaze,  where  the 
provision  ship  was  destroyed. 

In  March  1498  at  Mozambique,  a  pilot  was  procured,  to  take  the 
fleet  across  to  India,  but  he  carried  it  to  Bombaza,  with  the  inten- 
tion of  delivering  the  Quristiiuis,  into  the  haads  of  the  Moors.  Tot- 
tunately,  however,  «t  the  eatranoe  of  the  harbour,  the  Admiral's  ship 
ran  aground,  and  the  pilot  dreading  a  discoveiy  of  his  villainy,  jump- 
«d  overboard,  and  swam  to  a  Moorish  vessel,  which  was  lying  at  no 
great  distance  from  the  Fleet  This  flcst  aroused  DeGama's  suspi- 
cion of  treachery,  and  being  determined  to  know  the  truth,  without 
delay,  he  commenced  torturing  some  Mozambique  Moors,  whom  he 
had  on  board,  and  at  length  extorted  a  confession  Irom  them,  by 
pouring  boiling  hog's  lard  u|>on  the  most  sensitive  parts  of  their 
bt)dies  :  in  the  mean  time,  the  remainder  of  the  prisoners,  threw  them- 
selves into  the  sea,  and  managed  to  effect  their  escape.  The  crews 
then  jollied  in  singing  the  ''  Salve  Begina,"  in  gratitude  for  their 


DE  GAMA'S  arrival  AT  CALICUT.  73 

wonderful  deliverance  from  almost  certain  destmction,  at  the  conclu- 
sion, of  which,  the  sick  are  said,  to  have  miraculonsly  recovered. 
When  the  flood  tide  set  in,  De  Gama's  vessel  floated  ofl^  and  the  fleet 
sailed  away,  reaching  Melinda,  on  April  21st;  where  they  were  hospi- 
tably recMved  by  the  King,  who  provided  them  with  a  pilot,  to  take 
them  to  Calient  They  again  set  sail  on  April  2lBt^  and  on  May 
18th  sighted  India,  anchoring  before  Calicut,  on  May  20th,  1498. 

The  oithnsiasm  of  the  crews,  at  the  sight  of  the  long  wished  for 
.  shores  was  unbounded,  and  festivity  and  rejoicing,  were  the  order  of 
the  day.  It  was  not  long  however,  before  several  boats  ieurrived  from 
the  shore,  filled  with  fishermen,  curious  to  ascertain,  from  whence  came 
these  strange  looking  vessels,  and  with  what  object  1  Whilst  De  Gama 
and  his  companions  were  equally  astonished,  at  the  appearance  of  the 
nut  brown  Natives,  whose  scanty  clothing  did  not,  they  thought 
promise  a  rich  population. 

Calicut  was  at  that  time,  the  principal  town  on  the  Western  Coast 
of  India,  and  the  residence  of  the  Samonn,  the  King  of  the  spice 
Gountxy,  who  although,  a  Hindu,  was  reputed  to  be  an  extremely  toler> 
ant  Monarch,  permitting  the  free  exercise  of  all  religions,  in  his  terri- 
tory. It  was  also  the  principal  place  of  resort,  for  Merchants  from 
Arabia,  many  of  whom  had  settled  there,  and  were  carrying  on  a 
flourishing  trade,  in  spices,  and  other  valuable  commodities. 

The  Samoriu  was  a  very  wealthy  and  powerful  prince,  who  boast- 
ed of  being  able  to  bring  30,000  men  into  the  field,  at  a  day^s  notice, 
and  100,000  in  three  days.  De  Gama  on  leaving  Portugal,  had  been 
permitted  to  carry  with  him,  some  condemned  convicts,  with  a  view 
of  employing  them  if  necessary,  on  any  dangerous  enterprises,  in 
which  he  did  not  like  to  peril  the  lives  of  his  own  men.  He  now 
ordered  one  of  these  felons,  to  return  with  the  fishermen,  in  order  to 
see  what  reception  Europeans  might  expect^  from  the  Natives.  On 
landing,  the  convict  waa  immediately  surrounded  by  the  inhabitants 
of  the  place,  who  were  eager  to  gaze  at  one  of  these  strange  unknown 
foreigners,  who  had  so  unexpectedly  visited  their  shores.  As  they 
could  not  understand  his  language,  but  supposed  him  to  be  a  Moor,  they 
took  him  to  the  house  of  some  Merchants  from  Tunis,  one  of  whom 
named  Bontaybo,  immediately  recognized  him  as  a  Portuguese,  and 
exclaimed  in  Spanish,  ^*J)**^l  take  pou,  what  brought  you  here'^ 

K 


i- 
i 

74  THE   SAMORIN  OFFERS  TO   RECEIVE  DE   GAMA. 

On  learning  that  they  had  come  by  sea  from  Portugal,  "  in  search 

!  of  Christians  and  spices,"  he  was  greatly  astonished,  and  inclined 

to  be  very  sceptical,  asking,  why,  if  this  route  really  were  practica- 

I  ble,  other  nations  had  not  also  availed  themselves  of  it  ?  But  at 

I  length  becoming  convinced  of  the  truth  of  the  convict's  statements, 

he  returned  with  him  to  the  fleet 

On  reaching  the  Admiral's  ship,  Bontaybo  saluted  him  with  these 

words,  "  good  luck  !  good  luck !  many  rubies,  many  emeralds !  Thou 

.  "  art  bound  to  give  God  thanks  for  having  brought  thee,  where 

''  there  is  abundance  of  all  sorts  of  spices,  precious  stones,  and 

**  many  other  riches  of  the  world" 

On  hearing  these  good  tidings  in  the  Spanish  language,  the  sailors 
are  said  to  have  shed  tears  of  joy.  A  long  conference  then  ensued, 
between  the  Moor,  and  De  Gama,  respecting  the  Samorin,  the  coun- 
try, trade,  &c.,  which  detenmned  the  latter  on  immediately  des- 
patching an  embassage  to  that  j)rince,  reporting  his  arrival,  and  soli- 
citing an  interview. 

Bontaybo  undertook  to  act  as  Inteqireter,  and  two  Portuguese 
accompanied  him  to  the  Monarch,  who  was  then  at  Ponany.  They 
were  graciously  received  by  the  Samorin,  who  appeared  gratified  at 
receiving  an  embassage,  in  the  name  of  a  Christian  King,  of  such  a 
distant  country,  soliciting  his  friendship  and  alliance.  He  listened 
attentively  to  the  account  of  their  voyage,  and  dismissed  them  with 
a  message  to  De  Gama,  to  the  effect,  that  he  heartily  welcomed  him 
and  his  people  to  his  dominions,  and  would  be  happy  to  see  him 
whenever  he  pleased.  He  also  sent  a  Pilot,  to  bring  the  vessels  safely 
into  the  harbour,  at  a  place  below  Calicut,  called  Pandarane  (Bey- 
poor?)  but  the  Admiral  deemed  it  more  prudent,  to  anchor  his  fleet 
outside  the  bar  at  that  place. 

The  Cutwal  of  Calicut,  with  many  of  the  nobility,  and  principal 
persons  of  the  State,  assembled  with  200  armed  Nairs,  ready  to 
escort  De  Gama,  to  the  Samorin  :  but  the  Admiral  excused  himself 
for  that  night,  fi^om  accompanying  them.  He  then  called  a  council 
of  his  officers,  and  communicated  his  intention  of  visiting  the  Samo- 
rin on  the  following  day.  But  they  were  all,  especially  his  brother, 
very  averse  to  his  perilling  his  valuable  life,  amongst  those  of  whose 
real  disposition  towards  him^  he  knew  nothing;  pointing  out,  that 


DX  GAMA  LANDS.  75 

in  the  event  of  his  being  murdered,  none  of  ihem  would  ever  suc- 
ceed in  returning  to  Europe,  and  that  the  benefits  of  their  great 
difloorery  would  be  lost 

But  De  Qama's  resolution  was  not  to  be  shaken,  and  he  indig- 
nantly replied  to  their  remonstrances,  ^^What!  shall  we  return  to 
**  Europe,  having  merely  accomplished  the  voyage,  and  anchored  off 
''the  shores  of  India)  Shall  we  after  having  been  invited  to  visit 
*'  the  prince,  sneak  away  like  cowards,  without  spices,  or  any  other 
''proofs,  of  our  great  success]  No!  If  I  fall,  it  is  the  will  of  Qod: 
"  if  I  return  not  in  three  days,  set  sail,  and  steer  for  Europe.** 

Accordingly  on  the  following  day,  he  landed  with  his  Interpreter, 
Secretary,  and  ten  others,  leaving  strict  orders,  that  during  Ids 
absence  no  one  should  on  any  pretext,  be  allowed  to  board  either  of 
the  vessels.  The  boat  which  took  them  to  the  shore,  was  gaudily 
decked  with  flag),  and  had  a  well  armed  crew.  Orders  were  issued, 
that  a  fully  manned  boat,  should  lie  near  the  shore,  until  De  Oama's 
return,  to  keep  up  communications  with  the  fleet :  and  that  Paulo 
De  Qama,  should  temporarily  assume  the  post  of  Captain  General. 
On  landing,  they  were  received  with  great  respect  by  the  Cutwal,  and 
others. 

De  Gama,  and  the  Cutwal,  then  got  into  Tonjons,  and  started  for 
Calicut,  stopping  half  way  for  refreshments,  where  the  party  par- 
took of  boiled  fish,  rice,  ghee,  mangoes,  and  figs.  They  then  em- 
harked  in  two  vcR^els  Liahed  together,  (evidently  a  jungar :)  on  their 
way,  they  stopped  at  a  Pagoda,  into  which  they  were  admitted,  be- 
lieving it,  as  they  asserted,  to  be  a  Christian  Church  :  they  allowed 
the  Brahmans,  to  sprinkle  them  with  holy  water,  and  to  mark  their 
forehead^i  with  sandal  wood,  and  they  then  prostrated  themselves 
before  the  idols  which  they  mistook  for  rude  representations  of  the 
Virgin  Mary  and  other  Saints.  But  one  of  the  party  more  scrupulouj 
than  the  rest  first  called  out,  '<If  these  be  devils,  I  worship  not 
them,  but  God!" 

At  Calicut^  they  entered  another  Pagoda,  and  again  worshipped 
the  images !  an  immense  crowd  had  assembled  to  see  the  strangers, 
and  at  one  time  entirely  barred  their  progress.  But  at  this  spot  they 
were  fortunately  met  by  t^e  Cutwal's  brother,  with  3000  Naurs  who 
conducted  them  on  to  Calicut,  preceded  by  every  description  pf  noisy 


76  DE  OAMA's  INTEBVIEW  with  THS  SAMORiy. 

music,  tnunpets,  drums,  and  horns,  varied  by  occasional  discharges 
from  £  camel  gon.  They  reached  the  palace  at  5  p.  k. 

At  the  entrance  thej  were  received  by  some  of  the  chief  men, 
who  conducted  them  through  four  courts,  at  the  gate  of  each  of 
which,  ten  Peons  were  stationed,  armed  with  silver  mounted  staves. 
At  the  last  entrance,  they  were  met  by  the  chief  Brahman,  and  aflier 
having  embraced  him,  were  ushered  into  the  Samorin's  presence.  On 
their  admission,  the  pressure  of  the  mob,  to  obtain  a  sight  of  the 
King,  became  so  great,  that  many  persons  were  trodden  to  death. 
The  hall  in  which  they  were  received,  was  of  a  semi-circular  f6rm, 
surrounded  by  seats,  raised  one  above  another ;  the  floor  was  oovereU 
with  a  carpet  of  green  velvet. 

The  Samorin,  who  was  of  advanced  years,  and  tall  in  stature,  was 
reclining  on  a  low  couch,  covered  with  a  cloth  of  white  silk,  em- 
broidered with  gold,  and  placed  on  a  dais  or  raised  part  of  the  floor : 
over  his  head,  was  a  rich  canopy.  H^  wore  a  cap  adorned  with  pre* 
clous  stones  and  pearls ;  with  jewels  in  his  ears,  and  a  jacket  of  fine 
whLtemualin,withbuttonsof  largepearls,thebuttonholesof  ^diich  were 
worked  with  gold  thread.  His  dress,  or  lower  cloth,  reached  from 
the  waist  to  the  knees,  his  fingers  and  toes  were  covered  with  jewels, 
and  his  arms  with  rich  bangjles.  On  a  table  close  by,  stood  a  shallow 
gold  basin  on  a  gold  stand,  containing  betel  for  him  to  chew  with 
the  nut  of  the  areca  palm,  dec.,  during  the  reception.  On  the  ground 
was  a  gold  spittoon  for  his  use,  and  near  him,  a  gold  fountain  for 
water.  All  natives  whilst  in  his  presence,  held  their  right  hands 
before  their  mouths,  lest  their  breath  might  pollute  the  monarch. 

De  Gama  on  entering,  made  three  very  profound  salaams,  as  did 
also  his  suite.  He  was  then  requested  to  seat  himself  on  the  steps 
of  the  dais :  and  water  was  produced,  for  the  party  to  wash  their 
hands  in,  but  some  of  them  being  thirsty,  drank  the  pure  fluid. 
The  Samorin  then  sent  for  figs,  and  fruit,  for  them  to  eat,  and  laugh- 
ed most  immoderately  at  them  whilst  so  engaged,  on  which  De  Gama 
becoming  nettled,  declined  entering  into  any  conference,  unless  con- 
ducted intoamore  private  room.  Oonsequently,the  Samorin,  De  Gama, 
the  chief  Brsihman,  the  betel  server,  and  the  Interpreter,  withdrew  into 
an'  inner  apartment,  where  they  had  an  amicable  conversation,  and 
agreed  upon  an  allianoe  of  friendship  between  Portugal  and  Malabar. 


t>s  oaua'0  PBSsxirT&  77 

The  next  day,  De  Qflma  who  was  mach  elated  by  hia  apparent 
success,  decided  on  sending  the  Samorin  the  present  he  had  brought 
for  that  purpose,  via.,  four  scariet  cloaks,  six  hats,  four  branches 
of  Gond,  and  twelve  boxes  each  containing  seven  brass  vessels, 
a  chest  of  sugar,  two  barrels  of  mi,  and  a  cask  of  honey.  The 
Oottwal  who  had  been  asked  to  look  over  these  varioos  articles,  before 
their  preeentation,  enquired  on  seeing  them,  whether  De  Oama 
intended  to  insult  the  Samorin,  by  such  a  trivial  offering,  ahnost  the 
«Me  of  which,  could  easily  be  purchased  in  the  Bazaar,*  and  in- 
formed him  that  nothing  but  gold  could  be  presented,  and  that  all 
strangers  admitted  to  the  honour  of  an  interview,  gave  gifts 
proportioned  to  their  rank,  and  importance.  De  Oama  pleaded,  the 
uncertainty  in  which  he  had  been  in,  of  ever  reaching  India,  as 
the  reason  why,  he  had  not  brought  costly  gifts  firom  his  King, 
and  promised  that  on  hia  return,  this  should  be  remedied,  by  an 
immediate  despatch  of  valuable  and  princely  presents.  But  the 
Catwal  was  not  to  be  appeased,  they  parted  in  anger,  and  were 
never  after  reconciled. 

The  Moors  were  far  from  being  gratified  by  the  Samorin's  recep- 
tion of  these  European  interlopers,  being  well  aware,  that  should  the 
Portuguese  establish  a  trade  with  India,  their  profits  would  rapidly 
diminish.  This  conviction  was  strengthened  by  a  prophecy  current 
amoDgst  them,  that  a  vessel  would  come  from  a  &r  country,  bringing 
the  conquerors  of  India,  the  destroyers  of  the  Mahomedans,  and  the 
enemies  of  the  Hindus.  They  accordingly  assembled  in  consultation, 
on  the  best  means  of  frustrating  De  Qama,  and  decided  on  represent- 
ing to  some  chief  officers  about  the  Samorin,  that  De  Gama  was  mere- 
ly a  pirate  and  no  ambassador,  and  by  his  having'  attacked  vessels, 
daring  his  voyage  to  India,  clearly  proved  his  object  was  not  peace 
and  friendship.  They  bribed  the  Ontwal  to  assist  them,  and  he 
in  conjunction  with  some  others,  laid  the  matter  before  the  King, 
who  was  very  much  perplexed,  as  to  the  best  course  to  pursue. 
De  Gama  was  now  kept  waiting  two  days,  before  the  Samorin 

*  It  is  certainly  a  curiouB  coincidenoe,  that  all  these  articles,  are  now  procu- 
rable in  sny  Bazaar;  and  probably  were  so,  at  that  time,  whilst  they  do  not 
much  resemble  European  if^ts. 


78  MAHOMED  AN   INTRIGUES. 

would  grant  him  a  second  interview,  and  even  then  was  detained  for 
three  hours,  before  he  could  obtain  an  audience,  from  which  ten  out  o£ 
his  twelve  followers,  were  excluded.  The  Samorin  then  demanded  a 
present,  but  appeared  satisfied  with  De  Gama'a  explanation,  merely- 
requesting  the  gift  of  a  gilt  image  of  the  Virgin,  from  the  Admiral's 
ship  :  which  however  he  declined  parting  with.  He  was  then  desir- 
ed to  show  his  letters,  and  produced  two,  one  in  Arabic,  and  the  other 
in  Portuguese,  to  the  effect,  that  the  King  of  Portugal,  being  anxious 
to  form  a  treaty /of  friendship  and  alliance,  with  the  Samorin,  had 
despatched  his  dearly  beloved,  Yasca  De  Qama^  to  negotiate  it.  The 
translation  of  these,  caused  rather  a  better  feeling  and  De  Gama  re- 
ceived  permission,  to  go  on  board  his  vessel,  to  bring  specimens  of  his 
merchandize. 

But  various  impediments  were  still  thrown  in  his  way,  and  he  was 
detained  at  Pandarane,  unable  to  procure  a  boat,  as  the  Cutwal  de- 
manded, that  he  would  order  his  ships,  closer  in  land,  when  ho 
would  be  allowed  to  depart :  but  this  he  firmly  declined  doing,  and 
hostUc  intentions  towards  him  then  became  very  apparent  He  was 
detained  a  prisoner  for  two  days,  at  the  end  of  which  time,  the  Cut- 
wal sent  on  board,  for  some  of  the  merchandize,  which  he  was 
anxious  to  see,  and  De  Gama,  leaving  two  Factors  on  shore,  to  look 
after  the  goods,  was  permitted  to  return  to  his  vessel,  which  he  de^ 
tennined  not  again  to  quit. 

The  Portuguese  found  they  could  not  sell  their  goods,  as  the  Moors 
effectually  prevented  the  Natives  from  buying,  besides  which  they  open- 
ly insulted  them,  and  on  seeing  any  of  them,  contemptuously  spat  upon 
the  ground,  saying, ''  Portugal,  Portugal,"  but  no  notice  was  taken  of 
their  enmity.  On  March  1 0th,  De  Gama  sent  the  Samorin  a  present,  of 
a  number  of  scarfs,  and  corals,  by  his  Factor :  with  a  message,  stating, 
that  he  intended  returning  to  Europe  veiy  shortly,  and  would  be 
happy  to  take  an  Ambassador,  from  the  Samorin,  to  the  King  of 
Portugal  But  he  refused  to  receive,  or  even  to  look  at  the  present^ 
and  gave  orders  under  penalty  of  death,  tliat  no  intercourse  should 
be  held  with  the  strangers.  But  on  August  19  th,  six  of  the  chief 
men,  came  by  stealth  on  board  the  Admiral's  ship,  accompanied  by 
fift-cen  followers  :  they  were  all  detained  as  prisoners,  and  offered  in 
exchange,  for  the  two  Portuguese  on  shore.     Tliis  plan  succeeded. 


DE  GAMA  RETURNS  TO  EUROPE.  79 

and  the  latter  were  sent  on  board  the  next  day,  with  a  letter  from 
the  Samorin,  to  the  King  of  Portugal,  which  was  written,  or  rather 
engraved  on  an  ollah,  (leaf),  and  was  as  follows  :  **  Vasca  De  Gama, 
^  a  gentleman  of  thy  house,  came  to  my  country,  of  whose  arrival  I 
'*  was  very  glad.  In  my  country,  there  is  abundance,  of  cinnamon, 
*'  cloves,  pepper,  and  precious  stones.  The  commodities  I  wish  to  pro- 
*'  core  from  your  country,  are  silver,  gold,  coral,  and  scarlet."  The 
headmen  were  then  sent  back,  and  with  them  a  stone  pillar,  the  mark  of 
Portuguese  possession,  and  sovereignty  :  but  as  the  merchandize  had 
neither  been  returned,  nor  paid  for,  the  fifteen  Natives,  were  retained 
as  hostages  for  it.  Bontaybo  now  come  on  board,  and  stated  that 
he  had  been  kept  in  prison,  under  the  impression  that  he  was  a  Por. 
tuguese  spy,  who  had  been  despatched  to  India,  to  give  an  account 
of  its  riches.  He  stated  that  he  feared  to  reland,  lest  he  should  be 
put  to  death,  so  De  Qama  offered  him  a  passage  to  Europe,  wliich 
h'i  ^adly  accepted  De  Gama  shortly  afterwards  sailed  up  the  coast, 
and  from  thence  to  Portugal,  carrying  the  fifteen  natives  with  him. 
He  reached  Belem  in  September,  1499.  Only  fifty  men,  returned 
alive  from  this  expedition. 

'  De  Gama  was  loaded  by  his  delighted  Monarch  with  rewards  and 
honours,  and  permitted  to  bear  the  Royal  arms  of  Portugal,  placing 
at  their  foot  two  Does,  called  **  Gamas"  in  Portuguese,  and  also  given 
a  pension  of  300,000  reas  annually.  Whilst  the  King  as^med, 
or  was  granted  by  the  Pope,  the  title  of,  "  Lord  of  the  conquests, 
and  navigation,  of  Ethiopia,  Arabia,  Persia,  and  the  Indies.'' 

The  discovery  of  the  Cape  route,  effected  momentous  changes,  in 
mercantile  affairs.  Previously,  spices  and  other  productions,  had 
been  conveyed  from  India,  and  elsewhere,  in  the  East,  by  the  Ara- 
bian gulf,  to  Bussora,  from  thence  to  Damascus,  and  eventually  to 
the  Port  of  Beyrout,  in  Sjrria,  where  they  were  purchased,  and  car- 
ried to  Europe,  by  merchants,  who  were  principally,  Venetians,  or 
Qenioede.  Another  route  was,  by  the  Red  Sea,  Cairo,  and  Alexan- 
dria. Subsequently,  when  the  Portuguese  had  become  the  predomi- 
nant power  in  the  East,  the  Sultan  of  Egypt,  finding  his  revenue 
decreasing,  threatened  to  destroy  the  Holy  Pkces  in  Jerusalem  and 
elsewhere,  if  the  Moors  who  traded  with  his  country,  were  molested. 

In  the  following  year,   Pedro  Alvarez  Cabral,  was  despatched 


80  CABEAL  ARRIVES  AT  CALICUT. 

from  Portugal,  with  ten  ships,  and  two  Caravels,  carrying  1,500 
men,  besides  20  convicts,  to  establish  a  factory,  by  fair  means  if 
possible,  but  otherwise  to  carry  fire  and  sword,  into  the  country. 
Some  of  those  who  had  sailed  with  De  Qama,  accompanied  him : 
and  Bartholomew  Di^,  commanded  one  of  the  vessels,  and  five 
Friars  of  the  order  of  St  Francis,  accompanied  the  fleet 

Cabral  received  secret  orders,  that  if  he  succeeded  in  negotiating 
With  the  Samorln,  he  was  to  endeavour  to  induce  him  to  banish  the 
Moors  from  hb  dominions.  On  March  5th,  1500,  the  sailors  em- 
barked, Cabral  was  presented  with  a  royal  banner,  which  had  been 
blessed  by  the  Bishop  of  Visen,  and  a  cap  which  had  received  the 
Pope's  benediction ;  thus  armed,  on  the  9th,  the  fleet  commenced 
their  voyage.  On  May  24th,  they  encountered  a  sudden  tempest, 
near  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope,  and  four  vessels  foundered,  with  all 
hands  on  board:  but  on  September  13th,  the  remainder  of  the  fleet, 
arrived  off  Calicut  Cabral  then  despatched  a  deputation  to  the 
Samorin,  of  one  European,  and  four  Natives,  the  latter  being  some 
of  those  carried  away  by  De  Gama,  but  as  they  were  fishermen, 
(miicuasyj  and  consequently  low  caste  men,  the  Samorin  could  not 
receive  them. 

Cabral  then  demanded,  that  hostages  should  be  sent  on  board,  to 
obviate  any  treachery,  in  case  he  wished  to  land,  and  named  the 
Cutwal,  and  a  chief  Nair,  as  the  most  suitable  persons  :  they,  how- 
ever, declined  the  honour,  but  on  other  hostages  being  furnished, 
Cabral  landed,  with  thirty  officers,  and  men. 

An  interview  then  took  place,  at  which,  rich  presents  were  ex- 
changed, and  a  treaty  of  friendship,  **  as  long  as  the  sun  and  moon 
should  endure,"  was  entered  upon. 

About  this  time,  a  vessel  from  Cochin,  of  600  tons  burden,  pass- 
ing the  Port,  the  Samorin  requested  Cabral  to  capture  it :  which  he 
succeeded  in  doing,  but  subsequently  restored  it  to  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin.  A  factory  was  soon  established  at  Calicut,  in  which  seven- 
ty Europeans  were  located.  Cabral  however  found,  that  he  still  pro- 
gressed very  slowly,  having  only  succeeded  in  loading  two  vessels 
with  pepper,  in  two  months.  The  Moors  appear  to  have  efiectually 
prevented  the  Piurtuguese,  from  obtaining  any  large  supply,  of  this 
valuable  condiment 


cab&al's  puebi  uuohes  imdu.  81 

Cabnl  at  length  became  very  impatieDt  at  the  delay,  and  informed 
the  Somorin,  that  he  moat  immediately  receive  lading  for  hia  veMela 
as  he  was  anxious  to  retom  to  Europe ;  complaining  that  the  Uoors 
had  been  served  to  all  the  spices,  thus  precluding  his  procuring  any.* 
The  Samorin  hesitated  and  appeared  embarassed  how  to  act,  and 
Cabial  with  a  view  to  hasten  his  decision,  on  December  17th,  attsck- 
edand  seised  a  Moorish  vessel,  which  was  loading  in  the'harbour,  on 
which  the  Moors  on  shore  became  greatly  excited,  and  besieged 
the  Factory,  slaughtering  50  of  the  Portuguese^  in  sight  of  their 
countrymen,  who  however,  could  render  no  assistance:  the  remaining 
twenty  contrived  to  escape,  by  swimming  off  to  the  ship's  boats, 
which  were  lying  as  dose  to  the  shore,  as  was  safe. 

Cabral  demanded  satisfaction  for  this  outrage,  but  not  recdving 
any,  he  bombarded  the  town,  k'dling  600  of  the  inhabitants  ;  and 
then  seized  ten  of  the  Samorin's  vessels,  to  pay  for  the  merchandiie 
left  on  shore,  which  was  valued  at  4000  ducats  :  some  of  these  ships 
contained  merchandize,  and  on  board  one  of  them,  were  three  ele- 
phants, which  were  killed,  and  aaltid  for  the  voyage  !  Having  thus 
revenged  himself,  Cabral  sailed  for  Cochin,  protesting^  that  in  Calicut, 
the  people  could  not  be  trusted,  and  that  truth  and  honour  were 
alike  unknown.  It  appears  on  the  other  hand,  that  Cabral  was 
hasty,  and  perfectly  regardless  of  the  sacrifice  of  human  life: 
bdng  quite  ready  to  slaughter  Moors  and  Nairs,  indiscriminately, 
with  or  without  provocation,  and  with  no  expectation  of  doing  any 
good. 

On  December  20th,  1500,  the  fleet  arrived  at  Cochin,  and  a  Syri- 
an Christian,  Michael  Jogue  who  was  a  passenger  in  one  of  the  ves- 
sels^ (for  the  purpose  of  visiting  Rome,  and  afterwards  proceeding 
to  the  Holy  land,)  was  despatched  on  shore  accompanied  by  an  Euro< 
pean,  to  visit  the  Rajah,  Trimumpara,  who  received  them,  in  a  very 
friendly  manner,  andsent  a  message  to  Cabral,  that  he  might  either  pur- 
chase spices  for  money,  or  give  merchandize  in  exchange  for  them,  as 
was  most  convenient  to  him. 

Cabral  was  in  every  respect,  much  pleased  with  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin,  who  although,  much  les^  wealthy  than  the  Samorin,  and  con- 

*  In  thoap  days  pepper  waa  a  moaqKily,  and  only  procurable  from  the  Oovem- 
meat  Factors. 


82  CABSAL  PROCEEDS  TO  COCHIK. 

sequently  not  living  in  so  much  state,  was  greatly  superior  to  him 
in  every  other  respect  being  honest  in  his  dealings,  and  intelligent 
and  truthful  in  his  conversation. 

Cochin  at  this  time,  was  described  as  a  long  low  sandy  Island, 
covered  with  cocoanut  trees,  and  divided  by  a  deep  river,  a  quarter 
of  a  mile  broad,  from  the  neighbouring  Island  of  Baypin,  or  Yypeea. 
Passing  up  this  river  for  half  a  mile,  a  wide  expanse  of  backwater 
appeared,  which  extended  for  about  100  miles,  north  and  south. 

The  town  of  Cochin,  was  small,  and  situated  close  to  the  river,  and 
in  it  was  the  Reyah's  palace,  (where  Muttencheny  now  stands,)  by  no 
means  an  imposing  edifice,  and  badly  furnished.  A  few  Moors  re- 
sided there,  and  possessed  better  houses  than  those  of  the.  Native 
population,  which  were  merely  composed  of  mats,  with  mud  walls, 
and  roofs  thatched  with  leaves.  At  this  period,  no  buildings  were 
allowed  to  be  constructed  of  stone  or  brick,  and  tiled,  excepting  Temf- 
pies  and  Palaces :  but  Moorish  merchants  were  permitted^  to  sur- 
round their  dwellings  with  stone  walls,  for  the  security  of  their  mer- 
chandize. 

The  Rajah  suggested,  that  to  avoid  any  misunderstanding,  and  to 
create  mutual  confidence,  it  would  be  best  for  him  to  send  Nair 
hostages  on  board  the  feet  This  was  accordingly  done,  the  Nairs 
being  exchanged  for  others,  every  morning  and  evening,,  as  they 
(iould  not  eat  on  board,  without  violating  some  religious  rules.  An 
alUance  of  friendship  was  signed,  and  the  Portuguese  promised  Tri- 
mumpara,  at  some  future  date,  to  instal  him  as  Samorln,  and  to  add 
Calicut  to  his  dominions.  A  factory  was  then  given  the  Portuguese, 
in  which  seven  factors  were  placed,  to  sell  their  merchandize.  The 
Rajah  allowed  them  a  guard,  ani  p3rmitted  tbem  to  sleep  within  the 
walls  of  his  palace.  One  night,  this  factory  ca'ight  fire,  which  of 
course  was  attributed  to  the  vindictivenes^-  of  the  Moors,  but  no  in- 
jury appears  to  have  resulted. 

Whilst  Cabral  was  at  Cochin,  h3  received  dsputations  from  both 
the  Rajahs  of  Cannanore,  and  Quilon,  inviting  him  to  visit  them, 
and  promising  to  supply  him  with  pepper  and  spice?,  at  a  cheaper 
rate  than  he  could  obtain  them  at  Cochin,  but  their  offers  were  po- 
litely declined.  Two  natives  also  paid  Cabral  a  visit,  and  requested  a 
passage   to  Europe,  stating  that  they  were  membcri   of  a   largo 


COCHIN  FACTORY  KAUEB.  83 

Chrifltian  commimitj,  residing  at  Cranganore,  (EodunffoloorJ  about 
20  miles  north  of  Oochin,  in  which  some  Jews  of  little  note,  were 
also  located. 

Just  as  Cabnd  was  preparing  to  leave  Cochin^  on  Januaiy  10th, 
1501,  a  fleet  belonging  to  the  Samorin,  carrying  1500  men,  was 
descried  off  the  harbour.  The  Riy  ah  immediately  sent  messengers, 
to  inform  the  Portuguese,  of  the  appearance  of  the  enemy,  and  to 
offer  them  any  assistance  they  might  require.  But  the  Calicut 
people  hdd  off,  and  had  evidently  no  wish  to  come  to  an  engage- 
ment. On  the  following  day,  finding  that  they  did  not  attack, 
Cabral  diased  them,  bat  was  overtaken  by  a  violent  storm,  which 
carried  him  out  to  sea.  He  did  not  subsequently  return  to  Cochin, 
but  put  into  Cannanore  where  he  received  on  board  an  Ambassador 
ircm  the  Bajah  of  that  country,  to  the  King  of  Portugal.  From 
thence  he  proceeded  to  Europe,  carrying  with  him  the  hostages, 
whom  he  had  forgotten  to  land. 

Thus  was  Cochin  first  visited  by  European  vessels,  filled  with 
Portuguese,  who  after  their  rectet  capture  of  the  Bigah's  vessels, 
ap{Mrehended  retaliation  but  instead  met  with  nothing  but  kindness, 
and  hospitality,  as  well  as  every  assistance  in  obtaining  lading  for 
their  ships.  Cabral  in  return,  unfortunately,  but  as  he  asserted  ac- 
cidentally, carried  off  the  Nair  hostages  to  Europe,  leaving  his  Factor 
and  people  on  shore,  without  any  attempt,  either  to  provide  for 
tiieir  safety,  or  re-convey  them  to  their  Native  land.  But  they  were 
taken  every  care  of  by  the  Cochin  lUgah,  and  subsequently  honour- 
ably returned  to  their  friends. 

Afl  the  number  of  vessels  lost  in  these  first  expeditions,  counter- 
balanced the  profits,  the  King  of  Portugal  proposed,  that  merchants 
should  trade  to  India  in  their  own  vessels,  on  the  following  terms  : 
namely,  that  25  per  cent  of  the  profits  should  go  to  the  King, 
and  the  trade  m  spices  remain  wholly  in  the  hands  of  Qo- 
veniment  officials,  who  were  to  decide  upon  all  Mercantile  transac- 
tions, even  to  the  necessary  expenditure  for  factors.  It  is  hardly 
requisite  to  obs^ve,  that  no  persons  came  forward  to  avail  them- 
selves, of  this  extremely  liberal  proposition. 

The  next  Portuguese  navigator  or  rather  buccaneer,  who  arrived 
in  Cochin,  was  John  de  Nueva,  who  was  despatched  from  Portugal, 


84  NUWA  ARRIVES  AT  COCHIN. 

in  March  1501,  in  oommand  of  four  vessels.  The  King  suppoabg 
all  difficulties  with  GSalieut  amicably  settle  by  Cabral,  ordered  De 
Nueva,  to  leave  two  of  these  ships,  aft  Sof ala,  and  to  proceed  with 
the  remaining  two,  to  Calient:  in  case  he  met  with  CalMml,  he 
.  received  instmetionsy  to  obey  him  as  QeneraL  At  St  Blase,  he 
found  an  old  shoe,  hai^;i^g  fnnn  the  tomch  of  a  tree,  which  coa« 
tained  a  letter,  from  Psdro  de  Tayde,  giving  an  account  of  what 
had  lately  occorredat  Calient,  and  also  of  the  friendly  dispositions, 
of  the  Bt^jahs  of  Oannaiiore,  and  Cochin.  It  was  thought  best  on 
receiving  this  information,  to  take  all  four  vessels  on  to  India,  as 
the  whole  force  did  not  exceed  eighty  men.  Nueva  anchored  at 
Anchediva,  in  Novem^ber,  and  from  thence  proceeded  to  Cannanoie, 
where  he  was  amicably  received  by  the  Rajah,  who  offered  him  lading 
for  his  vessels.  Has  Nueva  decdined,  until  he  had  consulted  the  Factor 
at  Cochin,  whilst  en  rouu  to  which  place,  he  attadced  and  captur- 
ed, a  Moorish  vessel,  opposite  Calicot  On  his  arrival  at  Cochin, 
the  Factor  came  on  board,  and  informed  him,  that  although  the 
Rajah  was  naturally  extremely  iAdignant  with  Oabral,  for  having 
earned  away  his  hostages,  and  departed  without  Ixdding  him  adieu: 
he  had  nevevtheless,  treated  him  and  the  other  Portuguese,  who  were 
-left  in  his  territoiy,  in  a  friendly  manner. 

Being  apprehensive^  lest  their  enemies,  the  Moors,  might  attempt 
to  massacre  them,  the  Rigah  had  even  lodged  them  in  his  own  palao^ 
and  had  provided  tiiem  with  a  guard  oi  Nairs,  to  protect  them  when 
they  went  mto  the  town.  £fe  also  stated,  that  the  Moors  had 
persuaded  the  Native  merchants,  to  refuse  to  exchange  their  pepper, 
for  Portuguese  merchandise,  and  that  therefcwe  ready  money  would 
be  required  for  all  purchases.  Nueva  being  unprovided  with  this, 
returned  at  once  to  Cannanore,  but  found  that  owing  to  the  machi- 
nations of  the  Moors,  it  was  as  necessary  there,  as  at  Cochin.  He 
now  quite  despaired  of  procuring  lading  for  his  vessels,  but  the 
Bijah  of  Oodiin  when  informed  of  his  dilemma,  at  once  became 
his  security,  for  1000  cwt.  of  pepper;  450  of  cinnamon;  50  of 
ginger  ;  and  some  bales  of  cloth.  Whilst  lymg  off  this  place,  on 
December  15th,  about  180  vessels,  filled  with  Moors,  arrived  from 
Calicut,  with  the  intention  of  attacking  the  Portuguese  fleet  The 
Rajah  immediately  offered  Nueva  any  assistance  in  his  power,  this 


DB  QAMk  KKTUBNfl  TO  CAUOUT.  85 

was  however  eiviUy  declined,  aiuI  all  the  ordnance  at  the  conunand 
of  the  Portagneae  veeaeLs,  waa  speedily  brooght  to  bear  on  the  eoe* 
my.  By  this  meana,  a  number  of  their  yeaaels  were  sank,  and  the  re* 
mainuig  Moors  were  too  much  diaoouraged  to  continue  the  action. 
Owing  to  the  generosity  of  the  Bi^t^  ^  Portogneae  ahipa  were 
soon  loaded,  and  Noera  departed,  leaving  his  European  merchandiie 
for  disposal  in  Cannanore,  under  the  dutfge  of  a  Factor,  and  two 
derks.  Before  sailing,  he  receiTed  an  embassy  from  the  Samorin, 
offering  ezcuaea  for  hb  pcevions  conduct^  and  promialng  to  giYC 
hostages,  if  be  would  proceed  to  Galieuty  and  there  load  his  vesaebk 
To  this  messagi^  Nueva  vouchsaled  no  reply. 

The  king  of  Portugal,  on  learning  the  treatment  which  Cabral  had 
recttved  from  die  Samorin,  was  extremely  indignant,  and  determined 
to  exact  further  retoibution.  Vasco  de  Oama,  was  therefore  despatch- 
ed from  Lisbon,  on  March  3rd,  1502,  in  command  of  an  avenging 
squadron  of  fifteen  vessels,  being  followed  a  short  time  subsequentlyi 
by  his  cousin  Stephen  de  Oama,  with  Bye  smaller  ships. 

When  opposite  Calicut^  De  Oama  attacked,  and  captured  a  vessel 
bdopging  to  the  Moors,  and  having  transferred  all  their  merchandize 
to  his  own  fleet,  he  confined  the  crew  beneath  the  hatches,  and  then 
set  fire  to  the  ship.  In  a  state  of  desperation,  these  unhappy  men, 
forced  tiieir  way  out :  many  leaped  into  the  water,  and  were 
drowned:  but  the  remainder,  were  recaptured,  and  barbarously 
burnt  alive.  The  children  had  previously  been  removed,  they 
numbered  about  twenty,  and  yasco  de  Qama,  determined  to  de- 
vote them  all,  to  the  monastery  at  Belem,  to  which  establish- 
ment he  presented  them.  Subsequentiy  he  captured  many  Malabar 
sailofs,  and  threatened  their  immediate  execution,  unless  the  Portu- 
guese merchandise,  and  prisoners,  were  returned  within  a  very  short 
period.  On  this  not  being  acceded  to,  the  Natives  were  hung,  and 
their  hands  and  feet,  sent  to  the  Samorin.  De  Oama  tortured  mes- 
eengersy  executed  Ambassadors,  and  his  deeds  were  a  blot  in  the  an- 
nals of  a  Christian  nation,  and  a  disgrace  to  the  name  of  humanity, 
over  which  it  would  be  well  could  a  veil  be  drawn.  The  fleet 
now  sailed  for  Gannanore,  where  a  treaty  of  friendship,  and 
commerce,  waa  concluded  with  the  Rajah,  and  a  Factory  estab- 
lished.    Having  loaded  some  of   his  vessels  at  this  place,  and 


8G  DE   GAMA  OOKCLUDBS  TltSATT  AT  COCHIN. 

the  remainder  at  Cochin,  De  Gama  proceeded  to  Calicut,  on  his 
Bangoinary  mission,  and  he  bombarded  the  town.  He  then 
returned  to  Cochin,  having  left  Vincent  De  Sodre,  with  six  fully 
armed  vessels,  to  protect  the  coast.  An  interview,  with  the  Rajah 
then  took  place,  at  which  De  Oama  demanded  the  following  stipu- 
lations : — that  there  should  be  a  fixed  rate  at  which  pepper,  and 
other  merchandize,  should  be  delivered  to  the  Portuguese  ;  that 
thej  should  be  permitted  to  raise  fiibtories,  and  storehouses,  and 
be  the  only  nation  so  favoured.  The  Bigah  hesitated  in  giving  a 
decided  assent ;  De  Gama  became  very  angry,  and  embarked 
in  his  boat  for  the  fleet.  The  Rajah  however,  knowing  his  vindic- 
tive temper,  and  apprehensive  that  he  might  perhaps  serve  Co- 
chin, as  he  had  lately*  done  Calicut,  followed  him  quickly  in  a 
small  boat,  and  entreated  him  to  write  down  his  requests,  when 
they  should  be  all  acceded  to.  The  blame  of  the  misunder- 
standing, was  laid  on  the  stupidity  of  the  Interpreter,  and  the 
interests  of  Portugal  and  Cochin,  were  discovered  to  be  identical. 
De  Gama  now  being  pacified,  returned  on  shore,  where  he 
presented  the  Regah,  with  the  following  tokens  of  friendship 
fnnn  the  King  of  Portugal :  a  gold  crown  set  with  jewels, 
a  gold  enamelled  collar,  two  richly  wrought  silver  fountains, 
two  pieces  of  figured  arras,  and  a  splendid  tent :  all  of  which  were 
accepted  with  great  satisfaction,  although  the  utility  of  most  of  the 
articles,  was  unknown.  After  having  signed  a  new  treaty,  as  well  as 
the  agreement  required  by  De  Gamy  :  the  Rajah  entrusted  him,  with 
a  handsome  preset,  for  the  King  of  Portugal.  A  Factory  was  now 
established  at  Codun.  The  RajiJi  mode  only  one  stipulation,  which 
was,  that  no  cows  should  be  slaughtered  in  his  dominions :  this  he 
said,  was  a  capital  crime  by  his  laws,  and  could  not  be  permitted ; 
he  regretted  having  to  allude  to  so  painful  a  subject,  but  he  had  been 
informed,  that  several  of  these  revered  animals  had  been  killed  for 
the  European  sailors.  De  Gama  promised  that  this  should  not 
again  occur,  and  when  a  few  days  subsequently,  three  Moplahs,  [Ma- 
homedans,  or  Native  christians,]  offered  beef  for  sale,  he  immediate- 
ly delivered  them  up  to  the  Rajah,  who  had  them  hanged,  for  com- 
mitting such  a  heinous  offence. 

Whilst  at  Cochin,  De  Gama  received  a  message  from  the  Samorin, 


DEFUTATIdN   OF  CHRISTIANS  TO  DE  GAMJL  87 

eDtmtiiig  him  to  return  amicably  to  Calieat^  when  the  merchandue, 
kCf  ahoold  be  restored.  De  Qama  acceded  to  his  request^  althoqgh 
strongly  dissuaded  from  venturing  by  his  Oflkers.  But  when  off 
Colicttty  instead  of  the  friendly  reception  which  he  hoped  for,  his  Tes^ 
sel  was  attacked  by  34  of  the  Samoiin's  fleet,  and  must  certainly  have 
been  destroyed  had  not  de  Sodre  unexpectedly  appeared,  with  his 
cmiziQg  squadron.  The  enemy  then  quickly  disperBed,  and  De 
Qama  returned  in  safety  to  Cochin.  The  Samorin  now  find- 
iog  himself  foiled  in  his  stratagems,  and  defeated  whenever  ha 
attempted  open  hostility,  became  alarmed  at  the  secure  foot- 
ing, which  the  Portuguese  had  apparently  obtained  in  Cochin. 
He  therefore  wrote  to  the  Rajah,  requesting  their  expulsion  from 
the  town,  and  that  they  should  in  future,  be  refused  either  adnus- 
sion,  or  lading  for  thdr  ve«els.  In  return  lor  this  favour,  he 
promised  the  Bajah,  his  eternal  friendship,  and  compliance  with  all 
his  wishes. 

In  reply,  tiie  lUjah  of  Cochin  nobly  stated,  that  the  Christians 
were  his  friends,  and  had  always  treated  him  as  such ;-  that  he  had 
signed  a  treaty  of  friendship  with  them,  and  to  break  lus  word, 
would  be  a  cowardly,  and  dishonourable  act,  and  <me  which  he 
could  never  be  guilty  of.  He  also  informdd  the  Samorin,  that  he 
favoored  trade  with  any  nation,  and  could  refuse  protection  to  no 
merchant,  who  did  not  infringe  the  hiws  of  his  country. 

The  Samorin  on  receiving  this  reply,  was  extremely  indignant, 
and  despatched  another  letter,  still  more  emphatically  urging  his 
former  requests  upon  the  R^jah  This  however  proved  as  ineffec- 
tual, as  the  first,  the  Bajah  positively  refusing,  to  break  faith  with 
the  Portuguese. 

It  is  worthy  of  remark,  that  the  Ri^ah  delicately  refrsuned,  from 
making  any  allusion  to  tlus  subject^  when  conversing  with  the  Porta- 
gaeae.  Whilst  his  noble  conduct,  in  remaining  unmoved,  both  by 
the  persuafiivo  arguments,  and  vindictive  threats  of  the  Samorin, 
was  apparently  actuated,  only  by  the  strict  integrity  of  his  views, 
with  regard  to  what  was  right,  and  honourable. 

Before  leaving  Cochin,  De  Qama  received  a  deputation,  -from  the 
Syrian  Christians  of  Cranganore,  who  stated,  that  in  consequence 
of  the  oppressive  conduct  of  the  heathen  towards  them,  they  were 


68  8AM0&IN  PftXPA&£S  TO    INVJLDE  COCfitN. 

anxious  to  place  UiemselTea,  under  the  protection  of  the  King  of 
Portugal  In  testimony  of  their  sincerity,  they  deiiyered  their  rod 
of  justice  into  De  Gama*s  hands :  it  was  of  a  red  colour,  tipped 
with  silver  at  both  ends,  and  had  three  bells  at  the  top.  He  dis- 
missed them,  with  many  promises  of  assistance,  and  protection. 

The  fleet  sailed  from  Cannanore,  for  Portugal,  where  it  arrived, 
September  1st,  1503.  De  Gama  on  his  arrival  was  received  with 
great  honour,  and  created,  Lo}*d  of  Videgueifra,  and.  Admiral  of  the 
Indies. 

The  Samorin  on  learning  De  Qama's  departure,  determined  to 
coerce  the  Rijah  of  Cochin:  and  collected  an  army  of  50,000 
Nairs  at  Ponany,  about  sixty  miles  north  of  Cochin.  Many  of  the 
nobility,  and  chiefs  of  the  Cochin  State,  now  earnestly  advised  the 
Bajah  to  give  up  the  foreigners,  and  not  aUow  his  country  to  be 
desolated,  for  persons  of  whom  he  knew  nothing.  But  the  Bt^ah 
rejoined,  that  whilst  he  had  life,  his  treaties  should  never  be 
violated,  nor  his  honour  tarnished,  by  the  massacre,  or  even  persecu- 
tion of  defenceless  men,  who  had  been  confided  to  his  protection. 
Hostilities  were  then  prepared  for. 

At  this  time,  Tincente  de  Sodre,  arrived  at  Cochin,  with  his 
coasting  squadron,  and  was  requested  to  remain,  and  afford  the 
B^jah  any  assistance  in  his  power.  But  apathy,  or  cowardice,  ren- 
dered him  averse,  to  join  in  the  approaching  struggle;  so,  framing 
some  frivolous  excuses,  he  sailed  away,  and  left  the  Btjah,  and  his 
subjects,  to  fight  their  own  battles. 

The  Samorin,  who  had  been  joined  by  many  treacherous  Chiefa 
of  the  Cochin  State,  now  harangued  his  army,  contrasting  the  friend^ 
ly  way  in  which  the  Moors  had  behaved  for  the  previous  600  years, 
with  the  conduct  of  the  Portuguese,  whom  he  designated  pirates, 
and  robbers,  and  accused  of  having  attacked  him  without  a  cause, 
and  in  revenge  for  imaginary  grievances,  plundered  and  destroyed 
his  vessels,  and  executed  his  ambassadors.  He  added,  that  the 
B^jah  of  Cochin,  although  well  aware  of  the  truth  of  these  asser* 
tions,  had  notwithstanding  the  requests  sent  him  to  the  contrary, 
given  these  foreigners  refuge  in  his  dominions,  and  was  therefore 
one  of  their  accomplices :  so  he  must  be  deprived  of  his  kingdom^ 
and  his  sanguinxry  friends  of  their  lives. 


SAUOBIH  DBTEATfl  TBX  COCHIN  TBOCfPS.  89 

T^ie  Samorin's  brother,  Nambeadarin,  then  rose ;  and  nrged  the 
impolicy  of  ^e  present  prooeeding,  which  he  asserted,  originated 
-mth  the  Moors,  who  dreaded  the  loss  of  their  trade.  He  added, 
that  because  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  had  reoeived  the  Portuguese,  as 
he  would  any  other  merchants,  who  wished  to  trade  with  his  coun- 
try, surely  that  was  no  reason  why  he  should  be  punished  in  so 
severe  a  manner,  especially  as  the  Rajahs  of  Cannanore,  and  Quilon, 
had  also  desired  the  advantage  of  trading  with  these  foreigners. 

But  all  arguments  were  unavailing.  The  Astrologers  were  request- 
ed to  name  a  fortunate  day  for  the  commencement  of  the  enterprise, 
and  the  Samorin  marched  with  his  army  to  the  Island  of  his  ally  the 
Rajah  of  Repelim,  eight  miles  from  the  town  of  Cochin.*  On 
March  31st^  be  entered  the  Cochin  territory,  and  attempted  to  force 
a  passage  by  the  Ford,  near  Cranganore,  but  was  repulsed  by  5,500 
Nairs,  who  were  entrenched  there,  under  the  command  of  Naramuhin, 
the  heir  apparent  Being  foiled  in  this  endeavour,  the  Samorin 
now  determined  to  attempt  stratagem :  he  accordingly  bribed  the 
Cochin  paymaster,  to  oblige  the  Nairs  to  return  to  the  Town,  to  re- 
ceive  their  daily  rations,  and  then  taking  advantage  of  a  time  when 
meet  of  them  would  be  absent,  he  attacked  Naramuhin,  who  after  a 
protracted  resistance,  was  at  length  overpowered,  and  slain  along  with 
two  of  the  Rigah's  sons,  and  nearly  all  his  men.  On  hearing  this 
diaastrous  intdligence,  the  Rijah  fell  funting  from  his  seat,  and  was 
at  first  believed  to  have  expired. 

An  universal  panic  now  prevailed,  and  many  of  the  principal  in- 
habitants of  the  Town,  fled  in  consternation.  The  Portuguese  pro- 
posed removing  to  Canuanore,  but  this  the  Rajah  would  not  hear 
of:  declaring,  whilst  he  lived  he  would  protect  them,  even  were  he 
to  lose  his  kingdom  in  attempting  to  do  so.  The  Nairs  now  be- 
eame  most  iurgent,  in  their  demands  lor  the  death  of  the  foreigners, 
and  had  they  not  been  under  the  inmiediate  protection  of  the  Rajah, 
would  certainly  have  massacred  them  alL 

The  Samorin  again  made  overtures  for  peace  on  the  same  terms 
as  before.  Thus  the  Rajah  was  beset  on  all  sides,  but  still  he  with- 
stood, alike,  arguments,  entreaties,  and  threats.  On  rec^ving  his  re- 
ply, the  Samorin  ordered  the  whole  country  to  be  laid  waste,  with 

*  Bepelun  is  known  ai  EddapuUj  or  EUengaloor,  and  is  in  the  Cocfain  StatiT 

M 


90  ALBUQITEKQUB  AMtlVKS  AT  COCHIN. 

fire  and  sword.  Being  informed,  by  two  Milanese  lapidaries  *  who 
had  deserted  to  him,  of  the  panic  prevailing  in  the  Town^  he  imme- 
diately marched  thither.  The  Rajah  at  the  head  of  his  troops,  de- 
fended the  place  for  some  time,  but  at  length,  after  having  been 
wounded  in  one  of  the  engagements,  he  was  overpowered  by  niim> 
bers,  and  obliged  to  withdraw  with  the  remnants  of  his  force  to  the 
Island  of  Yypeen,  opposite  Cochin.  All  the  Portuguese,  with  their 
property,  accompanied  him. 

The  monsoon  now  commenced,  and  the  Samorin  after  burning 
Cochin  to  the  ground,  retired  to  Cranganore.  He  left  a  strong  de- 
tachment on  the  Island  of  Cochin,  with  orders  to  throw  up  entrench- 
ments for  their  defence. 

Fortunately  on  September  20th,  1503,  Francisco  de  Albuquerque, 
with  six  sail,  arrived  at  Cochin,  when  the  enemy  fled  in  extreme 
terror  to  Cranganore.  Albuquerque  was  received  with  every  demon- 
stration of  joy.  The  Rajah  even  wept  on  embracing  him,  assuring 
him,  that  his  only  wish  to  be  restored  to  his  dominions,  was,  that 
his  subjects  might  be  convinced  that  he  had  acted  honourably.  Al- 
buquerque, knowing  that  the  Rajah's  finances,  owing  to  the  war 
were  in  a  very  impoverished  condition,  presented  him  with  10,000 
crowns,  thanking  him  at  the  same  time,  in  most  complimentary  tetms, 
for  his  protection  of  the  Portuguese.  The  Rajah  then  re-entered 
Cochin  in  triumph ;  and  on  the  same  day,  the  Samorin's  troops  were 
attacked  by  the  Portuguese,  and  easily  routed :  they  appeared  quite 
disheartened,  and  demoralized.  Two  days  afterwards,  they  were 
again  defeated,  at  the  Island  of  Charanaipin,  and  at  the  close  of  the 
engagement,  Albuquerque  knighted  several  of  his  Officers,  who  had 
particularly  distinguished  themselves. 

On  the  following  day,  the  Portuguese  attacked  and  capturod 
Repelim,  which  was  given  up  to  plunder.  The  Rajah  now  wished 
for  peace,  being  averse  to  seeing  his  country  devastated,  and  his  sub- 
jects slain :  but  Albuquerque  was  of  opinion,  that  the  Samorin,  and 

*  These  lapidaries  coostruoted  more  than  400  guns  for  the  Samorin,  in  whoae 
service  they  continued,  until  the  year  1506,  when  they  were  both  murdered  as 
tndtors,  by  200  Nairs,  and  Yogeea.  However,  they  sold  their  lives  dearly,  as 
they  are  said  to  have  slain  six  of  their  assailants,  and  wounded  forty  more,  be> 
fore  being  finally  overpowered. 


OOCHiy  FORT  BUILT.  91 

his  aUies,  had  not  been  sofficaently  pmiiahed,  and  therefore  determin- 
ed to  continne  his  aggressive  measnresL 

He,  however,  took  advantage  o!  the  high  &voar  which  he  enjoyed 
with  the  Rajah,  to  request  permission  to  erect  a  Fort  at  Cochin, 
dose  to  the  edge  of  the  river,  for  the  protection  of  the  Portuguese 
fsctoiy,  in  the  absence  of  their  reeseis.  lliis  the  Rigah  readily 
granted,  and  even  stipulated,  that  he  should  be  allowed  to  supply 
the  materials  at  his  own  cost ;  which  he  accordingly  did. 

The  foundations  were  laid,  on  September  26th,  1503.  It  was  con- 
structed in  the  form  of  a  equate,  each  foce  being  eighteen  yards  long, 
[probably  this  is  a  mis-print»  for  one  hundred  and  eighty,]  with  bas- 
tions at  each  comer,  on  which  ordnance  was  mountedi  The  walls 
were  composed  of  trunks  of  cocoanut  trees,  firmly  fixed  into  the 
ground,  and  bound  together  by  iron  hoops,  and  large  nails.  Earth 
was  rammed  in  between  the  two  rows  of  timbers,  and  the  whole  was 
surrounded  by  a  wet  ditch. 

The  Rajah  sent  workmen  to  construct  the  Fort,  but  Albuquerque 
ordered  aU  the  Portuguese  to  assist  On  September  30th,  Alonso 
de  Albuquerque  arrived  from  Portugal,  with  three  vessels  under  his 
command,  and  as  his  crews  joined  those  of  his  cousin,  in  the  business 
of  erecting  the  Fort,  it  was  very  speedily  completed. 

The  following  morning,  it  was  with  great  pomp  and  solemnity,  chris« 
tened  *'  MxaueY*  after  the  reigning  sovereign  of  Portugal  Albuquer- 
qne  accompanied  by  aU  his  people  then  marched  round  it  in  pro- 
oeasion,  headed  by  the  bands  of  the  squadron,  whilst  the  Fort 
Vicar  bore  aloft  the  crucifix,  under  a  canopy,  upheld  by  the  Captains  of 
the  fleet.  The  Fort  was  then  blessed,  and  consecrated,  by  the  cele- 
bration of  mass,  in  ^  small  wooden  church,  dedicated  to  St  Bartho- 
lomew, which  had  been  raised  within  it 

Hie  war  was  now  resumed,  and  carried  on  principally  with  theRiyah 
of  Repelim.  The  Samorin  exerted  himself  to  the  utmost  to  prevent 
the  Portuguese,  being  able  to  obtain  pepper,  and  spices,  at  Cochin : 
in  hopes,  that  these  odious  foreigners,  finding  their  trade  destroyed, 
would  leave  India.  Consequently  being  unable  to  procure  lading 
for  his  vessels,  Alonso  de  Albuquerque  was  obliged  to  seek  it  at 
Quilon,  where  he  determined,  that  if  not  immediately  supplied  with 
what  he  required,  to  declare  war  against  the  Rajah,  and  obtain  it  by 


92  PACflSCO  KOlllKAtSD  COHMAJSTDAKf. 

force.  But  he  wie^  amicably  received,  and  eaaily  procui^  spices, 
&c,f  for  his  vessels.  He  also  obtained  permission  to  buUd  a  fi»otory^ 
and  established  a  Commercial  Depdt,  leavii^  there  a  Factor,  two 
Clerks,  an  Interpreter,  two  Friars  and  some  others  in  charge  after 
which  he  then  returned  to  Cochin. 

The  fleet  finally  sailed  for  Europe,  on  January  Sl'st,  1504.  Du- 
arte  Facheco  having  been  previously  appointed  Commandanty 
.was  left,  with  four  vesaels^  ninety  able  bodied  men,  and  all  the  sick, 
to  protect  the  Bcyah  of  Cochin.  As  much  ordiiance,  and  ammuni- 
tion,  as  could  be  spared,  was  alao  giv^  him. 

On  the  voyage  home,  Francisco  de  Albuquerque's  vessel,  and 
another,  were  separated  from  the  Fleet,  and  nev^  heard  of  again. 
Several  other  vessels,  were  subsequently  lost. 

From  the  time  of  De  Qama*a  second  visit  to  India,  the  Portu- 
guese in  virtue  of  the  sovereign  ri^ts  they  claimed,  oblig^  aU 
vessels,  to  give  them  a  manifest  of  their  goods  :  and  they  also-  ap- 
pear, to  have  indiscriminately  plundered  and  burnt,  any  belonging 
to  the  Moors.  At  the  present  time,  they  would  doubtless  have 
been  regarded  as  legalized  pirates,  whose  destruction  would  be 
beneficial  to  trade,  and  ju9tified  by  the  law  of  nations. 

The  Moors,  naturally  wished  to  quit  Cochin,  which  was  now 
ruled  by  their  most  virulent  enemies,  but  Facheco  positively  refused 
them  leave,  and  also  warned  them,  that  any  who  attempted  to 
escape,  would  be  hanged.  A  strict  blockade  was  now  maintained 
by  the  Portuguese  vessels,  and  no  one  ^lermitted  to  leave  the  place 
without  a  pass,  or  enter  without  being  searched :  whilst  all  passers  by, 
were  stopped  and  examined.  Incursions  were  continued  into  the 
neighbouring  territories,  and  plunder  and  slaughter,  mistermed 
^' glory,"  appear  to  have  been  of  common  occurreuce. 

The  Samorin  now  again  determined  to  try  lua  strengtii,  against 
the  Portuguese,  so  Pacheoo  decided,  on  defending  the  passage  of 
the  river,  at  Chetwye,  forty  miles  north  of  Cochin.  He  accordingly 
started  for  this  place,  on  April  Ifith,  1504,  with  his  own  people,  and 
dOO  Nairs,  leaving  only  49  men  in  the  Fort  at  Cochin,  and  25  in 
one  of  his  veasels.  The  Samorin  being  alarmed  at  his  approach, 
proposed  peace :  but  Pacheco  declined  aU  overtures,  observing,  that 
as  the  Samorin  had  wished  for  war,  war  he  should  have.    On  re< 


niBATV  VriTU  KAJAH  OF  KEPKUIT.  93 

ceivinga  second  measage  to  the  same  effect,  he  bastinadoed  the 
messenger^  and  xetorned  him  to  the  Samorin,  with  a  challenge,  to 
come  and  avenge  the  insult  if  he  dared. 

The  neoct  day  the  forces  met,  and  a  battle  ensued,  in  which  the 
untrained  troops  of  the  Samorin  were  routed  It  was  with  diffi^ 
culty  that  they  were  induced  to  advance ;  at  the  first  volley  they 
waveiedy  and  at  the  second  fled  in  terror.  A  series  of  skirmishes 
were  subsequently  of  daily  occunence^  in  all  of  which  the  Portu- 
gneee  obtained  the  advantage.  This  so  disheartened  the  Samorin, 
that  ha  retired  into  religious  seclusion,  with  many  of  his  Brahmans, 
and  chief  men.  Some  Naira  being  suspected  of  an  attempt  to  assas- 
ainate  Ftoheoo,  were  anested,  and  two  of  them  hanged,  after  hav- 
ing been  first  neady  flogged  to  death.  But  this  created  great  con- 
atemakion  among  the  Bijah's  troops,  of  the  same  caste,  who  remon« 
atnited  with  Pacheco  on  the  subject,  informing  him,  that  though  in 
extreme  cases,  their  laws  permitted  the  execution  of  a  Nair,  by  those 
of  their  own  caste,  they  did  not  allow  him  to  be  flogged,  as  that 
was  an  insult  to  their  caste  and  contrary  to  their  religion,  debarring 
him  from  the  performance  of  certain  necessary  religtous  rites.  In 
fact  so  much  disturbance  was  created,  that  the  remaining  prisoners 
were  spaied.  And  as  this  appeared  a  good  opportunity  of  paying 
the  B$iah  a  compliment^  without  any  expense  or  trouble  to  himself, 
Pacheco  sent  the  men  to  the  lUyah,  with  a  message  to  the  effect, 
that  thou^  they  had  purposed  attempting  his  Ufe,  he  would  not 
take  theirs,  but  left  them  to  be  dealt  with,  according  to  the  well 
^Qown  demency,  and  justice,  of  their  own  Sovereign. 

Many  of  the  AUies,  and  principal  Chiefs,  sul^ect  to  the  Samorin, 
were  now  extremely  anxious  to  make  terms  with  the  Portuguese, 
amongst  whc^n  was  the  Btgah  of  Bepelim,  who  alarmed  for  his 
countryi  and  himself,  proposed  to  enter  into  a  treaty.  He  at  the 
same  time  sent  Pacheco  a  present,  of  a  large  quantity  of  pepper.  An 
alliance  between,  them  was  then  entered  into,  being  apparently  the 
first,  formed  between  the  Portuguese,  and  any  petty  Indian  Prince. 

Many  of  the  Moors  of  Calicut,  now  finding  their  trade  at  that 
place  quite  destroyed,  came  to  Cochin,  and  settled  there :  by  this 
means,  its  importance  greatly  increased.  Towards  the  end  of  the 
year  1504,  Suarez  de  Menezes  arrived  from  Portugal,  as  comman- 


94  StJABBZ  TAEBS  CKAKGANOBX* 

dant  of  the  fleet  Shortly  afterwaards,  when  he  was  at  CSannaiiore,  a 
Portugaese  boy  who  had  been  a  prisoner  of  the  Samonn's,  sinoe  Ca- 
bral's  time,  was  sent  to  him  by  that  Sovereign^  (who  had  emerged  from 
his  retirement)  to  endeavour  to  negotiate  a  peaee,  and  to  entreat  Snarez 
to  visit  Calicat,  when  all  the  prisoners  should  be  delivered  np  to 
him  :  whereas  if  he  refused,  they  would  all  be  immediately  execut- 
ed. Suarez  therefore,  in  the  hope  of  rescuing  the  unfortunate  Por- 
tuguese, who  had  been  in  the  Samorin's  power  for  so  long,  det^- 
mined  to  proceed  thither,  where  he  anchored  on  September  7th. 
He  however,  refused  to  make  any  terms,  until  the  two  Milanese  la- 
pidaries, who  had  deserted  from  Cochin,  were  given  up  to  him. 

In  the  meantime,  he  sent  messages  to  the  prisoners,  urging  their 
escape  to  his  vessels,  as  quickly  as  possible.  But  this  the  Samorin 
took  care  to  prevent,  by  having  them  strictly  guarded.  Suarez 
after  waiting  several  days,  and  finding  that  the  Samorin  had  no 
intention  of  sending  him  the  deserters,  whom  he  demanded 
as  a  preliminary  step,  to  any  treaty,  decided  on  cannonading  the 
town.  After  doing  it  much  injury,  he  sailed  away  for  Cochin^  where 
he  arrived  on  September  13th. 

He  was  received  with  great  honour  by  the  Rajah,  to  whom  he  de- 
livered many  valuable  presents,  from  the  king  of  Portugal :  with 
complimentary  messages,  and  thanks  for  his  protection  of  the  Por- 
tuguese, with  all  of  which  the  Rajah  was  much  gratified. 

The  Samorin  now  made  great  preparations,  for  acting  on  the  defen- 
sive, against  the  Portuguese,  during  the  time  their  fleet  remained  in 
India,  determining  on  its  departure,  to  continue  hostilities  against 
the  Rajah  of  Cochin. 

Suarez  advanced  to  Cranganore,  where  the  Samorin  had  stationed 
himself,  with  his  Army.  Having  captured  the  town,  he  ordered  it 
to  be  burnt,  and  the  work  of  destruction  had  already  commenced, 
when  soma  Syrian  Christians,  inhabitants  of  the  place,  came  and  en- 
treated him  to  desist,  representing  that  within  the  city  were  several 
Churches  dedicated  to  the  Virgin,  and  the  Apostles,  which  would  be 
destroyed.  The  conflagration  was  therefore  stopped,  but  not  until 
much  mischief  had  been  done.  On  his  return  to  Cochin,  Suarez 
knighted  several  of  his  OfiicerB. 

Suarez  after  this  engagement,  received  overtures  from  the  Rajah 


VOVtVOlTESK  VICXB0Y8  09  I2n>U.  99 

of  Taanoory  who  requested  pemiiMioii  to  become  a  subject  of  the 
King  of  PortngaL  Many  Moorish  merchants,  also  left  the  cities  of 
Calicut^  and  Cranganore,  and  returned  to  Mecca;  resigning  an 
Indian  trade,  which  had  latterly  proved  unremunerative. 

The  fleet  sailed  from  Oochin,  for  Europe,  on  December  27th,  leav- 
ing Manuel  Telez  de  TasconeUes,  as  Captain  General;  with  three  ves- 
sda,  and  100  Soldiers  to  guard  the  coast  of  India.  The  Bajah  was 
greatly  diai4>pointed,  that  Pacheco  who  was  a  great  favourite,  did 
not  remain  to  protect  him,  instead  of  Vasconelles.  At  parting  with 
the  former,  he  offered  him  many  handsome  presents,  thanking  him 
at  the  same  time  most  warmly,  for  having  so  valiantly  defended 
him  from  his  enemies.  Pacheco  however  declined  the  presents, 
assuring  the  Rigah,  that  he  had  only  performed  his  duty,  and  there- 
fore must  be  excused  accepting  any  reward.  He  however,  consented 
to  cany  a  letter  from  the  Rajah,  to  the  King  of  Portugal  commend- 
ii^  him  to  his  Sovereign's  favour,  and  commenting  on  his  conduct 
in  high  terms  of  praise, 

Suarezy  when  returning  to  Europe,  being  driven  near  Calicut,  at- 
tacked the  fleet  there,  and  is  stated  to  have  captured  17  vessels,  and 
put  2,000  men  to  death.  Owing  to  this  severe  loss,  the  Moors  now 
completely  deserted  this  place,  and  the  Samorin  was  too  much  dis- 
heartened, to  carry  out  his  hostile  intentions  against  the  Rfgah  of 
Cochin  for  some  time  subsequently. 

Towards  the  close  of  the  year  1505,  Don  Francisco  de  Almeyda 
arrived  in  Cochin,  from  Portugal  with  eight  vessels,  all  that  remained 
out  of  a  fleet  of  twenty  two,  carrying  1,500  soldiers  with  which  he 
liad  left  Europei  Half  these  vessels  were  to  return  to  Portugal, 
with  merchandize.  At  Anchediva  he  had  built  a  fort  and  left  a 
garrison  of  80  men  as  well  as  two  ships.  He  came  to  India  as 
'^  Viceroy  of  all  the  Indies,"  being  the  first  who  had  ever  borne  that 
titla 

The  various  Portuguese  Viceroys  of  India  have  been  as  follows  : 
Den  Francisco  cPAlmeiday  a.  d.  1505.  Alpkonso  (TAlbwiuerque^ 
1509.  Lopo  JSoares  (TAlbergariay  1515.  Diago  Lopes  de  Siqmird, 
1518.  Z>.  DuarU  de  Menezes,  1521.  2>.  Vasco  de  Gama,  1524.  D. 
Henrique  de  Menezes,  1525,  Lopo  Vas  de  Sampaio^  1526.  I^uno 
da  Cunhoj  1529.    D,  Garcia  de  Noronha^  1538.     D.  EsUvao  da 


96  ALMEYDA  ORDERED  TO  GEOWK  COCHIK  RAJAH. 

GamOi  1540.  Martian  Alphon$o  de  S<mza^  1542.  i>.  Joixm  de  Cas- 
tro, 1545.  Garcia  de  Sd,  1548.  Jotje  Cahral,  1549.  B.  Alphojuo 
de  Noronhay  1551.  D,  Pedro  Mascarenhae,  1554.  FroMciteo  Bar- 
reto,  1555.  D,  ComtatUino  de  Braganca,  1558.  JD.  Francuco 
Coutinho,  1561.  Joam  de  Mendonca^  1563.  D.  ArUam  de  I^or- 
onha^  1564.  i>.  Luiz  de  Attaide,  1568.  i>.  AnUmio  de  Noronha, 
1571.  Antonio  Monia  BarrettOy  1573.  Bui  Lourenco  de  Tavora, 
1576.  i>.  2>io^o  cic  ifon<Bw,  1576.  2>.  Zww  d^AUaide,  1578.  i^cr- 
waw  TeZ&a,  1580.  2).  Francisco  Maecaa-enhasy  1581.  i>.  DuarU 
de  Menezesy  1584.  Manoel  de  Soma  CotUinhOy  1588.  Mathiae 
d^Albuqtierqriey  1590.  jD.  Francisco  de  GamOy  1597.  iiiret  <ltf 
Saldanha,  1600.  2>.  MaHim  Alphonao  de  GattrOy  1604.  7>.  J^r. 
Aleixo  de  MenezeSy  1607.  Andre  Furtado  de  MettdoncOy  1609.  i^iie 
Lourenco  de  Tavora,  1609.  Z>.  Teroniino  d'AzevedOy  1612.  i>. 
.Tbam  Coutinho,  1617.  Femam  d^Alhuqu/crquey  1619.  D.  jPran- 
CMCO  c20  6^ama.  1622.  i>.  Fr,  Luis  de  Brito,  1627.  J).  Migud  de 
Niyronhoy  1629.  Pedro  da  Silva,  1635.  ^n^onto  Telleiy  1639. 
2>.  t/^oam  c^  Silva  Tello  de  MenezeSy  1640.  />.  Filippe  Mascarenhas 
1645.  i>.  Vasco  MascarenhaSy  1652.  D.  Rodrigo  Ldbo  de  Silveira^ 
1655.     ^nto;ito  ife^o  t2g  (7a^ro,  1662. 

Almost  the  first  piece  of  intelligence,  Almeyda  received  on  his 
arriTaly  was,  that  the  factor  and  others,  left  at  Qoilon,  had  all  been 
murdered  by  the  Moors.*  He,  therefore,  dispatched  his  son  Lo- 
renzo, with  six  vessels  to  that  place,  giving  him  orders,  provided  he 
could  obtain  lading  for  his  vessels,  to  ignore  all  knowledge  of  the 
massacre,  but  that  if  spices,  <&c.  were  refused  him,  he  was  to  take 
ample  vengeance  for  the  murder  of  his  countrymen. 

Lorenzo  found  a  fleet  of  twenty-four  Calicut  vessels,  awaiting  his 
arrival,  and  an  engagement  ensued,  in  which  they  were  all  routed. 
He  then  rejoined  his  father  at  Cochin.  Almeyda  had  received  in- 
structions from  the  King  of  Portugal,  to  crown  Trimunpar%  lUgah 
of  Cochin,  for  which  purpose  he  had  come  provided  with  a 
golden  diadem,  richly  adorned  with  jewels.  But  as  Trimunpara  had 
previously  become  a  religious  recluse,  and  abdicated  in  favour  of 
his  nephew  Nambeadora,  Almeyda  transferred   this  honour  to  him, 

*  Almeyda  oommeiioed  the  Gannanore  Forb  in  1505,  whilst  on  his  way  to 
Cochin.    He  left  Lorenzo  de  Brito,  with  150  men,  and  two  vesaels  to  defend  it. 


TOftTVOTTBSB  DXFBATED  BT  8AMORIN.    *  97 

and  with  great  pomp,  and  solemnity,  placed  the  crown  on  his  head. 
About  tiiis  time,  an  earthquake,  and  total  eclipse  of  the  son,  hav- 
ing oocnrred,  the  Astrologers  predicted  the  certain  annihilation  of 
the  Portngaese  power  in  India,  and  advised  the  Samorin  again  to 
tiy  his  fortane  in  battle.  Whilst  he  was  making  active  preparations 
for  recommencing  hostilities,  an  unfortunate  circumstance  gave  him 
the  opportonily  of  inducing  the  Ri^ah  of  Cannanore  to  break  his 
allianoe  with  the  Europeans,  and  engage  in  warfare  against  them. 

Qonxalo  Yas  meeting  with  a  richly  laden  Moorish  vessel,  not  far 
from  Caanancwe,  plundered  and  scuttled  her,  totally  disregarding, 
a  Portuguese  pass  produced  by  the  Moorish  Captain,  and  the  crew 
having  been  firdt  sewn  up  together  in  a  sail,  to  avoid  discovery,  were 
thrown  overboard  Unfortunately,  one  of  the  bodies  floated  on 
shore,  and  was  identified,  as  that  of  the  nephew  of  a  wealthy  mer- 
chant of  Malabar.  The  subject  was  then  laid  before  the  Rajah  of 
Cumanore,  who  was  justly  indignant,  and  was  prevaUed  on  hy  the 
Samorin,  tor  aid  him  in  expelling  foreigners,  whose  own  passes  were 
of  no  avail,  and  who  slaughtered  and  plundered,  not  only  their  ene-  * 
mies  the  Moors,  but  any  other  Merchants,  whom  they  were  able, 
maldng  themselves  the  terror  of  the  seas,  and  the  curse  of  the  main- 
land. 

As  the  author  of  this  atrocity  could  not  be  discovered,  the  blame 
fen  upon  Lorenzo  de  Brito,  who  commanded  the  Fort  at  Cannanore, 
andhe  waseonsequentlybesi^ed  by  the  Bigah.  But  receiving  reinforce- 
ments from  Cochin,  he  was  enabled  to  hold  out,  until  relieved  by 
De  Cunna,  who  so  intimidated  the  Rajah,  that  he  sued  for  peace, 
which  was  granted,  on  terms  very  advantageous  to  the  Portuguese. 

About  this  time,  the  Sultan  of  Egypt,  sent  a  large  fleet,  to  oppose 
the  Portuguese  in  India.  And  the  two  forces  meeting  at  Chaul,  the 
Portuguese  sustained  a  disastrous  defeat,  in  which  Lorenao  de  Al- 
meyda*  was  slain,  along  with  many  others. 

Inthesameyear,  1508,  Alphonao  de  Albuquerque  arrived  at  Cochin, 
with  orders  to  supersede  Almeyda,  who  was  directed  to  return  to 

*  AlmeydA  proposed  to  punish  the  Sultan  of  Elgypt  in  a  stupendous 
manQer,  that  was  never  realised,  vii.,  plundering  Mecca  and  Medina,  and  sub- 
sequently desolating  E^t,  by  diverting  the  Kile,  across  Nubia^  and  Aby&unia 
to  the  Red  Seal 

N 


98  ALMEYDA  SAILS  FOR  ITUEOFK. 

Porfcugal,  in  one  of  the  trading  vessels.  Bat  tlie  latter  declined  to 
obey,  until  he  had  avenged  himself  on  the  Saltan.  A  controversy 
now  arose,  and  Albuquerque  retired  into  private  life  in  Cochin ; 
whilst  Aluieyda  proceeded  on  his  intended  expedition  against  the 
Turks. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  following  year,  he  returned  to  Cochin, 
after  having  defeated  his  enemies  and  captured  the  colours  both  of 
the  Saltan,  and  his  Admiral  Meer  Hoossain,  which  re-established 
the  prestige  of  the  Portuguese  name,  in  the  Indian  seas. 

On  entering  Cochin  in  triumph  he  was  met  by  Albuquerque,  who 
even  before  he  had  laid  aside  his  robes  of  State,  requested  him  to 
resign  the  Government,  pursuant  to  the  Royal  orders.  Almeyda 
replied  th  it  after  having  taken  off  his  heavy  robes,  there  would  be 
sufficient  time  to  discuss  the  matter.  On  mature  reflection  Almeyda 
decided  to  retain  the  Office  of  Viceroy,  and  on  his  intimating  this 
decision,  disputes  became  so  irritating^  that  he  made  Albuquerque  a 
prisoner,  and  sent  him  to  Cannanore,  where  he  was  respectfully 
treated  by  Lorenzo  de  Brito.  The  Rajah  ol  Cochin  sided  with  Albu- 
querque, and  even  delayed  supplying  lading  for  two  homeward 
bound  vessels,  until  he  should  be  installed  as  Viceroy. 

In  November  1509,  a  large  reinforcement  arrived  from  Por- 
tugal, under  the  command  of  Marshal,  Don  Fernando  Coutinno, 
who  was  invested  with  extraordinaiy  powers,  for  settling  any 
disputes  which  might  have  arisen.  He  therefore,  carried  Albu- 
querque with  him  to  Cochin,  where  he  forthwith  installed  him 
as  Viceroy.  Almeyda  fitted  up  a  ship  most  gorgeously  for  his 
passage  to  Europe,  but  when  completed,  Coutinno  refused  him  pep- 
mission  to  sail  in  her.  In  November,  Almeyda  finally  departed  for 
Europe,  the  Natives  predicting,  that  suoh  a  brute  would  never  pass 
the  Cape.  But  they  were  mistaken,  for  he  rounded  it  in  safety,  and 
scoffingly  observed  to  an  attendant,  "  Now  G4)d  he  praised^  the 
mtches  of  Cochin  are  liars  r  But  he  had  not  long  cause  for  exulta- 
tion, for  on  the  succeeding  morning,  he  landed  with  a  party  of  150 
men,  to  obtain  water  for  his  vessel,  when  his  cupidity  was  aroused, 
by  the  sight  of  a  drove  of  a  cattle,  tended  only  by  children.  Having 
surrounded  them,  he  observed,  "  these  cattle  shall  serve  us  as  food,  and 
« these  children  shall  be  made  a  present,  to  our  Lady  of  Belem."  But 


CALlOtrt  FO&T  BltBCTfiD.  00 

the  owners  of  fche  cattle,  and  the  parents  of  the  Children,  rapidly  as- 
sembled, armad  with  sharpened  sticks,  hardened  in  the  fire,  with 
which  they  fiercely  attacked  the  Portuguese,  fifty  of  whom  miserably 
perished,  and  amongst  them  the  fir^t  Viceroy  of  the  Indies,  thrust 
through  the  neck  by  a  stake. 

During  the  Vice  Royalty  of  Almeyda,  the  Portuguese  claimed  the 
whole  of  the  East  as  theirs,  in  accordance  with  the  Papal  BuU.  To 
^his  demand  the  Native  Princes  of  India  declined  submitting,  conse- 
quently feuds  were  of  frequent  occurrence,  and  almost  every  cargo 
was  purchased  with  blood. 

Albuquerque  with  3,000  troops  attempted  to  take  Calicut,  on  Jan- 
<iaiy  2nd,  1510,  but  was  repulsed,  and  Coutinno  slain,  lie  then 
Altered  into  an  alliance  with  the  pirate  Hmoja,  and  appeared  off 
Ooa  at  the  end  of  the  same  montli.  The  garrison  surrendered  with- 
out a  blow,  but  on  the  appearance  of  a  large  force,  Albuquerque 
was  obliged  to  evacuate  the  place.  He  subsequently  retook  it,  but 
was  again  compelled  to  leave  it,  but  finally  recaptured  it,  in  Novem- 
ber of  the  same  year.  He  then  laid  the  foundation  of  a  Fort,  and 
intended  raising  a  magnificent  monnmont,  in  honour  of  all  the  Offi- 
cers and  others,  engaged  in  this  glorious  enterprise.  But  so  much 
quarrelling  ensued,  a»  to  whose  name  should  be  placed  first  on  the 
tablet,  that  they  all  petitioned,  that  the  face  of  the  stone  might  be 
turned  downwards,  which  was  accordingly  done. 

Albuquerque  wishing  to  form  an  Eiropean  colony  at  Ooa,  now 
obliged  many  of  the  Portuguese,  to  marry  native  women.  He  also 
commenced  the  formation  of  a  Native  army.  In  1512,  the  Samo- 
rin  becoming  alarmed  at  the  power  of  the  Portuguese,  entered  int 
an  alliance  with  them,  and  permitted  the  erection  of  a  Fort,  at  Call 
cut.  In  the  following  year  he  sent  an  embassy  to  Portugal,*  and  at 
the  same  tim3,  Albuquerque  transmitted  some  captives  taken  in 

*  The  AmbftMador  became  a  Chriatiaa,  and  was  knighted,  by  John  III  of 
Portugal,  he  was  Christened  ''  John  of  the  Cros?.^'  On  his  return  to  Calient, 
he  was  banished  from  the  Coort  in  disgnraoe,  as  a  renegade  from  the  religion  of 
ins  fathers.  In  153*2  he  joined  the  Parravard  and  at  the  head  of  a  deputation 
of  them  came  to  Cochin,  imploring  the  assistance  of  the  Portuguese^  against 
the  ICoors.  All  the  embassage,  (S5  souU)  turned  Christians.  A  Portuguese 
fleet  was  sent  to  their  relief  when  20,000  of  them  immediately  oonsented  lo  be 
baptised;  ten  years  subsequently,  Xavier  organi4;ed  a  church  for  them. 


100  THE  FOUNDEfiS  OF  F0BTC70UESK  Iin>IAIf   SMPIR^ 

war,  as  a  present  to  the  King,  Albaqiieiqile's  renowtt  heA  HOW 
spread  far  and  wide,  and  many  of  the  sanomidLng  Printces,  were 
most  anxious  to  iona  treaties  of  friendship  with  bini^  and  sent  Am- 
bas8ad<H9  for  that  purpose. 

In  1515,  Albuquerque  was  superseded  by  Hoare2>  anrf  receivecl 
orders  to  return  to  Portugal,  Diego  Mendez,  and  Uieff}  Par^ra,  wiere^ 
sent  out  at  the  same  time,  one  as  Governor  of  Cochin,  and  the  other 
as  Secretary  to  the  Viceroy.  Both  these  men  had  beoi  previously 
despatched  to  Europe,  as  criminals  by  Aibuqueniae,  who  appeared 
quite  heart-broken,  at  receiving  such  ungrateful  treatment  from 
his  country,  for  whose  benefit  he  had  done  so  much.  He  was  ill 
at  the  time,  and  observed,  ^It  is  now  time  for  me-  to  take* 
^  refuge  in  the  Charch,  having  incurred  the  Kinglsh  displeasure  for 
"  the  sake  of  hb  subjects :  and  their  emgpt,  for  the'  aafci3  of  the 
*'  King.  Old  man !  fly  to  the  church,  your  honour  requires  that 
"  you  should  die,,  and  you  have  never  yet  omitted  anythJng,.]iv  which 
**  your  honour  was  concerned/'  He  wrote-  tathe  iQng,.ooa&ding  liiis^ 
letter,  as  follows : — **  The  affairs  of  India  will  answer  for  themselves^ 
^  and  meJ'  He  shortly  aftevwarcb  proceeded  to  Qoa,  iKdiere  he  ex- 
pired of  grief,  on  December  15th,  1515. 

Albuquerque  was  one  of  the  b^at,  and  biavest,r  of  tiie  Governors;, 
who  had  ruled  Portuguese  India.  He  augmented  the  revenues,  by^ 
lowering  the  duties:  and  by  justice  at  ses,.  he  raised  the  maritime 
trade.  He  combined  the  character  of  a  financier,  with  that  of 
general,  and  was  a  farvorite  with  all  classes.  At  his-  death)  he  wa& 
universaHy  mourned,  even  by  the  independent  Native  Princes.  His- 
ungrateful  Sovereign,  lost  in  him  a  true  hero,,  and  an  tmselfish  nuok. 
At  his  tomb,  his  countrymen,  whilst  bemoaning  their  own  wrongs^ 
frequently  called  on  €k>d  to  revenge  his, — consequently  his^remains. 
were  transferred  to  Lisbon,  in  spite  of  great  opposition  from  the 
inhabitants  of  Qoa 

Portuguese  Historians,  designate  Pacheco,.  Francisco  cfe  Ahneyda^ 
and  Alphonso  de  Albuquerque,  the  founders  of  their  Indian  ems 
pire.  The  first  by  his  valour,  and  the  fiery  heat  of  his  acticms,, 
was  said  to  have  melted,  both  the  arms,  and  the*  riches^  of  the  Sa- 
morin :  the  second,  filed  and  polished  the  acts  of  the  &st,  with  liia 
own  sword,  and  that  of  his  brave  so»>  reducing  the  inaobordinalie  to 


lUKlSfER  OF  FIKAKCB  ABRIVES.  lOl 

oWieooey  and  humblimg  the  Eigyptian  Saltan :  whilst  Albuquerque, 
the  FiiiMMaer,  Politiciui,  and  Qeneraly  added  to  ite  ornaments,  the 
Ihrae  proeuma  jewek,  of  Ooa^  Malaoca,  and  Onnuz. 

At  the  cioee  of  the  year  1515^  Soorez  arrived  from  Portugal,  aa 
l^ceroy  of  the  Indies.  He  was  aooompanied  by  a  fleet  of  thirteen 
vessels,  carrying  1,500  soldiers,  many  being  men  of  rank  who  wer? 
in  hopes  id  finding  some  means  of  restoring  their  fallen  fortunes, 
the  new  Vioeroy,  was  far  from  rivalling  the  popularity  of  his  pre-> 
deoaMKMV  at  Cochin,  his  disposition  was  cold,  and  reserved ;  and 
his  conduct^  especially  disagreeable  to  the  Rajah,  who  had  been  ac' 
eostomed  to  the  amiable  a&bility,  of  Albuquerque.  The  nephew 
of  the  latter,  finding  it  impossible  to  get  on  amicably  with  Soarez, 
f etuined  to  Portugal. 

Trnmediately  after  his  instaflatioo,  Soarez  started  on  a  tour  of  in-* 
•peotion,  throng  the  Portuguese  possessions  in  India*  Ills  first 
Bieasares  were  very  unpopular,  aa  he  superseded  all  the  Captains, 
and  Qovemors  of  Forts,  and  substituted  fiivourltes  of  his  own.* 

In  1517,  Akaoova  was  sent  out,  as  Surveyor  of  the  King's  reve- 
luie,  a  species  of  Official,  known  as  Minitier  of  Finance^  who  was  a 
constant  check  on  the  Viceroy,  and  greatly  curtailed  the  almost 
unlimited  power  he  had  previously  ei^joyedr  This  led  to  great  dis- 
senaioaft  between  them,  especially  as  the  Financier  was  inclined  to 
exceed  his  authority.  At  length,  finding  be  could  do  nothing,  he 
returned  to  Europe,  where  he  made  loud  complaints  of  the  mal^ 
administntion  in  India. 

From  this  period,  the  controUii^  powers  at  homo,  listened  to  any 
charges  emanating  from  India,  against  the  Oovemors,  and  Comman- 
dants:  and  consequently,  frequently  annulled  the  orders  of  the  local 
anihorities,  who  in  their  turn  became  disgusted,  and  directed  their 
eueigies,  more  towards  amassu^  private  wealth,  than  acquiria^ 
honour,  and  respect,  for  their  country,  and  its  laws. 

In  1518,  Difl^jo  Lopez  de  Sequeira,  the  discoverer  of  Malacca, 
superseded  Soarez,  who  left  for  Portugal  with  nine  ships.  Under 
Soorea^  the  honour  of  the  Portuguese  name  rapidly  sank.     Ahready 

•  Aboai  the  end  of  the  year  1515,  the  PortugUMe  proeeeaing  from  their  Fiirfc 
tt  Kalaeca  made  their  first  voyage  to  Ghitin.  This  wm  the  commencemeut  o< 
ft  dinct  tnule  between  Europe,  and  the  Celestial  Empire. 


103  VA^CO  D1^  GAMA   RETtriXS   'iO  INDIA. 

the  Native  Princes,  vieWed  with  suspicion  a  foreign  race,  who  claimed 
all  their  tarritories,  a^  a  gift  from  the  Pope,  [a  patentate,  whose 
name  they  kndvi^  not,  and  T^hose  authofifcy  they  did  not  recog- 
nise ;]  an4  ^h  >  erected  stone  pillars,  and  snbsetpiently  pointed  them 
out,  as  signs  of  sovereignty.  It  was  asserted,  that  "  the  pmod  had 
''  now  commenced.  When  the  soldiers  no  more  followed  the  dictates 
''  of  honour,  when  those  who  had  been  Captains  became  traders,  and 
"  rapacJioUs  plunderers  of  the  innocant  Natives  ;'*  "  command  became  a 
"  shim3,  honour  a  scandal^  and  reputation  a  reproach ;"  every  petty 
Govci*nor,  followed  laws  of  his  oWu  making  j  justice,  and  order,  were 
set  at  defi mce :  and  to  crown  all^  non-oMcial  adventurers,  spread 
terror  at  the  rapacity  of  the  foreigners.  Soarez  retained  the  Viceroy- 
alty  for  three  years,  but  his  successor  was  as  bad  as  himself,  and 
missacres  of  the  Natives,  (un Worthy  the  name  of  battles)  were  o 
daily  occurrence.* 

■In  1521,  Sequeira,  who  Was  now  Qjvemor,  wintered  at  OrmUz, 
sending  his  nephew  Alexius  d3  Menezes,  to  Cochin,  with  full  pow* 
ers  to  conduct  the  Government,  during  his  absence,  the  homeward 
b>>uud  fleet,  were  therefore  despatched  by  him  and  the  other  duties 
of  the  oflfiie  carried  on.  In  this  same  year,  tihe  Samorin  believing, 
that  in  the  absoni3  of  ths  Vioroy,  he  m'ght  have  m^re  chance  of 
success,  against  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  again  attacked  him,  but  was 
easily  routed. 

In  1521,  Don  Duarte  de  Menez3s,  succeeded  Sequeira,  who  at  once 
left  for  Portugal  Menezes  followed  the  example  set  him  by  Soarez, 
and  deposed  all  the  commandants  of  Forts,  electing  officers  of  his 
own  choosing,  to  their  appointments. 

In  1524,  the calebrated  Don  Vasco  de  Oama,  retimed  to  India:. It 
having  been  represented,  that  the  preceding  Governors,  had  lent 
themselves  to  great  abuses*  His  vessel  was  accompanied  by  IS  others 
having  3,000  troops  on  board  Whilst  at  sea  near  Cambaya,  and 
in  a  dead  calm,  the  ocean  suddenly  commsnced  tossing  so  violently, 
that  the  people  gave  themselves  up  for  lost :  but  De  Gama,  know- 
ing that  it  arose  from  an  earthquake,  exclaimed,  "  Courage,  my 
"  friends ;    the  sea  is  only  trembling  for  the  fear  of  us  !*' 

*  lu  1617,  the  fir»t  Portuguese  factory  in  Ceylou  was  edtabli^bed. 


DSATH   OF  VA6C0  DE  OAlfA  IN  COCHIK.  103 

The  Viceroy  haviiig  gone  to  Cochin,  found  the  Portuguese  pos- 
aeasions  there  threatened  by  the  Samoriu,  who  however  was  at  once 
scared  away,  by  the  terror  of  De  Gama's  illustrious  name.  Pirates 
were  compelled  to  aboudou  their  trade,  owing  to  the  vigour  now 
imparted  to  the  Government. 

Unfortunately  De  Gama's  rule  was  short,  a«i  on  the  night  of  De- 
oembar  25th,  1524  this  celebrated  nuw,  the  discoverer  of  the  Cape 
route,  expired,  after  being  only  three  months  in  India.  Whatever 
his  private  virtues  n^ty  have  been,  in  public  life,  he  was  vindictive 
in  his  ammosities,  fiendish  iu  bis  punishments,  blood  thirsty  in  his 
councils,  and  unfeeling  in  his  a;;tions:  but  withal,  a  bold  and 
ftkilfttl  nayigator,  fearless  uk  danger,  and  regardleas  of  self.  He 
perishad  in  a  fit  place  for  such  a  hero,  in  an  ea5t3rn  city,  where 
Europeaoa  h^  first  permanently  settled^  amongst  a  race  differing 
from  them,  in  language,  compl^on,  and  creed,  lu  a  State,  where 
violence  had  hitherto  not  been  ineted  out,  in  revenge  for  imputed 
treacboy.  In  a  laud  uoted  for  its  i\atun4  prodi^ctioqs,  its  spices^ 
its  oils,  its  gold,  and  its  precious  stones, 

His  f  unmral  although  prinoely,  was  hardly  virorthy  of  such  a  man  ; 
thirteen  yean  subsequently,  in  conformity  with  his  own  expressed 
wishes,  and  those  of  his  Savereigu,  his  ren^ains  were  removed  to 
Portugal,  where  they  rest  amongH  the  famous  and  noble,  of  th(4t 
formeily  great  aqd  enterprising  ui^tioiv 

Before  De  Qama's  death,  be  sent  for  L|0pe  Vi»  de  Sampayo,  the 
Offieial  next  in  rauk  to  himself  in  Cochin,  and  stating  that  he  felt 
his  end  approaohing,  he  appointed  him  his  ten\porary  successor, 
and  delivered  into  bis  hands,  an  envelope  sealed  with  the  Royal 
Arms  of  King  John  III  of  Portng^il,  and  having  the  following  su- 
persoription.  ''  To  remain  unopened,  until,  (which  may  the  Al- 
^  mighty  forbid,)  Don  Vasco  de  Qoma,  Viceroy  and  High  Admind 
"  of  the  Indies,  shall  have  departed  this  life." 

After  De  Gama's  demise  was  certified,  the  Head  Officials  of  Cochin, 
met  in  the  principal  Church,  where  Sampayo  now  Provisional  Viceroy, 
broke  the  seal  of  the  document  entrusted  to  his  care.  It  was  found  to 
contain  the  nominations  of  three  successive  Viceroys.  The  first  ap- 
pointed Don  Enrique  de  Meneses,  as  De  Gama's  immediate  successor. 
The  other  two  were,  un-read,  re-sealed,  and  deposited  in  safe  keeping. 


104  DISPUTES   BEiPECTING   GOVERNORSHIP. 

On  the  following  xnorning,  Sampayo  dispatched  a  letter  to  Ooa 
where  Menezes  then  was,  to  mform  him  of  De  Gama's  death,  and 
his  nomination  as  his  snecessor :  on  receiving  which,  he  immediately 
left  for  Cochin,  and  assumed  the  reins  of  GoTenunent 

At  this  period  the  Samorin  again  became  very  troublesome,  and 
besieged  the  Portuguese  Fort  at  Calicut  The  Garrison  was  reduced 
to  great  distress,  but  subsequently  receiving  reinforcements  from 
Cochin,  the  Nairs  were  beaten  off,  and  forced  to  retire.  As  this 
Fort  was  not  considered  of  importance,  equivaloat  to  the  amount  of 
expenditure  and  danger  incurred  in  its  maintenance,  it  was  evacuated 
and  blown  up. 

In  February  1526,  Meneses  ezpued  at  Canna&oie.  He  left  a  pa- 
per detailing  the  mode  of  Government,  which  he  advised  should  be 
adopted  after  his  death.  This  was  unfortunately  lost,  but  he  was 
believed  to  have  named  the  Governor  of  Goa,  as  his  Proviuonal 
successor. 

The  second  royal  nomination  was  now  opened,  when  it  was  found, 
that  Pedro  de  Mascarenhas,  was  appointed  to  fill  the  vacant  office,  but 
as  he  was  away  at  Malacca,  it  was  decided  to  open  the  third  paper, 
and  Sampayo  next  in  rotation,  was  appointed  acting  Governor,  after 
taking  an  oath  to  deliver  up  charge  to  Mascarenhas,  on  hk  arrival  in 
India, 

But  having  held  the  keys  of  power  for  several  months,  Sampayo 
did  not  feel  inclined  to  resign  them.  On  learning  that  Mascarenhas 
might  shortly  be  expected  in  Cochin,  he  assembled  the  council,  who 
according  to  his  wishes,  decided  that  Mascarenhas  was  not  to  be  in- 
stalled as  Governor.  Sampayo  sailed  for  Goa,  leaving  Alphonso 
Mexia  in  charge  of  Cochin,  with  strict  orders  to  carry  out  tiie  deci- 
sion of  the  CouncU,  and  permit  no  assumption  of  power  by  Mascaren- 
has, who  on  landing  unarmed,  was  attacked  and  wounded  by  Mexia. 
He  retreated  to  his  vessel,  and  immediately  sailed  for  Goa,  to  seek 
some  explanation  from  Sampayo,  of  this  extraordinary  reception.  On 
his  arrival,  he  was  arrested,  and  retained  in  irons,  until  reference  had 
been  made  to  Portugal  On  the  decision  arriving  from  Europe,  it 
was  found,  that  Mascarenhas  was  recalled,  and  Sampayo  confirmed  in 
the  Government 

In  October  1529,  Nunho  d'  Acunha  landed  at  Goa,  as  Viceroy.     He 


HAA8H  TBBATMBNT  OF  SAJCPATO.  105 

entered  the  dty  with  much  pomp  and  ceremony,  but  shortly  after- 
wards left  for  Cochin,  stopping  **  en  route*'  at  Oannanore,  where 
BBmpajo  came  on  board,  and  formally  resigned  his  office  :  but  on  lua 
wishing  to  retam  to  the  town>  Nnnho  reluaed  him  permission,  in- 
forming him  thi^  he  was  a  prisoner,  and  must  proceed  to  Cochin,  to 
answer  any  accusations  which  might  be  made  against  him.  A  pro- 
damation  was  then  issued,  calling  on  all- who  had  any  complaints  to 
make  against  the  late  Governor,  to  bring  them  before  the  present  one, 
who  was  anxious  to  redress  all  grioTances.  Sampayo  protested 
against  this  proceeding,  aU^ging  that  in  India,  and  especially  in 
Cochin,  it  was  quite  unneeessary  to  assemble  people  by  the 
sound  of  a  trumpet^  to  make  fake  accusations  against  Government 
Qfficiala.  Sampayo  was  imprisoned,  and  all  his  eflEects,  sealed 
up  and  seut  to  Lislxm  to  the  King.  When  token  into  custody,  he 
made  the  foUowing  remark  to  an  Officer,  "  tell  the  new  Governor, 
**  that  I  formerly  imprisoned  others,  he  imprisons  me,  but  I  can 
''ioratd,  that  one  will  arrive,  who  will  imprison  him."  To  this 
Nunho  replied,  "  I  may  be  imprisoned,  but  I  will  never  deserve  it, 
and  Sampayo  does."  The  latter  was  subsequently  sent  to  Europe, 
in  a  worthless  vessel,  with  only  a  few  attendants,  and  barely  suf- 
ficient provisions  for  tiie  voyage. 

He  landed  at  Lisbon  in  irons,  and  for  two  years  was  confined 
in  a  dungeon  in  the  castle,  in  company  with  the  Visier  of  Ormus. 
He  was  then  tried  for  his  unjust  treatment  of  Mascarenhas,  and 
sentenced  to  forfeit  all  his  allowauces  as  Governor,  to  pay  Masca- 
renhas a  compensation  of  10,000  ducats,  and  to  be  banished  to  Af- 
rica. He  however  escaped  into  Spain,  where  he  denaturalised  him- 
9iM,  and  then  wrote  to  the  king,  sajring,  that  he  had  left  an  ungrate 
fnl  country,  which  had  rewarded  his  deeds  with  ingratitude,  and 
his  honourable  actions  with  dishonourable  treatment:  that  henoe- 
forth  as  a  Spaniard,  he  would  endeavour  to  blot  out  the  slur  cast 
upon  him,  as  a  Native  of  Portugal  The  King  consequently  rever- 
sed his  previous  decision,  and  Sampayo  returned  to  his  Native 
coimtry. 

Nunho  commenced  lus  Vice-royalty,  by  endeavouring  to  conciliate 
all  parties,  especially,  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  who  had  been  much 
annoyed  by  the  conduct  of  his  inunediate  predecessors,  and  whom 

0 


106  NUKflO  DIES  OK  HOMEWABD   PASSAGE. 

he  fonnd  k«pt  as  a  prisoner  in  his  own  palace,  and  like  every  other 
Prince  in  alliance  with  Portngid,  a  victim  to  injustice  and  oppression. 
He  redressed  grieranoes,  and  by  governing  with  justioe  and  impar- 
tiality, restored  the  trade  and  prosperity,  of  Fortngaese  India. 

About  1531,  the  Samorin  finding  the  Portnguese  power  increas- 
ing, became  really  anxions  to  conclude  a  peace  with  them,  and  pre- 
sented thein  with  a  piece  of  ground  at  Chaul,  on  which  to  build  a 
Fort.  The  Sultan  of  Ouzerat,  and  the  Emperor  of  Delhi,  being  at 
war,  the  Portuguese  agreed  to  assist  the  former,  provided  IMn  was 
made  over  to  them ;  this  was  acceded  to,  but  a  disagreement  .lubse- 
quently  arose  about  some  of  the  terms,  and  in  1537,  a  meeting  was 
arranged,  between  Nunho  and  the  Quserat  monardi,  Bahadoor  Shah. 

Mutual  distrust  prevailed,  and  therefore  the  conference  was  held 
in  boats.  But  notwithstanding  this  precaution  a  disturbance  arose, 
and  the  Sultan  met  with  a  violent  death ;  some  assert  that  he  was 
shot  by  the  Portuguese,  others  that  he  was  only  stunned  by  an  oar, 
and  subsequently  dispatched  by  a  halbert  At  any  rate,  a  long 
and  disastrous  war  resulted. 

In  1533,  all  Governors  of  Forte,  and  dependencies,  in  Portuguese 
India,  were  ordered  to  take  an  oath  of  obedience,  to  the  Governor- 
General.  In  November  1538,  Nunho  was  relieved  by  Don  Garcia 
de  Noronhft,  who  treated  lus  predecessor  in  a  most  insulting  manner, 
and  even  refused  him  a  vessel  in  which  to  i»oeeed  to  Europe,  oUig- 
ing  him  to  hire  a  merchant  ship  for  that  puipoea  Nunho's  mind 
became  much  depressed,  at  the  unworthy  treatment  he  received,  and 
still  more  so,  at  what  he  anticipated  might  be  in  store  for  him,  when 
he  arrived  in  Portugal;  the  prophetic  words  of  Sampayo,  appeared 
never  absent  from  his  mind,  and  he  died  on  his  homeward  voyage, 
with  his  last  breath  desiring,  that  Ids  body  should  be  thrown 
into  the  sea,  and  not  be  conveyed  to  his  ungrateful  county.* 

In  1539,  a  peace  was  concluded  with  the  Samorin,  whidi  lasted 

*  Paichi  Marcar  a  powerful  Moor  of  Cochin,  sent  forces  to  the  assistance  of 
Bhuwaneka  Bahu,  V II,  a  Ceylon  King^  to  aid  him  against  the  Portuguese,  but 
they  were  intercepted  and  dispersed.  In  1540,  the  Samorin  in  oonjunctioa  with 
this  same  Moor,  sent  further  assistance  to  the  same  Ceylon  King.  Paic^ 
Marcar*8  head,  and  those  of  his  chiefs,  were  finally  made  a  present  to  the  Portu- 
guese, by  their  obliged  friend  the  Ceylon  King,  who  thus  purchased  peace  for 
himseU, 


XXYVOL  ABBIVBS  VX  IHDIA.  107 

for  thirty  yeara,  greatly  to  the  benefit  of  both  the  odntraeting  per- 
ties.  Ob  the  death  of  the  Yioeroy,  whieh  oee«rred  «t  Qotk,  to  the 
great  joy  of  all  cla»)e3  in  ladia,  Martiii  Alphoneo  de  Sonaey  was 
found  to  be  iKMainated  as  hit  sacoeasor,  but  as  he  had  d^iarted  for 
Portugal,  the  next  on  the  list^  Don  Stephaao  de  Qama,  the  son  of 
the  iamom  Don  Vasca»  saoceeded  to  the  Yioe-royalty,  in  April  1540, 
Weil  aware  of  the  false  aecasatioiis  to  which  his  position  would 
expose  him,  and  perceiving  the  exhansted  state  at  the  tressnryy  he 
had  his  private  fortune  pnUicly  Tslmed,  before  taking  up  the  ap- 
peintment.  He  foonded  the  College  of  Santa  F€  at  Gois  for  the 
iastruction  of  eonyerted  heathen  yoaths,  and  appointed  the  Vicar 
Gcaeial,  Michsel  Vas  as  first  lector. 

In  11^43,  Dim  Martin  Alphoaso  de  Sonsa*  arrived  at  Qoa»  as  Qo- 
vernor-General,  and  with  his  fleet,  on  board  the  '^Quilon,''  was 
the  celebmted  Frandsco  Xavier,  one  of  the  first  of  the  society  of 
Jesuits,  and  it  would  have  been  weU,  had  his  example  of  earn- 
est seal  ia  the  propagation  of  Christianity^  and  the  welfare  of 
the  heathen,  been  followed  hj  his  successors.  The  profligate 
auoners  of  the  Portuguese,  had  been  strongly  represented  to  the 
King  of  Portugal,  as  causing  much  ii^ury  to  their  advancement  in 
India,  and  preventing  the  Natives  from  embracing  Christianity,  and 
he  learnt  to  his  surprise  end  sorrow,  that  Christian  shtves,  were  fre- 
quently sold  to  heathen  masters,  who  compelled  them  to  change 
their  religion  for  idobtry.  At  this  period,  the  worship  of  idols,  was 
tolerated  at  Gk»a,  where  the  Brahmans  were  very  insolent  The 
Bajah  of  Codiin  confiscated  the  property  of  any  of  his  subjects, 
who  became  Christians,  and  Xavier  found  tiiat  the  idolatrous  prinoes 
made  mar^rrs  of  them  by  violent  persecution,  and  the  Portuguese 
Officials,  by  their  disgraceful  conduct,  caused  many  to  apostatise 
Christian  purity  had  not  been  introduced  by  Europeans,  but  on  the 
contrary,  they  had  adopted  the  vicious  customs  of  the  heathen. 
Xavier*s  preaching,  and  his  Christian  example,  first  caused  a  benefi- 
cial change. 

De  Game's  successor  arrived  in  the  dead  of  the  night,  and  sent 
at  once,  desiring  him-  to  deliver  over  charge.  Indignant  at  being 
aroused  f nnn  his  bed  for  such  a  purpose,  be  sent  back  a  message, 
which  was  neither  condUatoiy  nor  polite.     De  Sousa's  first  action 


108  PAY  OF  TKOOPS  CUETAttK0* 

was  to  diBunicdi  the  pay  of  the  flohUers,  this  caused  much  diaoon- 
t«nt>and  the  next  time  they  went  into  action,  they  declined  obeying 
an  mder  to  adrance,  saying,  ^*  the  rich  gentry  might  march  if  they 
'*  would,  but  that  they  only  came  to  make  up  by  plunder,  the  pay  of 
**  which  they  had  been  uiQUstly  deprived.''  De  Sousa  taunted  them, 
with  being  unlike  their  brave  ancestors ;  to  which  the  mutineers  re- 
plied, that,  ^  the  men  were  the  same,  but  the  Gbvemor  was  changed, 
"  and  that  their  conduct  was  the  result^  of  his  decreasing  their  pay, 
''to  enable  him  to  give  gratuities^  to  those  who  knew  better  how 
**  to  b^  favours^  thiui  to  deserve  them."  De  Souaa  subsequently  be- 
came cdebrated  as  a  great  Pagoda  robber.  In  1545,  he  was  obliged 
to  resign  his  command,  as  the  Native  Princes^  formed  a  confederacy 
against  him,  and  his  own  people  hated  him,  in  consequence  of  the 
reduction  of  their  pay,  and  other  unpopular  acts. 

His  snecessor  Juan  de  Castro,  was  a  most  meritorious  Gbvemor, 
under  him  justice  was  equitably  admimstered,  and  commerce  protect- 
ed. The  Portuguese  may  be  eeid  in  de  Castro's  time,  to  have  reach- 
ed the  enmmit  of  their  Eastern  power  and  glory.  He  cUed  in  1548, 
and  left  the  following  record  of  his  countrymen.  ^  I  dare  not  govern 
'*  India,  by '  men  who  are  so  changed  from  truth  and  honour. 
'*  The  Portuguese  entered  India,  with  the  sword  in  one  hand,  and 
^'  the  crucifix  in  the  other  :  finding  much  gold,  they  laid  aside  the 
"  <arucifiz  to  fiU  theur  pockets."  When  his  effects  were  examined, 
three  rials  and  a  bloody  scourge,  were  all  that  could  be  found.  Qra- 
cia  de  Sa  succeeded  him,  but  died  suddenly  in  July  1549  :  durii^ 
his  brief  rule,  Jesuit  Missions  to  the  East  were  established  by 
Xavier.     De  Sa  was  succeeded,  by  Qeorge  Cal»^. 

In  1550,  the  Samorin  and  the  Rajah  of  Pimi^ta,  attadced  the 
B%jah  of  Cochin^  who  was  assisted  by  600  Portuguese,  und«  the  com- 
mand of  Francisco  de  Sylva,  the  commandant  of  the  Fort  at  Cochin. 
In  the  engagement  which  ensued,  the  Rajah  of  Pimienta  was.  killed, 
but  his  men  subsequently  rallied,  and  De  Sylva  and  fifty  of  his 
troops  were  skin.  The  Samorin  at  the  head  of  14,000  men,  then 
marched  towards  Cochin,  but  was  kept  in  check,  until  the  Qovemor- 
General  Cabral  arrived,  which  he  did  shortly  afterwards,  at  the  head 
of  6,000  Portuguese,  and  40,000  Nairs,  belonging  to  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin  :  just  as  he  was  about  attacking  the  enemy,  Cabral  received 


BXFBDITIOK  TO  CSYLOK.  109 

orders  to  desis^  fran  all  mililMy  operations,  by  Don  Alphonao  de 
Nofonfam,  who  hjid  in  the  meantime  arriyed  from  PortngaL  to  eif per* 
sede  him.  A  l^giaktiTe  oooncil  was  now  instituted,  which  greatly 
coTtailed  the  aathoiity  of  the  ^cecoys.  In  February  1550,  a  town 
near  'Cochin  was  attacked  by  8,000  Naira,  bat  they  were  repulsed 
by  the  Portugneae,  who  lost  fifty  men.  Pirates  were  about  this  time 
very  trouUesome,  frequently  attacking  the  Portuguese  vessels.  On 
their  complaining  to  the  Sonorin,  he  advised  them  to  punish  them, 
if  they  could 

About  this  time^  the  Portuguese  built  the  Rajah  of  Oochin  a  palace 
at  Muttencherry,  which  they  presented  to  him.  In  1557/  at  the  re- 
quest of  Sabastian,  King  of  Portugal,  one  of  the  Churches  in  Oochin, 
called  St,  Onz,  or  Santa  Crux,  ^JTofy  Cromjwss  raised  to  the  digni« 
ty  of  a  Cathedral,  by  Pope  Pius  IV,  and  a  Dominican  elevated  to 
the  post  of  Bishop. 

A  succession  of  Governors  now  followed,  of  whom  there  u  litQe 
to  reootd,  as  the  Portuguese  possessions  were  at  that  time  in  a  state 
irf  comparative  tranquillity.  It  seems  to  have  been  the  rule,  for  each 
GovenM^-Oeneral  to  quarrel  with,  and  malign  his  predecessor,  fre- 
quently sending  in  charges  against  him  to  the  King :  some  of  them 
left  India  as  prisoners,  others  died  of  grief,  and  most  in  a  forced  re- 
tirement 

In  1560,  Don  Oonstantine  de  Braganxa  was  "^ceroy  ;  he  fitted  out 
an  armament  against  the  people  of  Jaffna  in  Ceylon,  to  revenge  the 
persecutions  to  which  the  Native  Christians  were  subjected.  It 
was  accompanied  by  the  Bishop  of  Cochin,  who  before  the  town 
was  assaulted,  performed  mass,  and  granted  numerous  plenary  indul- 
gences for  those  soldiers  who  should  fight  valiantly,  and  a  general 
absolution  to  all  who  should  fall.  The  tooth  of  Bhudda  was  now 
captured,  and  the  king  of  Pegu  fruitlessly  offered  a  fabulous  price 
for  its  rans(Hn.  The  Civil  and  Military  powers  wished  to  accede  to 
his  terms,  in  order  to  replenish  the  exhausted  treasury.  But  th^ 
Priests  forbad  it,  the  tooth  was  placed  in  a  mortar,  ground  to  pow* 
der,  then  burnt,  and  the  ashes  strewn  over  the  sea. 

In  1564,  during  the  Vicer5yalty  of  Don  Antonio  de  Noronha, 
Cannanore  was  beseiged  by  Nairs,  but  they  were  driven  off  by  the 
Portuguese,  who  adopted  the  inhuman  revenge  of  cutting  down 


110  BivisxoN.  OF  ^astehn  possessions. 

40,000  coooanut  trees.  They  appear  frequently  to  have  punished 
the  Natives  in  this  way,  thereby  entailing  great  suffering  upon  many 
innocent  perscms,  as  these  trees  constituted  their  principal  means  of 
subsistence.  It  is  remarkable,  that  when  Native  states  waged  war 
on  each  other,  these  plantations  were  regarded  as  sacred,  and  never 
injured. 

In  1567,  the  great  poet  Camoens,  (who  sang  the  praises  of  Cochin 
in  verse,)  having  served  sixteen  years  in  India,  without  obtaining 
anything  worthy  of  hb  acceptance,  although  he  had  been  promised 
much,  was  desirous  of  returning  to  Portugal :  the  Governor,  how- 
ever wished  to  retain  him  in  India,  and  therefore  imprisoned  him 
for  an  imputed  debt  of  200  ducats,  but  his  friends  came  forward,  and 
piiid  the  amount,  when  he  sailed  safely  away.  Even  to  the  present 
time,  his  Ludad  is  highly  admired  in  Cochin,  by  those  of  Portu- 
guese descentb 

About  this  time,  a  merchant  <rf  Venice^  Caesar  Frederick,  visited 
Cochin,  and  has  left  an  account  of  the  trade^  which  was  then  carried 
on.  It  consisted  principally  of  pepper,  ginger,  cinnamon,  (this  must 
have  been  the  Cassia)  areca,  and  coir.  The  pepper  is  stated  to  have 
been  of  an  inferior  description,  unripe,  and  full  of  dirt,  in  conse- 
quence of  the  price  paid  for  it  being  fixed  at  a  low  permanent  rate. 
Any  person  who  married  and  settled  in  Cochin,  received  some  office 
or  employment,  according  to  his  trade.  The  married  citissn  paid 
no  duty  on  sugar,  or  silk,  but  on  all  other  articles,  4  per  cent  to  the 
Eajah  of  Cochin,  who  charged  duty  according  to  the  valuation  placed 
by  the  owners,  on  their  own  articles.  The  bachelors  paid  8  per  oent. 
on  everything,  to  the  King  of  Portugal 

In  1571,  the  Portuguese  possessions  in  the  East,  were  divided 
into  three  portion^),  designated  India,  Monomotapa,  and  Malacca. 
The  Viceroy  of  India,  Dan  Antonio  de  Noronha,  returned  from  Lis- 
bon, with  a  fleet  carrying  4,000  men,  one  half  of  whom  died  of  sick- 
ness on  the  voyage.  He  was  of  a  very  avaricious  disposition,  and 
declined  allowing  the  new  Qovernor  of  Malacca,  Barreto,  the  money 
required  for  the  Government.  Barreto,  consequently  refused  to  go 
there,  and  sent  a  complaint  to  Portugal  The  Govemmsnt  of  which 
country,  despatched  Francisco  de  Sousa  to  Goa,  with  a  sealed  packet, 
which  he  was  directed  to  deliver  to  the  Archbishop,    before  he 


riBST  SPANISH  OOVERKOB.  Ill 

^ited  the  Qoyemor.  This  packet  was  opened  in  the  ArchiepiBco- 
pal  church,  and  publicly  read  by  a  common  crier,  when  to  the  gene- 
mi  astonishment  and  indignation,  it  was  found  that  the  Home  Oo^ 
vemment^  without  waiting  for  any  justification  which  the  Qovemor 
might  have  to  give,  had  on  the  sole  complaint  of  Barreto,  superseded 
him,  and  given  his  appointment  to  his  accuser.  Barreto  was  succeed' 
ed,  by  Don  Diego  de  Meneses,  in  1576. 

In  1577,  the  Jesuits  at  Cochin,  published  a  translation  of  Giovanni 
Oonsalvez's  book  on  Christian  worship,  [Doctrina  ChridiaHo]  in 
Tamil,  and  other  works  appear  to  have  been  printed  for  the  use  of 
the  Fishermen,  on  the  pearl  fishery  coast  In  1578,  they  printed 
the  Floi  Saneiorum  in  the  same  characters.*  In  this  year  Spain 
having  subdued  Portugal,  Indian  affairs  became  less  attended  to,  and 
the  Portuguese  date  their  decline  from  this  period.  Rve  years  pre- 
viously, Mesquito  having  been  directed  toseek  satisfaction foran insult 
offered  to  a  Portuguese  vessel,  scoured  the  coast  of  MaUbar,  seizing 
many  Native  vessels,  the  crews  of  which  he  sewed  up  in  their  own 
sails,  and  deposited  in  the  ocean.  The  relations  and  friends  of 
the  victims,  travelled  from  place  to  place,  exhorting  all  to  rise  and 
revenge  their  murdered  countiymen,  and  a  solemn  league  was  then 
Icmned,  to  extirpate  the  Portuguese  from  India ;  war  commenced 
in  1580,  and  was  carried  on  with  disastrous  eflfects,  for  some  time. 
The  confederates  consisted  of  the  Samorin,  the  Rajahs  of  Qucerat, 
and  Acheen,  and  some  other  princes.  It  is  needless  to  enlaige  upon 
the  many  engagements,  and  desperate  fighting,  which  ensued,  as  it 
did  not  extend  so  far  south  as  Cochin.  The  confederated  Princes, 
were  eventually  defeated  by  the  Portuguese,  and  peace  established. 

In  1581,  Don  Francisco  Mascarenhas,  came  out  as  Qovemor  of  In- 
dia, being  the  first  appointed  by  the  Spanish  authorities.  In  1584, 
he  was  superseded  by  Don  Duarte  de  Menezes,  who  on  arriving  at 
Cochin,  found  that  the  Portuguese  had  seised  the  Rtyah's  customs 
house,  and  refused  to  restore  him  the  duties  there  levied.  He  enter- 
ed into  an  accommodation,  and  matters  re-assumed  thm  old  footing. 
Menezes  died  in  May  1588,  and  was  succeeded  by  Emanuel  de  Sousa 
Coutinno.     In  1590,  Mathias  de  Albuquerque,  who  had  been  greatly 

*  In  1679,  at  Ambakcate,  ou  the  Malabar  coast,  they  published  a  Tamil  Die' 
tioa«ry,  wiitteQ  by  Father  Aatooio  de  Procuza. 


112  MEKEZES  COMES  TO   COCHIK. 

beloved  as  an  Indian  officer,  oame  out  as  Vioeroj,  and  was  so  haugh- 
ty and  arrogant,  that  he  rendered  himself  detested  by  alL 

In  1594,  a  bull  arrived  from  the  Pope,  called  ''the  bull  of  Crusade," 
''commanding  the  Portuguese  to  reduce  the  infidels  of  the 
country,  to  the  faith,  by  force  of  arms.*'  This  device  was  only  a 
new  pretext,  to  sanction  the  plundering  of  Pagodas,  which  were  the 
repositories  of  Hindu  treasures. 

In  1597,  Vasco  de  Gatna^sjgrandson,  became  Viceroy,  and  the 
same  year  news  arrived,'  that  two  Dutch  vessels  had  rounded  the 
Cape,  and  appeared  off  the  Coast  of  India.  Orders  were  immediate- 
ly issued,  to  attack  them''  wherever  they  could  be  found,  one  was 
destroyed,  and  the  other  wrecked.  But  on  the  following  year,  a 
fleet  of  eight  vessels  left  Holland  for  India,  each  with  eight  hundred 
men  on  board,  and  three  years'  supply  of  provisions.  Admiral  Van 
Nee,  commanded  the  expedition,  which  succeeded  in  establishing  a 
trade  at  Amboyna,  as  well  as  a  Factory  at  Baroda. 

In  1598,  Cuneale  Fort  was  attacked,  by  the  combined  forces  of 
the  Samorin,  and  the  Portuguese,*  but  they  were  defeated,  and  300 
Europeans  slain.  However,  on  the  following  year,  it  was  surrender- 
ed on  the  promise,  that  the  lives  of  the  Qarrison  should  be  spared; 
but  when  the  Rajah  of  Cuneale  landed  at  GkMU  with  40  men,  the  lat- 
ter were  torn  to  pieces  by  the  mob,  and  the  B^jah  and  his  Nephew 
publicly  beheaded,  by  the  order  of  the  Viceroy,  because  it  was  assert- 
ed, that  he  had  taken  the  title  of  "  Defender  of  the  Mahomedan 
"  faith,  and  conqueror  of  the  Portuguese.'* 

In  1599,  the  famous  Don  Alexis  de  Menezes,  Archbishop  of  Qoa, 
landed  in  Cochin,  where  he  was  received  in  great  state,  by  the  Gk)ver- 
nor,  the  Bishop,  and  all  the  officials.  The  Town  Council  immediate- 
ly assembled,  when  Menezes  called  on  them  to  begin  manifesting 
their  zeal  for  the  Christian  faith,  by  reducing  the  Mahomedan  for- 
tress of  Cuneale,  which  he  designated  a  nest  of  pirates.  He  soon 
commenced  his  visitation  amongst  the  clergy,  cmd  the  Synod  of 


*  The  Samorin  was  induced  to  join  in  an  alliance  with  the  Portuguese,  his 
old  enemies,  against  the  Rajah  of  Cuneale,  as  the  only  effect>ial  means  he  had 
of  punching  one,  who  had  taken  upon  himself,  the  titles  of,  King  of  the  Mala- 
bar  MoorSt  &nd  Lord  of  tJie  Indian  teas,  and  who  had  also  cruelly  ill-treated 
a  Nair,  and  dared  to  cut  off  the  tail  of  an  elephant ! 


GOVimNllEyT  OFnCES   SOLD  BY  ATJCTIOK.  113 

INamper,  (the  death  blow  to  the  Syrian  Church  for  nearly  100 
years,)  was  shortly  afterwards  convened.  Subsequently  he  unsuc- 
cessfully attempted  the  conversion  of  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  and 
immediately  afterwards,  raised  the  Rajah  of  Porca,  to  the  rank  of  a 
Prince,  and  by  conferring  on  him  the  title  of  **  Brother  in  Amu 
to  the  King  of  PartttpaL*'  This  gave  great  offence  to  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin,  the  only  Maha  Rajah  in  the  neighbourhood.  About  this 
time,  the  Samorin  first  permitted  the  Portuguese,  to  erect  churches, 
and  forward  the  christian  religion,  in  his  territories. 

In  1600,  De  Qama  was  superceded  by  Ayres  de  Saldanna,  the 
former  was  so  universally  detested  by  his  countrymen,  that  they 
even  destroyed  the  statue  of  his  celebrated  grandfather,  which  had 
been  erected  at  Coa.  An  efSgy  of  the  late  Qovemor,  was  hung  at 
the  yard  arm  of  his  own  vessels,  and  even  the  fowls  he  had  provided 
for  his  voyage,  were  poisoned.  Twenty  years  afterwards,  he  re- 
turned as  Viceroy. 

In  1607,  the  Portuguese  who  were  suffering  reverses  in  their  con- 
test with  the  Dutch,  learned  that  two  English  vessels  had  arrived 
in  India,  they  attempted  to  take  them,  but  were  unsuccessful,  and 
the  ships  reached  Surat  in  safety.*  In  this  year  also,  the  celebrated 
Alexias  de  Menezes,  Archbishop  of  Qoa,  became  Viceroy.  From 
ihiB  period,  little  of  note  occurred  in  Codiin,  from  1619  to  1622, 
Herman  de  Albuquerque  who  was  Viceroy,  at  that  time  never  once 
received  any  letter  of  instruction  or  information,  from  the  Court  of 
Spain,  though  attacked  by  the  Dutch,  as  well  as  by  the  EngUsh  and 
Natives  at  Ormuz,  from  which  they  were  finally  expelled :  they  ob- 
tained no  assistance  from  Europe,  but  were  left  to  fight  their  own 
battles  as  they  could. 

About  this  time  the  Qovemment  at  Madrid;  directed  the  Qovemor 
to  dispose  of  all  C^vil  and  Military  appointments  by  public  sale,  in 
order  to  raise  money  for  the  support  of  his  Government.  The  title 
of  Don  was  sold  for  a  few  hundred  dollars,  and  all  who  could  raise 
the  money  availed  themselves  of  the  honour.    A  silver  plate  was 

*  Hoena  in  his  Kemorial  says,  **  the  Samorin  made  a  contract  with  Admiral 
'*  Peter  Willem  Verhoeven,  under  date  16th  November,  1608,  when  he  was 
"  compelled  by  that  Admiral,  to  besiege  the  town  of  Cochin,  which  was  la  the 
« luads  of  the  PortugueM.*' 

F 


114  DUTCH   POWER  BECJOMES  MANIFEST. 

taken  by  the  Governor  on  which  was  the  person's  name,  with  the 
title  of  Don  prefixed  to  it:  this  H.  K  bound  with  his  own  hand  to 
the  individual's  forehead,  and  ordered  him  to  rise  Don .  Enor- 
mous sums  were  thus  collected  Subsequently  the  Dutch  sold  this 
Portuguese  title  cheaper^  and  50,  25,  and  even  10  dollars  were  re- 
ceived as  an  equivalent  for  the  honour.  In  1627,  the  Bishop  of 
Cochin,  Don  Luis  de  Brito  succeeded  to  the  Viceroyalty,  but  died 
twenty  months  afterwards.  When  the  patents  of  succession  were 
opened,  it  was  found  that  Don  Lorenzo  de  Cunha,  was  appointed 
Civil  Governor  of  India,  and  Nunno  Alvarez  Pereyra,  to  the  Military 
command.  This  entailed  great  dissensions,  as  there  were  two  of 
the  latter  name,  who  were  thought  equally  eligible  for  the  appoint- 
ment. It  was  finally  settled,  by  its  being  recollected,  that  one  was  a 
Don,  the  other  was  not,  whilst  no  title  was  mentioned  in  the  patent. 
In  1639,  whilst  the  Archbishop  of  Goa  was  acting  Viceroy,  some 
Dutch  ships  sailed  up  to  Goa,  and  destroyed  the  Portuguese  vessels, 
lying  there:  in  the  succeeding  year,  Portugal  having  shaken  off  the 
Spanish  yoke,  more  attention  was  paid  to  Indian  affairs :  but  it  was 
too  late,  the  time  of  their  triumphs  had  gone  by,  and  the  glorious 
prestige  of  the  Portuguese  name,  had  departed  for  ever.  From  this 
period,  their  power  rapidly  declined,  divided  councils  led  to  divided 
actions,  and  defeat  consequently  ensued.  Although  individudly 
they  were  still  the  same  brave  and  gallant  race  of  soldiers  and  sail- 
ors as  their  forefathers  had  been,  suspicion  of  the  Government 
in  Portugal,  engendered  suspicion  of  that  in  the  East,  and  Officials 
knowing  that  they  themselves  would  be  judged  harshly,  appear  to 
have  meted  out  to  others,  the  same  amount  of  justice  they  antici- 
pated for  themselves. 

Persons  having  purchased  their  iU  paid  Government  appointments, 
became  grasping  and  mercenary,  not  probably  so  much  for  the  love 
of  money,  as  for  the  necessity  of  obtaining  it  for  their  expences  ; 
for  in  those  days.  Cochin  was  a  gay  city,  and  the  common  saying  was, 
"  China  is  a  good  place  to  make  money  in,  and  Cochin  to  spend  it  at." 
The  style  of  living  and  the  pay  were  consequently  incompatible,  and 
helping  themselves  was  a  necessity.  The  whole  nation  was  groan- 
ing under  priestly  dominion,  a  dominion  which  set  the  Bishop's 
mitre  before  the  King's  crown,  and  the  Church  before  the  State,  and 


DtJTCa  TAKB  VYPEKN.  115 

Woe  to  that  Qovernor,  who  should  dare  to  diflobey  the  mandate  of  a 
priest  This  people  who  aimed  at  an  Empire  in  India,  both  spiri- 
tual and  temporal,  at  wholesale  conyeraions  effected  bj  conviction, 
bribery,  fraud,  or  violence,  who  considered  no  expenditure  too  large 
to  effect  tiieir  object,  whose  self-love  had  alienated  all  friends,  and 
injustioe  created  many  enemies,  were  now  on  the  eve  of  resigning 
their  authority  to  otiiers. 

Another  power  was  now  to  become  predominant  in  the  East,  ano- 
ther race  was  to  tiy  their  hand  at  supremacy,  and  another  religion 
to  be  introduced.  The  Portuguese  had  become  objects  of  aversion 
to  their  old  allies,  the  Princes  of  Cochin,  as  they  had  deposed  the 
Bajah,  and  created  his  Aunt,  the  Ranee. 

Hie  Dutch  beginning  to  dislike  the  interference  of  the  Mogul,  and 
<^er8  at  Surat,  wished  to  establish  a  settlement  on  the  coast  of 
Malabar,  where  they  might  be  territorial  sovereigns,  as  well  as  tra- 
ders, without  being  subject  to  the  rapacious  exactions  of  the  Maho- 
medan  Government,  or  the  neighbourhood  of  their  successful  rivals, 
the  EnglisL  Cochin  appeared  a  suitable  spot,  so  they  determined 
to  try  and  dispossess  the  Portuguese,  and  occupy  it  themselves. 

In  1661,  the  Dutch  entered  into  an  agreement  with  the  Paliat 
Aehen,  hereditary  Chief  minister  to  the  Cochin  Bajah,  to  assist 
them  in  their  schemes.  **  When  the  Dutch  planned  the  conquest  of 
^  the  coast,  he  (the  Paliat  Achen)  materially  assisted,  and  met  Van 
'<  Goens,  12th  March  1661,  in  a  friendly  manner,  and  entered  into 
**  an  agreement,  the  purport  of  which  was,  that  as  the  Portuguese 
"  and  other  enemies  had  deprived  him  of  his  lands,  he  would  place 
*'  himself  entirely  under  the  protection  of  the  Dutch,  who  were  to  res- 
**  tore  him  by  force  to  his  territories,  whilst  he  was  to  obey  them 
*<  in  all  things.  This  agreement  was  dated  the  same  day  on  board 
the  ship  Be  Mtueaatboom,*  The  Dutch  troops  appeared  on  the 
northern  side  of  Cochin,  at  Vypeen,  where  Van  Qoens  fixed  his 
head  quarters  at  the  Bishop's  house,  and  strongly  fortified  the  Roman 
Catholic  Church.  Leaving  800  men  to  garrison  it,  Van  Goens  re- 
embarked  the  remainder  of  his  force,  and  landed  on  the  southern 
aide  of  the  town.  The  Rajah  of  Cochin  now  openly  asserted,  that  he 
«nd  the  Dutch  had  entered  into  an  alliance. 

*  Moens'  Memorial.    J>iUch  Oovtmm€nt  reeordt. 


116  imTCH  ATTACK  COCHIN. 

Van  Qoens  seized  a  church  to  the  aouihy  and  made  it  his  head 
quarters.  He  then  attacked  the  Ranee's  Palace  at  Mnttencheny, 
and  after  a  straggle,  succeeded  in  taking  it,  and  making  the  Ranee 
a  prisoner.  On  the  following  day,  the  Dutch  attacked  the  fort  of 
Cochin,  but  the  Officer  commanding  the  storming  party  was  kiUed;, 
and  they  retreated  in  confosion.  Regular  af^roaches  were  now 
opened,  bat  the  old  Portuguese  spirit  showed  itself,  and  the  garri- 
son bravely  defended  themselves  tor  several  weeks,  when  the  Rajah 
of  Porca,  came  to  their  assistance,  with  6,000  Natives,  and  the 
Dateh  determined  to  retreat. 

In  the  dead  of  the  night,  they  aocordin^y  embaiked  in  silence. 
When  the  morning  broke,  the  Portuguese  were  amazed  at  finding 
their  enemy's  camp  abandoned.  A  Jew  had  sounded  the  hours  as 
usual,  thereby  effectually  deceivipg  them,  and  preventing  any  sally 
on  their  part.  Seven  hundred  men  were  left  in  the  entrenchment 
at  Vypeen.     This  year  Tangicherry  fell  to  the  Dutch. 

As  the  Jews  had  favoured  their  enemies  the  Dutoh,  the  Portu- 
guese considered  it  necessary  to  punish  them,  to  prevent  the  recur- 
rence of  such  conduct,  and  therefore  immediately  on  the  siege  being 
raised,  they  plundered  Jew's  Town  oi  almost  all  it  contained,  at- 
tempted to  destroy  the  sync^ogue,  and  carried  off  the  Pentateuch, 
which  was  subsequently  in  1668  recovered  uninjured. 

The  absence  of  the  Dutch  was  but  temporary.  In  1662,  Cranga- 
nore  fell  to  them :  on  October  of  that  year,  they  returned  to  Cochin 
under  Hustart,  but  were  vigorously  met  by  the  Portugaese,  who  in 
vain  attempted  to  prevent  their  landing.  The  head  quarters  of  tlie 
Duteh  were  fixed  at  the  convent  of  St.  John,  the  destruction  of 
which  had  been  unsuccessfully  attempted  by  the  garrison.  Id  No- 
vember, Van  Goens  with  a  large  number  of  troops,  joined  the  beai^- 
ers,  but  the  garrison  bravely  determined  to  stand  a  siege. 

In  December,  the  Rajah  of  Porca,  arrived  with  a  large  native 
force  at  Ernacollom,  and  threw  supplies  into  the  Fort.  It  was 
therefore  determined  to  attack  him.  The  natives  under  Portuguese 
Officers,  met  their  foes  most  gallantly,  and  drove  them  back  with 
great  loss,  and  the  Duteh  were  compelled  to  brii^  up  fresh  troops 
before  the  Porca  Contingent  could  be  routed. 
But  the  Portuguese  still  held  out,  so  the  Dutch  with  the  assist* 


COCHIN  8UBKBKDXB8  TO  THB  DUTCH.  117 

ftuoe  of  the  troops  of  their  aUy  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  and  the  Paliat 
Achen,  delennined  on  stonning  the  Fort^  and  for  eight  days  and 
ni^tSy  were  enabled  to  keep  np  a  sacoession  of  assailants,  the  troops 
being  reiiered  every  three  honrs.  A  renuiant  of  the  glorious  valour 
of  the  early  Portuguese,  appears  to  have  animated  this  little  band 
of  their  descendants,  in  so  long  maintaining  such  an  obstinate  de- 
fence. At  length  when  the  Portuguese  Commandant  Pierre  de  Pou, 
found  that  no  assistance  could  reach  him,  that  his  Native  allies  had 
forsaken  him,  and  had  joined  the  new  European  power,  that  provi- 
sions were  becoming  very  scarce,  and  all  were  worn  out,  with  fatigue 
and  anxiety ;  he  capitulated,  and  the  Dutch  became  masters  of  Cochin, 
on  January  the  8th,  1663. 

Four  hundred  Topasses  who  were  not  included  in  the  terms  of 
thecapitulation,  "  on  discovering  the  omission,  and  knowing  the  cruel 
'*  and  licentious  character  of  the  Dutch  soldiery  in  India,  drew  up 
"  close  to  the  gate,  at  which  the  Portuguese  were  to  march  out,  and 
"  tiie  Dutch  to  enter,  declaring  that  if  equally  favourable  terms  were 
*^  not  granted  to  them,  as  to  the  Portuguese,  they  would  massacre 
**  them  all,  and  set  fire  to  the  town."  It  was  deemed  advisable  to 
accede  to  their  demands,  and  subsequently  some  of  them,  even  en- 
listed in  the  Dutch  service. 

At  this  period  the  English  hod  a  f  actoiy  in  Cochin,  but  the  Dutch 
on  taking  possession,  ordered  them  to  leave  forthwith;  they  according- 
ly withdrew  to  Ponany. 

The  day  after  the  capitulation,  a  frigate  arrived  from  Gk>a,  bringing 
the  information  that  peace  had  been  declared  between  Holland  and 
Portugal  The  Portuguese  naturally  felt  very  indignant,  at  the 
deceptibn  practised  upon  them,  but  the  Dutch  excused  themselves 
by  saying,  that  they  had  retaliated  in  kind,  the  trick  played  on  them 
a  few  years  previously  at  Pemambuco  in  Brazil,  by  the  Portuguese. 

Thus  fell  the  Portuguese  power  in  Hindustan,  and  though  the 
cruelty  of  its  rulers,  their  breaches  of  faith,  and  negation  of  the  rights 
of  otken,  cannot  be  extenuated,  still  the  times  in  which  they  lived 
may  be  pleaded  as  some  excuse,  and  their  loss  of  empire  as  an  atone- 
ment. 

It  has  been  usual  of  late  years,  to  draw  comparisons  between  the 
Portuguese  and  Dutch,  highly  detrimental  to  the  former  nation^ 


Il8  lUESULT  0^  l»OETtTOtr£SS  UtJLIL 

it  is  questionable  whether  facts  support  such  conclusions.  Hie 
Portuguese  language  is  spoken  in  every  town  of  note,  and  many 
villages,  from  Bombay  to  Cape  Comorin :  the  language  of  their  suc- 
cessors has  disappeared.  The  Romish  religion  yet  flourishes,  the 
Dutch  converts  as  a  rule,  have  seceded  to  Rome.  The  former  na- 
tion has  indelibly  left  her  mark  upon  the  people,  the  influence  of 
the  latter  has  vanished  as  a  passing  cloud* 

A  Portuguese  priest  at  Qoa,  being  vauntingly  asked  by  one  of 
the  newly  dominant  power,  "  when  do  you  imagine  the  sway  of  my 
'^  countrymen  will  melt  away  like  that  of  yours  in  India  V*  ^^  As 
soon*'  he  replied  **  as  the  wickedness  of  your  nation,  shall  exceed 
**  that  of  my  people  T* 


CHAPTER  IV. 


Origin  of  Dutch  power  in  India— Wars  with  Portuguese— Political  acta  in  Co- 
chin—Dutch Goveruord — Dutch  Clergy — Reduction  in  the  size  of  Cochin 
Fort— Diaputes  with  Samorin — Chetwye  Fort — Van  ImhoflF  arrives— Attack 
on  Travancore — Pepper  treaty  and  consequent  decline  of  Dutch  power  — 
Samorin  invades  Chetwye— Hyder  sands  friendly  letter —Hycler  arrives  at 
Cwnanore,  and  foreteU  British  supremacy  in  India — Proposes  olTtinaive  and 
defensire  aliance  with  the  Dutch — Dutch  supply  Hyder  with  arms  and  Ele- 
phants— Hyder  demands  free  passage  to  Travancore — Mysoreans  take  Chet- 
wye, relief  frustratetl— Dutch  propise  alliance  with  Hydir,  who  declines  — 
Tippoo— English  Commlsdioners — Rajah  of  Travancore  attomiits  annexing 
DatchQuilon — English  attack  Cochin — Capitulation — Dutch  become  pri- 
soners at  War— Dutch  inatitutions. 

The  Dutch  who  in  1663  became  masters  of  Cochin,*  commenced 
their  trade  and  settlements  in  Hindustan,  long  subsequent  to  the 
Fortugaese.  At  the  latter  end  of  the  sixteenth  century,  Philip  of 
Spain  prohibited  commerce  between  Holland  and  Lisbon,  which 
obstructed  the  people  of  the  former  country  from  obtaining  Indian 
spices,  which  they  had  previously  procured  through  that  channel. 

About  the  year  1595,  the  first  Dutch  fleet  appeared  in  the  Indian 
seas,  in  search  of  those  condiments  they  were  unable  to  purchase 
elsewhere.  A  Dutch  merchant  named  Houtman,  having  been  con- 
fined in  Lisbon  for  debt,  acquired  much  information  respecting  the 
Eastern  trade,  of  which  he  transmitted  a  full  account  to  his  country- 
men, then  engaged  in  their  struggle  against  Spain.  His  obaerva- 
tioDs  attracted  so  much  notice,  that  a  subscription  was  raised  to  liqui- 
date his  debts, on  which  he  returned  to  his  Native  land,  where  in  1594, 
he  assisted  in  the  organisation  of  the  Dutch  East  India  Company^ 
which  in  ths  course  of  the  next  year,  commenced  despatching  ships 
to  Hindustan. 

*  Cochin  in  the  Dutch  Recanh,  ia  said  to  have  been  called  Perimbaddapu, 
and  before  the  advent  of  the  Portaguese,  to  have  formed  a  portion  of  Repelim. 


120  DUTCH   POSSESSIONS  IN  WESTERN   INDIA. 

The  Naval  battles  in  the  Indian  seas,  between  the  Dutch  and  Per 
tuguese,  were  constant,  and  on  the  whole  disastrons  to  the  vessels  of 
the  latter  nation.  As  the  Dutch  supremacy  became  more  manifest, 
and  their  trade  augmented,  territorial  possessions  on  the  continent  of 
Hindustan,  became  a  necessity  to  them.  In  1604,  a  truce  for  12 
years  was  concluded,  between  Spain  and  Holland,  one  article  of  it 
recognised  the  right  of  the  latter,  to  share  in  the  Commerce  of  India. 
Still  the  vessels  of  the  rival  powers,  always  fought  when  they 
met. 

The  first  place  at  which  the  Dutch  established  themselves,  was  on 
the  Western  Coast  at  Cambaya,  as  early  as  1617  :  within  50  years, 
this  station  was  abandoned  as  unsuitable,  together  with  those  of 
Brodera,  and  Chircees,  both  of  which  had  been  taken  possession  of 
in  1620.  At  AhTtundbad^  the  Mahomedan  Capital  of  Guzerat,  they 
founded  a  factory  in  1618,  and  retained  it  until  1744,  but  as  it 
proved  unremunerative,  it  was  then  evacuated,  leaving  only  a  few 
Natives,  as  tenants  until  more  propitious  times,  should  enable  them 
to  return  and  reclaim  it. 

The  Dutch  possessions  in  Persia,  established  in  1622,  as  well  as 
their  other  factories  in  connection  with  them,  or  near  the  Western 
Coast  of  India^  were  subordinate  to  Surat,  until  1633,  when  the 
former  were  placed  directly  under  the  Supreme  Government  of  Ba- 
tavia.  Vingorla  fEU^tory  was  established  about  1655,  but  tiiere  were 
resident  Dutch  merchants  there,  as  early  as  1641.  The  Portuguese 
having  in  1640,  shaken  off  the  Spanish  yoke,  in  1646,  entered  into  a 
treaty  with  the  Dutch,  in  wliich  it  was  stipulated,  that  the  latter 
were  to  have  free  access  to  the  ports  of  the  former  until  1656,  and 
also  to  be  received  as  friends  in  all  their  settlements,  whilst  each  were 
to  retain  the  conquests  they  had  made. 

In  1667  the  various  factories,  and  possessions  in  Malabar,  and  on 
the  Western  Coast,  including  those  of  Quilon,  GuUi-Quilon,  Gran- 
ganore,  and  Cannanare,  were  placed  under  the  Cochin  command,  that 
fortress  having  become  the  seat  of  their  chief  power  in  India.  The 
reason  why  the  Dutch  desired  territorial  sovereignty,  has  been  alluded 
to  in  the  previous  chapter.  Cochin  formed  a  good  position,  where 
no  Native  powers  could  molest  them,  and  having  failed  in  their  at- 
tack on  Goa,  in  1660,  they  succeeded  in  taking  Cochin,  in  1663. 


istrtcn  UAxt  tssATits  -wttn  KxiGHBotnONa  btatsb.       121 

The  D«tdi  power  being  bow  finnly  estaUislied  in  Cochin^*  tlie^ 
tmned  their  alteatioB,  to  removing  eyeiytiung  they  considered  ob- 
stnwtiiye  to  their  role,  their  religion,  or  their  convenience.  After 
the  town  had  been  plnndered,  all  property  both  public  and  priTate» 
was  sequestered  by  tiie  Dutch  Company.  Any  inhabitant  who  wished 
toleavethe  place,  was  permitted  to  embark  forOoa,  t^erenudnder 
Wire  obliged  to  take  an  oath  of  allegiance  to  the  new  power.  The 
fort  and  houses  were  left  standing ^ub  before;  but  the  streets  were 
re-named.  The  Bomish  Churches,  with  the  exception  of  the  Cathe* 
dral  of  St  Cms,  or  Santa  Cruz,  were  destroyed,  as  the  latter  was 
required  as  a  store  house,  more  especially  for  sugar  from  Batavia^ 
and  cinnamon  from  Ce^^on :  as  well  as  nutmegs,  cloves,  iron,  cop« 
per,  cordage,  rice,  pepper,  and  other  articles;  its  tower  was  used 
asaflagstaC  The  church  o!  the  Franciscans,  was  employed  for 
the  celebration  of  the  services  of  the  Dutch  reformed  religion. 

The  Dutch  Qovemment  soon  commenced  entering  into  treaties 
with  the  neighbouring  Native  States.  On  Maroh  22nd,  1663,  ft 
treaty  t  was  concluded  witii  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  who  consented  to 
become  their  vassal,  and  by  which  according  to  Article  IX,  ^  all 
*^  Christians  were  placed  under  the  protection  of  the  Dutch  Company, 
'''the  article  stating,  that  all  are  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Com- 
"pany,  and  should  any  be  guilty  of  misbehaviour,  he  is  amenable 


•Mbik  of  the  IhUeh  Sovenment  records  of  Cochin,  nnmberiiig  maay  hundred 
volame^  are  itill  extant  in  the  Cutcheny.  Some  Are  efiiftoed  hy  time,  and  moxe 
matiUted  laj  inaecta.  Owing  to  T^luable  tranalationa  kindly  made,  by  O. 
PAIbec^m,  JStq,,  ana  the  uae  of  these  effected  by  a  former  Collector,  (OUphantJ 
nmdi  of  the  text  of  this  Chapter  haa  been  compiled  fromOifioial  aouroea, 
hitherto  anpmbliahed.  Each  Butch  GoTemor  left  a  Memorial  for  hia  aucceaaor, 
which  detailed  the  hiatory  of  hia  administration,  Sta,  likewiae  a  Diary  waa  kept„ 
m  wMqIi  all  important,  and  many  unimportant  eyent?  were  registered.  There 
woe  also  the  "letter  reoeiyed"  book,  and  the  "letter  despatched"  book.  The 
^Secret  reaolutbn  record''  the  tranalation  book  of  all  letters  from  the  neighbour- 
ing fiajahs,  the  Judicial,  and  Orphanage  records,  the  Trade  books,  and  many 
oihera. 

tThetreatieB  between  the  Butch  and  the  Rajah  i>f  Cochin,  were  dated, 
March  22nd,  1668:  February  26th,  1664:  February  23rd,  1674:  May  2l8t, 
1678 :  May  9th,  1681 :  April  6th,  1698 ;  February  14th,  1772  :  October  llHu 
1785.  But  there  were  also  agreements  in  writing,  and  other  verbal  onea, 
«tt  oonaidered  blading  on  the  Rajfah. 


122  DUTCH  ooyssvoBs  or  cochik. 

"  to  the  Company's  lavs.  By  a  sobsequent  treaty,  dated  Febroaiy 
^<  25thy  1664y  also  article  IK,  it  was  stipulated,  that  t];iose  Christians 
*'  who  reside  ia  the  Bajah's  territoiy,  shall  obey  and  perform  their 
'<  obligations  to  that  Qovemment^  as  the  Heathen  do."*  Depntiea 
were  despatched  to  the  Rajahs  of  Qoilon,  Culli-Quilon,  and  odier 
petty  states,  and  treaties  of  Mendahip  and  trade  entered  into. 

Within  the  fortress  of  Cochin,  BcMnan  Catholics  were  debarred 
from  the  exercise  of  their  religion :  whilst  theiir  priests  were  banish- 
ed, and  warned  not  to  enter  its  precincts  in  their  canonicaLeu  No  lay 
professors  of  that  creed,  were  allowed  to  sleep  within  its  walls,  or 
hold  any  office  undw  the  new  Government,  until  they  had  taken 
an  oath,  that  they  renounced  not  only  their  king,  but  their  creed : 
and  thus  a  number  of  hypocrites  were  gained  over,  that  the  other 
Churches  no  doubt  were  well  rid  of.  All  the  Boman  Cathdics  who 
did  not  apostatize,  left  Cochin,  and  refused  to  have  any  mercantile 
transactions  with  its  new  rulers.  The  Governor  soon  peroeived 
that  an  error  had  been  committed,  and  unless  some  remedy  were 
discovered,  Cochin  bid  fair  soon  to  have  only  the  garrison  and  the 
officials  as  inhabitants.  A  compromise  was  effected  with  the  Roman  Ca^ 
tholics,  and  the  church  of  Franciscans  was  returned  to  them,  but  before 
the  long  disputes  arose,  charges  and  counter-charges  were  made,  so 
another  arrangement  became  necessary.  It  was  then  agreed  that  no 
Roman  Catholic  Church  was  to  be  made  use  of  inside  the  fort,  but  the 
members  of  that  communion  had  permission  to  erect  a  new  one  at 
Vypeen,  and  to  remove  to  it  any  of  the  internal  fittings  from  the 
church  of  the  Franciscans,  they  miglht  desire.  On  that  island,  the 
church  now  standing  was  consequently  erected,  and  dedicated  to 
'^Our  Lady  of  Hope,"  in  it,  the  Altar  and  the  old  screen,  from  the 
Franciscan  diurch,  may  (it  is  asserted)  stiH  be  seen.  The  office 
holders  were  to  be  Europeans,  Portuguese,  Eurasians,  and  their 
legitimate  descendants. 

Cochin  was  taken  by  Hustaart,  who  on  departing  to  attack  Canna- 
nore,  left  two  Commissioners  in  charge  *  Peter  de  Bitter  and  ^Cluirles^ 
VcUkenburg,  subeequentiy  in  the  same  year  *Ludolf  CoUter,  was  no- 
minated as  its  first  Dutch  Governor,  Hendrick  Adrian  Van  Beede, 
held  this  office,  from  1673  to  1677.  Jacob  Lobo,  1677  to  1678. 
•  Memorial  of  Oovernor  Moons.    QfiakU  JUconk  M.  S.  S. 


DUTCH  CLEEGT  OF  COCHIN.  183 

Mofien  Hujf$many  1680  to  16S1.  Oultfier  Vanburp,  1684  to  1686. 
/moc  Van  Didm,  1687  to  1698.  Swaankkroon,  to  1698.  Peier 
CocBoaH  (acting)  1698.  Magnas  Wiehdman,  1698  to  1701.  W. 
Mcerman,  1705  to  1709.  Barent  KeUl,  l709  to  1716.  7.  Hertm^ 
htrg,  1717  to  1724.  DeJ<mg,  1724  to  1731.  A.  Maim,  1731  to 
1735.  J.  S.  Van  OoUeneney  1735  to  1743.  Sietma,  1743  to  1748. 
a  &e9en$,  1748  to  1750.  Le  ffape,  1750  to  1751.  C.  Cuna,  1751 
to  1757.  a  DeJimg,  17 57  to  1761.  G.  Wayerman,  1761  to  1764. 
a  BftdBpot,  1764  to  1769.  C.  L.  Smf,  1769  to  1771.  Adrian 
Moms,  1771  to  1781.  Van  Angdbeck,  1781  to  1798.  Van  Spall. 
1793  to  I795.t 

It  is  worthy  of  noto,  that  in  the  Dutch  fleet  waa  a  Qeigjrmaiiy  vfho, 
according  to  Governor  Moem,  waa  **  the  first  Protestant  who  preached 
"  in  Cochin :  his  name  was  Doctor  Anthomui  Scheriiu,  who  came  with 
*^  Admiral  Eigklof  Van  Qoens,  and  who  after  the  town  was  taken  on 
"  the  8th  of  Janoaiy,  1663,  held  public  service  on  the  23rd  of  that 
^  montL''  The  following  are  the  list  of  the  Clergy^  as  giren  by 
MoaiB.  Dr.  Henriem  WalUut,  1663,  died  1665.  Dr,  PkUip  Bal- 
dcBHt,  Jannaiy  28th  1664^  left  soon  after.  Dr.  Jaoobui  Maswez,  and 
Dr,  Bartkolomem  Heynen,  arrived  November  1664,  left  Januaiy 
1665  for  Ceylon.  Dr.  Balthazar  Ohiede  Meter,  February  1665,  died 
in  March.  Dr,  Marcus  Maeim,  1666,  suspended  and  sent  to  Bata- 
via,  April  1675.  Dr.  Johannes  Gasearitu,  February  1669,  left  com* 
mencement  of  1677.  Dr.  Btidolphus  Meerland,  December  1676,  left 
February  1692.  Dr.  Gerardus  D.  Dude,  Februaiy  1682,  left  March 
1700.  Dr.  Gosuinus  Eupperts,  Februaiy  1700,  ordered  to  leavo 
April  1705.  Dr.  PhUippus  Gooting,  1705,  to  Februaiy  1717.  Dr. 
ComeUtts  Petrus  Sckrevdius,  January  1717,  died  in  May.  Dr.  Jaco- 
hu  Canter  Vischer,  December  1717,  left  for  Batavia^  1723.  Dr. 
Petrus  Patdus  Van  Breen,  November  1723,  to  November  1726. 
Dr.  Walerius  NicUai,  November  1726,  died  April  1736.  Dr. 
Johannes  PhUippus  Wetadius,  March  1738,  left  in  April  Dr. 
Oodefridus  Johannes  Weyerman,  Jannaiy  1739,  left  in  April  Dr. 

i  The  above  ]bA  of  IhOch  Chvemors,  with  the  ezoeption  of  those  with  *  be- 
fore their  nemee,  are  compiled  from  euoh  ofBoial  letter  books  as  could  be  de- 
ciphefecL  The  dates  given,  are  in  aooordanoe  with  the  first  and  last  letter  of 
cMb,  that  could  be  discovered. 


t2i  DtJlt^H  OFFEU  T6  BCLL  BACK  F0BT8  T&  FOBTtraTnESS. 

Johixnnes  ScheriuSy  Sexmasj  1740,  died  Angast  1746.  Dr.  Ma> 
thias  Wermehkircker,  February  1747,  soon  left,  retamed  February 
1748,  and  March  1749^  there  being  no  resident  Qergyman  in  Cochin. 
JDr.  ffermanvis  Grieter,  1750,  left  the  same'  year.  Dr,  Card  SezUles, 
March  1758,  left  176K  Dr.  Peter  Cornelisz,  January  1761,  and 
was  present  in  the  to^m  at  its  ca|>ture  by  the  British,  in  1795.  He 
officiated  in  ttie  place  until  about  1802.  Dr.  Ba$Uan  Jantsty  came^ 
April  1763,  to  study  Portugese,  and  left  February  1764. 

The  Dutch  found  that  territorial  sovereignty  in  Cochin  had  many 
disadvantages  and  expenses,  which  they  were  not  subject  to  when 
traders  in  a  foreign  state,  and  Ludolf  Colster  had  to  allay  the  irrita- 
tion  caused  by  the  violent  measures  of  the  two  Ccmmussioiiers,  his 
predecessors.  On  December'  21st,  1663,  tiie  following  notificatioiv 
was  issued  in  the  fortress,  ^'  that  until  further  orders,  the  peo^de  of 
'^  Cochin  shall  be  unmolested  in  the  enjoyment  of  their  property, 
*^  and  the  revenue  from  the  date  of  this  order,  shall  be  collected  ac- 
<<  cording  to  the  letter  of  the  King,  of  the  Netherlands.'* 

Hie  fortress  was  too  extensive  for  a  small  garrison,  whilst  ill- 
could  not  be  decreased,  and  without  fortifications,  no-  town  would 
have  been  safe  in  such  a  situation.  Troops  had  to-be  maintained 
at  Qoilon,  Culli-Quilon,  Craii^anore^  Cannanore;  and  si:^equently 
at  Piqponetty,  Chetwye,  and  other  places.  In  f aet  the  forces  were- 
kept  at  ratiier  too  large  a  number,  for  Malabar  to  pay  its  expenses, 
and  return  a  profit.  Mr.  Swaardekroon,  in  his  Memorial  on  the  Ma- 
labar Coouty  in  1698,  S8y%  '*  it  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  Company 
*^  carried  so  much  sail  here  in  the  b^ginnii^,  that  they  are  now  de* 
**  sirous  of  striking  them,  in^  (xder  to-  avoid  being  overset'' 

In  1680,  the  destruction  of  the  forts  of  Cannanore,  Cranganore^ 
and  Qmlon,  was  agitated,  in  consequence  of  the*  expence  of  main-^ 
taining  them^  and  the  £tde  profit  derived.  But  the  Supreme  Coun- 
cil of  Batavia^*  finally  deeided,  that  an  attempt  shoidd  be  made  to 
give  Cannanore  bade  i^;ain  tcthe  Portuguese,  in  exchange  for  Macao, 
which  was  a  loss  to  that  nation.  Cranganore^  and  Quilon,'  were  also 
offered  for  sale.  The  subject  was  transmitted  to  the  King  iA  Fop- 
tugal,  but  no  arrangement  was  effeeted. 

*  Secret  orders,  of  Supreme  Qovernment  ol  Batavia.    C<M^  Reevrdt^ 


rOST  07  OOCHIK.  129 

111  1680,  it  was  resolTedy  that  the  fortifieaitioxiB  of  Cochin,  Cran- 
ganore,  Camuinoie,  and  Qnilon,  should  not  be  kept  up,,  and  alao 
that  rednctioDa  should  be  effected,  in  both  the  Ciyil  and  Military 
establishments;  the  total  European  force  proposed  to  be  maintained, 
was  455,  as  well  as  200  Militi&  This  resolution  owiiig  to  various 
causes,  remained  unacted  upon  until  the  year  1697,  when  the  walls 
of  Cochin  had  become  so  ruinous,  that  someUung  was  obliged  to  be 
done,  so  it  was  therefore  directed  that,  that  fort  should  be  reduced 
(me  ha]£  At  Cannanore  and  Quilon,  only  one  tower  was  to  be  left 
standing  in  each  place,  and  at  Cranganore  merely  the  exterior  works : 
whilst  all  Military  out-posts  were  to  be  withdrawn,  excepting  those 
at  Paponetty,  Porca,  and  Culli-QuiloiL 

In  rebuilding  on  a  reduced  scale  the  fort  of  Cochin,  care  tras 
taken  to  leave  the  streets  standing.  There  were  seven  strong  bas- 
laoDS,  named  respectivdy  after  one  of  the  United  Provinces.  Borne 
of  the  principal  streets  were  designated  as  f oUows^  according  to  an 
old  plan  still  extant :  de  linde  straat.  Lime  tree  street :  de  Heere 
straat^  OtnUemarCt  $treet :  de  Peeterceelie  straat,  Pardey  gtreet :  de 
Bree  straat,  Broad  street :  de  Smee  straat,  Smith's  street :  de  Osse 
straat,  Ox  street :  de  Burgen  straat^  Citisens  street :  de  Kalven  straat. 
Calf  street. 

The  Topases,  and  Moondooears,  were  drilled  as  Militia,  each  of 
these  having  a  Captain,  or  Commandant,  over  them,  to  settle  trivial 
disputes,  whilst  the  Fishermen  were  used  as  Coolies.  They  received 
no  pay,  but  were  expected  to  work,  in  return  for  the  protection  grant- 
ed them,  and  were  greatly  oppressed  by  the  Headmen,  a  system  con- 
nived at  by  the  Qovemment. 

The  only  vessels  to  be  kept  up,  were  one  small  yacht,  two  sloops, 
and  three  row  boats;  and  as  the  rigorous  system  of  revenue  stations, 
whidi  bad  been  established  along  the  backwater,  was  a  great 
expence,  and  created  much  irritation  amongst  the  Natives,  without 
a  corresponding  amount  of  remuneration,  it  was  decided  to  be  too 
barah,  and  directed  to  be  immediately  discontinued.  At  this  time,  no 
vessels  were  permitted  either  to  enter,  or  leave  the  Cranganore  river, 
which  compelled  all  traffic,  to  pass  under  the  Cochin  fort  walls. 

The  Dutch  Cochin  fort,  according  to  Stavorinus,  was  nearly  semi  circu- 
lar, andaboutamile  and  ahalf  in  circumference :  on  the  land  side  were 


12G  BUILDINOa  IN  DUTCH  COCHIN. 

six  laige  bastions^  and  a  cavalier  to  the  eastward :  an  irregular  work 
on  the  water  side^  a  substantial  loop  holed  wall  terminating  at  its 
eastern  extremity  in  a  rayelin,  before  the  cavalier :  a  wet  ditch  ran 
round  these  works,  whilst  before  it  was  a  covered  way,  and  j^acis. 

The  north,  or  river  side,  was  defended  by  batteries,  whilst  a  stone 
whari^  or  more  properly  speaking  a  plain  wall,  was  erected  on  the 
river  face,  which  served  two  purposes,  to  protect  its  banks  from  the 
threatening  effects  of  the  freshes,  and  also  for  a  landing  place.  Either 
its  construction  was  very  faulty,  or  the  materials  were  inferior,  as  in 
1821,  much  of  it  had  fallen  in,  and  extensive  repairs  were  deemed 
necessary :  this  may  however  have  been  in  some  degree  due,  to  the 
current  of  the  river  setting  in  against  it 

The  sea,  or  west  face,  was  protected  by  a  ravelin,  the  east  by  mo- 
rasses and  a  strong  wall,  and  the  west  by  walls  and  a  wet  ditch. 
There  were  three  small  gates,  one  to  the  west  the  Bay-gate,  an- 
other to  the  east  called  the  New-gate,  and  one  on  the  north  the 
River-gate.  Along  each  side  of  the  wider  streets,  and  ramparts, 
were  Portia  trees,  Theapesia  popiUnea,  left  by  the  Portuguese^  and 
under  their  grateful  shade,  the  inhabitants  of  an  evening  lounged  or 
promenaded  A  canaU  but  elegant,  public  garden,  was  kept  up  inaid» 
the  fort,  and  a  larger  one  near  the  Governor's  house :  in  the  vicinity 
of  which,  the  richer  classes  possessed  Bungalows.  There  were  also 
others,  on  the  neighbouring  Islands. 

The  pieces  of  artillery  in  the  fort^  consisted  of  95  of  iron^  six  of 
brass,  and  two  mortar&  Five  hundred  and  thirty  Europeans,*  and 
thirty-seven  Natives,  were  considered  a  sufficient  garrison.  This  re- 
duction in  power,  caused  the  Dutch  to  fall  consideraUy  in  the  esti- 
mation of  the  Natives,  and  they  became  but  littie  feared  by  the  sur- 
rounding people. 

The  principal  buildings  within  the  fort,  were  the  Oommandant's 
house,  on  the  north  west^bastion,  and  the  only  one  built  on  the  Dutch 
model  The  governor's  house,  was  half  a  mile  to  the  south,  divided 
from  the  fort  by  a  long  sandy  plain.    There  was  an  hotel  at  which 

*  The  European  troope  maintained  in  Ck>diin  were  rarely  above  one  quarter 
or  a  third  Dutch:  the  remainder  were  oomposed  of  English  and  French  deaert- 
era,  renegade  Qermans,  and  similar  broken  down  adventurers,  who  came  for 
the  purpose  of  mending,  or  making  thefr  fortunes. 


DISPUTJBB  BISPICTIKO  CHXTWYS.  137 

tlie  Duteh  paid  a  rupee  a  day,  for  board  and  lodginga,  and  persons  of 
other  Nations  two  rupees  :  thk  was  yearly  fanned  out  by  Uie  Go* 
venunent. 

Tbe  Qovemot  of  Cochin,  was  subordinate  to  the  Supreme  Council 
of  BtAttn&y  9iid  if  not  a  member  of  the  Batavian  administration,  his 
tiUe  was  that  of  Commandant  The  Town  Council  consisted  of,  the 
Second  who  was  a  senior  merchant :  the  Fiscal,  the  chief  of  the  Mili- 
toiy,  the  Waie-housekeeper,  the  Dupen$ier  or  Purveyor,  and  all  the 
Junior  Merchants^  (not  tradespeople,  but  GoTemment  Civilians,) 
who  mii^t  be  in  the  settlement,  either  in  or  out  of  office.  The 
Council  had  a  Secretary,  generally  a  junior  merchant,  who  also  held 
the  post  of  Malayalim  translator.  The  chief  of  the  Military  had  the 
title  of  MfQor,  the  Commandant  of  the  Artillery  that  of  Captam- 
lieuleBBnt. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  eighteenth  century,  the  Cochin 
Council  became  involved  in  disputes  with  the  Samorin,  respecting 
their  n^ts  as  h^rs  of  the  Portuguese.  The  quarrels  were  thought 
to  havB  been  fomented  by  the  English,  whose  settlement  of  Bombay, 
the  Duteh  had  unsuccessfully  attacked  in  1673.  Again  in  1696, 
the  English  at  Anjengo,  burnt  the  Dutch  factory  there,  asserting  it 
had  given  cover  to  one  of  their  enemies.* 

In  1701,  war  with  the  Samorin  commenced,  and  continued  in  a 
desultoiy  manner,  until  1710,  when  a  truce  rather  than  a  peace  was 
eonchidad  Qovemor  Moms  traced  all  the  Dutch  troubles  in  Ma- 
labar, to  the  Cochin  Bajah,  whom  he  asserted,  they  had  to  protect 
against  the  Samorin.  Four  years  subsequently,  another  dispute 
arose  respecting  a  piece  of  ground  at  Chetwye,  which  was  claimed 
by  both  the  Samorin  and  the  Rajah  of  Cochin:  whilst  the  latter 
prince,  made  it  over  to  the  Dutch,  the  Bigah  of  Ayroor  was  also  a 
consulting  party  to  this  arrangement^  and  they  agreed  forthwith  to 
commence  erecting  a  fort  at  the  mouth  of  the  river,  which  was  de- 
dared  to  be  from  henceforth,  the  boundary  of  the  Samorin's  territory. 

The  Samorin,  acting  under  the  advice  of  the  Enghsh  Resident  at 
Tellicherry,  sent  sepoys  disguised  as  labourers,  to  enter  the  Dutch 
service,  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  stones  and  mortar  for  building 

*  AmoDgBi  the  Dutch  records  of  Cochin,  of  1790,  there  is  a  decuiioo,  tha^ 
the  Eogliiih  fort  at  Anjeugo  shall  be  destroyed. 


198  PEAGB  ^LICT  DmECTSD  TO  BE  FOIIX^WSD. 

the  fort  These  men  were  directed  to  take  their  opportuiiity,  to 
lie  in  ambuscade  amongst  some  neighboming  bushes^  and  overpower 
the  enemy. 

Two  Dutch  laeutenatits  had  at  that  time  charge  of  the  works, 
and  were  one  evening  playing  at  dominoes  in  the  tem^rary  guard 
room,  about  half  a  mile  from  ike  fort,  whilst  the  troops  were 
sauntering  about  enjoying  the  cool  of  the  evening,  and  the  sentinels 
not  dreaming  of  danger  were  inattentive,  when  they  were  suddenly 
overpowered,  and  the  half  built  fort  taken.  The  officers  rushed  up 
with  the  few  men  they  could  collect,  but  one  of  them  was  killed 
advancing,  and  the  other  considering  success  impossible,  drew  off 
the  remainder  of  his  forces,  and  embarked  for  Cochin :  but  before 
leaving,  he  had  the  mortification  of  seeing  the  English  flag,  waving 
over  the  unfinished  fort  On  his  arrival  at  Cochin,  he  was  tried 
for  negligence,  and  shot  Th«  Samorin's  people  removed  the  Dutch 
guns,  and  demolished  the  walls  of  the  Chetwye  fort. 

Councillor  Willem  Bakker  Jacobtz,  at  the  head  of  4,000  European 
and  coloured  troops,  then  took  the  field,  recovered  the  fort  of 
Chetwye,  and  took  Paponetty,  a  few  viUages  in  which  district  had 
previously  been  pawned  to  the  Samorin.  The  war  was  terminated  in 
1717,  when  the  latter  was  compelled  to  rebuild  the  walls  of  the 
Chetwye  fort ;  to  pay  a  large  sum  towards  the  expenses  of  the  war, 
and  also  to  promise  to  give  seven  per  cent  for  all  pepper  that  should 
hereafter  be  exported  from  his  country.  His  territories  south  of 
Chetwye,  were  confiscated,  and  divided  between  the  Dutch  and  the 
Cochin  Bajah.  On  April  10th,  1717,  the  Dutch  flag  was  first  hoisted 
at  Chetwye. 

The  Supreme  Oovemment  of  Batavia,  found  that  in  1721,  the  ex- 
penses of  the  Cochin  command  exceeded  the  receipts,  and  strongly 
urged  their  representatives  there  to  desist  from  keeping  up  a  ^nti> 
nual  warfare,  and  to  endeavour  to  live  peaceably  with  their  neigh- 
bours. It  was  also  directed,  that  should  the  Samorin  attack  their 
ally  the  Ri^ah  of  Cochin,  they  were  to  remain  strictly  neutral,  as  on 
account  of  the  enormous  expenses  they  had  been  put  to,  in  fighting 
the  Bajah's  battles,  all  such  support  must  now  be  withdrawn,  and 
the  sovereignty  over,  quarrels  amongst,  Native  powers  must  be 
settled  by  the  Natives  themselves.     But  it  was  found,  that  the  Eng- 


DISTTJRBET>   STi.TR  OP   MALABAB.  *  129 

Fish  managed  to  foment  dissensions  for  them,  and  whatever  peace 
coimcils  might  preach  at  a  distance,  prudence  forbad  those  on  the 
spot  from  carrjring  out 

In  October  1733,  Itcliara  Pataree,  a  Ragiadoor  of  the  Rajah  of 
Cttlli-Quilon,  sent  express  by  his  master,  and  accompanied  by  two 
of  the  Cochin  Rajah's  friends,  called  upon  the  Dutch  (governor,  A. 
Maten.  He  stated  that  the  Rajah  of  Travaneore,  was  making  great 
preparations  to  attack  CuUi-Quilon,  on  the  16th  of  that  month,  and 
was  also  trying  to  persuade  the  Teekeneoor  and  Porca  princes,  to 
join  in  the  war.  Asidstance  was  therefore  most  urgently  wished  for 
from  the  Dutch,  and  the  Cochin  RajalL  But  Governor  Maten  re- 
plied, tliat  the  cause  of  these  troubles  was  owing  to  the  Rajah  of 
Cuili-Qnilon,  having  without  any  provocation,  invaded  the  Marta 
territory.  He  continued,  that  he  could  give  no  assistance,  but  as 
the  ehief  of  Peritally  had  refused  leave  to  the  Travancoreans  to  pass 
through  his  country,  to  attack  CuUi-Quilon,  they  had  better  join 
their  forces  to  those  of  the  Peritally  Chief. 

Two  ijLays  subsequently,  two  Rogiadoors,  of  the  3rd  prince  of 
Berkeneoer,  came  on  an  embassage,  requesting  the  Dutch  and  the 
Hajah  of  Cochin,  to  mediate  between  himself  and  the  2iul  prince. 
The  Rajah  had  been  murdered  by  the  latter,  who  had  seized  the  Go- 
vemment  The  Diary  of  these  times,  is  full  of  details,  of  the 
lawless  state  of  Malabar.  On  February  4th,  1734,  Kelloo  Menon, 
•was  sent  by  the  2nd  prince  of  Mangatty,  to  inform  the  Governor, 
that  Tott^ehery  Tallichanoor  of  Peradbiddy,  had  been  murdered  in 
ihe  Tri<sh6or  Pagoda,  by  his  nephew,  because  he  was  about  to  per- 
i&it  the  Cochin  Rajah,  to  appoint  the  princes  of  Chialoor,  as 
<k»vemors  of  Peradbiddy.  By  the  entry  on  March  4tli,  1734,  it 
appears,  that  there  was  a  division  in  the  Cochin  State,  for  the 
Cochin  Rajah  ai^d  the  Chief  of  Paroor  having  quarrelled,  the  EUia 


•  Mr.  Swaardekroon,  a  former  Goyemor  of  Coohin,  who  was  Oovemor-Geoe- 
nl  of  Batavia,  from  1718  to  1725,  procured  tUe  ooffee  plant  from  Mocha,  and 
after  paying  a  very  high  pric«  for  what  was  first  produced  (15  rix  dollars,  pei* 
125  pounds  weight,)  he  further  encouraged  its  growth  by  every  means  in  hw 
power.  In  1753,  1,200,000  pounds  weight  were  furnished  from  Cheribon,  as 
'auch  from  Jaccatra  and  the  Preanger  lands :  in  1768,  from  Jaccatra  and  the 
^reauger  Lands,  4,465,500  pounds  weight  of  this  were  pro*lnof<l. 

B 


130  VAN   IMHOFF   ARRIVES   IN   COCHTN. 

Rajah  of  Cocliin,  chose  to  join  the  Paroor  troops.  On  March  28th, 
the  Rajah  mtimated  to  the  Ghyvemor  of  Cochin,  that  he  had  directed 
his  troops  to  attack  Paroor,  and  kill  the  2nd  prince. 

In  173 i,  the  Travancore  Rajah,  made  himself  master  of  the 
fruitful  pepper  kingdoms  of  Peritally,  find  Elleda  Suruwum^ 
which  a  few  years  previously,  had  been  united,  owing  to  the  demise 
of  one  of  the  Rajahs,  without  leaving  a  nearer  heir  than  tlio 
neighbouring  prince.  On  its  seizure  by  Travancore,  the  Royal 
family  were  confined,  and  the  Rajah  died  in  prison,  in  1736.  One 
princess  only  escaped,  by  taking  refuge  in  Teckencoor. 

In  1738,  the  Angria  pirates,  who  were  at  that  time  the  terror  of 
the  seas,  attacked  the  Dutch  ship  Noord  Wolfahergen^  and  the 
yachts  Z^dands  Wolvaaren,  and  Magdalena^  the  two  last  fell  into 
their  hands,,  after  three  days'  hard  fightii^.  The  ship  escaped,  and 
brought  the  intelligence  to  Cochin.  All  vessels  captured  by  these 
pirates,  were  taken  to  Gheria. 

In  1739,  Mr.  Van  Imhoff,  the  bitter  enemy  of  his  opponents,  and 
a  most  intolerant  Governor,  came  from  Ceylon^  to  examine  into,  and 
report  upon,  the  Cochin  accounts.  On  his  arrival,  the  increased 
and  constantly  increasing  power  of  the  Travancore  Rajah,  was  point- 
ed out  to  him.  This  prince  acting  apparently  under  English,  or 
other  hostile  councils,  was  very  unfriendly  to  the  Dutch  comjmny, 
aiKl  Van  Imhoff  considered,  that  some  steps  ought  immediately  to 
be  taken,  to  curb-  his  arrogance,  and  curtail  hia  power :  whilst  the 
l>ecuniary  difficulties  of  the  Company,  required  adjustment. 

It  was  considered  necessary,  to  compel  the  neighbouring  Rajahs, 
to  deliver  the  full  amount  of  pepi)er  which  they  had  contracted  to 
supply,  and  at  the  stipulated  prices,  and  should  they  refuse  to  act  up 
to  their  agreements,  to  ravage  their  states  with  fire  and  sword.  It 
was  also  suggested,  that  if  the  plan  adopted  in  their  colonies,  were 
instituted  hero,  it  would  instil  terror,  and  produce  a  good  effect ; 
namely,  making  one  or  more  of  the  most  refractory  Rajabs,  or  their 
heirs  prisoners,  and  sending  them  to  Batavia. 

The  ctirtailment  of  the  Travancore  power,  was  no  doubt  a  subject 
well  worthy  of  attention  at  this  period,  but  as  they  were  without 
sufficient  forces  at  hand  to  command  respect,  it  would  have  been 
more  judicious,  had  the  Cochin   council  waited  for  re-inforcements 


DUTCH    WAfi   WITD   TRAVANCORK.  131 

from  Batavia.  The  troops  in  Cocliin  at  this  time,  consisted  of  4G2 
infantiy,  and  23  artillery:  this  included  158  Europeans,  and  191 
Topasses,  supplied  by  Van  Imhoff  from  Ceylon.  Matters  were  re- 
garded as  too  serious  to  admit  of  delay,  and  it  was  believed  the 
neighbouring  petty  princes  would  join  in  the  onslaught,  if  there  was 
a  good  watchword  for  the  war.  The  cause  of  the  princess  of  EUe- 
da  Suruwum  or  Ellertoo  Sooroopum  also  designated  Peritally  was 
taken  up,  and  a  protest  sent  in  1740,  to  the  Rajah  of  Travancore, 
Bgainst  his  retaining  her  territory.  It  is  said  Imhoff  himself  carried 
this  message,  and  not  succeeding  in  his  mission,  became  exceedingly 
angry,  and  threatened  an  invasion  of  the  Travancore  territory.  The 
Bajah  replied,  that  doubtless  he  might  do  so,  but  there  were  forests 
into  which,  he  could  retire  in  safety.  Imhoff  retorted,  that  ^  where 
Travaneoreans  could  go,  Dutch  could  follow."  The  Rajah  then 
broke  up  the  conference,  by  sneeringly  observing,  he  had  been  thiiik- 
iag  some  day,  of  invading  Europe. 

Negotiations  having  thus  failed,  in  1741,  the  princess  was  forci- 
bly re-instated,  in  the  regency  of  her  kingdom.  The  Dutch  obtained 
a  large  farm  at  Airoor  or  Iroor,  about  3  Dutch  miles  from  Quilon, 
and  also  Bichoor  in  the  Berkencoor  country,  where  they  erected  a 
strong  redoubt,  (these  were  abandoned  at  the  peace  of  1742.)  Again 
the  Travancore  forces  took  the  field  with  great  success,  every  Dutch 
outpost  in  Travancore  falling  before  them :  they  then  attacked  and 
defeated  the  Allied  forces,  on  which  the  princess  fled  to  the  Cochin 
State  for  refuge,  and  the  Dutch  pensioned  her  at  two  rupees  five 
annas,  (daily  it  is  to  be  hoped.)  During  the  war  in  1742,  the  Dutch 
fort  at  Quilon  was  attacked  by  (5,000  of  the  best  of  the  Travancore 
troops,  but  it  was  so  well  defended,  chiefly  by  the  Nairs,  under  their 
old  Rajah,  Achuotha  Barrier,  that  the  enemy  were  obliged  to  retire* 
Advantage  was  taken  of  tins  occurrence,  a  peace  proposed,  and  a 
trace  entered  upon.  It  was  remarked  to  the  Supreme  Government, 
that  the  peace  would  probably  be  lasting,  as  Travancore  funds  were 
running  very  low. 

During  this  campaign,  the  people  of  the  countries  of  Peritally,  and 
Elleda  Suruwum,  behaved  in  the  most  cowardly  manner,  ^' their  mot- 
"to  apparently  being,"  according  to  the  Dutch  Governor's  report, 
*^  that  one  who  is  dead  cannot  come  to  life  again,  consequently 


133  NEGOTIATIONS   WITH   T&AVANOOfilT. 

♦'  their  first  duty  was  to  be  careful  of  themselves,  and  act  according 
'*  to  whatever  circumstances  best  suited  their  individual  cases.'' 

The  Dutch  by  the  ^d  of  October  1742,  had  taken  Killimanoor,  and 
were  ready  to  make  a  dash  at  Attingal,  still  they  had  been  considera- 
ble losers,  and  both  parties  appear  to  have  become  tired  of  hostilities. 
The  Travancore  Bajah  concluded  a  peace  with  the  Signatty  or 
Eajah  of  Culli-Quilon,  at  Manattoo,  in  September,  when  the  latter 
agreed  to  ^ve  one  elephant,  and  Rupees  1,000  a  year  for  4 
years,  and  to  cede  much  of  his  country  to  Travancore.  At  the 
termination  of  this  affiair,  the  Ti*avaucore  Officials,  gave  those  of  the 
Rajahs  of  Cochin  and  Teckencoor  to  understand,  that  their  master 
had  a  great  desire  to  come  to  terms  with  the  Company,  and  ordered 
them  as  they  valued  his  friendship,  to  try  and  bring  it  about  But 
these  mediators  had  no  wish  to  assist  with  their  services,  although 
^ihe  Dutch  exhorted  them  to  do  so.  After  three  months,  (in  Decem- 
ber,) the  Cochin  Council  determined  to  act  for  themselves,  without 
their  Native  Allies,  and  to  address  the  Rajah  of  Travancore  direct : 
he  seemed  willing  to  agree  to  t^ms,  and  sent  his  officials,  the  Del- 
wah,  and  Coochu  Moossadoo,  to  MavilUcurray,  whilst  the  Dutch 
despatched  Ezekiel  Rabbi,  and  Silvester  Mendes,  the  Captain  of  the 
Topasses.  Within  the  expiration  of  a  month,  (January,)  afiairs  were 
80  far  completed  that  some  members  of  the  Cochin  CouncO,  were 
about  to  proceed  to  Mavillicuiiay  for  the  purpose  of  concluding  the 
business,  when  the  Travancore  Officials,  suddenly  gave  them  to 
understand,  that  His  Highness  had  changed  his  mind,  consequently  if 
they  wished  to  effect  any  arrangement,  they  must  go  to  Trivandnun. 

The  conference  was  broken  up,  and  it  was  decided  to  prepare  for 
war.  On  this  Travancore  re-opened  negotiations,  the  parties  met 
at  Paroor,  (near  Quilon),  and  the  affair  was  nearly  closed,  when  it 
was  again  broken  off.  A  third  conference  held  at  the  same  place, 
ended  in  a  similar  manner.  The  Dutch  continued  these  negotiations, 
without  expecting  any  good  result,  but  simply  to  gain  time,  for  ob-. 
taining  instructions  from  Batavia. 

Cochin  affaurs  were  such  a  source  of  anxiety,  at  this  period  to  the 
Supreme  Gk)vemment  of  Batavia,  that  when  Commandant  Golontsse^ 
in  1742,  in  a  letter  to  them,  was  induced  to  maintain  that  Malabar 
was  one  of  the  most  important  possessions  of  the  Dutch  company: 


TREATY    CONCLUDED    WITU   TRAVANCORB.  133 

the  Governor-Qeneral  Jfossel,  bitterly  replied,  "I  am  so  far  from 
^*  beiDg  of  your  opinion,  that  I  rather  wish  the  ocean  had  swallowed 
*'  np  the  coast  of  MeUabar,  an  hundred  years  ago/' 

Constant  changes  were  occurring  about  this  time,  in  the  yarioua 
petty  Native  States.  About  1739,  when  the  Rajah  of  Quilon  died, 
his  country  became  blended  with  that  of  Culli-Quilon,  whose  Kajah 
was  also  prince  of  Pannapnlly.  His  troops  numbered  about  15,000,  ' 
and  he  received  a  yearly  subsidy  of  500  fananis,  for  the  destruction 
of  wild  beasts,  wliich  it  is  observed  his  troops  efficiently  performed, 
and  that  they  were  more  adapted  for  guards,  or  for  the  defence  of 
walls,  thaa  for  hostile  engagements  in  the  field.*  In  1742,  the 
Samorin  troops  1,000  strong,  invaded  the  Cochin  Rajah's  territory, 
bat  withdrew  when  the  English  protested. 

Wars  with  Travancore,  and  negotiations  for  peace,  continued  for 
several  years^  until  at  last  tlie  following  treaty  was  proposed  by  that 
State,  and  conditionally  accepted  with  modifications  at  Cochin,  it 
▼as  finally  sanctioned  by  the  Batavian  council,  in  an  order  dated 
October  18th,  1748«  Again  difficulties  were  raised,  and  it  was  not 
nnta  August  15th,  1753,  that  peace  was  finally  concluded.  By 
it  the  Dutch  bound  themselves  in  future,  to  follow  a  Hrict  peace 
policy ,  to  keep  clear  of  all  disputes,  and  never  again  to  resort 
to  force,  except  in  self-defence.  Governor  Moens  in  later  years, 
severely  commented  upon  this  treaty,  observing,  ''the  system  of 
Government  entirely  changed  from  this  time.'' 

The  ninth  article  of  this  treaty,  entered  into  with  the  Rajah  of 
Travancore,  and  signed  on  the  above  date,  stipulated,  that  the 
Dutch  '*  shall  recede  from  all  engagements,  which  they  may  have 
"  entered  into  with  the  other  Malabar  princes,  whom  the  King  of 
"  Travancore  might  choose  to  attack,  and  on  no  account  interfere 
''  in  their  disputes,  afford  them  assistance  or  shelter,  or  in  any  re* 
"  spect  raise  any  opposition  to  the  enterprises  of  the  king." 

*  In  1740,  October  13th,  the  Dutch  entered  into  an  alliance  with  the  Rajuh 
of  Bepelim.  It  was  under  the  four  following  heads.  Ist,  that  he  was  to  deli- 
ver up  ail  his  pepper  to  the  Company.  2ndly,  to  stop  and  punish  all  smugglers 
in  that  article.  3rdly,  to  give  up  all  deserters.  The  Comi>any  binding  them- 
■elvee  to  proteci  himi  provided  he  entered  into  no  ynxn,  without  obtaining 
their  consftnti 


134  TRAVANCOliE  TREATY   WITH   COCHIN* 

Thus  the  Dutch  threw  over  their  Native  Allies,  and  pledged  them^ 
selves  to  leave  them  all  to  the*  mercy  of  Travancore.  Had  the  treaty 
ended  here,  it  might  have  been  charitably  surmised,  that  it  had 
been  wrung  from  them  in  consequence  of  disastrous  defeat :  but 
unfortunately,  the  concluding  portion  shows  that  a  pecuniary  motive, 
was  also  at  work,  as  it  agrees,  to  make  a  yearly  present  in  money 
to  Travancore,  to  supply  its  Rajah  annually  on  payment^  with  va- 
rious kinds  of  warlike  stores  and  ammunition,  to  the  value  of  Bu- 
pees  12,000,  whilst  they  were  to  receive  1,500,000  pounds  of  pep- 
per, at  Rupees  13  per  every  100  pounds,  with  any  other  production 
his  state  yielded  :  and  10000  pounds  more,  out  of  the  territories 
to  be  conqueredy  at  1 1  Rupees  for  every  100  pounds.  Certainly  giv- 
ing up  their  former  Allies  to  an  ancient  enemy,  and  providing  arms 
to  subdue  their  former  friends,  for  the  sake  of  gaining  4  annas,  or 
six-pence  on  every  25  pounds  of  pepper,  was  an  inglorious  act* 

At  the  private  interview  at  Mavillicurray,  between  the  Cochin  Ra- 
jah and  the  Dutch  Ambassador  on  one  hand,  and  the  Travancore 
Rajah  on  the  other,  the  Dutch  unsuccessfully  attempted  to  have  a 
clause  inserted,  that  should  the  R^'ah  of  Cochin,  or  the  Chetwye 
island  be  attacked  by  Travancore,  such  was  to  be  considered  equiva- 
lent to  a  declaration  of  war.  A  promise  was  however  obtained,t 
that  the  Rajali  of  Traf ancore,  "  would  live  in  friendship  with  the 
"  Rajah  of  Cochin,  provided  he  gave  no  cause  to  the  contrary."  The 
Cochin  Rajah  had  then  to  make  what  terms  he  could  for  himself, 
and  tlie  two  princes  agreed  to  continue  in  friendship,  but  ended  in 
open  enmity,  and  soon  went  to  war,  without  any  interference  from 
the  Dutch,  excepting  useless  protestations.  Subsequently  finding  the 
Travancore  army  was  annexing  all  the  territory  to  the  south  of  the 

*  This  pepper  treaty  was  ever  after  a  souroe  of  irritation,  and  Van  Aogel- 
beck  aliudes  to  the  subject  in  his  memorial  to  his  successor,  in  1793.  The 
Bajah  never  appears  to  have  furnished  the  quantity  he  promised,  and  Com-  ' 
missioners  were  continually  being  sent  to  Trivandrum  to  remind  him,  at 
last  it  was  only  by  agreeing  to  raise  the  price  to  Rupees  115  a  candy,  that  they 
obtained  any;  in  1790  none  was  furnished,  and  a  higher  price  demanded,  which 
Van  Angelbeck  refused  to  give.  Sometimes  Travancore  declared  the  Dutch 
o\ight  to  have  none,  as  they  were  assisting  their  enemies :  afterwards  that  they 
were  engaged  with  the  Mysorcans ;  anyhow,  the  treaty  does  not  appear,  to 
have  brought  either  credit,  or  money  to  the  Dutch. 

t  Memorial  of  Comnandant  F,  Cunes,  dated,  December  Zlfst^  1756. 


SAMOBIN  ATTACKS  THE  DUTCH.  135 

t<>wn  of  Cochin,  Governor  Cunes  addressed  a  letter  to  the  R.ijab,  in 
which  he  pointed  out,  that  the  Dutch  limits  extended  for  two  miles 
South  of  Cochin,  and  he  trusted  that  they  would  be  respected. 

In  1749,  Angria's  piratical  fleet,  consisting  of  seven  grabs,  and  six 
galleys,  appeared  before  Cochin,  but  sailed  away  without  attem])tiug 
anything.  In  1754,  they  attacked  three  Dutch  vessels,  the  Wetn- 
me7ium  60  guns,  the  Vreede  3G  guns,  and  the  barque  Jaccatra 
18  guns.  The  first  two  took  fire  and  blew  up,  the  last  fell 
into  the  hands  of  the  enemy.  This  piratical  power,  which  was 
subsequently  destroyed  in  1756,  by  the  British  Commodore  James, 
aided  by  a  Mahratta  contingent,  had  originated  from  a  fleet  kept 
up  by  the  Mogul,  under  an  Admiral  termed  the  Sidee,  for  the 
protection  of  Mahomedan  ships,  when  trading  between  India,  Persia, 
and  Arabia,  from  the  attacks  of  both  pirates  and  Portuguese. 
In  1757,  Gheria  was  given  over  to  the  Mahrattas,  who  became  no 
less  dreaded  by  the  Dutch,  than  their  piratical  predecessors  had  been. 

From  this  period  the  prestige  of  the  Dutch  rapidly  declined  :  the 
petty  prtltces  soon  disoovered  how  their  uiterests  had  been  given  up 
to  Travancore  in  the  treaty  of  1753,  and  they  tunied  to  the  8amoriu 
for  aasistanoe.  The  Samorin  found  that  he  could  insult  the  Dutch 
with  impunity,  as  although  they  sent  remonstrances,  these  were 
unsupported  by  physical  foroc.  Therefore,  daily  becoming  bolder, 
be  retook  Paponetty  or  Ayroor,  and  obliged  the  Dutch  to  retire 
to  Cranganore,  with  the  loss  of  eight  pieces  of  Artillery. 

In  1755,  and  the  following  year,  the  Samorin  with  some  thousands 
of  Naira  and  Moors,  again  advanced,  and  invaded  the  country 
around  Cranganore ;  they  strengthened  themselves  at  Paponetty 
and  threw  up  earth  works  at  Tripoonatty,  had  posts  at  Madilagaum, 
and  made  palisades  at  the  river,  closing  the  passages,  and  pre- 
venting supplies  reaching  the  Dutch  garrison  at  Madilagaum. 
I'he  officer,  in  command  of  this  outpost,  withdrew  his  men  to 
Cranganore,  and  thus  augmented  the  force  in  that  garrison,  by 
140  men.  The  Samorin  princes,  with  5,000  troops,  advanced 
closeto  the  Cranganore  fort,  and  over-ran  the  Paroor  territory,  apparent- 
ly with  the  intention  of  subsequently  attacking  the  Dutch.  Great 
ahrm  was  felt  for  Cochin,  as  the  garrison  at  this  period,  only  con- 
sisted of  138  Europeans,  and  75  Topasses :  so  some  Natives  Avcre  en- 


136  CUNES   ASKS  SUCCOURS   FOR   BATAVIA. 

listed,  and  applications  made  to  Ceylon  for  reinforcements,  but  there 
were  none  to  spare.  The  Dutch  then  requested  the  neighbouring  Ra- 
jahs of  Chetwye,  Ayroor,  and  Cranganore,  all  residing  on  the  island  of 
Chetwyfi,  to  ptop  the  Samorin's  farther  progress,  as  they  wer^ 
4estitute  of  troops  in  Cochip.  Bttt  th^se  princes,  suspicious  of  a  foreign 
alliance,  from  wliich  they  had  rarely  obtained  any  advantage,  declined. 
The  Rajah  of  Paroor  and  the  Samorin  became  great  friends,  the  fonnej: 
furnisjiipg  the  troc^s  of  the  latter,  with  supplies, 

Stavorinus  observes,  that  the  petty  princes,  perceiving  %ha  DutcU 
no  longer  protected  them  against  Travaneore,  had  recourse  to  the 
Samorin,  whom  they  persuaded  to  enter  into  hostilities  against  the 
Company,  imagining  that  if  they  were  obliged  once  to  take  up  arms, 
matters  would  eyentualjiy  conjie  round,  according  to  ph^  wishes,  J^veq. 
fhfi  Rajah  of  Tr^vai^core  oq  being  applied  to  by  the  Dutch,  quietly  re- 
joined, ''  that  he  Imd  tgld  the  ^morin' s  Ambassadors,  that  they  ought 
f^  tp  ^dvise  their  Sovereign  to  stop.''  But  the  Travai^core  Rsyah  wa3 
suspected  of  being  a  loo)cer  on,  with  the  ^xpectat^ion  that  the  Dutch 
frould  be  con^pelled  t^Q  Usg  his  as^ist^iiite,  a|:^d  t}ie)a  he  ci^ld  can^ 
put  his  schemes  of  .conquest. 

TV  SamoriM  now  findii^g,  that  l^e  v^^  becoming  yexy  powerful,  an4 
^1  the  petty  prince;^  we^e  flocking  to  his  standard,  or  offering  hini 
pid,  proposed  to  tlie  Dutch^  that  th^ey  should  eut^r  i^ito  .an  alliance, 
^nd  attack  their  m^t^al  enepiy  of  Tjpavancore.  On  Pctober  18th, 
^756,  a  Jew,  Ezel4.el  ]^abbi^  was  sei^t  by  the  ^amorin,  to  offer  to  the 
Dutch  2fi00  candies  of  pepper  yearly,  if  tjbey  would  joi^  in  a  league 
against  Travancore.  The  Cochin  Council  replied,  that  as  soon  03 
^heir  land?  which  he  tiad  taken  were  rest^rejd,  they  would 
^reat  lapou  this  subject,  but  tlip  basis  of  the  treaty  must  be 
the  old  p^e  of  1717,  with  the  addition  of  a  few  articles :  whilst 
in  the  iuterm/sdiate  tin^e,  Travancore  was  sounded,  as  to  whether 
she  would  ai^si^t  the  Dutch  against  the  Samorin,  as  it  was  deemed' 
;idvisabl,e  to  discover,  ^hat  ternas  either  party  woiild  give,  before 
deciding  upon  which  to  join.  Governor  Cunes  rjemarks,  iu  a  letter 
jtp  Batavia,  "  should  Travan^core  refuse  to  join  U9,  it  becomes  the 
"  more  ijrgent,  that  your  Excellencies  should  furnish  sufficijent  forces, 
"  to  enable  us  to  assume  a  commanding  position,  merely  to  over-awe 
V  tliese  Malabar  Chiefs,  and  tlius  to  continue  on  the  teniis  of  most 


TROOn  AEBIVB  rSOM  BAtAVlA.  137 

*'  intimftte  fiiendaiklp  with  TravancoTe,  without  the  slightest  room 
^  for  any  miaunderstanding :  and  I  muat  also  add,  that  should  the 
**  Samonn  give  an  opportunity  for  a  renewal  of  friendship  with 
'*  him,  on  reasonable  and  hoDOUT»ble  terms,  it  is  advisable  to  at 
''  onee  dose  with  theou^'  Then  follows  an  apology,  for  having  been 
oompeUed  to  go  to  war,  but  the  Samorin  had  been  permitted  to 
continue  his  aggressions  as  long  as  possible,  having  been  only  met 
by  protest^  and  the  consequence  had  been,  that  he  became  more 
and  more  exacting.  The  Cochin  Bajah  at  this  period,  held  no  in* 
t^rcoQrse  with  the  Dutch,  probably  being  indignant^  at  their  not 
joining  him  against  Travancom. 

Before  long,  news  arrived,  that  the  Samorim  intended  t^  pass 
down  his  troops,  by  water,  from  Paroor  to  Porca^  and  the  Dutch 
wrote  to  the  Bajah  of  Travancof>e,  advising  him  to  look  to  it  The 
latter  despatched  200  additional  Nairs  to  Porca,  but  remarked,  that 
were  he  to  attempt  to  drive  the  Samorin  out  of  Paroor,  a  larger 
force  would  be  needed,  than  he  felt  disposed  to  send  into  a  foreign 
State.  At  this  time  seci^et  information  was  received,  that  the  Danes 
who  had  a  factory  at  Calicut,  were  assisting  the  Samorin,  with 
powder  and  lead,  as  well  as  seven  Artillerymen. 

Ccuparw  De  Jong  became  Commandant  in  the  commencement  of 
1757,  and  in  his  memorial,  dated,  March  7th,  1761,  observes,  that 
lie  found  everything  in  confusion.  Paponetty  and  8  Dutch  cannon 
were  in  the  Samorin's  hands,  Chetwye  was  invested  ou  the  land  Hide, 
the  enemy  lytd  built  a  stoue  fort  at  Poolicurra  1|  miles  from  Chet- 
wye, and  another  at  Madilagaum,  where  cannon  were  mounted,  whilst 
he  had  staked  the  river  and  placed  guards  at  Pootencherra,  in  order 
to  prevent  communications  with  Chetwye. 

Ift  1757,  three  hundred  European,  and  seventeen  hundred  coloured 
troops  arrived  from  Batavia,  and  De  Jong  was  enabled  to  act  more 
vigorously  ;  in  the  succeeding  year,  the  obstruction  in  the  river  at 
Pootencherra  was  broken  through,  Chetwye  fort  was  relieved,  and 
the  Samorin's  troops  routed  in  every  encounter.  The  Samorin  had 
wished  to  regain  the  Sovereignty  over  the  whole  island  of  Chetwye, 
whilst  the  Travancore  Rajah  quietly  looked  on,  until  the  Dutcli 
solicited  his  assistance,  when  he  took  the  opportunity  of  extendin*^ 
hia  conquests,  under  the  pretence  of  assisting  the  Company. 

a 


138  TRATANCORB  BECOMES  DANaEKorS. 

The  Samorin  now  perceived  symptoms  of  a  storm  lowering  over 
his  own  coTintiy,  for  ominous  wbi^iera  began  to  be  Jieard  in  Mala- 
bar, that  Hyder  AH  unshed  for  soverei^y  over  the  Western  Coast. 
The  Dutch  power  was  increasing,  and  the  Travancore  Rajah  ap- 
peared as  if  he  were  about  to  join  them,  so  in  this  year  (1758)  the 
Samorin  concluded  a  peace,  though  the  treaty  was  left  unsigned, 
because  as  Do  Jong  remarks,  that  concluded  in  1717,  remained  in 
full  force,  whilst  tiiis  new  one  was  rather  detrimeutal  to.  the  Com- 
pany's reputation.    The  terms  were  as  foUows  : — 

The  8t<»ie  fort  at  Madilagaum  imd  the  watch  places  at  Chetwyey 
and  Pootencherra  were  to  be  razed,  and  the  captured  camion  return- 
ed to  the  Dutch,  who  were  likewise  to  be  re-instated  in  the  possession 
of  their  settlement  at  Madilagaum  with  the  land^  and  gardens^  per- 
taining thereto.  The  18 J  ^-iliages  which  had  been  tak«i  from  the 
Cochin  Rajah,  were  to  be  restored  to  the  Dutch,  and  tl^  SajiV)rin  was 
to  pay  65,000  rupees,  for  the  expenses  of  the  war^ 

De  Jong  observes,  that  in  the  treaty  of  1717,  the  Samorin 
was  to  have  paid  the  expenses  of  the  war  I0>62d  rix  dollars, 
but  it  was  six  years  before  it  was  received.  He  now  paid  35,084 
nipees  4  annas,  on  account  of  the  65,000,  and  ceded  three  islands 
opposite,  Palliport,  which  the  Dutch  were  to  setain  until  they 
had  re-imbursed  themselves  for  the  exp^ises  of  the  war  not  al- 
ready paid,  from  th^e  islands  titey  obtained  from  ten  to  twelve 
thousand  rupees  yearly.  In  1773,  when  Hyder  came  into  Malabar, 
the  accounts  were  still  unsettled,  whilst  he  claimed  the  whole  of  the 
Samorin's  territory.  But  as  these  islands  had  never  belonged  to 
Hyder,  the  Codiin  Council  decided  to  retain  them^  until  they  should 
be  reclaimed  by  the  Samorin, 

De  Jong  denominates  the  Rajah  of  TVavancore  a  dangerous 
neighbour,  who  had  annexed  and  was  then  (1761)  in  undisturbed 
pdtoession  of,  the  kingdoms  of  Culli-Qmlon,  (including  Quilon), 
Porca,  Teckencoor,  and  Berkencoor,  besides  Attingal,  and  Travancore. 
The  treaty  of  1753,  with  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  article  29,  stipu- 
lated that  all  the  Dutch  subjects  and  vassals,  in  the  island  of 
Chet%vye,  should  remain  free  and  ummolested,  but  fears  were  now 
entertained,  that  he  contemplated  adding  these  lands  to  his  domini- 
ons. De  Jong  apprised  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  what  he  considered 


TKAVANCOR*  EEFtTSJS  TO  SUPPLY  PBPPIE.  139 

Ike  limits  of  the  Dutch  territory  around  Quilou  and  Cochin,  but 
little  notice  appears  to  have  been  taken  of  his  communication.  So 
he  addressed  anoUier  letter,  affirming  that  Castella,  two  miles  south 
of  Cochin,  was  the  Dutch  boundary,  within  which  he  requested 
no  acts  of  hostility  might  take  phvce,  as  the  inhabitants  were 
under  the  protection  of  the  Dutch,  but  that  the  Travancore  Rajah 
might  within  those  limits,  hold  the  same  rights  over  the  people  that 
the  Cochin  Rajah  had  previously  possessed,  because  he  conceived 
that  he  had  fairly  acquired  this,  by  the  fortunes  of  war.  He  continues 
bis  memorial,  by  remarking  to  liis  successor,  that  there  is  nothing 
to  prevent  the  Travancoreans  driving  the  Cochin  Bajah  out  of  his 
palace  at  Muttencherry,  annexing  the  land  up  to  the  walls  of  the 
Cochin  fort,  making  their  vassab  and  merchants  his  subjects,  and 
«eizii^  the  river  and  land  customs  duties.  Their  people  at  Quilon 
were  he  asserts  then  treated  by  the  Travancoreans  like  slaves,  whilst 
the  Paliat  Achen,  the  Kodachayree  and  two  other  Kaimuls,  were 
«ither  prisoners  in  the  hands  of  Travancore  or  treated  as  sucL 

The  Travancore  Bajah  who  had  agreed  in  the  treaty  of  1753,  to 
supply  the  Dutch  with  pepper  at  a  certain  rate,  now  refused  to  ful- 
fil his  contract,  and  informed  them  that  they  were  no  longer  a  sove- 
reign power,  but  merely  a  number  of  petty  merchants,  and  that  if 
tfaey  required  spices,  they  must  purchase  them  at  the  market  rates.  ^ 

•  In  1757,  Commandant  de  Jowj,  addressed  some  Hfirtl  cmsiderathns  to  Ba- 
tavi.i.  He  observes,  that  the  prindpal  object  of  the  Dutch  oompa|^y,  in  expel- 
ling the  Portuguese  from  the  Western  Coast  of  India,  was  in  order  to  becomo 
the  poa-sesaora  of  the  pepper-trade,  exclusive  of  every  other  nation.  But  tho 
Wl  faith  of  the  Malabar  priuoes,,  and  the  competition  of  European  rivals,  caus- 
ed them  much  disappointment.  Their  competitors  bought  pepper  as  they 
required  it,  always  paying  the  market  rate,  or  a  little  above  it,  whilst  the  Dutch 
lasisted  upon  the  pei-formance  of  the  contracts  at  a  low  fixed  rate,  and  that  u<> 
pepper  should  be  disposed  of,  until  they  were  served.  The  contracts  mention 
tin  faxd  rate,  but  only  speak  of  the  market  raU^  as  the  rule  to  be  adhered  to. 
H'he  Dutch  designated  all  trade  with  other  parties  contraband,  and  frequently 
brought  Military  force  to  check  it,  this  was  expensive,  and  the  Malabar  com- 
mnnd  was  almost  invariably  in  debt. 

In  his  m^morial^  he  gives  his  opinion,  that  monopolies  in  this  article,  ditl 
Tiot  exist  before  the  advent  of  the  Dutch,  and  were  illegal  combinations  of  the 
nilerj?,  as  he  hmte  for  detrauding  the  people.  The  Portuguese  obtained  it  he 
reiiiarksj  from  the  Rajahs,  but  th  iy  only  acted  Vke  brokers,  between  the  owners 


140  BYDEB  ALI   INVADES  tTEatEXN  COAST.- 

In  1762,  the  TravancorB  Rajah  having  defeated  ihe  Salh<Mr]ii,  in 
the  cause  of  the  Rajah  oi  Coclan,  re-instated  the  latter  in  part  of 
his  dominions.  He  also  opened  Allepey  which  he  had  taken  from 
Cochin^  to  foreign  trade,  greatly  to  the  loss  of  the  Dutch,  who  re- 
fused to  permit  such  being  done,  some  years  previously,  when  their 
leave  was  asked  by  the  Rajah  of  Porcar  giving  as  a  reason,  that 
they  should  possess  no  check,  upon  the  exportation  of  cinD^Ronon 
and  pepper. 

The  treaty  of  peace  between  the  Dutch  nod  the  Samorin,  had  not 
in  1 762  been  comf^etely  fulfilled,  there  still  lenmined  Rupees  16,000 
due  to  the  forma",  so  the  island  of  Moothoocoonoo,  (taken  from 
Paroor,)  was  mortgaged  to  them  for  that  amknmt,  and  if  unredeem- 
ed in  two  years,  was  to  become  Dutch  property.  TVavancore  dis-* 
approved  of  this  transaction,  and  laid  ctaim  to  the  i^and,  on  behalf 
of  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  according  to*  the  troaty  with  that  state, 
dated  1761,  (see  page  46)  matters  thus  remained,  until  1766  or  1767, 
when  troops  were  sent  from  Oranganore,  to  hold  forcible  possession 
of  those  landa  Sdhsequently  both  the  Travancore  and  Cochin 
Rajahs,  repeatedly  asked  peranssioQ,  to  build  a  stroi^  fort  ihere^ 
as  a  boundary  to  the  Jaootay  lines,  but  were  invariably  refused 

In  1762,  Hyder  M  suddenly  naide  himsdf  mister  of  Bednore,  and 
fortified  that  town,  as  well  a»Onore,  Bareelove,-  Bekkenore;  and  Man- 
galore.  He  was  assisted*  by  the  Portuguese,  who  allowed  their  cheers 
to  take  service  under  him.  The  Dutch  at  thisperiod  had  factories  at 
I^rcelore  ynd  Mangalore,  but  he  did  not  interfere  with  them.  He 
applied  to  the  Governor  of  Coddn  (WayemtanJ  for  one  thousand 
muskets,  on  which  they  were  promised  and  written  for  to  Batavia,  but 
the  Supreme  Government  disapproved  of  this  course  and  declined 
furnishing  them.  Hyder  subsequently  moved  towards-  the  north : 
and  the  arms  he  could  not  procure  from  the  Dutdk,  were  furnished 
by  the  French. 

of  the  pepper,  and  the  Purtuguese  Govemmeat.  Whea  oompetition  arose, 
monopolies  were  by  degrees  iutroduoed,  but  such  a  power  does  not  exist  in  the^ 
laws  of  Cheroman  Permaul,  Vy  which  the  rulers  of  Malabar  ara  bound,  and  from 
which,  they  cannot  deviate,  without  the  oonsent  of  their  subjects.  This  was  a 
caiiAe,  why  the  Rajahs  and  Chiefs,  feared  to  prevent  smuggliag,  as  th«y  were 
well  aware,  of  the  illegality  of  the  system  of  monopolies. 
*  Govenior  Mocnt"  memorial  to  his  sticoessor,  1781. 


EEIfUCTION   OF  tROOPS    IK   MALABAR.  141 

BreeJLpOt  wad  insitallecl  oM  a  Cfov^mor  of  Cochin  in  1764,  and  short- 
ly afUrwards  received  a  letter  from  Hyder  Ali,  in  which  he  express- 
ed his  hopes,  that  he  and  the  Dutch  would  Continue  friends,  and 
{proposed  their  agaiin  sending  a  Resident  Factor  {o  Barcelore,  to  re- 
open  the  trade,  in  forwarding  the  success  of  whidi,  he  promised  to 
tise  his  best  exertions.  Breekpot  despatched  a  polite  answer,  and 
stated  that  the  Company  did  liot  wish  to  ei^nd  their  trade  at  pre- 
sent)  but  that  ad  soon  as  they  h^  r^olved  oil  doillg  so,  they  would 
gladly  avail  themselves  of  his  frieilclly  offeY.  A  shoH  time  pre- 
viously, the  Cannanore  establishmeilt  had  been  reduced,  and 
now  some  more  of  the  ammunitioil,  weapons,  arid  goods,  were  trans- 
ferred to  Cochin,  in  accordance  with  orders  fomlerly  received  from 
Batavia.  The  fOrt  had  bcien  directcid  to  be  destroycfd,  but  as  it 
was  reported  in  good  order,  well  laid  out,  (^pdble  of  defence  by  d 
small  body  of  troops,  arid  itdvarita^usly  ditiiated  fdf  trade,  it  was 
determined  to  allow  it  to  remain,  fiut  iilstnictioris  were  given, 
that  if  Hyder  Ali  offered  a  good  sum  for  it,  it  was  to  be  sold  to  hini, 
with  a  proviso,  that  a  Dutch  President  should  be  permitted  to  live  and 
trade  there,  both  house  rent,  and  tax  free.  Subsequently  in  1771, 
this  fort  Was  pttrchaded  by  the  Ady  Rajah^  or  as  he  was  commonly 
styled,  the  Stdtati  of  the  LaCcadiVes. 

Breekpot  fcrtmd  that  dii'ections  had  been  f eceif ed,  to  destroy  fort 
Williafli  At  Chetwye,  Arid  build  a  warehouse  instead,  but  his  prede- 
cessor WayemiAn,  had  refused  td  obey  What  he  Usrtnedj  **  a  most 
impolitic  order."  He  pointed  out,  that  it  Was  A  necessftrjr  frontier 
fort,  and  therefore  he  merely  reduced  the  establishment.  In  1765, 
Breekpot  decreased  the  nrimber  of  guris,  from  42  to  23,  and  in  the 
Jflnttaiy  following,  sent  ari  £nglrieer,  to  estimate  the  amoitnt  it  would 
cost,  to  break  doWn  the  foit,  arid  build  a  warehouse.  Time  was 
lost,  the  monsoon  set  in,  and  nothing  was  dolie.  In  1767,  again  strict 
orders  were  received  from  Batavia,  to  deisltroy  the  Chetwye,  Quilon, 
and  Cranganore  f oits,  but  owing  to  the  presence  of  the  Mysoreans, 
the  orders  could  riot  be  obeyed.  Wayerman  had  been  directed  to 
blowupCranganore  fort,  but  he  replied,  that  if  he  did  so,  all  the  houses 
within  it  must  share  the  same  fate,  whilst  the  cOst  of  breaking  it 
down  by  manual  labour,  would  be  excessive.  He  reduced  the  estab- 
lishment from  67  to  40  men,  with  14  gims.     This  Governor  assert- 


u^ 


HYDER  FORETELLS   BRITISH  SlTPREMACY. 


ed,  that  Cranganore  was  the  key  to  North  Malabar,  and  its  destrac- 
tioii  would  be  suicidal.  Breekpot  further  decreased  the  garrison,  by 
8  meiL  In  the  year  1767,  owing  to  the  great  peculatioil  in  the  Go- 
vernmeut  money  in  Malabar,  a  large  sum  had  to  be  written  ofif,  to 
make  good  the  deficiencies. 

On  February  18th,  1766,  Hyder  had  arrived  within  nine  miles 
of  Canuauore,  and  the  Commandant  of  that  fort,  reported  to  Cochin 
a  month  later,  that  although  Hyder  had  orderel  any  Nair,  or  other 
Hindu,  to  be  put  to  death  who  wore  the  topknot  of  hair  on  his 
head,  (ciulumi,)  he  had  been  so  civil  to  their  possessions,  and  de- 
peadartta,  that  liot  a  cocoanut  had  beeil  picked  froxil  one  of  their 
trees,  nor  even  a  leaf  abstracted.  On  March  15th,  the  crafty  Ma- 
homedau  visited  the  Dutch  commandimt,  H.  Rroonenberg,  at  Can- 
hanore,  treating  him  most  courteously,  and  inviting  him  to  his  camp 
nt  Cherkil.  On  his  accepting  the  invitation,  he  placed  him  by  his 
side  ou  his  own  elephant,  and  at  3  i^.m.  they  reached  the  eamp, 
where  he  was  consigned  to  the  care  of  Nawab  Ali  Raza  Khan,  from 
Whom  he  gleaned  the  following  particulars,  viz.^  that  Hyder  prefer- 
red the  Dutch  to  all  other  European  powers,  and  would  grant  them 
favours,  he  would  show  neither  to  the  English,  nor  the  French. 
Bubscquently,  Ali  Raza  Khan  further  infoi^ed  him,  that  Hyder 
had  been  heard  to  say,  ''  the  English  are  nlasters  of  the  whole  of 
"  Bengal,  of  the  greatest  part  of  the  Coromandel  Coast,  they  are  try- 
**  iug  to  get  Malabar  under  them,  and  hiive  it  in  contemplation  to 
'*  send  an  expedition  to  China.  What  then  will  remain  for  us  to 
**  do,  but  to  submit  to  them]  I  clearly  foresee  and  assure  you,  that 
"  unless  a  change  takes  place  within  two  years,  the  English  will  be 
"  masters  of  all  India.  I  know  well  my  friend,'^  continued  Ali 
Raza  KhaU,  "  that  Hyder  does  not  see  things  dimly,  and  he  will 
"  sacrifice  evei*ything  to  preveiit  this  Coming  to  pass,  lie  is  a  brave 
*'  soldier,  and  if  his  life  be  spared,  he  will  succeed."* 

Governor  Moens,  ui  his  Menlorial,  states,  that  Dutch  Oommis- 
sioners  at  Hyder's  request,  met  him  at  Calicttt,  in  April  1766,  when 
they  enumerated  the  titles  by  which  they  held  their  foctories,  and 
right  to  trade,  under  the  Samorin :  they  also  informed  him,  that  the 
Rajahs  of  Cochin  and  Travancore  Were  their  Allies,  and  trusted  he 

*  iJatch  Government  recordt  of  Coc/tuu    M.dS.  cbtt-d,  Maroh  1766. 


HYDEB  WISHES  TO  FORM  A  DUTCH  AJAAHSCK  143 

would  not  molest  them.  His  replies  may  be  summed  ap  under  the 
following  heads,  made  in  the  form  of  propositions  by  hira. 

1st  That  he  was  anxious  to  fonn  a  treaty  of  friendsliip  with  the 
Dutch  Company,  and  would  allow  them  to  purcliase  the  produce  of 
his  country :  but  they  in  their  turn,  were  required  to  furnish  hin^ 
with  what  he  had  need  of,  in  the  fom^  of  articles  and  goods. 

2ndly.  That  if  the  Dutch  Company  required  assistance  for  the 
purpose^  of  defence,  he  was  willing  to  furnish  them  with  30,000 
hmd  forces,  and  his  fleet :  but  that  he  should  expect  the  co-opera- 
tion of  their  vessels  of  war. 

Srdly,  That  should  he  again  return  towards  the  south  of  the  Ma- 
labar coast,  the  Dutch  Company  must  provide  him  with  1,000  Euro- 
iHsans,  whose  pay  and  expenses  he  would  defray. 

4thly.  That  he  was  willing  to  allow  the  Company  to  keep  the 
Chetwye  lands,  and  as  regards  permitting  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  to  re- 
main immolested,  that  he  would  do  so  out  of  respect  to  the  Company 
though  he  had  a  longing  for  that  pepper  producing  country,  but  that 
he  was  unable  to  guarantee  anything  respecting  Travancor^.  That 
whenever  he  purposed  proceediiig  southward,  he  required  a  free  pass- 
age through  the  territories  both  of  the  Company  and  the  Cochin 
Rajah,  he  on  his  side  guaranteeing  the  inhabitants  against  losses.  He 
also  stated,  that  he  had  not  yet  n^adc  up  hU  mind,  when  he  should 
advance  towards  the  ^outh, 

5thly.     That  he  was  ready  to  give  the  Company  more  lands. 

6thly.  That  he  would  allow  the  Company  to  trade  freely  as  far 
northwards,  as  his  power  was  established,  or  might  hereafter  be. 

7thly.  That  the  Dutch  n>ight  replace  their  establishments  at 
Barcelore,  and  institute  others  at  Ponany  and  Calicut" 

Afoem  contmues,  that  it  appeared  Hyder  was  anxious  to  enter 
into  an  offensive  and  defensive  alliance  with  the  Dutch,  and  he  even 
wrote  a  letter  to  this  effect,  which  was  addressed  to  the  Supreme 
Council  at  Batavia.  The  Cochin  authorities  replied,  that  they  were 
qnable  to  answer  his  requests,  which  had  been  at  his  desire 
submitted  to  the  Supreme  Council :  still  they  flattered  him  with  de- 
lusive expectations.  Hyder,  however,  was  not  to  be  imposed  upon,  and 
modified  his  promises,  espeoially  regarding  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,' 
which  he  said  must  be  conditional,  as  he  expected  him  to  contribute 


144  HYBER  PROPOSES  AN  ARRAJiOEMEXT. 

towards  tlie  expenses  of  his  lyars :  and  he  offered  to  enter  into  a  like 
arrangement  with  Travancore.  Hi3  demands  were,  4  lacs  of  rupees, 
and  8  elephants  from  the  former  Rajah,  and  15  lacs  with  30 
elephanla  frgm  the  letter,  in  4efault  of  receiving  ^hic^,  he  proposed 
paying  a  visit  to  those  poultries, 

Tlie  Governor  of  Cochin  transmitte4  these  neqn^sts,  to  tlje  respec- 
tive Princes.  Tlje  Travancore  I^ajah  n^plied,  that  be  yrsa  unaware  that 
Hy46r  went  tp  war  to  please  him,  or  in  accordance  with  his  advice, 
and  lyas  consequently  unable  to  see  the  justice  of  his  contributing 
towards  his  expenses.  Besides  he  continued,  he  was  a  tributaiy  to 
the  Xawab,  Mahomed  Ali,  aad  could  not  afford  to  be  a  vassal  tp  two 
powers  i\,t  the  i^aipe  time :  sti}l  he  Tyoul4  giv^  a  Qonsiderable  sun^  of 
money,  provided  Hyder  A}i  woujd  re-instate  thQ  Rajah  of  Culastry, 
and  the  San^orin,  ui  their  dominioijis.  He  alsq  asserted,  that  the 
dispossessed  Princes  Tjrere  prepared  to  contribute,  and  boldly  conclud- 
ed, that  to^ar4s  such  an  object^  the  Dutch  Company  ought  to  sub- 
scribe largely.  The  Bajah  of  Cochin  replie4,  that  he  left  his  affairs 
in  the  hands  pf  the  Company,  and  trusted  that  whatever  conclusions 
were  arrived  at,  tUe  Colastriffn  ^d  CaliQut  Princes,  would  regain 
their  doniinions. 

The  Dutch  Gpvprijor  feaired  to  send  S^ch  ^nswer^  to  Hyder,  and 
ijistead  of  4espatcbii^g  to  hin^  a  Commissioner,  wipqte  to  say,  that  he 
had  communicated  his  terms  to  Batavia,  Travancore,  and  the  Rajah 
of  Cochin,  ai^d  trusted  all  ^ould  be  arranged  in  a  satisfactory  man- 
ner. On  July  ?Oth,  the  Travt^icoreans,  who  appear  to  have  enter- 
tained less  hopes  of  a  peiiceful  solution  tl^an  did  the  Di^tch  Governor, 
commenced  extending  their  lines,  to  within  the  r^nge  of  the  guna  of 
Cranganore  fort,  and  on  to  the  territory  of  the  Cranganore  Rajali, 
The  Dutch  feiiring  to  offend  IJyder,  sent  notice  to  the  Travancore 
Rajali,  that  he  must  cease  his  work,  and  that  no  armed  Nairs  belong- 
ing to  liis  State  could  be  permitted  within  their  (the  Dntch)  limits.  Only 
a  month  previously,  (June  14th)  the  Commandant  of  the  Cranga- 
nore fort  had  called  upon  the  Cranganore  B^ah,  and  complained 
that  h^  had  permitted  the  Saniorin's  family,  and  armed  followers, 
fleeing  from  Hyder,  to  take  refuge  in  bis  country.  He  "also  point-. 
"  ed  out  to  him,  that  according  to  a  lawful  contract  between  liim 
*'  and  the  Honourable  Company,  all  the  land  from  Chetwye  to  Cran- 


MOEKS  BECOMES  GOVERNOR.  U^ 

**  ganore^  was  under  the  overseership  of  the  Company,  and  also  that 
**  His  Highness  and  his  whole  country  were  under  the  protection 
"*  of  the  Company:  that  therefore  his  request  to  send  away  the  Sa- 
**  morin's  family  and  foUowters,  was  not  unreasonable,  and  that  here- 
^  after,  His  Highness  knudt  abide  implicitly,  by  the  good  advice 
**  given  him  by  the  Company."  The  fi^jah  aiiquiesoed,  ^d  promis- 
ed obedience  iki  future.*  On  the  22nd  when  the  Samoriii  and  his 
followers  returned,  they  were  desired  to  retire.  The  Dutch  OfBcef 
commanding  Quilon,  reported  on  MAy  22nd,  that  "  our  competitors 
•*  the  English,  have  sent  from  70  to  80  men,  and  500  fire  arms,  to 
the  Travancore  Rajah." 

In  October  (1766),  it  was  fumoured,  that  Hyder  intended  to  in- 
vade *]^Vancore :  but  he  delayed  his  movements,  AAd  on  the  follow- 
ing January  receiving  information,  that  the  Mahrattas  akid  the  Niiam 
were  about  to  attack  Mysore,  he  hastened  back  to  the  pi^tection  ot 
Seringapatam.  Governor  Moens  wrote  on  November  16th,  1766,  to 
the  Officer  Commanding  Cranganore,  directing  that  no  Konkanies, 
Mopkhs,  or  black  Jews,  Were  to  be  permitted  to  proceed  northwards, 
vCnleaB  they  had  passports,  as  it  seemed  probable  they  Widhed  to  join 
Hyder  AIL 

On  February  20th,  1767,  Hyder  s  fltet  of  28  sail,  came  into  the 
Cochitt  roads,  and  two  of  them  eveA  entered  the  river,  and  anchored 
close  under  the  wall.  Their  Admiral  stated,  that  they  were  in 
jniTsnit  of  the  Mahlratta  fleet.  The  next  day  they  left  lot  thd 
north.  In  March  the  following  year,  many  of  these  vessels  w4r6 
captured  by  the  Snglbh  Squadron.  In  1770,  the  Mahratta  fleet, 
consisting  of  30  sail,  came  into  the  Cochin  roads,  repofting  that 
they  were  frietids.  Wishing  to  make  a  tfeaty,  aUd  asking  to  be 
allowed  to  Anchor  close  to  the  town  wall.  Permission  to  do  so 
was  granted  them,  but  they  did  not  a^^  themselves  of  it.  After 
teittainirig  18  days,  and  virtually  blockading  the  place,  they  sailed 
northwards. 

Whea  ifoeni  became  Governor  on  April  2nd,  1771,  he  found  the 

defences  of  Cochin  in  a  very  dilapidated  state,  there  Was  ho  covered 

way,  or  glacis,  the  ditch  was  nearly  diy  at  low  water,  and  only  kned 

deep  at  high  water,  the  breast  works  were  broken  down,  and  the 

•  OfiCial  report  to  tkc  Oovei^nor  vf  Cochin.  M.S3. 


H6  RAJAH  OF  COCHIN  AND  DUTCH  DISAOKEK, 

• 

wheels  of  the'gon  carnages  appeared  above  the  wall&  In  two 
places  the  town  was  particularly  weak,  near  the  basti<m  termed 
«( Gelderlandy"  and  that  designated  **  Holland/'  which  were  not  far 
distant  from  one  another,  here  no  <Mteh  existed^  mti  that  port  of  the 
fortifications  was  almost  defencdfess^  for  the  gon  weie  worn  out, 
and  tibeir  carriages  rotten.  €^  a  representation  being  Biade,  he  was 
permitted  to  maike  a  deepanid  good  ditch  eneireliag  t&e  fort,  execate 
repairs,  and  form  a  corewA  way  amd  glacis,  whilst  a  fair  show  of 
cannon  were  planted  on  the  walk.  These  necessasy  repairs  were 
completed  m  1778. 

Moens  left  a  most  elaborate  Memorial  for  his  successor,  consist- 
ing of  1^3  pages  in  Manuscript,  it  is  stiQ  in  excellent  preservation,, 
and  comprises  a  very  nradi  ftdler  account  than  those  of  any  of  his  pre- 
decessors. The  reason  for  this  increased  amouat  of  ittf ormation,  was 
an  order  sent  in  1777  by  the  Supteme  Qovernment  of  Batavia,  for 
answers  on  the  f<^owing  subjects.  A  short  accouift  of  the  country 
and  &e  imtions  inhabiting  it,  with  a  Map  if  procmtible.  The  form 
of  the  native  Government.  Tbe  most  common  woids  ix  their 
language,  and  the  characters  employed  by  them  in  writing.  Some  of 
their  books.  A  summary  of  their  manners  and  customs^  especially 
with  reference  tc^  birthsy  marriages,  and  burials.  Their  modes  of 
agriculture,  how  tkey  ptepoie  and  work  in  metalsv  Their  plan  of 
computing  tone,  and  their  knowledge  of  astronomy.  An  account  of 
the  seasons,  with  remsarks  on  the  heat,  cold,  and  barometrical 
vitiations.  A  description  of  the  amimals,  plants,  and  minerals. 
Bare  ammals  and  birds  were  directed  to  be  forwarded  in  arrack. 
Plants  to  be  sent  between  two  pieces  of  paper,  with  their  bavea^ 
blossoms,  and  f  rait  Minerals  in  their  ore,  with  a  statement  of  how, 
and  where  tlbey  were  procured.  A  strict  enquiry  was  to  be  institu- 
ted into  an  herbs,  plants,  rootf^  or  other  natural  productions,  employed 
by  the  natives  for  the  cure  of  c^seases^  or  any  other  purpose  Any 
useful  vegetable  productions,  such  as  roots,  plants^  herbS)  the  bark, 
leaves,  or  fruit  of  trees^  were  <£rected  to  be  forwarded  to  Batavia. 

In  1772,  the  disputes  between  tbe  Ragah  of  Codiinand  the  Dutch, 
had  become  rather  onrinous,  as  tlie  former  was  naturally  indignant 
at  the  way  in  which  he  had  been  treated  by  the  latter.  A  conven- 
tion was  then  held,  to  settle  these  diiOferences  -,  one  subject  agitated. 


DTTTOH  RRSIGN  THEIR  BIGHTS  OVSR  MUTTINCBBRRT.        147 

was  ike  rigkt  of  the  Datch  to  collect  the  reyenues  around  Ooehin. 
The  following  terms  were  finally  agreed  t(\  l^  the  Dutch  Governor. 
^'  From  tbis  day  forward,  as  long  as  the  QoTemment  of  Ckxshin 
^  exists,  I  do  cede  and  transfer,  unto  you  and  your  descendants,  the 
**  right  of  coQecting  the  income  from  MvtteDcherry  and  CheUyOy 
^  (two  suburbs  of  GochiM.)  To  collect  the  farms  and  customs  of 
^  AmamwBdy  (also  a  suburb  of  Cochin,)  and  te  conduct  the  afiairs  of 
^  Mattescherry,  Chellye,  and  of  the  Konkanies  and  their  temple."* 
Bat  there  was  the  follewing  understanding,  **  that  the  R^jah  shall 
^  impose  no  new  demands  upon  the  Konkanies,  that  they  shall  have 
^^foU  liberty  to  complain  to  the  Dutch  Oovermor  if  aggrieved,  and 
**  that  the  Rajah  shall  not  interfere  in  smy  matters  of  the  temple, 
*^  without  the  knowledge  and  consent  of  the  Co«pMiy."t 

It  is  necessary  to  observe,  that  the  disputed  ground,  had  In  olden 
times  beeu  the  esplanade  of  the  fort,  which  was  made  over  to  the 
Dutch  by  the  Cochin  Bfgah  in  1663 :  but  the  treaty  does  not 
state,  whether  as  a  gift  with  the  right  of  sovereignty  over  it,  or 
merely  as  a  loan.  In  1791,  the  Rajah  loaded  the  Kcmkanies  also 
called  Caaiareene  with  new  imposts,  this  was  resisted  by  the  Cochin 
CounciL  Tbs  EngUsh  are  said  to  have  espoused  the  Biyah's  side 
but  he  eventuaUy  gave  way,  end  Admitted  the  right  of  Dutch  pro* 
tectioQ  over  the  Konkanies  and  Christians. 

Giving  up  these  rights  must  have  been  a  great  trial  to  the 
Dutdi,  aa  they  had  guarded  them  most  jealous^  ever  since  1663, 
In  this  year  the  Cochin  Council  reported  to  Batavia,  that  the  French 
had  massed  7  or  8,000  troops  at  the  Mauritias,  the  ol^ct  of  which 
was  nnknowm.  But  they  thought  an  increase  to  the  Cochin  garrison 
was  desirable  with  as  little  delay  as  possible,  as  the  Dutch  forces 
on  the  Malabar  coast  at  that  time,  amounted  to  merely  607  per- 
sons, of  whobi  332  were  Europeans,  but  aome  were  invalids.  The 
next  year,  their  forces  consisted  of  640  men,  of  whom  360  were  Eu- 
ropeans, and  a  few  months  subsequently,  a  further  augmentation  of 
150  Sepoys  was  made4 

*  D^Ltck  Government  RteoirU  U.SS, 

t  Memorial  of  Van  AngUbeek,  1798. 

X  The  amount  of  pepper  received  in  Cochin,  between  March  SUt  1771,  aed 
Oie  middle  of  April  1772,  was  1,494,407  pounds:  or  161,38di  pounds  lew  than 
the  previotts  year. 


148        .    HTDEK   DKHANDS   FREE  PASSAGK  TO  TRAVANCOSE. 

Matters  mth  Hyder  Ali  up  to  that  period  had  taken  no  definite 
tuniy  the  Dutch  Council  trusted  to  some  fortunate  accident,  obviat> 
ing  the  necessity  of  a  decision,  whilst  he  was  awaiting  a  favourable 
opportunity  to  invade  Travancore,  without  doubt  counting  upon  the 
active,  or  at  least  passive  friendship  of  the  Dutch  and  the  Cochin 
Rajah.  At  any  rate  he  may  have  fairly  anticipated  a  free  passage, 
in  accordance  with  his  communication  to  the  Commissioners  in  1766. 
In  1773-74,  he  swept  down  into  Malabar,  the  Samorin  again  be- 
came a  fugitive,  and  attempted  to  take  refuge  with  the  Crangaaore 
I^jah.  But  the  Dutch  Qovemor  ordered  him  instantly  to  depart, 
so  he  embarked  in  a  Native  craft  for  Travancore,  with  which  Rfgab 
alone,  he  appears  to  have  been  safe  in  his  forest  encircled  cities.  In 
this  year  the  Travancore  Rajah  as  a  matter  of  courier,  handed 
over  toHhe  Dutch,  three  native  Christians,  who  were  under  senttoce 
of  death,  for  killing  a  cow:  ia  return,  he  asked  for  arms,  promising 
payment  for  the  same. 

In  October  1775,  the  Dutch  supplied  Hyder  with  elephants,  as 
well  as  fusils  from  Ceylon,  which  they  landed  at  Negapatam.  The 
Dutch  Factor  at  Calicut  apologized  for  the  fire-a)rms  being  of  an  in- 
ferior description,  but  promised  to  send  to  Europe  for  better.  The 
elephants  he  observes,  were  the  best  procurable,  and  he  hoped  they 
would  answer  the  purpote  for  wMeh  they  were  imtendedL  He  con- 
tinues by  complaining  of  the  extortiona  of  Hyder's  agents  at  Calicut, 
and  the  excessive  demands  they  made  on  the  Dutch  vassal  the 
Rigah  of  Cranganore.  He  also  observes  that  he  has  had  the  pleasure 
of  sending  Carpenters  and  Ironsmiths  to  assist  in  the  conatruction 
of  the  Mysore  fleet  now  being  built :  and  concludes  by  wishing  Hy- 
der, health,  a  long  life,  and  success  in  his  undertakings. 

In  1776,  Hyder  sent  a  letter,  accompanied  by  handsome  presents, 
and  demanded  a  safe  passage  through  the  territories  T>f  the  Dutch 
Company,  for  the  purpose  of  attacking  Travancore,  in  accordance 
with  his  demands  in  1766,  at  Calicut  But  although  a  former 
Governor  (BreekpotJ  had  been  profuse  in  his  promises  to  Hyder, 
so  long  as  distance  divided  them,  the  present  one  fHoent,)  was 
afraid  of  giving  a  favourable  reply,  as  he  had  no  instructions  horn 
Batavia.  Hyder  considered  this  excuse  as  an  evasion,  and  certainly 
with  a  show  of  reason,  as  he  could  hardly  believe  thi^t  Uie  Qovemor 


ATTEMPT   TO  SUBPBISE  CRANOANOES   FORT.  149 

had  been  waiting  ten  years  for  an  answer  from  Batavia,  as  to  the 
ipAiwiAr  in  which  his  advances  were  to  be  met,  and  now  the  time  to 
act  had  arrived.  Highly  incensed  by  this  conduct,  Hyder  then 
tiireatMied  the  annihiklion  of  the  Dutch  Company,  and  Sirdar  Khan 
was  directed  to  advance  with  10,000  men,  and  over-run  the  Travanoore 
territory.  In  August  of  that  year,  he  had  invaded  the  northern 
portion  of  the  Cochin  State^  taking  amon^^t  other  places  the  Fort 
of  Trichoor,  but  his  further  advance  was^checked  by  the  Travancore 
lines. 

The  Dutch  now  congratubted  themselves  on  the  disappearance  of 
the  Mysoreaus,  but  a  letter  soon  arrived  from  Sirdar  Khan,  in  which 
he  claimed  the  Chetwye  territory,  on  the  plea  that  it  had  formed  a 
portion  of  the  Samorin's  dominions,  wrested  from  him  by  the  Dutch, 
who  had  promised  to  return  it  after  a  certain  period.  That  time  hav- 
ing elapsed,  and  Hyder  being  now  by  right  of  conquest  the  successor 
to  the  Samorin,  the  Cochin  Council  were  requested  to  give  up  the  lands, 
which  th^  declined  doing.  On  October  9th,  Sirdar  Khan  crossed  the 
Chetwye  river  near  Poolicarra,  a  litUe  to  the  north  of  the  Dutch 
Fort,  and  took  possession  of  the  custom's  house,  making  a  prisoner 
of  the  writer  who  was  sent  to  him  as  the  bearer  of  a  message.  The 
Mysore  forces  now  divided  into  two  bodies,  one  of  which  proceeded 
southwards  towards  Paponetty,  from  whence  the  Dutch  Resident  retir- 
ed into  the  Cranganore  fort,  taking  with  him  the  Company's  treasure. 
Sirdar  Khan  now  threw  up  strong  works  at  Paponetty,  and  despatch- 
ed a  letter  to  the  Governor  of  Cochin,  stating  that  Hyder  Ali  consi- 
dered that  he  had  met  with  a  premeditated  insult  from  the  Dutch 
Gk>vemH>,  who  had  given  no  decided  reply  to  his  letter.  Still  he 
wished  to  be  friends,  but  a  free  passage  for  his  troops  towards  Tra- 
vancore, was  essential :  and  were  such  refused,  it  would  be  considered 
equivalent  to  a  declaration  of  war. 

Governor  Moent  replied,  that  he  was  glad  to  understand  that  the 
Mysoreans  wished  to  be  regarded  as  friends,  and  he  should  feel  oblig- 
ed by  thpir  evacuating  the  Dutch  territory,  and  not  allowing  their 
people  to  approach  the  Cranganore  fort  But  before  his  reply  could 
reach  its  destination,  Sirdar  Khan  attempted  to  surprise  this  fort^ 
on  October  11th,  but  failed.  He  then  wrote  another  letter,  stating 
thut  having  taken  the  lands  of  Paponetty,  he  should  feel  obliged  by 


150  DUTCH  SEND  TO  CEYLON  FOR  TROOPS. 

the  accounts  for  the  last  20  years,  being  forwarded.  He  also  de- 
manded the  territory^  the  Dutch  Company  had  received  from  the 
Samorin,  in  1758|  as  well  as  a  Nuzzer,  and  a  free  passage  towards 
Travancore. 

Without  sufficient  troops  to  hold  their  own  by  f  (»rce,  surrounded  by 
Native  States,  outwardly  friendly  but  secretly  hostile,  attacked  by  the 
Mysonpans,  and  awaiting  instructions  from  Batavia,  Moen£  position 
was  a  very  difficult  one.  A  common  danger  it  was  true,  bound  the 
Cochin  and  Travancore  States  to  the  Dutch,  but  it  was  feared  that 
they  did  not  possess  sufficient  forces,  to  afford  any  effectual  barrier 
against  the  advance  of  the  Mysore  troops.  Still  Moens  considered  it 
advisable,  to  sound  the  dispositions  of  the  two  Rajahs,  so  wrote 
and  informed  them,  that  he  was  ready  to  commence  offensive  opera- 
tions against  the  Mysoreans,  but'  he  first  required  a  categorical 
answer,  as  to  how  far  he  could  depend  upon  their  support :  he  also 
proposed  a  plan,  on  which  all  would  have  to  act  in  concert,  against 
the  common  enemy.  The  Rajah  of  Travancore  replied,  that  he  had 
entered  into  an  alliance  with  the  Nawab  of  Arcot,  and  the  Britisli, 
in  which  it  had  been  stipulated,  that  he  was  only  to  act  on  the  de- 
fensive, and  not  to  be  the  aggressor,  otherwise  he  would  receive  no 
aid :  so  he  regretted  being  unable  to  join  the  Dutch,  except  for 
defensive  measures.  Should  the  Mysoreans  advance  on  his  territory, 
British  and  Arcot  troops  were  promised  for  his  assistance. 

Urgent  requests  were  despatched  to  Ceylon  for  more  troops,  as 
there  were  only  200  effective  soldiers  present,  and  the  safety  of 
Cochin  itself  was  now  endangered,  for  it  was  ascertained,  that  a  fleet 
consisting  of  one  3  mast  ship,  six  2  mast  grabs,  and  twenty  well 
armed  gallivats,  were  preparing  at  Calicut^  to  take  troops  by  sea 
past  Cranganore,  to  the  island  of  Vypeen.  It  was  suspected  that  the 
Ayaootta  fort,  would.be  first  attacked,  and  should  it  fsdl,  that  Cran- 
ganore would  be  besieged  from  the  south,  whilst  Sirdar  Khan  invest- 
ed it  from  the  north.  An  armed  sloop  was  placed  at  the  entrance 
of  the  Cranganore  river,  and  two  armed  merchant  ships^  further 
out  to  sea,  to  cover  the  coast  The  Ri^ahs  of  Travancore  and 
Cochin  improved  the  lines  which  commenced  from  the  rear  of  the 
Ayacotta  fort,  and  were  carried  along  the  southern  bank  of  the  river 
towards  the  ghauts.     The  Cranganore  and  Ayacotta  forts   were 


t>UTCH  VAiL  IK  BSUXVIKO  CHEtWYJL  l5l* 

Strengthened,  the  first  and  most  important  by  having  a  retrenchment 
thrown  up  under  its  guns,  and  the  latter  by  being  repaired 

Some  Travancore  Sepoys  were  now  sent  to  Ayacotta,  which  the 
Mysore  troops  prepared  to  attack.  But  unwilling  to  come  to  blows, 
the  TraTanooreans  retired  to  their  own  country,  fortunately  at  this 
critical  time,  a  Dutch  detachmeat  Miived  by  sea,  and  consequently 
theMysoreans  retreatkL  A  strictly  defensive  poHcy  was  now  de- 
cided upon,  for  fear  of  giving  offenee  to  the  British  and  the  Nawab 
of  Arcot,  but  in  November  as  a  further  reinforcement  had  arrived, 
the  Dutch  considered  themselves  strong  enough  to  become  the  ag- 
gressora 

The  Mahomedans  had  invested  Cbetwye,  the  garrison  of  which 
place  sent  a  message  to  Cochin,  representing  that  they  could  not 
hold  it  much  longer,  so  Governor  Moens  now  determined  to  attemiit 
its  relief.  Provisions  and  ammunitions  having  been  packed  in  casks, 
180  men  embarked  in  the  ship  Hoolwerf,  having  some  small  boats 
in  tow,  for  the  puqwse  of  landing  the  men  and  stores.  On  the 
same  afternoon,  November  11th,  they  arrived  before  Chetwye,  but 
the  surf  being  high,  the  wary  Mahomedans  had  the  satisfaction 
of  perceiving,  that  they  delayed  hmding  until  the  next  day.  A 
chosen  bend  of  Sirdar  Khan's  troops  were  told  off,  and  in  the  dead 
of  the  night  placed  in  ambuscade  close  to  the  beach,  where  the 
hmding  was  most  likely  to  be  effected,  and  in  sUeuce  awaited 
the  disembarkation  of  their  prey. 

The  moniing  dawned,  and  the  Dutch  having  examined  the  shore, 
could  see  no  yestige  of  an  enemy,  all  appeared  perfectly  quiet,  and 
they  congratulated  themselves  on  surprimng  Hyder's  troops.  The 
landing  commenced,  the  first  boat  upset,  but  the  troops  waded  to 
the  beach  with  their  loaded  muskets  wefc,  and  their  ammunition  of 
coiuae  spoilt  Suddenly  the  ambuscade  rushed  out,  and  finding 
advance  impossible,  the  Dutch  retreated  in  good  order  to  the  beach : 
but  tlieir  boats  were  gone,  and  the  terrified  Native  boatmen,  were 
pulling  quickly  away  from  the  scene  of  strife.  Some  of  the  Detach- 
ment were  killed,  and  the  remainder  obliged  to  sumrender  themselves 
prisoners  of  Var. 

The  Europeans  were  disheartened,  and  abandoned  the  attempted 
relief,  whilst  the  Mahomedans  were  greatly  elated,  and  the  fort  of 


152  RYDEA  AGAIN  PRO)>OSES   ALLtAKCiE  WltH   bUTCH. 

Chetwye  was  compelled  to  capitulate  on  the  13th,  one  condition 
being,  that  the  garrison  should  be  permitted  to  retreat  to  Cmnganore, 
a  promise  which  was  of  course  broken.  The  prisoners  were  plunder- 
ed of  eVerythihg)  even  to  theiJ^  very  clothes,  and  with  the  women, 
children,  and  slaves,  were  sent  to  Calicut.  From  thence  the  Mili- 
tary were  despatched  loaded  with  chains  to  Seringapatam,  where 
all  took  service  with  Hyder,  excepting  the  Commandant  of  Chetwye 
and  the  Eesident^ 

The  whole  of  the  island  indudihg  ChetWye,  Ayroor  of  Paponetty, 
and  the  territory  of  the  Rajah  of  Cranganore,*  (excepting  the  Dutch 
fort,)  all  of  which  were  tributary  to  the  Dutch,  now  succumbed  to 
Hyder's  General :  but  he  found  his  further  advance,  impeded  by  the 
Travancore  lines.  The  Cochin  Council  now  decided  upon  still  fur- 
ther strengthening  the  Cranganore  foft^  akid  on  not  again  breaking  up 
their  troops  into  detadiments. 

On  January  9th  1777,  the  answer  to  Hyder's  letter  arrived  from 
Batavia;  and  with  it  the  customary  presents,  which  with  an  apolo- 
getic letter  from  the  Governor  of  Cochin,  were  forwarded  to  Hyder*s 
camp.  On  February  25th  the  Commimdant  and  Resident  of  the 
Chetwye  fort,  arrived  in  Cochin,  from  Seringapatam,  and  informed 
Governor  Moens  from  Hyder,  that  most  of  the  prisoners,  including 
the  women  and  slaves,  were  set  at  liberty,  (some  soldiers  were  in- 
duced to  remain  in  Hyder's  service,)  and  that  they  were  commission^ 
ed  by  Hyder  to  say,  that  he  was  still  anxious  to  enter  into  a  treaty 
of  friendship  with  the  Company,  upon  which  subject  he  would 
shortly  write.  Hyder's  letter  disowned  Sirdar  Khai^  proceedings, 
and  stated  that  he  had  only  despatched  him  into  the  sandy  country, 
to  enquire  after  some  of  the  Samorin*s  lands :  that  he  had  no  un-* 
friendly  feeling  towards  the  Dutch,  and  whilst  returning  the  pri- 
soners, trusted  all  matters  of  dispute  between  them  would  be  rapid- 
ly and  amicably  settled. 

Hyder  Ali  in  a  secret  correspondence,  became  very  pressing  to 

^  The  Dutch  appear  to  have  been  generally  kind  to  their  alliea,  when  f ugi- 
tivea ;  thus  in  May  1777  the  Rajah  of  Cranganore,  was  gi-antefl  Rupees  50  a 
Month :  the  eldest  Payenchany  Nair,  Rupees  30 :  and  from  September  1777  the 
Prince  of  Cartamana,  Rupees  40  a  Month :  the  same  to  be  continued,  so  lon^ 
as  they  remained  faithful. 


DUTCH  ATTACK  MT80REAN8.  153 

carry  into  effect  bis  former  propositions,  for  entering  into  an  alliance 
with  the  Dutch.  He  now  reduced  his  requirements  to  400  Euro* 
pean  In&ntry,  and  100  Artillerymen.  Governor  Moens  evaded  this 
application  without  declining  it^  and  held  out  hopes  which  were 
never  carried  into  effect  He  foresaw  that  neutrality  with  the  Eng- 
lish and  Travancore  must  cease,  should  he  join  Hyder.  The  Dutch 
council  also  wished  to  prevent  the  Travancore  Rig  ah,  who  was  be- 
coming alarmed  at  Hydei^s  increasing  power,  from  forming  too  inti- 
mate relatioDahip  with  the  British,  so  they  tried  to  induce  him  to 
believe,  that  from  Hyder  he  had  nothing  to  fear. 

It  is  evident  in  Momi  memorial,  that  he  plainly  foresaw  the 
course  events  would  take,  and  it  is  no  less  clear,  that  he  hated  but 
feared  the  British,  and  admired  but  dreaded  the  power  of  Hyder. 
Had  this  %mbitiou8  and  capable  Dutch  Governor  of  Cochin,  been  at 
this  period  possessed  of  sufficient  troops  at  his  own  disposal,  un- 
trammelled by  Batavian  orders,  there  can  be  but  little  doubt,  he 
would  have  joined  the  Mysoreana  Had  he  done  so,  Travancore 
must  have  fallen,  and  the  Cochin  state  would  have  become  a  desert 
Then  who  could  have  foretold,  what  course  events  on  the  Western 
coast  would  have  taken?  probably  the  result  would  have  been 
far  different,  from  that  which  fortunately  for  the  British  and  the 
Natives,  a  few  years  subsequently,  closed  the  annals  of  anarchy  in 
Malabar. 

Again  Moens  hoped  for  peace,  especially  as  it  was  rumoured,  that 
Hyder  had  enough  to  do  with  the  Mahrattas :  but  the  English  wero 
accused  of  again  raising  the  question,  respecting  the  right  of  the 
XHitch  over  the  Chetwye  lands,  which  were  asserted  to  belong  to  the 
Samorin.  It  the  meantime  the  Mysore  forces  proceeded  northwards, 
to  quiet  the  Nairs,  but  previous  to  their  departure,  they  strengthen- 
ed the  fortifications  of  Chetwye.  The  Samorin  now  returned  to  his 
country,  and  in  coi^unction  with  some  Moplahs,  gave  great  uneasi- 
ness to  Hyder's  troops,  but  failing  to  repossess  himself  of  CaUcut, 
he  retired  to  Travancore. 

On  January  8th,  1778,  the  Dutch  planned  an  expedition,  to  re- 
coTer  their  lost  ground.  They  stormed  and  took  the  Cranganore 
Rajah's  palace,  which  had  a  ganison  of  300  men,  and  pursued  the 
enemy  to  Paponetty.    The  succeeding  day,  the  Dutch  forces  reached 


154  HOEKS'  MEMOBIAL. 

BellapattoOy  and  on  the  evening  of  the  third  day  arriyed  before 
Chetwye.  At  once  the  guns  began  to  play  upon  the  fort,  and  con- 
tinued all  that  night,  and  throughout  the  next  day.  On  the  third 
cbiy;  they  unsuccessfully  attempted  to  storm,  the  attack  was  con- 
tinued seven  days,  but  the  enemy  commencing  to  assemble  in  force 
on  the  opposite  aide  of  the  river,  the  Dutch  were  obliged  to  retreat 
to  Cranganore,  on  January  19th,  with  the  loss  of  some  guns.  On 
the  morning  of  March  3rd,  the  Mysoreans  attacked  the  Cranganore 
palace,  with  3,000  men  t>n  foot,  150  horse,  and  4  guns.  After  10 
hours'  fighting,  the  Dutch  retired  to  the  Cranganore  fort,  with  the 
loss  of  6  men. 

In  March,  ^e  Dewan  of  Trnvancore  came  to  Cochin,  to  have  an 
interview  with  Qovemor  Moena,  who  pointed  out  to  him,  t&e  neces- 
sity of  preventing  Cranganore  from  falling  into  the  handis  of  Hyder, 
and  urged  that  it  was  to  the  interest  of  the  Travancoreans  to  join 
the  Dutch,  as  they  were  running  a  risk  of  losing  their  country,  whilst 
the  Dutch  could  only^  lose  a  little  strip  of  territory,  whidi  Moeim 
hinted  might  even  be  avoided,  shoidd  he  join  the*  Mysoreans. 

About  this  time,  Hyder  who  was  now  most  indignant  with  the 
Dutoh,  was  obliged  to  go  to  war  with  the  English*  and  the  Nawab 
of  Arcot.  On  his  way,  he  found  time  to  plunder  the  Dutch  store- 
house at  Porto  Novo,  and  make  a  prisoner  of  the  Resident 

Now,  Moens  commenced  cautiously  opening  his  &vourite  scheme^ 
and  wrote  to  Hyder  respecting  an  ofiEensive  and  defensive  alliance 
with  him.  But  Hyder  refused  to  Hsten  to  his  overtures,  and  gave 
him  to  understand,  that  as  soon  as  he  had  leisure,  he  would  turn 
his  anrms  against  the  Dutoh.  Finding  such  to  be  the  case,  the  Co- 
chin Council  had  only  to  await  the  bursting  of  the  threatened  storm, 
and  in  the  meantime  they  assisted  the  Thtvancore  Riy'ah,  by  occft- 
sionally  sending  competent  persons,  to»  examine  the  Travaneore  lines; 

Moens,  when  handing  over  charge  to  Van  Angdbeck  in  1781,  enu- 
merated nine  islands  (including  Vendoorty,)  as  well  as  69  gardens 
and  pieces  of  land,  which  were  then  the  property  of  the  Dutch. 
He  observed  that  they  had  42,089  fruit-bearing  cocoanut,  and  other 
trees:  4,507^  parrahs  of  fields,  and  19,716  salt  pans.  He  advised 
attempting  to  exchange  the  outlying  fanns,  and  thus  consolidating 
*  Hyder  eogaged  Lally  to  aas  ist  him  with  f some  Frenofa  troops  in  1779. 


JfZW  AKBAKOSICEKTS  BBSPECTINQ   CHBISTIAKS.  155 

their  territory,  bat  saggested,  that  it  was  unlikely  the  neighboniing 
RiyahB  would  agrea  The  next  best  plan  he  considered  to  be,  to  sell 
dU  that  they  conld,  as  they  were  a  constant  source  of  quarrels,  espe- 
cially those  phices  situated  in  TraTancore.  Hyder  had  it  i^peara, 
offered  to  purchase  Cranganore, — ^it  is  not  mentioned  when, — ^but 
probably  from  the  Commissioners  in  1766. 

On  December  30th,  1793,  Van  Angelbeck  retired,  and  it  is  unfor- 
tunate that  his  successor,  to  whom  he  addresses  his  Memorial,  had 
been  26  yearson  the  coasL  He  consequently  assumes,  that  he  is 
aoquainted  with  the  various  transactions  of  the  iast  thirteen  years:: 
and  this  renders  his  remarks  upon  many  of  the  stirring  events  which 
oocurred  during  this  time  very  brief^  whilst  some  ef  them  he  does 
mot  even  allude  to.  It  appears  that  during  his  tenure  of  office,  the 
Mmad  of  Yendoorty  became  the  property  of  the  Bajah  of  Cochin, 
and  othw  bits  of  land  were  likewise  disposed'  of  either  to  him, 
or  to  the  Travancore  Bi^ah.  He  observes  that  the  island  of  Vypeen, 
with  the  exception  of,  its  northern  portion  termed  Palliport,  and  the 
town  of  Vypeen  at  its  southern  extremity,  at  this  period  (1793) 
owned  the  Cochin  Bigah  as  its  lawful  Sovereign,  but  the  PaUat 
▲chen  still  held  several  villages,  as  the  Bajah's  vassal 

In  1783,  the  R^jah  of  Chetwye,  was  peaceably  re-instated  in  his 
dominions  by  the  Dutch,  when  they  xetook  the  place  from  Tippoo's 
forces:  but  in  the  following  year,  eiderB  arrived  from  Batavia,  to 
vetom  this  territory  to  lippoo,  Hyder  having  died  in  December  1782. 
It  appears  that  in  November  1784,  the  Dutch  and  the  Mysoreans 
were  on  friendly  terms,  as  there  is  a  letter  from  Arazada  Beck  Khaa, 
Gtovemor  of  Calicut^  dated  November  18th,  in  which  he  informs  the 
Gk>Temor  of  Cochin,  that  he  is  despatchiag  some  articles  down  the 
coast  in  a  Dhon^,  and  requests  that  the  Dutch  wiM  direct  the 
boatmen  to  retiun  as  soon  as  possible. 

In  1786,  the  power  of  the  Bajah  of  Cochin  having  increased,  and 
as  he  was  irritated  against  the  Latin  Converts,  who  had  possessed 
pecnKar  privileges,  a  new  agreement  was  entered  into  with  the  Dutdi 
QoYemment  of  Cochin,  to  the  effect^  that  these  Christians  wera 
henceforth  to  pay  a  tax  to  the  Biyah,  which  was  to  be  collected  by 
their  own  head  man,  but  should  he  refuse  to  realiae  it,  the  Dutch 
Government  were  to  do  so.    But'the  Dutch  were  still  to  exercise 


156  TIPFOO  PROPOSES  D0TCH  ALLIANCB. 

jurisdiction  over  them^  in  Civil  and  Criminal  matters.  The  Ra- 
jah, however,  did  not  long  agree  to  these  termsy  many  of  the 
people  were  dispossessed,  and  even  tamed  out  of  his  dominions, 
S<»netimes  to  save  appearances,  he  allowed  them  a  trifle  for  their 
land,  but  they  suffered  the  most  cruel  persecutions.  The  Dutch  at 
this  time,  claimed  jurisdiction  over  36,000  Christians,  but  th^ 
could  not  protect  them :  expostulations  were  f utUe,  and  force  they 
were  unable  to  employ. 

In  1787,  the  Cochin  Council  were  again  alansed,  by  the  approach 
of  the  Mysore  army.  For  Tippoo  marched  to  Calicut,  to  "improve 
''the  morals,  and  realize  the  revjsnue."  He  issued  a  Proclamation,, 
stating  that  the  poor  Malabars,  were  more  shameless  in  their  im- 
morality, than  the  beasts  of  the  field,  and  that  unless  they  forsook 
their  sinful  practices,  and  lived  like  the  rest  of  mankind,  he  would 
in  accordance  with  his  repeated  vows,  honour  them  with  Islam. 

Matters  now  appeared  ominous  for  South  Malabar.  On  April 
1 6th,  the  Danish  Commercial  Agent  arrived  from  Calicut,  and  re- 
ported that  Tippoo  at  the  head  of  a  large  army,  had  arrived  at  that 
place,  and  destroyed  the  Danish  factory.  In  May  (1788)  it  was  ru- 
moured, that  1,000  Infantry,  and  30  Cavalry,  were  leaving  en  route 
for  Cranganore :  Tippoo  remaining,  to  cc»nplete  the  demolition  of  the 
Calicut  forty  and  erect  another  at  Wapoor.  The  Travancore  Rajah 
writing  on  the  31st  of  that  month,  stated  that  the  Cochin  Rajah 
had  met  Tippoo  at  Palghaut^  on  the  26th.  These  two  Rajahs  held 
a  conference  on  June  4th,  at  Anna-nada,  north  east  of  Cranganore, 
the  Cochin  King  had  been  directed,  to  introduce  two  of  Hyder's  Va- 
keels, to  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  and  they  were  expected  with 
some  presents  on  the  1 1th,*  some  correspondence  occurred  between 
Tippoo  Sultan  and  the  Dutch,  with  reference  to  Hyder*s  old  wish, 
of  entering  into  an  offensive  and  defensive  alliance  with  them :  but 

*  To  give  aa  idea  of  the  presents  whidi  were  exchanged,  between  the  Dutch 
OoTemor,  and  the  Rajah  of  TraTancore,  the  following  is  inserted.  Van  Angel* 
beck  wrote  to  the  Rajah,  September  80th,  1795,  stating  that  he  k  trannnitiai^ 
the  following  things,  which  he  trusts  His  Highness  will  aooept  as  a  proof  of  the 
Company's  friendship.  Two  flasks  of  Cinnamon  oil :  two  flasks  of  Clove  oil :  one 
case  of  doves :  one  piece  of  red  Velvet:  four  pieces  of  Satin:  one  Carboy  of 
rosewater:  two  reams  of  gilt  edged  paper:  one  pound  of  red  sealing  wax: 
and  four  bundles  of  quills. 


TIPPOO  ATTACKS  TRAYANOOBE  LIKSg.  157 

many  of  the  letters  appear  to  be  missing.  There  is  one  dated  Sep- 
tember,  1788,  in  which  it  is  stated,  that  Tippoo's  Sepoys  will  shortly 
be  at  Ciaiiganore,  to  assist  the  Dutch  against  Travancore,  and 
the  writer  who  is  at  Calicut,  ends  by  saying,  **  time  will  show,  if  he 
**  (Tippoo  Sultan,)  really  wishes  to  assist  us,  or  is  merely  serving 
"  his  own  interests." 

In  1789,  Uppoo  is  said  to  have  requested  the  Cochin  R^'ah,  to 
treat  with  the  Dutch  on  his  account,  for  the  purchase  of  the  fort  of 
Cochin,  as  he  understood  they  had  expressed  a  wish  to  sell  it,  toge- 
ther with  Cranganore,  and  AjMMsotta  :  but  negotiations  did  not  ter- 
minate as  Tippoo  desired.  The  British  encamped  three  Corps  in  the 
rear  of  the  Travancore  lines,  and  declared  that  any  attack  upon 
them,  would  be  considered  equivalent  to  a  declaration  of  war: 
at  the  same  time,  Mr.  HoUond,  the  Governor  of  Madras,  intimated 
to  the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  that  if  he  were  the  aggressive  party,  the 
British  would  afford  him  no  a<38istance. 

The  Dutch  now  consulted  with  the  Travancore  authorities,  on  the 
best  means  of  either  keeping  the  Mysore  army  at  bay,  or  of  involving 
the  British  in  the  coming  struggle :  so  a  sale,  which  had  been  talked 
about  for  the  previous  two  years,  was  at  once  carried  into  effect,  and 
in  August,  Cranganore  and  Ayacotta  became  Travancore  property.  At 
first  the  sale  was  disapproved  of  by  the  Qovemmeut  of  Madras,  as 
well  as  by  Lord  Comwallis  the  Govemor-Qeneral,  as  it  was  believed 
these  places  were  situated  within  the  territories  of  the  Bajah  of 
Cochin,  but  it  was  proved,  that  the  lands  had  been  taken  by  the 
Dutch  from  the  Portuguese,  and  had  consequently  been  in  the  pos- 
session of  Europeans  nearly  3  centuries,  during  which  period  neither 
rent  nor  tax  had  been  levied  on  them  by  any  native  power. 

In  October,  Tippoo's  army  was  encamped  near  Paulghaut,  in  De- 
cember the  Travancore  lines  were  attacked  as  has  been  described, 
(p.  53.)  and  immediately  subsequently  Cranganore  also  fell,  it  having 
been  evacuated  on  the  previous  night.  Tippoo's  General,  Lally  com- 
pleted its  demolition,  which  the  English  pioneers  had  commenced, 
previous  to  evacuating  it.  The  neirt  year  Tippoo's  troops  were  again 
driven  away,  but  whilst  in  the  Cranganore  territory,  they  committed 
terrible  devastations. 

The  Dutch  had  now  discovered  the  insecurity  of  alliances  with  the 


15%  BKITISH  TREATY  WITH  S^JAH  OF  COCHIN. 

Mysoreans^  they  had  seen  the  Portugaese  spumed,  and  their  territory 
annexed  by  Hyder,  as  the  only  thanks  given  them  for  their  assistance 
in  1762.  They  had  perceived  the  French  insulted,  because  their 
troops  were  not  more  in  numbers :  and  they  had  personally  been 
i^ceived  with  supercilious  arrogance,  when  they  really  attempted  to 
join  with  Hyder  and  Tippoo.  True,  their  own  deeds  will  not  bear 
much  scrutiny,  but  they  were  a  Mercantile  body,  whose  objects  were 
peaceful  trade,  not  devastating  wars,  they  consequently  invariably 
joined  the  strongest  party,  or  whichever  tliey  believed  would  best 
forward  the  ends  they  had  in  view.  •When  war  with  Tippoo  was 
imminent,  they  had  just  had  a  misunderstanding  with  that  Prince, 
whilst  the  rising  power  of  the  British  was  evident  to  the  most  super- 
ficial observe  *  They  offered  the  Bengal  Gk)vernment  to  join  their 
forces  to  those  of  the  English,  an  offer  politely,  but  decidedly  declin- 
ed. They  then  furnished  IWivancore  with  artillery  men  and  cannon^ 
to  assist  in  the  defence  of  the  lines. 

Van  Angelbeck  in  his  Memorial,  enters  slightly  into  the  British 
contract  of  1790  with  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  when  the  former  placed 
the  latter  in  sovereignty  of  certain  lands,  external  to  the  Travancore 
lines,  of  which  the  Mysoreans  had  previously  dispossessed  him.  He 
observes,  that  when  those  transactions  were  nearly  completed,  the  Go- 
vernment of  Madras,  gave  the  Cochin  Council  notice  respecting  them, 
in  a  letter  dated  June  1st,  1790,  and  requested  to  know  what  engage- 
ments existed,  between  the  Rajah  and  the  Dutch,  as  they  hoped  to 
avoid  doing  anything,  which  might  subsequently  interfere,  with  the 
good  understanding  that  existed  between  the  two  Companies.  Mr. 
George  Powney  had  been  directed  to  ascertain  these  particulars,  and  the 
Madras  Government^  trusted  that  the  Cochin  Council  would  assist  him. 

Van  Angelbeck  states,  that  he  did  not  deem  it  advisable,  to  let 
Mr.  Powney  know  what  their  engagements  with  the  Cochin  Ri^ah 
really  were,  but  the  following  article  was  inserted  in  the  treaty, 
which  he,  (Mr.  Powney,)  signed  with  the  Cochin  R^ah. 

*  April  26th,  1790,  Colonel  James  Hartley,  arrived  ia  Cochin,  as  ConuniasioDer, 
from  the  British  to  the  Dutch,  he  remained  until  September  Ist,  when  he  left 
in  the  Bea^^  a  12  gun  vessel.  Butdi  CommissionerB  CeHarius,  and  Eyeradyck 
left  CooUn,  as  Agents  to  lh,e  Bajah  of  Travancar^  on  August  12th  and  return- 
ed on  September  4th. 


BITTCH  BEQinEST  BBITISH  ABSIBTANGE:     *  T59 

'^That  owing  to  a  treaty  which  exists  between  the  Dutch  Com* 
"pany,  and  Rama  Wurmah  Rajah  of  Cochin,  the  Governor  in 
''Council  of  Madras,  not  wishing  to  enter  into  any  engagements, 
''which  might  be  detrimental  to  existing  arrangements,  between 
"thoee  parties.  It  u  rtiolved,  that  Rama  Wurmah  shaU  become 
"  tributary  to  the  English  East  India  Company,  only  in  respect  to 
"  such  districts  or  places,  as  are  above  enumerated,  and  are  at  pre- 
"  sent  in  the  possession  of  Tippoo  Sultan,  and  with  which  the  Dutch 
"  East  India  Company  have  no  concern.  For  those  lands,  the  said 
"  Rajah  shall  pay  tribute  to  the  English  East  India  Company." 

Van  Angelbeck,  appears  to  have  been  quite  as  jealous  as  his  pre- 
decesscH',  of  English  interference,  and  wama  his  successor,  to  be 
careful  not  to  permit  them  to  intermeddle  in  the  affiurs  of  the 
Godbin  Rajah's  hmds,  which  remained  under  Dutch  protection,  '^for," 
he  continued,  "  if  they  are  allowed  to  insert  their  little  finger  in  the 
"  affiiirs  of  these  regions,  they  will  not  rest  until  they  have  managed 
"  to  thrust  in  the  whole  arm." 

Many  instances  he  says  he  could  adduce,  of  the  British  having 
interfered,  the  most  glaring  of  which  was,  that  Mr.  Duncan  the 
En^^ish  Commissioner,  requested  to  see  the  original  agreement,  made 
between  Mr.  Powney  and  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  respecting  the  land 
beyond  the  Travancore  lines,  as  well  as  that  which  was  entered  into » 
between  Hyder  Ali  and  the  Cochin  Ri^ah.  The  Rajah  replied,  he 
had  no  objection  to  produce  them,  but  the  Dutch  Qovemor's 
consent  must  be  first  obtained  The  next  morning,  a  box  was 
brought  locked  to  Mr.  Duncan,  and  he  was  informed,  that  in  it 
were  the  treaties,  and  that  Van  Angelbeck  hdd  the  key  of  the  box. 
Mr.  Duncan  was  much  vexed  at  this  proeeeding,  but  passed  it  off 
by  sarcastically  remarking,  "Well,  Sir,  the  Rigah  places  mudi 
"  confidence  in  your  great  kindness,  but  it  occurs  to  me,  that  he  in 
"tius  instance  misuses  it,  by  forcing  upon  you  the  trouble  of 
"  unlocking  a  box." 

In  August  1792,  Governor  Van  Angelbeck  applied  to  Colonel 
Hartley  at  Chetwye  for  assistance,  wHo  informed  him  that  he  would 
comply  with  his  request  as  early  as  possible,  but  the  expenses  of 
the  troops  must  be  borne  by  the  Dutch.  Van  Angelbeck  returned 
for  answer,  that  he  only  required  one  regiment  of  Europeans,  and 


1^  'tBAVANOORB  TBIlfiS  TO  AKNKX  QUILON. 

another  of  Sepoys,  stationed  near  Oraoganore  to  cover  ihe  Coast : 
and  although  it  was  true  their  immediate  presence  would  be  for  the 
'  protection  of  Cochin,  still  this  would  tend  towards  the  security  of 
the  English  possessions,  and  it  was  therefore  reasonable  that  each 
Company  should  bear  its  own  expenses.  Colonel  Hartley  again 
wrote  to  say  that  the  troops  had  been  sent  in  accordance  to  the 
Dutch  requisition,  and  therefore  if  they  remained,  they  must  bear 
the  whole  of  the  expenses :  to  this  no  answer  was  returned. 
Van  Angelbeck  observes  to  his  successor,  that  Colonel  Hartley  was 
unable  to  decide  any  such  question,  and  should  the  Bombay  Govern- 
ment demand  the  expenses,  he  advised  him  to  employ  the  same  line 
of  argument,  and  if  unsuccessful,  to  gain  time  by  stating  the  neces- 
sity of  appl3ring  to  both  him  (Van  Angelbeck)  and  Batavia. 

Van  Angelbeck  observes,  that  the  greatest  causes  of  dissension 
they  have  experienced,  with  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  have  been  on  ac- 
count of  the  Christians,  more  especially  respecting  the  inland  Roman 
Catholics.  The  Syrians  or  St.  Thomas's  Christians,  whom  he  says 
are  termed  Moplahs,  were  not  under  their  protection,  but  the  Moon- 
doocars  or  Roman  Catholics,  including  the  Latin  Converts,  were  so. 

The  Roinan  Catholics  he  observes,  had  baptized  vast  numbers  of 
Heathen  vagabonds,  who  had  consented  to  this  course  to  escape  the 
punishments  which  their  crimes  deserved,  consequently  there  was 
much  justice  in  the  Rajah's  complaints.  The  extent  to  which  each 
Governor  could  interfere  depended  very  much  upon  his  personal  influ- 
ence with  the  Riyah.  A  fertile  source  of  complaint  was  killing 
cows,  which  the  Native  Government  frequently  protested  against 
This  Van  Angelbeck  had  ineffectually  attempted  to  check,  but  ob- 
serves, every  nation  and  religion,  must  be  governed  by  their  own 
customs  and  laws.  In  disputes  with  the  Rajah,  he  advised  Van 
Spall  to  give  him  immediate  redress,  to  lose  no  time  in  affording 
justice,  and  without  delay  to  comply  with  his  demands  whenever 
they  were  reasonable :  and  that  nothing  should  be  demanded  from 
him,  unless  a  sufficient  Military  force  were  at  hand  to  back  all  just 
requests. 

Van  Angelbeck  draws  especial  attention,  to  the  annexing  policy  of 
the  Rajah  of  Travancore,  whom  he  observes,  without  doubt  was  try- 
ing to  filch  away  their  possessions  in  Quilon.     The  following  is  a 


TftEATT   WITH  THE  TEAVAKCO&E  &AJAH.  |61 

ftttmrnary  of  his  obeervaiions.  The  Rajah  and  his  Ministers,  were 
c(Miti]iQa%  oppressiag  the  inland  Christians,  who  were  under  their 
protection,  and  some  who  had  taken  refuge  in  Qoilon  were  even  not 
safe.  The  inhabitants  of  Quilon  had  been  from  1663,  the  Company's 
subjects,  and  were  governed  widiout  the  least  interference  of  the  Ri^ah 
ef  Travancorey  whose  subjects  th^  had  never  been,  as  after  the  Ra- 
jah of  Qntloa  died,  tliey  came  under  the  rule  of  the  Signatty,  or 
Chief  of  Onlli^Qiiiloii. 

At  first  the  Rajah  of  Travancore  claimed  from  the  fishermen, 
10  chuckrams,  (a  small  coin  28^  to  a  rupee,)  and  3  fish  annually, 
not  because  they  were  subjects  of  the  Signatty,  but  because  they  ex- 
tended their  fishing  excursions  opposite  his  territory.  Whilst  any 
of  them  who  were  married  in  the  Roman  Catholic  Church  at  Moon- 
dacara,  sitaated  in  the  Travancore  limits,  were  obliged  to  pay  a  fee 
of  ten  chuchtams. 

After  Travancore  annexed  the  CuUi-Quilon  territory,  the  fisher- 
men paid  30  chuckrams  annually  for  every  large  net»  and  15  for  each 
small  one»  and  this  was  the  origin  of  the  so-called  poll-tax.  Dutch 
officials  collected  it,  whilst  the  Travancore  officials  had  to  apply  to 
them  for  the  amounts.  By  degrees  the  Travancore  revenue  officers 
commenced  interfering  within  the  limits  of  Dutch  QuUon,  and  the 
Commandant  there,  JTmi^,  was  of  that  kiy  temperament,  that  he 
took  no  notice,  and  thus  the  inliabitants  became  partially  governed 
by  IVavaAcore  people. 

Subsequently  much  trouble  was  occasioned  in  wresting  Quilon  from 
Travancore,  but  it  was  finally  settled  in  1788.  A  conference  was 
held  in  October  of  that  year,  at  Mavillicurray,  when  the  Rejah  ob- 
served, many  of  his  subjects  had  taken  up  their  abode  in  Quilon, 
and  were  he  to  give  them  up,  he  should  be  a  pecuniary  loser :  it  was 
promised,  they  should  be  turned  out,  and  it  was  agreed : 

1st — Tlwt  the  remaining  inhabitants,  shall  submit  to  no  increase 
of  the  obligations  to  which  they  were  formerly  subject* 

^d. — ^That  the  taxes  will  be  collected  by  Dutch  ofllcials,  who  shall 
pay  the  amount  into  the  Rajah's  treasury. 

3id— That  the  Rajah's  ofiicials  shall  interfere  no  more,  in  the  af- 
fairs of  Dutch  Quilon. 

The  limits  of  the  Dutch  town  still  cxki,  and  it  is  natural  to  ask* 

w 


162  GAEBISON  OP  COCHIK. 

how,  and  when,  did  Travancore  obtain  Quilon  ?    Certainly  they  are 
now  in  possession  of  it. 

It  will  be  necessary  here  to  diverge  a  little  from  Dutch,  to  present 
history.  A  person  of  high  rank  in  the  Travancore  State,  lately  sug- 
gested that  the  British  Government  should  make  over  to  Travancore, 
Tangicherry  close  to  Quilon,  and  Anjengo  a  few  miles  to  its  south. 
It  does  not  appear  that  this  is  proposed  for  the  people's  benefit,  but 
for  the  purpose  of  preventing  smuggling. 

It  might  be  good  policy  to  follow  M&ens*  advice,  and  consoli- 
date scattered  possessions,  were  the  British  in  the  same  relationship 
to  Travancore  as  were  the  Dutch,  but  isolated  spots  along  the  coast 
may  again  be  some  day  required.  Travancore  can  have  no  claim 
upon  Tangicherry,  first  Portuguese,  subsequently  Dutch,  and  now 
British,  it  was  in  European  hands  before  Travancore  forces  ever 
crossed  the  Quilon  river,  or  annexed  the  territories  of  Quilon  and 
Chilli-Quilon.  In  1809,  Tangicherry  was  useful  to  the  British, 
here  troops  were  landed  dunng  the  Nair  riots,  not  to  be  met  by  a 
hostile,  but  by  a  serviceable,  willing,  and  Christian  British  popula- 
tion. 

Van  Angelbeck  concluded  his  memorial,  by  adverting  to  the  nu- 
merical strength,  and  duties  of  the  soldiery  to  be  maintained  in 
Cochin.  He  remarked  upon  the  resolutions  in  February  and  Sep- 
tember 1793,  to  reduce  the  Garrison  to  600  men,  which  he  considered 
impolitic,  as  the  French  might  interfere,  nevertheless,  if  such  a  course 
should  be  directed  by  the  Supreme  Government,  he  advised  the  fol- 
lowing to  be  kept  up,  viz.,  550  Infantry,  50  Artillerymen ;  the  former 
to  consist  of  2  Companies  of  Europeans,  1  Company  of  East  Indians, 
and  1  Company  of  Sepoys,  and  the  Artillery  to  be  formed  of  30 
Europeans,  and  20  Natives.  He  concluded  by  dividing  jthem  into 
the  proportion  of  officers  and  men  he  deemed  sufficient  for  a  Com- 
pany, and  in  this  detail  demonstrated,  that  every  soldier  would  have 
8  hours  sentry  duty  daily,  which  he  pithily  remarked  "  was  as  much 
"  work  as  he  supposed  could  be  obtained  out  of  them."  His  arrange- 
ment left  63  Europeans,  14  East  Indians,  and  14  Sepoys  for  the 
sick  report,  absence,  and  irregular  duties. 

Owing  to  Governor  Van  Spall  having  been  made  a  prisoner  of  war 
by  the  British,  he  left  no  memorial  of  his  rule,  for  the  use  of  his 


t>UTCH  ATTEMPT   TO   PKO VISION   COCIIiy.  163 

succeaaoro.  During  the  period  of  his  tenure  of  office,  but  few 
stirring  events  oecurred  in  Cochin,  still  evidently  a  great  struggle, 
not  only  on  the  Malabar  Coast,  but  also  in  Europe,  was  impending 
over  the  Dutch. 

On  January  8th,  1795,  the  French  Republican  Army  crossed  the 
Waal  in  force,  and  the  Btadtholder  fled  to  England.  It  is  needless 
to  detail  the  well  known  events  of  European  history,  the  Repub- 
licans were  received  as  deliverers,  and  Jacobinism  spread  :  whilst  to 
crown  the  Dutch  disasters,  their  fleet  in  the  Texel,  was  captured  by 
a  body  of  French  Cavalry  ! 

The  scene  now  shifts  to  England,  from  whence  on  March  3rd, 
1795^  directions  were  transmitted  from  the  India  House,  to  seize 
the  Dutch  possessions  in  the  East,  in  order  to  prevent  th«r  falling 
into  the  hands  of  the  French,  as  w^  as  to  retain  them  for  their 
Intimate  Sovereign.  The  following  proclamation  was  enclosed, 
signed  by  the  StadthMer^  at  Kew,  February  7th,  of  the  same  year  : 
and  addressed  to  all  Governors,  and  Commandants  of  stations, — ^^'We 
**  have  thought  it  necessary  to  write  to  you,  that  his  Britannic  Ma- 
^  jesty's  troops  shall  be  admitted,  and  take  possession  of  the  forts 
'*  in  our  Colonies,  and  that  they  are  to  be  considered  as  the  troops, 
^'  of  a  kingdom  in  friendship,  aikl  alliance^  with  their  High  Mighti- 
'^  neases,  in  case  the  Colonies  should  be  summoned  by  the  French.*' 

A  short  time  previously  to  this,  private  information*  had  been 
received,  that  Mr.  Van  SpaUy  the  Governor  of  Cochin,  was  laying 
in  provisionsy  for  the  purpose  of  withstanding  a  siege,  which  he 
anticipated  from  the  British,  and  that  he  had  applied  to  the  Cochin 
B^^ah,  for  assistance.  The  Engli^  CommimonerSy  wrote  to  the 
Bajah^  stating  that  they  had  received  this  intelligence,  and  warned 
him  to  give  the  Dutch  no  assistance,  but  on  the  contrary  to  impede 
them  in  every  way  in  his  power.  This  course  he  faithfully  pro- 
mised  to  pursue,  as  being  tributary  to  the  British. 

On  July  23rd,  Major  Petrie  marched  from  Calicut  to  the  frontiers 
of  the  Dutch  settlement,  in  command  of  the  two  flank  Companies, 
of  H,  M.  77th  Regiment,  and  a  battalion  of  Native  Infantry. 
He  was  ordered  if  possible,  to  obtain  a  peaceable  entrance,  ui  which 
case,  the  Gtovernor  and  ComicU,  were  not  to  be  molested,  and  all 
private  property,  and  the  rights  of  individuals  were  to  be  left  uu- 


IGi  BBITISH  ATTACK  COCHCZr. 

altered,  the  British  troops  merely  remaining  to  deter  the  French 
from  buiding.  But,  in  case  admission  wtrt  refused,  Major  Petrie 
was  directed  to  watch  the  place^  and  await  the  arrival  of  a  siege 
train,  when  he  was  to  storm  the  town,  giving  no  prize  money,  bat< 
seizing  the  stores  for  Government  nse.  Negotiations  proved  useless, 
as  the  Qovemor  refused  to  admit  the  British  troops. 

Mr,  iStevens,  the  Senior  Civiliao  on  the  Coast,  thought  that  possi- 
bly some  misconception  might  have  arisen,  between  Msyor  Petrie^ 
and  Governor  Van  Spall :  and  therefore  went  personally  to  Cochin,) 
and  in  conjunction  with  Major  Petrie,  held  a  conference  with  the 
Governor,  on  the  night  of  Setember  ^th.  The  latter,  at  once  agreed 
to  deliver  up  the  fort  peaceably,  but  stipulated,  that  he  must  first 
obtain  the  concurrence  of  bis  Council  On  the  following  day,  he  is 
said  to  have  prevaricated,  and  consequently  negotiations  were  sua- 
pended.  This  did  not  materially  delay  the  final  downfall  of  the 
pbkce,  as  on  September  lOth^  a  reinforcement  lelt  Tdlichenry,  to  join 
Major  Petrie,  omsisting  of  the  remainder  of  the  77th  Regiment,  the 
5th  N.  I,  1  Company  of  Artillery  with  6  six  pounder  field-pieces,  6 
eighteen  pounder  battering  cannon,  G  twelve  poimder  iron  guns,  two 
8  inch  mortars,  with  tumbrils,  provisions,  <fec.  The  whde  of  this 
was  safely  landed,  about  one  mile  to  the  South  of  Cochin. 

On  the  night  of  October  19th,  findmg  negotiations  useless,  a  shell 
was  fired  from  one  of  the  eight  inch  mortars,  whidi  alighted  upon 
the  Commandant's  house.*  It  now  became  apparent,  that  force 
would  be  csnidoyed,  and  the  Governor  well  aware,  that  Cochin  was 
not  in  a  position  to  resist  an  attack,  re-opened  negotiations.  Bafc 
M^jor  Petrie,  feeling  that  the  tftnc  for  treating  the  Dutch  Garrison 
as  allies  was  passed,  now  viewed  them  as  enemies:  and  aware  of 
his  strength,  accepted  Mr.  Van  Spall's  propositions,  after  first  modi- 
fying them,  as  will  be  seen  in  the  following  Preliminary  Articles^ 
which  are  taken  from  the  original  documents. 

Propositions  in  Dutch.  Aiiswers  in  French. 

The  Governor  in  Council  of  The  Garrison  of  Cochin  will  be 
Cochin,  proposes  to  Major  Petrie,    prisoners,  and  the  Fort  given  over 

♦  The  MUitary  report  respecting  the  capture  o£  Cbchin  is  at  present  not  to 
be  discovered.  MilU,  in  his  "History  of  British  India/*  states  it  was  taken  af- 
ter "a  great  reskUnce.*'  See  VoL  VI.  page  69. 


CAPITULATION  OP  COCHIN. 


1G5 


or  the  77ih  Regiment/ and  Com- 
mauding  Uie  Detiichmeut«,  of  the 
King's,  and  East  India  Compau/s 
troops,  to  surrender  this  place,  on 
the  20th  of  this  month,  and  re- 

goests  at  the  same  time,  that  all 
ostiiitics  may  cease. 

AKtiCLR  1st. 

The  Officers  of  the  Gkirrison,  and 
the  Military,  that  have  defended 
Cochin,  will  with  all  the  honoars 
of  war,  marqh  out  from  the  Bay- 
gate,  t<^ther  with  their  arms,  bag- 
gage, nyinff  colours,  beating  of 
drums,  and  lighted  matches,  as 
also  two  cannon,  with  their  ap- 
purtenances. 

Article  2nd. 

All  Officers,  and  Soldiers,  which 
arc  of  the  Oamson  of  Cochin,  will 
with  as  little  delay  as  possible,  be 
transported  eithertoBatavia,orCey- 
lon,  at  the  ex^nse  of  the  Engliali 
Government,  in  English  vcssehi. 

Article  3aD. 

The  said  Officers,  and  Soldiers, 
will  take  with  them  all  their  eifectsi 
without  their  being  liable  to  any 
search.  Their  servants,  and  slaves : 
whilst  those  that  are  married,  will 
likewise  be  at  liberty,  to  take  their 
famiiies  with  them. 

Article  4th. 

The  Governor,  the  Members  of 
Council,  and  all  the  servants  of 
Police,  and  Tiude,  Churchmen, 
Military  and  Naval,  and  other 
servants,  in  the  pay  of  the  Dutch 
Company,  as  also  all  the  Inhabi- 
tants of  Cochin,  either  Europeans, 
or  Natives,  will  be  at  liberty  to 
hold  th<!ir  persons,  and  property, 
moveable  and  immoveable,  mer- 
chandize and  other  effects,  without 
being  therein  molested,  orobstruct- 
ed,  on  any  account  whatjsoever. 


to  his  great  Britannic  Majestv, 
to-morrow  noon,  at  twelve  o*clock, 
at  which  time,  the  Bay-gate,  and 
the  New-gate,  shall  he  delivered 
over  to  such  detachments,  as  Major 
Petrie  will  order  to  take  possession 
of  them. 

Articlb  Ist. 

The  Garrison  will  march  out  tA 
requested,  and  lay  down  their  arms 
on  the  Esplanade,  when  they  must 
return  back,  as  prisoners  of  war. 


Article  2nd. 

Cannot  be  granted  ;  about  the 
Garrison,  it  will  be  disposed  of,  aa 
the  Commander-in-Chief  may  deem 
proper. 


Article  3rd. 

Allowed,  excepting  with  respect 
to  slaves,  a  name  unknown  iu  thQ 
Bntish  dominions. 


Article  4th, 


All   private 
sacred. 


property   will  bo 


lee 


CAPITULATION  OF   ()OCHIN. 


Article  5th. 

Among  the  foregoing,  is  also 
understood,  regaiding  the  liberty 
of  the  Factor,  and  Resident  of 
Porca,  J.  A.  Scheits,  who  is  now 
employed  here,  in  keeping  the 
Company's  mercantile  bool^,  and 
he  must  be  allowed  to  return  to 
Ills  station,  to  resume  his  oihce. 

Abticle  6th. 

The  Governor,  the  Members  of 
Council,  and  all  the  servants  of 
Police,  and  trade,  the  Churchmen, 
and  further  servants  in  pay,  will 
be  at  libertv  to  take  their  families, 
male,  and  iemale^  slaves,  and  also 
their  possessions,  either  to  Bata- 
via,  or  Columbo,  and  they  will  be 
granted  thereto,  at  the  expense  of 
the  British  Government,  the  neces- 
sary ships,  and  ti-ausports. 

Abticle  7th. 

The  fimds  belonging  to  the  Or- 
phan College,  and  the  Poor  House, 
will  not  be  confiscated,  or  seized 
upon,  they  being  money  of  Or- 
phans and  the  poor. 

Article  8th. 

All  Officei-s,  and  servants,  Civil 
and  Political,  of  the  Company,  who 
may  wish  to  remain  at  this  place, 
as  private  individuals,shall  beerant- 
ed  the  protectionof  .the  British  flag. 

Article  9th. 

All  mei'cantile  articles,  ammu- 
nitions, artillery,  goods,  arms,  pro- 
visions, and  other  articles,  which 
l)eloug  to  the  Company,  and  are 
found  at  this  place,  will  faithfully 
be  made  over,  according  to  a  spe- 
cific statement,  to  the  Commissa- 
lies  that  will  be  appointed  to  re- 
ceive them,  and  the  specified  list, 
will  in  duplicate,  be  duly  delivered 
to  Major  retrie. 


Article  5th. 

A  reasonable  time  will  be  allow- 
ed him,  to  settle  his  aflairs,  out  he 
must  be  considered  as  a  prisoner 
of  war. 


Article  6th. 

This  is  replied  to,  in  the  2ud 
Article. 


Article  7th. 

The  funds  mentioned  in  this  ar- 
ticle, will  belong  to  his  great  Bri- 
tannic Majesty,  in  so  far  that  he 
will  appoint  persons  over  them, 
for  their  management. 

Article  8th. 

Airthe  Inhabitants,  whoai'e  will- 
ing to  remain,  and  to  take  the  oath 
of  allegiance  to  his  gi*eat  Britai>- 
nic  Majesty,  will  in  every  respect, 
be  treated  as  British  subjects. 

Article  9th. 

Everything  mentioned  in  this 
article,  will  be  faithfully  delivered 
over  to  such  persons,  as  Major  Pe- 
trie  will  appoint  hereafter,  to  dis- 
pose thereabout,  agreeably  to  tho 
direction  of  his  gi-eat  Btitamiic 
Majesty, 


CAPITULATION   OP  COCHIN. 


1G7 


Abticle  10th. 

'  The  fortifications,  the  Govern- 
ment House,  all  Magazines,  and 
other  public  buildings,  belonging 
to  the  Company,  will  be  kept  as 
they  are  at  present,  and  not  be 
demolished. 

Article  11th. 

The  free  exercise  of  the  reform- 
ed religion,  as  usual  in  the  Dutch 
Church,  where  Divine  Service  is 
lierformed,  will  be  permitted. 

Abticlb  12th. 

The  Convent  at  Verapoly,  and 
all  other  Romish  Chiu*ches,  as  also 
the  Heathen  Temples,  will  receive 
the  protection,  that  they  have 
hitherto  enjoy^,  under  the  Dutch 
Company. 

Article  13th. 

All  Topazes,  (lialf  castes,)  and 
luland  Christians,  as  also  the 
Banians,  Silversmiths,  Painters, 
Washers,  and  Shoemakers,  who 
are  subjects,  and  vassals  of  the 
Dutch  Company,  will  retain  their 
property,  and  also  all  privileges, 
and  protections,  which  they  always 
had  enjoyed,  of  the  said  Company. 

Article  14th. 

AH  Documents,  Charters,  Reso- 
lations,  and  other  papers,  belonging 
to  this  Government,  will  without 
any  search  being  made  of  them, 
be  delivered  over  to  the  Governor, 
Mr.  Van  Spall,  in  order  to  be  car- 
ried with  him,  wherever  he  may 
be  removed  to. 


Article  10th. 

Regarding  the  Fort  of  Cochin, 
and  all  other  public  buildings,  they 
will  be  disposed  of,  as  the  Com- 
mander-in-Chief, or  the  Command- 
ing Officer,  will  think  proper  at 
the  time. 


Article  I  1th. 


Allowed. 


Article  12th. 

The  British  Government,  every 
where,  protects  religious  exercises. 


Article  13th. 

Answered,  in  the  4th  and  8th 
articles. 


Article  14th. 

All  Public  Documents,  and  Pa- 
pers, must  be  delivered  over  to 
persons,  appointed  to  receive  them, 
but  Mr.  Van  Spall  will  have  au- 
thenticated vouchers,  of  those 
which  may  in  any  way  concern 
himself,  during  his  management 
of  Cochin. 


Article  15th. 

No  one  will  occiipy  the  Govern- 
ment House,  during  (his)  Mr.  Van 
Spall's  stay  at  Cochin,  but  he  will 
remain  in  it,  unmolested. 


Article  15th. 
Answered,  in  the  2nd  Article. 


168 


CAPITUJUATION   OP   COCHIN. 


Aeticlb  16th. 

In  case  of  au^  English  De^aertera, 
'       found  in  the  Garrison  of 


Cochin,  they  will  be  pardoned. 

Article  17th. 

All  Public  Papers,  Notorial,  or 
Secretariat  deeds,  which  may  in 
the  least,  be  to  the  security  of  the 
poeseesions,  belonging  to  the  Inha- 
bitants of  this  pkoe,  will  be  re- 
spected and  preserved,  in  the  hands 
of  those,  who  hold  that  Office,  in 
order  to  be  made  use  of,  whenever 
requii'ed. 

Article  18th. 

The  Auctioneer  of  the  Town,  the 
Sequester,  and  the  Curator,  rTriis- 
tees),  will  be  supported,  in  the  re- 
covering of  all  outstanding  money, 
and  be  therein  protected,  by  the 
usual  Offioers  of  Justice. 

Article  19th. 

After  this  capitulation  shall  have 
been  signed,  the  New-gate  shall  be 
made  over  to  an  English  Detach- 
ment, of  50  men,  to  which  an  equal 
number  of  Dutch  Soldiers,  shall  be 
added,  to  whom  it  will  be  charg- 
ed that  no  Dutch  Soldier  may 
go  out,  and  no  English  one  may 
rush  in,  and  the  next  day  all  the 
sates  will  be  taken  possession  of 
bv  the  English  troopjs,  and  the 
CJarrison  of  Cochin  will  retire  to 
a  certain  place,  and  remain  there 
until  their  depaHure  for  Batavia, 
or  Ceylon,  laying  down  their  arms, 
as  usual,  with  the  exception  of 
the  officers  commanding  them, 
who  will  retain  their  swords. 

Article  20th. 

All  servants  of  the  Company, 
the  Police,  Military,  Navy,  and 
others  in  pay,  will  be  suppoi'ted 
by  the  English  Government,  until 


Article  16th. 

AH  Deserters,  will  absolutely  bo 
given  over. 


Article  17th. 
Answered,  in  the  14th  Article. 


Article  18th. 

All  inhabitants,  who  remain  in 
Cochin,  will  be  subject  to  British 
Laws. 


Article  19th. 

The  Gates  of  the  Fort  of  Cochin, 
will  be  taken  possession  of,  by  a 
Detachment  of  British  troops,  to- 
morrow noon,  at  12  o'clock.  The 
Garrison  will  be  lodged,  as  conve- 
niently as  the  circumstances  will 
allow,  until  it  can  be  disposed  of, 
thereabout,  agreeably  to  the  second 
Article.  The  Officers  may  retain 
their  swords. 


Article  20th* 

Major  Petrie  is  of  opinion,  that 
he  has  not  the  power  to  enter  into 
such  an  agi-eement,  on  accoimt  of 
the  Honorable  Company.  The  lost 


DUTCH  INSTITUTIONS  OF  COCHIN.  169 

the  J  are  taken  in  English  vessels,    part  of  this  article,  has  been  answer- 
to  the  place  of  their  destination,    ed  in  article  2nd 
either  Batavia,  or  Columbo. 

Ahticle  2l8t.  Articub  21st. 

All  sick,  and  wounded,  now  in        Allowed, 
the  Hospital,  are  to  be  treated, 
and  maintained,  by  the  English 
Goreniment. 


The  fulfilment  of  all  the  above        Major  Petrie  consents  to  a  ce&sa- 

stated  articles,  and  the  manner  of  tion  of  Arms,  until  4  o'clock  in 

capitulation  agreed  to,  are  to  be  the  mominff,  at  which  time,  Mr. 

fiuthfully  observed  and  signed  res-  Van  Spall  should  declare,  whether 

pectively,    by  Maior  Petrie,   the  or  not  he  will  accept  the  afore- 

Governor  Van  Spall,  and  the  Coun-  mentioned  articles  of  capitulation. 

cil  of  this  place.  11  30  p.m.  19th  October,  1795. 
19th  October,  1795.  (Siffoed)  G.  PETRIE, 

(Signed)  J.  L.  VAN  SPALL,  M%jor,  77th  Regiment, 

'    „     )  P.  J.  DeCAN,  Commanding, 

„     )  L  A.  CELLARIUS,  ^ 

„     )  I.  H.  SCHEIDS, 
„     )  A.  LUNEL, 
(    „     )  C.  VAN  SPALL. 

No  succours  could  be  expected,  and  the  Dutch  Garrison  were  there- 
fore obliged  to  agree  to  the  above  terms,  and  surrender  Cochin,  be- 
coniiiig  thereby,  prtsojiers  of  war. 

The  Dutch  Institutions  of  Cochin,  were  copied  from  those  of  Bata- 
via. The  constitution  of  the  Town  Council,  has  already  been  mentioned. 

No  European  whatever  could  reside  in  the  place,  or  embark  in 
trade  without  enlisting,  and  covenanting  to  serve  the  Dutch  for  five 
years,  but  on  certain  payments,  he  was  exempted  from  all  duty, 
except  to  repel  actual  invasion,  or  on  emergent  occasions.  Thus  all 
the  white  inhabitants  were  ^lilitary,  and  under  MiliUiry  orders,  an 
excellent  plan  for  preventing  their  causing  trouble  to  Government. 

Merchants  carried  on  their  business  very  comfortably,  Captains  of 
ships  were  not  allowed  to  buy  anything  from  the  Natives  directly, 
bat  obliged  to  apply  to  one  of  the  Euro|)ean  Factors,  who  in  their 
turn  contracted  with  Native  merchants,  for  the  delivery  of  certain 
articles  at  a  given  price,  on  board  ship.  But  the  Euro][>ean  Factor 
being  the  recipient  of  the  money  for  the  goods,  and  the  Native  mer- 

X 


170  CBIMINAL  JUSTICE. 

ehant  being  paid  only  on  thci  receipt  of  the  articles  on  boani  slilp, 
the  profits  were  made  ^without  much  difficulty,  or  much  outlay. 
Their  greatest  trouble  appears  to  have  been,  in  receiving  imports^ 
and  when  dealing  with  residents  in  the  place. 

Their  laws  were  nontinaily  the  some  for  Europeans  and  Natives^ 
but  in  reality  they  were  very  different,  according  to  the  religions 
persuasions  professed  by  their  dark  subjecta  By  the  side  of  the 
warehouse^  or  Cathedral  of  Santa  Cruz  close  to  the  river,  stood  a 
large  gallows,  whilst  another  was  perceptible  about  ^  a  mile  distant^ 
on  a  low  Island,  known  to  this  day  as  '^Qallows*  Island,"  a  place 
now  only  employed  as  the  receptade  for  the  corpses  of  paupers.  It 
was  rarely  that  Europeans  were  executed  by  hanging,  but  Military 
executions  by  shooting,  occasionally  took  place. 

Native  Christians  were  divided  into  two  parties,  the  Moondoocars 
or  persons  who  wore  white  doths  and  puggeries,  and  Topasses  who 
were  dressed  in  hats  and  drawers,  each  division  being  under  a  Cap- 
tain,  or  Commandant  who  was  accountable  to  the  Governor  of  Co- 
chin, for  their  conduct 

Moem  stertes,  that,  "  oa  the  taking  oi  Cochin  there  were  many 
"  Topasses  here,  and  along  the  Coast,  yfho  were  the  descendants  of 
"  the  Portuguese.  Some  were  slaves  wiio  had  been  given  their  free- 
"  dom,  others  were  the  offspring  of  native  women,  with  whom  their 
"  masters  had  formed  temporary  alliances^  After  the  Portuguese 
^  left  the  place,  they  assumed  tiie  surnames  of  their  masters.  Prior 
«*  to  1663,  they  had  a  bishop  of  their  own,  and  a  Cathedral  within 
"  the  town  of  Cochin.  When  the  Company  took  the  place,  they 
"  came  under  their  protection,  and  were  allowed  the  exercise  of  their 
"  religioa  They  were  placed  under  a  Captain  and  four  Ensigns^ 
"  as  well  as  other  subordinate  officers."  He  also  states  that  during 
Ins  tenure  of  office  (from  1771  to  1 781),  "  450  of  them,  were  drilled 
''  once  a  month,  to  learn  the  use  of  arma" 

If  an  European  killed  a  riave,  whetiier  by  an  accidental  blow,  or 
otherwise,  he  was  severely  punished,  but  rarely  by  death.  The  law 
laid  down  was,  that  slaves  might  be  corrected  by  their  masters,  in 
any  way  short  of  causing  death.  To  obviate  the  chance  of  an  ex- 
asperated master,  giving  a  fatal  blow,  there  was  an  official,  who 
amongst  his  other  duties,  received  complaints  against  slaves,  and  on 


IMPALEMENT.  171 

payment  caused  them,  if  males  to  be  beaten  before  their  maeter'a 
door,  if  females  within  his  houae. 

Slaves*  were  purchased  in  large  numbers,  no  enquiries  were 
made  respecting  wh^oe  they  came,  and  their  lives  are  said  to  have 
been  as  vidous,  as  their  transactions  were  abominable.  The  practice 
of  slavery  commenced  in  the  time  of  the  Portuguese. 

As  a  rule  the  slaves  do  not  appear  to  have  been  treated  badly,  but 
when  any  very  grave  offences  were  proved  against  them,  they  were 
nnmerdfully  punished.  Impalement,  and  more  rarely  the  nail  tor- 
ture, and  that  by  fire  or  water,  were  employed. 

Impalement  being  a  refinement  of  cruelty,  of  more  an  eastern  than 
an  European  character,  an  account  of  the  Dutch  method  of  practis- 
ing it,  may  perhaps  be  interesting.  In  olden  times  it  was  a  common 
Malabar  punishment  for  theft. 

An  iron  spike  was  thrust  through  the  criminal's  skin,  in  the  lower 
part  of  the  bock,  where  a  cross  cut  had  been  previously  made  for  its 
insertion  :  then  the  point  of  the  spike  was  guided  by  the  execution- 
er^s  finger,  so  as  to  bring  it  out  at  the  neck  or  shoulder,  carefully 
avoiding  injuring  any  large  arteries,  or  vital  organs,  as  such  would 
afford  the  poor  victim  speedy  relie£  The  lowest  extremity  of  the 
apike  was  then  made  fast  to  a  wooden  post,  which  was  raised  perpen- 
dicularly, and  fixed  into  the  ground,  and  thus  the  culprit  was  sup- 
IK>rted,  partly  by  the  iron  spike  under  his  skin,  and  partly  by  a  small 
bench,  pUced  underneath  his  feet,  and  raised  about  ten  inches  from 
the  ground. 

Tortured  by  thirst  but  denied  water,  scorched  by  the  sun  but  do- 
med shade,  devoured  by  insects  but  refused  any  means  of  keeping 
them  away ;  his  miserable  existence,  terminated  in  a  lingering  death, 
that  in  some  instances  was  protracted  for  three  days.  A  shower  of 
rain  was  hailed  as  the  greatest  blessing,  as  it  caused  the  wound  to 
mortify,  and  death  rapidly  ensued. 

As  the  Dutch  never  broke  criminals  on  the  wheel  in  Ceylon,  it 

*  Bepoit  nya,  that  the  Church  wm  oooupied  at  a  slave  godown,  ou  special 
emergendeB,  and  that  in,  the  week  days,  when  the  sacred  edifice  was  not 
nquiied  for  religious  purposes,  it  was  employed  to  keep  these  unfortunate 
CKatureain,  who  had  usually  been  carried  off  by  the  Moplahe,  and  sold  to  the 
JOutch,  who  shipped  them  to  Ceylon,  Batavia,  the  Oipe,  and  other  places. 


172  TAXES   ON   SHIP1*IX«. 

appears  probable  that  this  horrible  punishment  was  also  luiknowtt 
in  Cochin.  The  substitute  for  it,  Wolf  says,  was  breaking  their 
thighs  with  an  iron  club. 

There  was  an  Orphanage  for  the  reception  of  illegitimate  children 
and  orphans  of  the  poorer  classes.  Tlicy  were  taught  various  trades, 
and  the  boys  when  at  a  suitable  age,  were  generally  draughted  into 
the  army,  and  the  girls  respectably  married. 

A  jail  also  existed,  as  well  as  a  Spin-hays,  or  house  of  correction 
for  disorderly  women.  In  the  Diart/  of  1790,  there  are  the  follow^ 
ing  entries,  February  13th,  a  Moor  woman  taken  by  the  Patrols, 
this  day  sentenced  to  be  whipped  an^  imprisoned  for  2  years.  March 
20th,  the  Christian  prisoner  Barki  Chowiy  was  this  day  tortured. 

The  pay  of  the  various  officiab,  was  no  criterion  as  to  their  emo- 
luments, which  were  augmented  by  numerous  perquisites.  Thus  the 
Dutch  Commandant,  or  Governor  of  Malabar,  received  the  follow- 
ing. AU  foreign  ships  and  sloops  entering  the  river,*  with  the  Go- 
vernor's permission,  either  for  the  purposes  of  trade,  or  otherwise, 
paid  for  anchorage,  viz;,  from  1^  to  2  masts,  rupees  160  tp  the  Go- 
vernor, but  if  from  2^  to  3  masts,  rupees  200. 

The  Shawbunder  likewise  received  Rs.  10.  Persons  on  receiving 
leave  to  build  a  Bombara,  or  Dow,  paid  rupees  100  to  the  Governor, 
rupees  50  to  the  Second  in  Council,  and  rupees  25  to  the  Shaw- 
bunder. 

On  the  sale  of  all  private  Merchandize,  1  per  cent,  went  to  the 
Governor,  who  also  received  5  per  cent  on  the  value  of  all  timber 
exported,  1  per  cent  on  that  of  aU  coprah,  1  rupee  for  every 
thousand  cocoanuts,  the  same  on  every  bale  (consisting  of  80  pieces) 
of  Colechi  cloth,  one  £anam  on  every  choadna  (16  quarts)  of  cocoanut 
oil,  4  rupees  on  every  last  of  nelly  (paddy),  and  8  rupees  on 
each  last  of  rice. 

A  Bombara  or  Dow  leaving  Cochin,  paid  rupees  44  to  the  Go- 
vernor for  its  passport;  a  shibar,  botilbi,  or  pattimar,  of  one  mast 
rupees  11;  and  a  maldive  rupees  10.  On  issuing  passports  to 
country  crafts,  ships,  and  sloops,  the  following  fees  were  paid ;  for 
vessels  of  25  candies  rupees  10,  to  the  Governor:  of  40  candies 
rupees  12:  of  60  candies  rupees  14:  of  80  candies  rupees  16; 
*  Dutch,  Qovtrn-mtni  Records,    M.SS, 


STATE   IX    COCHIN.  173 

of  100  candies  rapees  18:  and  for  every  additional  candyi  the 
Secretary  received  mpees  2.  A  munchew,  and  other  small  vessels 
paid  from  rupees  3  to  3| :  the  endorsement  of  a  passport  was  ra- 
pees  3 :  pattimars  and  dhonies  bringing  letters,  or  passengers,  requir* 
ed  no  passport 

In  1785,  Van  Angelbeck,  the  Governor  of  Ck>chin,  complained  to 
the  Rajah,  that  bis  Ragiadoor  was  claiming  fees  from  a  ve8.sel  that 
wintered  in  the  river,  near  the  Moor  bazaar.  The  Rajah  replied, 
that  in  the  agreement  of  1 772,  the  right  of  levying  fees,  upon  vessels 
anchoring  within  his  limits,  certainly  was  omitted,  but  such  had  been 
a  mere  oversight,  as  it  was  a  well  ^own,  and  old  established  custom. 
That  he  always  had,  and  always  should  levy  them  as  follows,  viz :  A 
ship  rupees  150:  a  Bomboraor  Patta,  rupees  40  :  a  large  Almeida,  ru- 
pees 12;  a  small  one,  rupees  8.  Should  the  vessel  belong  toaforeign 
merchant,  aiyi  he  desired  to  winter  in  the  Rajah's  territories,  the 
Captain  had  to  give  in  addition,  a  piece  of  cloth  worth  rupees  25  for 
every  ship :  a  piece  of  taffe^  worth  rupees  12  for  every  Bombara  or 
Palla:  whilst  the  Captains  of  Almeidas  and  other  small  vessels,  had 
to  present  olSerings  in  accordance  with  their  size. 

Every  one  had  a  certain  percentage  of  whatever  passed  through 
hia  hands,  from  the  Cashier,  to  the  Auctioneer,  always  paid  by  the 
person  who  received  anything  from  the  Company,  or  paid  anything 
to  it.  Persons  bringing  Slaves,  paid  so  much  a  head  for^their  certi- 
ficates to  the  Secretary.  Fishermen  gave  eight  pounds  of  fish  daily. 
The  owners  of  country  vessels  with  gram,  or  provisions,  a  branch  of 
100  betel  leaves,  and  two  roUs  of  jaggery  sugar,  and  so  on. 

The  Qovemor  was  of  course  a  great  personage,  and  was  always  re- 
ceived with  much  State.  As  late  as  1775,  it  was  usual  for  the  con- 
gregation in  the  churches,  to  stand  up  on  his  entrance,  no  matter  at 
what  period  of  the  service  it  occurred.  All  carriages  were  drawn  up 
on  one  side  of  the  road,  and  pedestrians  stopped  when  he  passed, 
whilst  the  same  marks  of  attention,  were  paid  to  his  wife  and  fomily. 

Forbes  mentions  having  occasionally  resided  in  Cochin  for  several 
'vreeks  at  a  time,  during  the  latter  part  of  the  Dutch  rule,  and 
states,  that,  'Mt  was  a  great  place  for  trade,  and  presented  a  striking 
**  contrast  to  Qoa;  a  harbour  filled  with  ships,  streets  crowded  with 
*'  merchants,  and  warehouses  stored  with  goods  from  every  part  of 


174  TAXES   IN  COCHIN. 

*^  Asia,  and  Europe;  marked  the  industry,  the  commerce,  and  the 
**  wealth  of  the  inhabitants." 

He  subsequently  adds,  that  he  *'  always  received  the  kindest  atten- 
**  tion  from  the  Governor,  and  the  principal  inhabitants,  whose 
**  tables  were  furnished  with  hospitality,  and  graced  with  politeness, 
^  their  houses  and  gardens  displayed  the  national  cleanliness,  and 
**  neatness." 

At  the  Governor's  house,  "  three  female  slaves,  neatly  dressed, 
'^  attended  each  of  the  guests,  before  the  dinner  was  put  on  the 
*<  table;  one  of  them  held  a  silver  basin  decked  with  flowers 
^  to  contaui  the  water,  which  another  poured  upon  his  hands  from  a 
^  silver  vase,  and  a  third  offered  a  clean  napkin  on  a  salver.  At 
*'  the  English  tables,  two  servants  attended  after  dinner,  with  a 
♦*  gindy,  or  cover  of  silver,  on  white  copper,  the  former  was  adorned 
*'  with  fresh  coloured  flowers,  stuck  in  a  perforated  cover,  to  conceal 
**  the  water  which  was  poured  from  the  latter,  over  the  hands  of 
**  each  guest" 

The  taxes  in  Cochin  were  numerous,  but  insuf&cient  for  the  ex- 
penses of  the  place.  All  vessels  passing  along  the  backwater,  paid 
taxes  at  Cochin,  Palliport,  Ctlinganore,  Paponetty,  and  Quilon  : 
whilst  tolls  were  exacted  on  all  liquors,  metals,  food,  or  slaves,  im- 
ported or  exported  :  12^  per  cent,  on  the  produce  of  trees  :  and  30 
per  cent,  on  that  of  some  of  the  land  :  even  the  fisheimen  were 
charged  for  the  right  of  using  nets. 

A  curious  custom  prevailed,  in  that,  when  the  Bajah  of  Cochin, 
or  those  who  were  not  subjeets  of  the  Dutch  Company  purchased 
land,  the  new  proprietors  did  not  become  subject  to  Dutch  laws  and 
taxes.  Van  Angelbeck  on  leaving,  draws  his  successor's  attention 
to  this,  and  advises  that  none  but  those  who  take  the  oath  of  alle- 
giance should  be  permitted  to  possess  lands  within  their  limits.  The 
Rajah  of  Cochin  had  purchased  many  farms,  and  this  gave  rise  to 
disputes.  Van  Angelbeck  says  he  offered  him  50,000  rupees  for 
his  house  and  garden  out  of  town,  but  for  the  good  of  the  Com- 
pany he  had  sold  it  to  Van  Spall  for  40,000. 

It  might  be  expected,  that  with  these  taxes,  no  one  had  ground  rent 
to  pay,  but  such  was  not  always  the  case.  Land  held  by  descendants 
of  old  Dutch  families,  Native  Christians,  or  by  the  Teroo  Mala 


POLICT  OF  DUTCH  IN  COCHIK.  175 

Ds^Toetsom,  or  Konkanee  temple,  was  rent  free.  The  rcmaiiider  was 
leased  for  10  or  20  years>  to  servants  or  dependants  of  the  Factoiy, 
at  the  expiration  of  which  term,  it  was  pnt  up  to  pnblic  outcry,  for 
a  similar  period  :  and  the  Records  of  tJia  Dutcft  OovemvunU  inform 
US,  that  the  inhabitants  of  Cochin,  **  paid  annually  certain  snms  of 
"  money,  for  the  purpose  of  repairing  lights  placed  in  seyeral  streets, 
^  and  keeping  the  drains  in  order." 

The  policy  of  the  Dutch,  was  the  same  in  all  their  possessions,  and 
contemporary  authors  in  Ceylon  declared  it  to  have  been  narrow- 
minded  and  grasping.  The  Eandeans  came  to  the  conclusion,  that 
tiidr  gods  delighted  in  human  blood.  By  compounding  a  system  of 
harshness,  rewards,  and  punishments,  they  attempted  to  convert  all 
claases  to  their  religion.  They  insulted  the  heathen  idols  on  princi- 
ple, and  to  a  certain  extent  trampled  on  the  native  customs,  but 
perhi^  their  disavowal  of  treaties,  and  abandonment  of  their  Allies, 
occasioned  them  the  most  injury  in  Malabar.  Their  campaigns  were 
deficient  in  the  brilliant  dash  of  those  of  their  Portuguese  predeces- 
sors, and  they  were  in  fact  owing  to  circumstances  over  which  they 
liad  jiersonally  little  control,  more  mercliants  than  Statesmen  or 
soldiers,  and  more  occupied  with  'commercial  business  than  with 
their  own  honour. 

The  failure  of  the  Dutch  policy  should  be  a  warning  to  other 
nations,  not  to  permit  either  their  Civil  or  Military  officers,  to  enter 
into  commercial  speculations.  The  soul  of  commerce  is  gain,  which 
should  never  be  a  motive  power  with  an  official  in  his  public  capar 
city,  ffis  salary  should  be  sufficient  for  his  wants,  his  pension  for 
his  retirement,  and  his  savings  for  his  children.  An  under-paid 
class  of  officials  is  a  curse  to  a  country,  a  dissatisfied  one  a  nuisance, 
and  a  satisfied  one  a  blessing. 


CHAPTER  V. 


THE  BRITISH  IN  COCHIN. 

Origin  of  British  trade  to  India— English  East  India  Company— Treaty  with 
Samorin — Course  of  events  on  tlie  Western  Coast — Ryder— Tippoo— Cession 
of  Malabar  to  British — Slave  Trade  ^Capture  of  Cochin— Disturbanoes^- 
AUepey  Massacre— Institutions  of  Cochin— Revenue— Judicial—  Police — 
Marine— Orphanage  and  Friend-in-Need  Society— Medical,  and  Scholastic 
Institutions. 

The  historical  portion  of  the  lasfc  Chapter,  concluded  with  the  ter- 
mination of  the  Dutch  rule  in  Cochin,  when  tliat  fortress  was  cap- 
tured by  the  troops  of  the  English  East  India  Company,  instead  of 
being  peaceably  occupied,  as  would  have  been  the  case,  had  Governor 
Van  Spall  and  his  Council,  obeyed  the  order  of  the  Stadtliolder. 
ExpeUed  as  factors  by  the  Dutch,  the  British  now  returned  as  con- 
querors, and  since  their  advent,  Cochin  has  undergone  many  changes. 
In  its  Council  Chambers,  Qoveamment  Councils  are  no  longer 
held :  its  political  power  has  passed  away :  and  it  now  fills  a  place, 
to  a  certain  extent  commensurate  with  the  value  of  its  Commercial 
exports.  It  will  be  necessary  to  revert  to  the  commencement  of  the 
British  rule  in  India,  and  to  allude  to  various  circumstances,  which 
have  had  more  or  less  particular,  or  genenil  bearing,  upon  their  as- 
sumption of  power,  on  the  Western  Coast  of  Hindustan. 

English  merchants  at  first  traded  to  Indi^i,  in  Portuguese  vessels, 
and  received  a  reasonable  amount  of  protection,  from  the  sailors  of 
that  nation.  But  in  time,  they  refused  to  admit  the  right  of  the 
Portuguese,  and  subsequently  of  the  Hollanders,  to  monopolize  the 
route  to  India,  to  the  exclusion  of  other  European  Nations.  Then 
the  British  trade  with  Hindustan  commenced,  and  in  1591,  their 
first  fleet,  consisting  of  three  large  ships,  under  the  command  of 


SAlU)&I2t  002iCLt7DES    T&£ATY    WITH  B&ITISB.  177 

Caplain  Eayniondy  and  in  1590,  three  moie^  under  Captain  Wood^ 
attempted  to  reach  India,  but  were  imsuccessfol. 

On  December  Slat,  1600,  the  Eatt  India  Company  of  London^ 
coaaisting  of  216  merchants,  presided  oyer,  by  Qeoi^,  Eao^l  of  Cum- 
berland, was  incorporated  by  Boyal  Charter.  At  first  this  Company' 
attempted  merely  to  trade  with  India,  but  finding  themselyes  treat- 
ed as  enemies,  by  both  the  Portuguese,  and  Dutch,  they  were  obliged 
to  arm  their  vessels  in  self-defence :  subsequently  they  built  facto- 
ries, and  protected  them,  first  by  walls,  and  afterwards  by  forts. 
In  1639,  they  applied  to  Sri  Rania  Rc^ah,  of  Chandragheri,  for  a 
piece  of  ground:  and  he  granted  them  permission,  on  March  31st 
of  that  year,  to  erect  a  fort  at  Madraanapatam,  which  was  forthwith 
commenced,  by  ^n  Francis  Dajf. 

In  1608,  Captains  Hawkins  and  Keeling,  who  arrived  at  Surat 
from  England,  obtained  leave  to  sell  the  goods  they  had  brought, 
but  were  prohibited  from  founding  a  permanent  settlement,  until' 
they  had  received  permission  from  the  Mogul  In  1615,  Captain 
Keeling,  with  three  English  vessels,  arrived  at  Calicut,  where  he 
Was  informed,  that  the  Samorin  was  absent  besieging  Cranganore, 
bat  was  desirous  of  seeing  him,  and  entering  into  an  alliance  with 
the  British.  The  small  fleet  consequently  sailed  for  Cranganore, 
where  the  following  agreement  was  concluded. 

"Undeeecok  Cheete,  great  Samorin,  d:c,,  to  Janusy  King  of 
**  Britain,  &c.  Whereas  your  servant  and  subject,  William  Keeling, 
*'  arrived  in  my  Kingdom,  at  the  port  of  Cranganore,  in  March  1615, 
^  with  three  ships,  and  at  my  eame6t«8olicitation,  came  ashore  to  see 
^  me,  there  was  concluded  by  me,  for  my  part,  and  by  him  for  the 
^  English  nation,  as  followeth : 

"  As  I  have  ever  been  at  enmity  with  the  Portuguese,  and  propose 
''  always  so  to  continue  :  I  hereby  faithfully  prombe,  to  be  and 
''to  continue,  in  friendship  with  the  English,  both  for  myself, 
"  and  my  successors,  and  should  I  succeed  in  capturing  the 
*'  fort  of  Cranganore,  I  engage  to  give  it  to  the  English,  to  possess  a.s 
'*  their  own,  together  with  the  island  belonging  to  it,  which  is  in 
"  length  along  the  sea  coast,  nine  miles :  and  three  in  breadth :  and 
"  I  propose  to  build  thereon,  a  house  for  my  people,  to  the  number 
"  of  one  hundred  persons. 

Y 


17S  XNGLISH  ASSIST  THE  SAMOSIK. 

'  '<  I  shall  hereafter  endeavour,  with  the  aid  of  the  English,  to  oon** 
'^  quer  the  town  and  fort  of  Cochin,  which  formerly  belonged  to  my 
^<  crown,  and  kingdom :  and  shall  then  deliver  it  to  the  English,  as 
^  their  own ;  provided  that  the  charges  of  its  capture,  be  equally 
**  borne  by  both  parties,  one  half  by  me,  and  the  other  half  by  the 
**  English  Nation.  And  in  that  case,  the  benefit  of  the  plunder  thereof, 
*^  of  whatsoever  kind,  shall  belong  half  to  me,  and  half  to  the  Eng* 
"  lish.  And  thereafter,  I  shall  claim  no  right,  or  interest,  in  the 
*'  said  town,  precincts,  ov  appurtenances,  whatsoever. 

"  I  also  covenant  for  myself,  my  heirs,  and  successors,  that  the 
"  whole  trade  of  the  English,  in  whatever  commodities,  brought  in, 
"  or  carried  out,  shall  be  entirely  free  from  all  customs,  imposition, 
**  tax,  or  other  duty,  of  any  quality,  or  description.  ^ 

"  To  these  covenants,  which  the  shortness  of  time,  did  not  permit 
"  to  extend,  in  more  ample  form,  I,  the  Samorin  have  sworn  to  per> 
•  form,  by  the  great  God  whom  I  revere,  and  not  only  for  myself, 
"  but  my  successors ;  and  in  witness  thereof,  I  have  laid  my  hand 
"  upon  this  writing,  &c"  The  Samorin's  sign  manual,  consisted  in 
placing  his  extended  hand,  over  the  written,  or  more  properly  speak- 
ing, the  engraved  ollab,  or  palm  leaf,  on  which  most  deeds  were  exe- 
cuted. 

The  Samorin  in  forming  this  alliance,  appears  to  have  been  ac- 
tuated, by  a  wish  to  obtain  European  assistance,  against  the  Portu. 
guese :  and  this  treaty,  offers  Cranganore,  and  the  whole  island  on 
which  it  stands,  as  far  as  Chetwye,  to  the  British :  as  well  as  Cochin 
which  he  asserts,  was  formerly  his  own,  and  which  he  promises  to 
make  over,  as  soon  as  captured.  Captain  Keeling,  much  to  the 
Bamonn's  annoyance,  declined  remaining  with  his  vessels,  to  join  in 
the  attack  on  Cranganore :  but  left  ten  Englishmen,  who  after  the 
war  was  over,  were  to  found  a  factory  at  Calicut.  Amongst  these 
was  Mr.  Stamford,  a  gunner,  who  being  of  a  convivial  disposition, 
one  evening  imbibed  rather  too  freely,  and  was  picked  up,  by  a  forag- 
ing party  of  Cochin  Nairs,  who  delivered  him  to  their  allies  the  Por- 
tuguese :  subsequently,  he  was  conveyed  as  a  prisoner  to  Cochin.  The 
remainder  of  the  party,  were  so  badly  treated  at  Calicut,  that  they 
were  glad  to  escape,  on  any  terms. 

Aj5  the  naval  jiowcr  of  the  English  increase,  their  encounters  with 


BRITISH   S£TTL£M£XT8   fX   MALABAR.  179 

Aeix  enemies  became  both  more  frequent,  and  sanguinary.  Tbey 
were  in  almost  continual  warfare  with  the  Portuguese,  generally  also 
with  the  French,  and  although  sometimes  in  alliance  with  the  Dutch, 
as  often  their  deadly  foes.  But  after  the  year  1663,  the  Portuguese 
power  in  India  declined  so  rapidly,  that  they  became  no  longer  feared. 
The  French  East  India  Company ^  was  established  in  1642,  more 
with  the  object  of  territorial  aggrandisement,  and  military  renown, 
than  for  the  mere  purposes  of  trade :  but  on  April  5th,  1761,  they 
finally  succumhed  to  the  British,  when  not  a  flag  of  that  nation  was 
recognised,  not  a  single  fort  acknowledged  their  supremacy,  not  a 
Sepoy  owed  them  allegiance ;  and  although  they  possessed  factories 
at  Surat,  Calicut,  and  some  other  places,  they  had  not  a  single  agent 
in  Bengal;  and  the  English  East  India  Company  were  able  to  turn 
their  arms  on  other  foes.  It  is  true,  that  the  French  rose  sub- 
sequently,  in  Hyder's  and  Tippoo's  favour,  and  that  some  of  their 
Settlements  were  restored  to  them ;  still  they  never  afterwards  ac* 
qtiiivd  sufficient  power,  to  become  a  source  of  anxiety  to  the  English 
East  Indie  Company. 

In  1708,  the  English  obtained  a  grant  of  the  fort  at  Tellicherr}% 
from  the  Colastry,  or  Cherical  Rajah,  and  eleven  yei^s  subsequently, 
a  disagreement  occurring  between  the  former  and  the  Coringotte 
Kair,  they  carried  on  a  successful  war  against  him,  and  it  was  enact- 
ed,— that  henceforth  the  English  were  to  enjoy  the  exclusive  right  to 
the  pepper  produce  of  his  country,  free  of  all  duty.  In  1722,  the 
flame  privilege  (with  a  reservation  in  favour  of  the  Dutch  alone) 
was  conceded  by  the  Cherical  R%jah  throughout  his  still  extensive 
eoontry.  Three  years  subsequently,  the  Kajah  of  Cartinaad  allowed 
them  the  pre-emption  of  all  pepper  and  cardamoms,  grown  in  hie 
territory;  and  in  1759,  the  Rajah  of  Cotiote,  concluded  a  similav 
treaty.  Thus,  British  power,  and  influence,  rapidly  extended  itself  in 
Malabar :  and  the  heads  of  the  Tellicherry  factory,  mediated  between 
antagonistic  States,  settled  differences  amongst  rival  Rajahs,  and  ap« 
pear  to  have  been  consulted,  respected,  and  feared,  by  aU  the  chiefs^ 
residing  within  the  limits  of  the  ancient  Colastrian  kingdom. 

Inl751,  the  English  conehided  a  treaty,  with  the  Rajah  of  Bed- 
nore,  and  acquired  permission  to  establish  a  factory  at  Onore,  with 
freedom  to  trade  throughout  his  dominion!):  thh  occasioned  a 


180  THE    SAMORIK    COMMITS  SUICIDE. 

iemporaFy  cessation  of  intercoiirse  with  the  Rajah  of  Cherical^  who 
was  then  at  war  with  the  Bednore  Rajah.  But  in  1757  another 
treaty  of  offence  and  defence  was  entered  into,  between  Mr.  Hodges, 
the  senior  British  merchant,  and  the  Cherical  Rajah,  from  whom 
the  English  obtamed  in  1761,  "the  further  important  privilege,  of 
5<«collecting  <m  their  own  behalf,  the  customs  duties,  and  tolls,  within 
"  their  own  territories,  for  the  smaU  consideration,  of  a  fixed  quit 
<*  rent,  of  21,000  silver  fanams,  or  Rs.  4,200  per  annum,  to  be  paid 
"  to  his  Gk>vemment.  In  addition  to  the  forgoing,  he  and  the  other 
"  Rajahs,  had  by  this  time,  successively  and  separately,  yielded  up 
"  their  rights,  to  all  wrecks,  or  strandings,  of  the  Company's  ves- 
**  sels^  or  property ;  an  article,  which  with  the  customs,  or  merchant 
^  dize,  constituted  two  of  the  most  inherent,  and  acknowledged,  ro^ 
^'  yal  rights,  of  the  Malabar  Princes,  of  that  period."* 

In  1766,  Hyder  descended  a  second  time  into  Malabar,  and  pos* 
sessed  himself  of  the  country,  from  Cherical  to  the  Cochin  State. 
In  1768,  the  EngUsh  and  Hyder  went  to  war,  when  the  Nairs  re* 
instated  themselves,  in  their  various  possessions,  and  retained  them 
until  1773-74,  when  Hyder  again  descended  upon  the  northern 
portion,  and  re-established  tribute  over  these  various  princes,  send* 
ing  iSf'te  Navxu  EaOy  through  Falghaut,  into  the  southern  division. 
•  The  Bamorin  at  this  time,  conmiitted  suicide,  in  consequence  of 
the  treatment  h^  received  from  Hyder.  It  was  the  custom  of  the 
former  to  maintain  twelve  himdred  Brahmans  in  his  palace,  and  until 
they  were  fed,  he  fasted.  No  Mahomedan  ever  had  an  audience 
with  him,  as  he  never  condescended  to  address  a  word,  to  a  discifde 
of  Islam.  Hyder  AU  sent  him  his  compliments,  and  requested  aA 
interview :  this  the  Samorin  declined,  and  only  consented  to  see  hin 
head  Brahman.  Hyder  imagining  that  a  little  fasting,  would  bring 
lum  to  a  knowledge  of  Ms  helpless  position,  s^t  rice  on  the  following 
day,  for  only  five  hundred  Brahmans :  on  the  second  day,  for  three 
hundred :  and  on  the  third  day,  for  one  hundred :  after  which,  na 
food  was  allowed  to  pass.  The  Samorin  fasted  three  days,  and  then 
set  fire  to  his  palace,  and  perished  in  the  flames,  as  did  also  some 
pf  his  women,  and  three  Brahmans  ;  the  remainder  ancoeeded  in 

*  M.33,  JUport  ofOmimmonm^  to  Lord  Cornw;iHw,  •  1793, 


HYSOREANS  IN   MALABAR.  181 

escaping.  On  tliis,  all  the  (winces  of  the  Samorin  b  family  fled  to 
Travancore,  and  Hyder's  authority  waa  established  in  Malabar. 

Many  of  the  Rajahs  felt  aggrieved  with  the  English,  for  not  haT« 
ing  joined  them,  especially  the  Cherical  R^ah,  and  when  the 
English  and  French  were  at  war,  in  1778,  this  Rajah,  in  September, 
marched  his  tro<^  to  Mah6,  to  assist  the  latter  people  in  its  defence. 
In  the  following  month,  some  of  Hyder's  forces  also  joined  the 
French,  as  he  was  indignant  that  persons  escaping  from  Ms  power 
found  an  asylum  at  Tellicherry. 

In  1779,  the  Cherical  Rajah,  obstructed  provisions  from  being 
carried  into  Tellicherry,  and  his  out  posts  commenced  firing  at  the 
Ikitish  workmen.  The  chiefs  of  the  three  petty  principalities,  sub* 
ordinate  to  Cherical,  (the  Rajah  of  Cartinaad,  the  Chief  of  Irvenaad, 
and  the  Nair  of  Coringotte)  gave  private  information  to  the  authori- 
ties  oi  Tellicherry,  and  a  small  revolution  was  organized :  the  English 
^I^lying  them  with  stores  and  ammunition,  and  they  in  return 
giving  ooolies,  wood,  and  charcoal,  which  enabled  the  British  to 
reduce  Mah^,  on  March  17th,  1779.  But  Hyder  sent  a  re-inforce- 
meat,  and  these  Chiefs  were  obliged  to  escape*  from  the  coimtry. 
The  Cherical  Rajah,  in  1779,  commenced  hostilities  against  the 
English,  and  being  joined  by  Sirdar  Khan,  besieged  Tellicherry^ 
but  finding  that  the  Mahomedans  were  not  acting  faithfully,  the  for* 
mer  withdrew  his  forces  in  January  1782,  and  proceeded  to  Arcot, 
to  lay  his  complaint  before  Hyder,  who  forthwith  arrested  him  for 
not  having  paid  his  tribute.  Major  Abingdon^  seeing  this  defection, 
made  a  sortie,  slew  Sirdar  Khan,  took  the  Rigah  of  Coringotte,  (who 
led  the  besiegers,)  prisoners,  and  dispersed  their  army.  The  British 
were  now  in  a  position,  to  reward  those  Princes  who  had  been 
friendly  to  them,  and  punish  those  who  were  hostile.  The  unfor* 
tuuate  Cherical  Rajah,  who  was  always  on  the  wrong  side,  now  joined 
the  British  under  General  Matthews,  but  in  1783,  Tij^oo  came 
down,  and  made  the  General  a  prisoner,  and  at  the  same  time  de* 
pxived  the  Rajah  of  Cherical  of  his  dominions.  At  the  final  peaca 
of  1784,  it,  was  stipulated  that  no  Ri^cdis  should  be  pumshed  by 
Tippoo,  <m  account  of  their  friendship  with  the  British,  during  the 
lute  war  :  but  in  the  enumeration  of  them,  the  Cherical  Rcyah  was 
omitted.    Each  Rajah,  however,  was  to  make  hifl  own  terms^  with 


hS^  TIPPOO  FORCIBLY    CONVERTS   HINDUS. 

Adhed  B^  Rhan^  a  native  of  the  Carnatic,  who  was  appointed  byr 
Tippoo,  Commandant  of  Malabar. 

In  17S8,  Tippoo  returned  to  the  Western  Coast  to  punish  both 
the  Hindus,  and  Moplahs,  who  had  risen  against  his  authority. 
On  his  arrival,  he  summoned  all  the  Eajahs  of  Malabar  to  hi» 
presence,  but  with  the  exception  of  the  Rajah  of  Cartinaad, 
all  feigned  sickness.  Tippoo  stated  his  ardent  desire,  to  prove  to 
all  Hindus,  the  truth  of  the  Mahomedan  religion,  and  trusted  that 
his  endeavours  to  that  effect,  would  be  forwarded  by  the  Princes 
of  the  country :  but  his  invitation  met  with  no  response,  so 
he  then  demanded  twelve  lacs  of  rupees  as  a  gift.  In  March, 
or  April,  the  following  year,  he  took  possession  of  the  French 
outposts  at  Mah€,  tearing  down  the  flag  of  his  most  Christian 
Majesty. 

About  the  middle  of  this  year,  Tippoo  who  was  at  Coimbatore,  or« 
ganizmg  an  attack  on  the  Travancore  State,  sent  orders  to  his  new 
Dewan  at  Calicut,  to  circumcise  all  Brahmans,  as  an  example  to  the 
lower  castes,  whom  he  hoped  would  at  once  join  the  new  religious 
sect  If  they  still  held  out,  and  refused  to  become  Mahomedans, 
they  were  to  be  compelled  to  eat  beef  ;  this  order  was  carried  into 
effect,  in  July  of  that  year,  and  horror,  and  consternation,  spread 
throughout  the  length,  and  breadth,  of  Western  India.  All  who  were 
able  to  do  so,  fled  to  Travancore  :  thousands  committed  suicide,  and 
the  flames  of  rebellion  spread  far  and  wide.  Even  some  Moplahs^ 
joined  in  an  attack  on  Calicut,  and  Lally  was  despatched  to  break 
up  the  siege,  this  he  effected,  but  he  could  not  subdue  the  universal 
hostility  of  the  population. 

Many  petty  Rajahs,  and  even  the  Beebee  of  Cannanore,  asked 
leave  to  take  refuge  in  Tellicherry.  Tippoo  on  hearing  of  this, 
dared  the  English  to  receive  them,  and  they  consequently  adopted 
a  middle  course,  and  allowed  the  refugees  to  pass  through  their  ter- 
ritories, to  reach  tlie  Travancore  State  in  peace.  Tippoo  before  long 
Encamped  near  Tellicherry,  and  forcibly  converted  many  Hindus : 
And  also  caught  the  new  Rajah  of  Cherical,  who  came  to  make  his 
obeisance,  and  informed  him  that  the  same  argument,  which  bad 
been  employed  to  the  lower  classes  of  Hindus^  would  be  applied  to 
himself ;  on  bearing  this^  he  sent  orders  to  his  family,  to  flee  to  Tra* 


6LAVE  TRADE  IN   MALABAB.  )83 

Toncorc,  promising  them,  that  he  would  never  die  a  recreant  to  hi$ 
father's  faith :  and  then  committed  suicide. 

All  the  petty  Hindu  Rajahs  fled,  and  it  was  evident,  that  they 
anticipated  assistance  from  the  British,  who  on  their  side  could  not 
stand  idly  by,  and  see  their  fellow  creatures  murdered  by  thousands^ 
because  they  had  been  bom  of  Hindu  parents.  These  disturbances, 
interfered  considerably  with  the  English  trade.  A  treaty  already  al* 
luded  to,  was  then  concluded,  in  which  the  Cochin  Rajah  joined,  and 
by  the  end  of  1791,  all  the  Malabar  country,  had  fallen  into  British 
hands.  The  amount  of  the  various  tributes,  was  settled  generally 
at  half  what  had  been  exacted  by  Tippoo :  whilst  English  troops 
were  promised  to  defend  the  country  from  foreign  invasion,  and  do- 
mestic strife.  The  first  Rajah  who  paid  his  tribute,  however,  returned 
home,  and  shot  himself. 

The  division  of  the  country,  and  the  settlement  of  the  legality  of 
the  claims,  of  the  various  Rajahs,  and  Chieftains,  over  the  territories 
imder  them,  was  a  very  difficult  task.  The  Brahmans  and  Nairs, 
wi Aed  to  have  their  lands  again,  rent  free :  but  the  Mahomedan  plan 
of  assessment,  being  considered  the  fairest  for  all  parties,  as  Military 
tenures  would  no  longer  be  necessary,  (the  British  troops  being  suf* 
ficient,  for  the  protection  of  the  country)  it  was  continued  unchanged, 
excepting  as  regarded  the  amount.  The  Hindus  now  wished  to  re> 
taliate  on  the  Moplahs,  and  the  discord,  oppressions,  and  murders,' 
which  ensued,  were  very  difficult  to  check :  for  the  petty  Rajahs  con- 
tddered  it  no  crime,  to  put  a  Moplah  to  death.  On  December  20th, 
1792,  all  articles  excepting  pepper,  were  thrown  open  to  public  trade. 

One  of  the  horrors  of  Malabar,  which  the  British  first  endeavoured  to 
put  an  end  to,  was  the  kidnapping  of  children,  by  gangs  of  Moplahs, 
who  sold  them  to  the  supercargoes  of  European  vessels,  more  espe- 
cially to  the  French  at  Mah<S,  and  the  Dutch  at  Cochin.  Numbers 
of  poor  innocent  children,  were  thus  entrapped,  and  carried  away,  to 
pass  the  residue  of  their  lives,  in  hopeless  slavery.  It  was  enacted,  that 
ail  stealers  of  children,  or  persons  engaged  in  this  traffic,  should  be 
scourged  and  fined :  but  even  this,  did  not  put  a  stop  to  this  infamous' 
trade.  The  English  Government,  then  wrote  to  that  of  the  Dutch  iu 
Cochin,  requesting  them  to  abolish  the  practice  of  buying  children 
for  slaves  :  but  they  declined,  stating  that  they  realized  large^sums  of 


184  COCHIN  IN  BRITISH   POSSESSION. 

money  by  it !     When  Cbchin  was  taken,  almost  every  servant  in  ike 
place  was  found  to  be  a  slave. 

On  October  19th,  1795,  the  British  Troops  under  Major  Petrie, 
ftrrived  before  the  fortress  of  Cochin,  and  failing  to  obtain  ait 
entrance,  threatened  to  open  fire  upon  the  town.  Acting  under  the 
orders  of  the  Stadtholder,  they  had  at  first  endeavoured  to  obtain 
an  amicable  footing,  and  to  make  no  changes  in  the  Government 
of  the  Town.  But  finding  this  impossible  they  determined  to 
adopt  other  measures  as  their  entrance  was  necessary  to  prevent 
it  from  falling  into  the  hands  of  the  French. 

The  Council  of  Cochin  in  this  emergency,  unable  to  hold  the  place, 
but  still  unwilling  to  deliver  it  up,  acted  in  a  very  injudicious  manner  ; 
the  town  was  consequently  obliged  to  capitulate,  and  tlie  Inliabit- 
ants  became  prisoners  of  war. 

In  December  1796,  those  who  were  desirous  of  returning  to 
Batavia,  were  sent  to  Bombay,  and  the  following  year  they  received 
permission  to  proceed  to  Batavia :  but  many  preferred  returning  to 
Cochin,  and  in  1804,  so  great  was  their  distress,  that  they  were 
compelled  to  petition  Government,  for  pecuniary  assistance,  and 
were  then  all  pensioned  for  one  year  more,  on  the  understanding 
that  by  the  expiration  of  that  period,  they  were  to  have  left  India^ 
or  at  all  events,  to  have  forfeited  all  right  to  further  assistance, 
^ut  as  usual,  when  the  time  had  elapsed,  the  English  Ejist  India 
Company  relented  towards  those  who  remained,  and  even  up  to 
the  present  day,  some  of  the  Dutch  in  Cochin,  are  receiving  pensions. 

The  Dutch  Courts  of  Justice,  and  many  of  their  institutions,. 
which  will  be  referred  to  further  on,  were  left  unaltered  for  some 
time :  as  although  they  worked  badly,  it  was  considered  by  the 
Governor  in  Council  by  no  means  improbable,  that  this  placo 
might  eventually  be  restored  to  the  Dutch,  and  therefore  no 
reforms  were  commenced,  until  after  this  question  had  been  finally- 
settled. 

The  British  Resident  of  Travancorc  and  Cochin,  at  first  took  up 
his  quarters,  in  the  house  now  employed  as  a  Cutcherry,  whilst  the 
town  was  of  course  garrisoned  by  British  troops.  The  Government 
garden  was  divided  into  two  portions,  half  being  given  to  the 
Military,   and  half  to  the   Civil  powers:  and  this  di^'ision    was 


MoPLAU   msTUBBANCES.  185 

continued,  until  after  the  Xair  riota,  in  1809,  when  not  being  kept 
up,  part  of  it  was  rented  out. 

The  Bajah  of  Cochin,  appears  not  to  liave  been  best  pleased  at 
the  change  of  European  Govei-nors  in  Cochin,  although  the  Dutch 
supremacy  had  become  extremely  irksome  to  him.  It  has  already 
been  stated,  that  obtainuig  evidence  from  the  people  of  the  State  of 
Cochin  in  1793,  was  almost  an  impossibility.  Had  the  British  shortly 
after  the  taking  of  the  town,  examined  the  records  of  the  Dutch 
goTemment,  many  of  their  decisions,  respecting  the  claims  of  certain 
neighbouring  Stsites,  to  territory,  could  never  have  been  given.  In 
1 799,  it  was  rejiorted,  that  the  father,  and  brother,  of  the  vicar  of 
the  churches  of  Edapilly,  and  EaranakoUata,  had  been  confined  in 
two  separate  tiger  cages,  at  TVichoor,  from  October  or  November 
1797,  for  one  year  and  ten  months,  by  order  of  the  Cochin  Ra- 
jah: that  for  the  whole  of  that  period,  they  were  kept  loaded  with 
irons,  and  were  not  released  from  their  dens,  until  the  evening  of 
August  15th,  1799,  when  on  pretence  of  being  required  to  proceed 
to  Tripoonterah,  they  were  let  out  but  immediately  murdered, 
and  buried.  Two  other  brothers,  had  previously  escaped,  one  to  Tre- 
vandrum,  and  ^e  other  to  Calicut  Tliis  was  one  of  many  cruel  acts 
aj^parently  inflicted,  on  the  supposition,  that  the  parties,  had  given 
information  to  the  British. 

Government  finding  that  the  outbreaks,  and  disturbances,  con-^ 
stantly  arising  in  the  Cochin  State,  and  generally  over  Malabar,  ex- 
tended even  into  the  Tovnx  of  Cochin,  re-imposed  in  that  town  and 
territory  the  regulation,  of  July  22nd,  1793,  "that  no  gaB8>  muskets, 
*'  matchlocks,  or  other  firearms,  tulwars,  or  swords  of  any  descrip- 
^  tion,  nor  any  bows  and  arrows,  shields,  balk,  powder,  ammunition, 
<*  or  anything  coming  under  the  head  of  warlike  stores,  (excepting 
**  for  the  use  of  Government,)  should  be  imported"  into  Cochin,  or 
exported  from  it,  on  any  account  whatsoever.  The  secret  memoran- 
dum stated  that  this  was  enacted,  ''in  order  gradually  to  discounter 
**  nance,  and  extinguish,  the  spirit  of  independence,  and  depredation, 
*<  so  tenaciously  cherished  amongst  the  southern  Moplahs,  and 
"  other  similarly  disposed  persons,  by  depriving  them  of  the  means 
"  of  indulging  in  it."  Saltpetre,  and  sulphur,  were  no  longer  allow- 
ed to  be  sold,  excepting  on  a  pass  signed  by  the  Magistrate,  and  no 


186  NAIBS  ATTACK   COCHIN. 

more  was  pennitted  to  be  imported,  unless  disposed  of  to  Qovem- 
ment  Officials. 

In  1802,  amicable  relations  between  the  English  authorities,  and 
the  Rt^ah  of  Cochin,  appear  only  to  hare  existed  outwardly,  whilst 
the  Dutch  prisoners  of  war,  took  advantage  of  this  unpleasant  feel- 
ing, ,and  presented  Napoleon's  portrait  to  the  Rajah.  It  was  never 
ascertaioed,  whether  any  letter  accon.p(inied  the  gift :  but  the 
Rajah's  people  became  veiy  insolent,  and  even  went  so  far,  as  to 
arrest  British  subjects  within  British  limits  :  the  garrison  was 
consequently  directed,  to  '^strictly  exclude  all  the  servants 
*'  of  the  Cochin  Rajah,  from  the  British  territory,  lymg  around  the 
«*  Town." 

On  October  6th,  1803,  secret  orders  were  sent  to  Cochin,  to  pre- 
pare for  foreign  invaders,  (the  French)  and  directing  the  garrison, 
that  immediately  an  enemy  was  perceived  anchoring  before  the 
town,  it  must  be  evacuated  as  untenable :  all  the  inhabitants  were 
to  be  removed  to  the  interior,  should  the  boats  of  a  hostile  fleet 
approach  the  shore  :  whilst  all  country  boats  were  to  be  removed, 
or  destroyed  :  cattle  driven  away  :  and  provisions  rendered  useless. 
As  troops  could  not  be  spared,  in  sufficient  numbers  to  garrison 
Cochin,  and  enable  it  to  resist  an  European  force,  it  was  decided 
that  the  fort  should  be  blown  up :  this  was  carried  into  effect  and 
ere  a  month  had  elapsed  this  Fortress  had  ceased  to  exist.  Many 
of  the  Government  buildings,  also  shared  the  same  fate :  and  thus 
Cochin,  after  having  been  an  important  Military  strong-hold,  for 
three  centuries,  dwindled  into  a  mere  mercantile  port. 

Disturbances  in  the  Rajah's  territory,  rumours  of  rebellion,  and  the 
encroachment  of  the  Dewan  on  the  British  power :  gave  the  autho- 
rities, and  troops,  sufficient  employment  for  some  time.  In  1808,  the 
Travancore  Dewan  openly  commenced  war  against  the  British,  and 
the  Paliat  Achen,  or  Cochin  Minister,  favoured  .his  views,  and 
seconded  them  as  far  as  he  was  able.  Cochin  then  became  the  scene 
of  an  atrocious  attempt  to  murder  the  British  Resident^  Colonel 
Macaulay,  who  had  with  him,  a  guard  of  only  about  25  sepoys. 

On  December  29th,  1808,  at  half-past  2  a.  h.,  nearly  six  hundred 
armed  sepoys,  belonging  to  Travancore,  anived  at  the  southern  side 
of  Cochin  :  and  nishing  to  the  Resident's  house,  then  occupied  by 


ALLEPEY   MASSACRE.  187 

Colonel  Macaulay,  at  once  obtained  possession,  and  destroyed  every, 
thing  they  could  discover,  including  all  the  Public  Records,  both  of 
the  Magistracy,  and  Reyenne.  They  searched  every  where  for 
the  Resident,  but  he  was  enabled  to  (Escape,  with  his  escort  of 
sepoya,  and  got  on  board  a  Pattimar.  The  jail  was  broken  open, 
and  the  prisoners  set  loose :  consternation,  and  fear,  were  so  uni- 
Tersal,  that  no  resistance  was  at  that  time  attempted.  *  But  by 
the  evening,  many  of  the  Travancoreans,  had  become  perfectly  in- 
toxicated, and  a  body  of  one  hundred  coolies,  and  police,  were  sent 
to  arrest,  as  many  as  they  could,  and  made  a  few  captures. 

Troops  were  sent  for  from  Quilon,  and  preparations  made,  to 
resist  a  second  attack,  which  was  anticipated.  The  offidala  of  the 
Cochin  Government)  had  on  J^muary  10th  stopped  all  provisions  from 
entering  Cochin,  and  on  the  12th,  2,000  armed  men  in  the  pay  of 
the  Big'ah,  were  reported  as  collected  a  little  to  the  north  of  th9 
town  on  the  margin  of  the  backwater,  with  5  guns,  mounted  on  the 
banks:  whilst  about  three  Malabar  miles  to  the  south,  1,000  armed 
Travancoreans,  were  in  readiness,  to  advance. 

Col.  Macauky,  feeling  his  insecurity  at  Cochin,  embarked  in  the 
grab  Sn<nff,  taking  with  him  the  treasure,  and  also  the  men,  of  H. 
M.  12th  foot  He  lay  ofl^  Cochin,  in  hopes  that  should  reinforce- 
ments arrive,  he  might  be  able  to  land  the  few  men  with  him,  who 
alone,  were  insufficient  to  defend  the  place,  but  might  be  ser- 
viceable, in  conjunction  with  other  troops.  Many  of  the  inhabit- 
ants, removed  to  Calicut  But  on  the  following  day,  matters  did 
not  appear  so  serious,  and  accordingly,  the  Resident  and  his  escort 
re-landed. 

About  this  time,  twelve  European  soldiers,  and  thirty-three  se- 
poys, were  proceeding  from  Quilon  to  Cochin,  and  the  sick  wife  of 

Colonel,  C took  advantage  of  the  escort^  and  the  presence  of  an 

Assistant  Surgeon,  to  accompany  them.  When  they  had  arrived 
half  way,  as  far  as  Allepey,  and  had  reached  the  narrow  canal,  the 
sepoys  wi9hed  to  land,  and  cook;  the  natives  on  the  shore,  who 
appeared  friendly,  enticing  them  to  do  so*  No  suspicions  were 
entertained,  the  soldiers  arms  were  lying  unloaded  in  the  bottom 
of  the  boats,  and  the  rowers  were  all  on  shore ;  the  sepoys  then 
•  Oficial  Sepoi't  to  the  Jud^e  of  MaMar,    Goverameat  reoords,  M.  S.  S. 


188  NAIR   RIOTS. 

landed,  but  peroeivii]^  treachery,  tliey  called  out,  to  warn  tLe 
Europeans  :  but  it  was  too  late,  a  rush  waermade  from  the  banks, 
and  the  whole  party  was  overpowered.  A  horrible  scene  then  ensued^ 
the  prisoners'  hands  were  tied  behind  them,,  after  which,  they  were 
most  unmercifully  beate^  then  their  eyes  were  destroyed,  and 
they  were  finally  put  into  sacks,  and  drowned  in  the  canaL  The 
only  person  c^xued,  was  the  lady,  as  it  is  considered  illegal,  in  this 
part  of  the  eountiy,  to  put  a  woman  to  death,  imder  any  circum- 
stances, and  thus  one  alone  survived,  to  give  an  account  of  this  hor- 
rible tragedy.  Oa  this  spot,  British  justice  executed  the  Dewan's 
brother,  who  appears  to  have  assisted  the  murderers.  But  the  De- 
wan  himself  escaped  this  fate  by  flying  to  an  inland  pagoda^  where 
he  died  of  his  wounds. 

On  January  21st,  1809,  the  Nairs  had  advanced  so  dose  to 
Cochin,  that  they  broke  into  tlie  house  of  the  late  Dutch  Qovemor, 
and  plundered  it,  a»  well  as  destroyed  his  garden.  On  the  25th,  the 
Travancoreans  agaia  attacked  Cochin,  but  tins  time  the  troops  were 
ready  to  receive  them,  and  barricades  had  been  thrown  up  across  the 
principal  streets.  The  enemy,  however,  advanced  from  the  eastward, 
instead  of  from  the  south,  as  had  been  anticiptited.  In  their  course, 
they  set  fire  to,  and  burnt  the  Cimtoi]|'s.  house  at  Muttencheriy, 
and  murdered  several  Christians.  The  Muttencherry  bridge  was 
broken  down,  but  this  was  probably  done  by  the  troops,  to  check 
the  enem/s  advastce.  Tbey  came  on  with  their  guns  adorned  with 
crimson  shoe  flowers,  HibUcus  rasa  sinensis,  sacred  to  Siva,  and  the 
gods  of  Blood.  They  did  not,  however,  approadi  with  amy  bravery, 
and  were  without  mudi  difficulty,  forced  to  retreat,  many  being 
taken  piisoners.  It  was  deemed  unadvisable,  to  call  out  the  Dutch 
Militia. 

The  rioters  continued  hovering  about  Codiin,  and  on  February 
28th,  again  paid  the  late  Dutch  Governor's  house,  an  unwelcome 
visit.  The  cruiser  Lively,  Lieutenant  Gilmore,  commanding,  arrived 
from  Bombay,  to  assist  against  the  enemy,  but  grounding  opposite 
the  Muttencherry  Palace,  during  some  op^ations  there,  the  officer 
commanding  her,  fearing  she  might  fall  into  hostile  hands,  had  her 
blown  up. 

It  was  now  time,  for  the  British  power  to  put  forth  its  strength, 


PRESKN'T   STATK   OF  lOCniX.  1.^9 

nnd  rejecting  fnrtlier  pacific  measures,  to  innir  troojis  into  tlie  crnin- 
try.  In  1809,  secret  orders  were  received  in  Malnbar,  for  forces  to 
advance,  open  communication  with  the  Qwilon  8u1)sidiary  brigade, 
and  act  in  conjunction  witTi  it.  But  should  they  experience  any 
resistance,  they  were  directed  to  seize  the  Cochin  State,  and  confiscate 
it  to  the  British.  A  proclamation  was  then  issued,  offering  friendshi4i, 
or  war  J  and  the  first,  as  previously  detailed  (page  57)  was  accepted. 
The  Paliat  Achcn,  became  an  cxile^  Lis  family  title  of  "hereditary 
Prime  Minister  to  the  Codiin  Rajah"  passed  away,  and  another  sue- 
eeeded  to  his  post ;  whilst  efficient  measures  were  o-rganised,  to  pre- 
vent a  repetition  of  such  disturbances. 

Near  Cochin,  in  the  Travancore  district  of  Paroor,  and  in  Ayroor 
and  Chandroor,  the  Native  Christians,  in  tlie  month  of  March, 
created  great  disturbances,  and  British  troof>8  had  to  be  quartered 
in  those  places,  and  it  wa»  also  deemed  necessary,  to  station  two 
anned  Pattimsrs  at  Cranganore.  In  April,  the  Native  Christians 
in  the  Cochin  State,  sent  in  a  petition,  representing  the  ill-treat- 
jnent  to  which  they  were  subjected,  by  the  lljijah's  officials.  It  was 
now  considered  advisable  by  the  llesidentj  to  take  forcible  possession 
of  the  Palace  at  Muttencherry,  which  was  eflfectcd  by  a  jKirty  of 
sepoys,  on  April  11th.  Troops  were  kei)t  constantly  moving  about  the 
country,  a  Cai)tain'»  guard  was  st'itioned  at  Tripoonterali,  and  a 
Lieutenant  ColoneFs  at  Allepey,  matters  soon  began  to  quiet  down 
and  by  the  middle  of  October,  nwst  of  the  out^xjiits  were  witlidrawn 
to  Quilon  and  Cochin. 

ItfUitary  operations  since  this  period,  have  not  been  necessary,  the 
town  of  Cochin  was,  hy  the  convention  of  1814,  ceiled  to  the  British : 
otherwise  the  peaceful  times,  which  have  succeeded  to  its  former 
eventful  transactions,  afford  but  little  historical  matter  to  record.  A 
small  guard  is  kept  over  the  Dewan's  C^utcherry,  at  Eruacolhim,  and 
another  at  Tripoonterah.  In  18 GO,  the  last  ve«tige  of  the  military 
occupation  of  Cochin  ceased,  the  few  sepoys  who  up  to  this  time  had 
h&sn  stationed  there,  were  withdrawn,  their  hospital  turned  into  a  po- 
lice office,  their  barrack  and  magazine  being  handed  over  to  the  latter 
force,  and  their  lines  pulled  down  and  destroyed.  Now  no  troops  are  seen 
in  Cocliin  excepting  those  passing  through,  or  guards  of  honour,  for 
the  purpose  of  attending  at  Durbars,  or  for  other  professional  purposes. 


190 


CIVIL   AND   CRIMINAL  JUSTICK. 


The  instUutions  of  Cochin,  have  gradually  changed,  from  their 
Dutch  form,  to  that  whidi  exists  in  other  portions  of  the  British 
possessions :  but  it  is  strange,  that  some  persons  still  fancy,  that 
theii^  houses  and  lands,  are  not  amenable  to  taxation,  because  the 
terms  of  the  Capitulation,  state,  (Article  4th)  "  all  private  property 
will  be  sacred,"  forgetting  that  it  also  declares  that  the  inhabitants 
will  be  amenable  to  British  laws. 

In  1847,  a  permanent  ryotwarry  system  was  introduced  by  Mr. 
Conolly^  and  a  quit-rent  imposed.  In  many  of  the  leases,  no  re- 
demption clause  exists :  they  are  subject  to  a  revision  of  rent,  every 
twenty  years.  Tlie  amount  of  land,  outside  the  fort,  exceeds  13,000 
acres. 

The  following^  shows  the  Collectwn  in  rupees,  during  the  last  5  years 
in  Cochin:  but  it  must  be  observed,  that  in  1861,  the  taxes  to  pay 
for  the  mutinies  in  Bengal,  of  1857,  were  imposed. 


Collections  on   landed   pro- 


pel 


ty- 


„  Abkary  farm. 
„  Vypeen  ferry... 
„  Sea  Customs...^ 

„Salt 

„  Stamped  paper 
„  Postage  stamps 
„  Post  office. 
„  Telegraplt 


1867. 

1838. 

19,122 

6,150 

815 

18,145 

6,150 

815 

59,177 
1,468 
3,215 
3,500 
2,642 

62,823 
1,925] 
4,040 
3,858 
3,686 

>y 

» 

1859. 


17,902 

6,150 

815 

51,327 

978 
5,4G5 
4,412 
2,427 
4,480 


1860. 


17,073 

6,150, 

815 

47,879 

602 

3,760 

5,315 

1,771 

6,234 


„  Hoondis,  receipt  stamps  and  bills  of  lading  „ 
Sundries  as  income  tax       ,,  ,. 


186L 


16,324 

6,150 

815 

93,327 
479 
5,330 
6,213 
1,599 
7,903 
1,937 

49,380 


The  various  items,  speak  for  themselves,  and  it  is  only  necessary 
to  observe,  that  the  population  in  1861,  consisted  of  11,449  persons^ 
the  revenue  receipts  were  upwards  of  189,457  rupees  :  or  a  rough 
average,  of  16  rupees,  or  £1  12&  a  year,  on  each  individual,  of  every 
sex  and  age. 

Civile  aiid  criminal  justice,  was  at  first  administered,  according 
to  the  Dutch  laws :  and  even  some  of  their  officials,  were  retained 
unchanged.     In  the  year  1812,  insecurity  of  life  and  property,  had 

•  Keturn  furuished  by  Mr.  Green,  Revenue  Sheristadar. 


EMANCIPATION   OF  GOVEBKMENT  SLAVES.  191 

become  so  great,  that  many  respectable  persons  were  obliged  to 
leave  their  hoaaes,  and  congregate  within  the  town  of  Cochin,  for 
without  its  limits,  no  woman  or  child  was  safe.  A  Ziliah  Court  was 
established  in  1812,  and  done  away  with  in  1817,  the  records  being 
sent  to  Calicut  In  1812,  it  was  brought  to  the  notice  of  Govern- 
ment,  that  children  were  being  sold  as  slaves  in  Travancore,  and 
this  course  was  reprobated  in  the  strongest  terms,  aldiough  it  was 
not  until  1854,  that  sbvery  was  nominally  abolished,  in  the  Cochin 
and  Travancore  States,  owing  to  the  exertions  of  the  British  Resi- 
dent, Lieutenant  General  Cullen,*  who  obtained  the  emimcipation 
of  23,000  Govemmant  slaves,  and  an  amelioration  in  the  condition. 
of  those  belonging  to  private  owners. 

*  WhiUt  these  pogw  were  being  printed,  Lieutenant  General  Cullen,  emi- 
nent as  a  icientific  observer,  and  Bucoeeaful  adminiBtrator,  ezpire<l  at  Allepey, 
October  Ist,  1862,  regretted  by  all  cloasea  of  the  community.  Karely,  if  ever, 
has  a  European  in  Malabar  been  so  beloved  by  natives ;  even  after  his  resigna- 
tion of  the  <^oe  of  Resident  his  opinion  was  more  regarrled,  and  his  favotir 
more  esteemed,  than  was  that  of  bis  suooessor  in  the  appointment  On  his 
rttirement  all  classes  vied  which  should  do  him  most  honour,  whilst  the 
richer  portions  of  the  community  strove  to  perpetuate  his  name.  In  Travancore, 
the  natives  presented  him  with  an  address  and  expressed  their  intention,  '*  to 
**  institute  in  manifestation  of  their  gratitude  and  regard,  one  or  two  annual 
"prizes  in  las  name  to  be  open  to  subjects  uf  Travaucore  only,**  and  for  this 
purpose  they  subscribed  2,500  rupees.  In  the  Cochin  State  6,000  rupees  were 
raised  to  erect  a  Choultry  at  Vaylum  Thavalnm  for  the  accommodation  and 
refreshment  of  wearied  travellers,  which  was  to  bear  his  honoured  name. 

The  late  Kajah  of  Travancore  wrote  him  a  most  complimentary  letter,  from 
which  the  following  extracts  are  taken.  "Your  name  is  associated  in  our 
"  memory  with  many  inipoi-taut  and  interesting  evenU,  the  most  conspicuous 
"of  which,  is  the  provision  made  through  your  powerful  intercession,  for  the 
"continuation  of  the  line  of  succession  to  the  musnud  of  Travancore :  an 
" event  which  nothing  cm  erase  from  the  memory  of  myself,  family,  and 
"  tlie  whole  country,  and  for  which  we  cannot  adeqiuitely  feel  grateful. 

"  To  preserve  the  memory  of  your  name  in  our  country,  and  as  a  token  of 
"  our  est>*em  and  regard  towards  you,  we  intend  to  establish  a  scholarship  in 
''  your  name,  in  my  free-school  here,  and  for  eventual  admission  into  the 
"  Presidency  University,  for  the  support  of  which,  myself,  and  other  members 
'*  of  my  family  have  individually  contributed  funds  for  its  endowment." 

The  Rajah  of  Cranganore,  the  Syrian  metropolitan,  the  chief  of  the  Mahome- 
daos,  the  Jewish  Ribbi,  each  headed  addresses  of  regard  to  the  outgoing 
Keaident.  The  Namboorie  Brahmans,  and  the  heails  of  the  Thiroomalla  De- 
vaaom  shenay  pagoda,  likewibo  presented  addrecMcs  to  him  on  his  retirement. 


192  CASTES  SUBJBCT   XO   BUlTlSH   LAWS. 

For  some  years,  Cochin  has  only  had  a  Sudr  Ameen's  Court,  under 
the  control  of  the  Judge  of  Calicut,  to  whom  all  decisions  must  be 
referred.  This  appears  sufficient  for  the  wants  of  the  place.  Civil 
cases  under  10,000  rupees,  can  be  tried  here.  The  number  of  civil 
suits  which  have  been  instituted  (Curing  the  last  five  years,  are  as 
follows : — * 

1857   Remaining  187        Filed  U7       Decided  157 
1858*        „  177  „      203  „       161 

1859  „  219  „       256  „        173 

1860  „  302  „       226  „       314 

1861  „  214  „       264      •     „       365 

Thus  a  civil  case  on  an  average,  is  not  kept  waiting  above  one  year^ 
before  obtaining  a  decision. 

Criminal  Justice,  has  boen  remodelled,  especially  a?  regards  the 
various  castes  and  sects,  who  were  formerly  under  the  control  of  the 
Dutch,  and  subsequently  under  that  of  the  EnglisL  In  1814,  it 
was  decided,  that  of  the  castes  amenable  t j  British  law3,t  "  Wun- 
"  nears,  and  Tuttana,  remain  subject  in  all  cases,  to  the  authority 

*  of  the  Judge,  and  Magistrate  of  Cochin,  within  the  local  limits 

*  of  whose  jurisdiction,  it  is  understood  that  they  principally  reside, 
"  But  with  respect  to  the  Canarese,  and  Konkanies,  and  White  Jews, 
"  the  jurisdiction  of  that  Court,  will  be  confined  to  civil  cases,  to  the 
"  determination  of  disputes  between  them,  and  British  or  Dutch 
"  subjects,  whilst  in  criminal  cases,  when  the  oflfence  shall  have  been 
"  committed  agahist  the  British  Government,  or  British  subjects,  in 
"  the  most  extensive  meaning  of  the  term,  they  will  also  be  amenable 
**  to  its  decrees."  This  it  went  on  to  state,  Wtis  in  accordance  with  the 
Dutch  treaties.  No  Customs'  chowkey,  w«i3  to  be  permitted  to  be 
placed  by  the  Kajah,  in  Muttencherry,  which  it  was  stated,  would 
be  a  "  real  annoyance  to  the  inhabitants  of  Cochin,  did  it  exist" 
It  was  also  decided,  not  to  continue  exercising  any  jurisdiction,  over 
the  Native  Christians  in  the  Eajah's  territory,  as  such  rendered 
them  objects  of  jealousy  to  their  fellow-subjects,  and  occasioned 
many  and  serious,  disputes. 

Again  in  1835,  this  question  was  re-agitated,  and  it  was  ruled  by 

*  From  a  return  furuUhetl  by  the  Jtjiiit  Magistrate. 

t  Order  by  the  GoveraQr  in  CouncU,  Madnw,  Augtiat  16th,  18U. 


POLICE.  103 

ibe  Court  of  Directors,  on  June  1st,  1836,  "  that  British  subjects, 
**  apprehended  in  Britbh  territory,  on  any  charge  of  offence,  com** 
**  mitted  within  the  possessions  of  any  Native  prince,  are  amenable 
^  only  to  British  tribunals.  That  British  subjects,  apprehended  in 
'^  the  territory,  within,  which  the  offence^  is  aUeged  to  have  been 
''^  committed,  are  amenable  to  the  jurisdiction  of  the  tribunal,  es* 
"  tablished  there.  Subjects  of  the  Kative  State,  whenever  apprehended, 
'^  are  always  amenable  to  the  British  Courts,  for  crimes  and  heinous 
'*  offemxSf  committed  within  the  British  territory.  That  British 
"  subjects,  charged  with  heinous  crimes,  committed  within  the  Bri- 
"  tish  territory,  who  may  have  taken  refuge  within  the  territory  of  » 
^  Native  State,  are  to  be  delivered  up  to  justice,  and  vice  persd,  with 
"  respect  to  subjects  of  a  Native  State.^ 

Criminal  justice^  during  the  last  5  years,  has  produced  the  follow- 
ing cases : 


185r  Riemained  0- 

New  cases  105 

Discharged     9 

1858        „          2 

>» 

147 

19 

1859        „          0 

M 

141 

17 

1860        „           1 

n 

9^ 

11 

1861        „          0 

n 

380 

23 

1857  Committed  to  Calicut  10 

Convicted  in  Cochin  174 

1858 

„       10 

» 

„       120 

1859 

„       10 

n 

„       114 

1860 

„        5 

» 

78 

1861 

r,          9 

» 

,r       348 

Natives  do  not  appear  to  relish  English  justice,  and  it  was  an 
excellent  rule,  of  the  late  Court  of  Directors,  that  all  Magistrates 
were  obliged  to  pass  in  the  Native  language.  Persons  ignorant  of 
it,  are  the  tools  of  their  subordinates,  and  the  puppets  of  their  in- 
terpreters. More  speedy  justice,  and  less  law,  is  the  desideratum 
for  India :  and  a  large  emigration  of  Lawyers  from  Europe,  would 
Be  no  blessing  to  Mofussil  CSourts. 

The  Police  Force  was  organised'  in  1860,  and  since  then,  have 
discharged  the  duties  of  Cochin :   time  will  show  its  capabilities. 

In  fixing  the  pay  of  the  men,  the  first  half  of  Earl  St  Vincenfs 
maxim,  in  regard  to  Naval  ofl&cers,  of  "  keep  them  poor,  and- they 
"  vrill  serve  you  well,"  appears  to  have  been  kept  in  view.  Tliere 
is  one  European  Inspector,  having  66  Natives  under  him. 

A  1 


191  COCTIK  POOR. 

The  Marine  estahlidvment  is  under  a  Master  Attendant,  wiio 
superviaes  all  duties,  connected  with  the  sMpping  :  excepting,  the 
•*  Registration  of  Veseds,"  irfiich  is  one  of  the  Jomt  Magistrate's 
oflSces.  To  this  department,  is  attadied  a  useful  anchor  boat,  a 
Cutter,  and  a  Report  boat  Every  vessel  on  its  arrival,  or  depar- 
ture from  Cochin,  is  reported,  in  the  usual  form.  A  d^ot  of  coals  is 
lept,  for  the  use  of  BL  MJs  steamers. 

The  following  shows  the-  amount  of  tonnage,  entered  at  Cochin^ 
from  May  1858,  to  December  31st,  1861  *  It  is  only  in  the  last 
named  year,  that  the  tonnage  of  vessels^  that  do  not  pay  duty,  has- 

Ikeen  registered.. 

QHtub    Foreign  Country     Small  ressels 
tonnage,  tonnage,  ooaat^rs.  free. 

iSSSfrcJm^aylstKg.jg       ^l<j  1Q957  Unr^istered 
toDec.  Slstj      * 

1859  the  whole  year  29,951     6,481  35,679 

1860  n       ft     3^683    8,533  25,055 

1861  ,r       n      35,99^  ll,20a  a4,02.4      35,410' 
Buring  the  last  three  years,  the  avwage  tonnage,  amenable  to  POrt 

dues,  has  been  70,869  tons.  The  year  1862,.has  been  an  unusual  one^ 
for  late  enactments,  have  almost  closed  the  Port  of  AUepey,  to  com^ 
qierce :  and  trade  has  consequently,  been  diverted  to  Cochin.  The 
amount  of  tonnag?i  is  not  a  correct  iudeic,  of  the  business  of  the  port  i. 
but  this  will  be  aUuded  tc^  more  fiity  under  tiiie  head  of, "  exports,  and; 
"  imports.**  The  r^^istered  tonnage,  includes  that  of  every  vessel^ 
which  by  stopping  above  48  hours,  or  binding  any  portion  of  its 
cargo,  or  passengers,  rendter»  its^  amenable  to.  port  dues.  Steamers, 
from  Bombay  come  irregularly,  once  »  fortnight,  sometimes  oftener. 
The  "  Licensed  Pilots"  was  appointed  "  Government  Pilot,"  iir 
October  1860. 

The  'pwr  of  Cochin,  next  claim  attention.  In  the  time  of  the 
©utch,  an  Orjdianage  ^sted^  and  so  much  has  been  incorrectly- 
stated,  concerning  the  Government  mismanageTnerU  of  this  Institution, 
since  1795,  that  the  oflScial  report  is  here  given  in  full.t 

♦  From  a  return,  furnished  by  the  Master  Attendant. 

t  The  following  obaervation  was  printed  and  given  publicity,   amongst 
HiaxoBiCAL  NoTiCJiS  OF  CocuiN,    "  One  cannot  wonder  that  poverty  abounded 


OHfBANAOB.  195 

*'  When  Cocbin  aurrendered  to  the  British  anna,  Major  Petrie 
"  made  uo  alteration,  in  the  Listitution  of  the  Orphan  Asylum,  it 
''  was  going  on  as  under  the  late  Dutch  Government  The  Pre 
"  sideut  and  men/hers  ef  the  Asylum,  always  administered  the  fnnda 
"  «f  the  Orphans^  while  they  remained  under  age.  The  money  woa 
*'  generoDy  laid  out,  on  mortgages  of  houses  in  the  to^ni,  and  two 
"  collateral  securities  were  taken  by  the  College,  for  the  money  so 
*'  raised,  at  6  per  cent  per  annum :  from  which^  ^h  V^  cent,  were 
"  paid  to  the  pupils,  agreeably  to  their  share  in  the  Orphan  treasury. 
"  The  remaining  1|  per  cent  on  the.  conclusion  of  their  accounts, 
*'  (which  was  in  August^)  was  divided  amongst  the  President,  the 
**  members,  and  the  Secretary.  The  President  had  the  share  of  two 
"  members,  the  rest  was  divided  in  equal  proportions,  amongst  the 
"  members,  and  Secretary.  From  this  emolument,  a  messenger  was 
"  employed,  at  the  pay  of  six  rupees  a  month  :  and  thirty-two  rupees 
"  paid  to  the  Secretary  for  stationery  for  a  whole  jear.  Whoever 
"*  diet!  intestate,  the  Secretary  administered  the  estate  of  sudh  persona, 
**  assisted  by  two  Members,  deputed  by  the  College  fer  that  purpose. 
"  He,  (the  Secretary,)  then  acted  as  Auetieneer,  receiving  4  per  cent 
*'  on  the  amount  sold,  and  1  per  cent  was  paid  the  messenger,  who 
^  acted  as  crier.  The  two  members  so  employed,  received  each  one 
"  rix  dollar  a  day.  Such  was  the  practice  of  the  College,  for  many 
"  years.  If  one  ef  the  parents  died,  leaving  any  children  under  age,  and 
''  the  survivor  wished  to  administer  to  their  shares,  the  College  cotdd 
**  never  object  to  it :  but  it  was  necessary,  that  he,  or  she,  who 
"  wished  to  do  so,  should  deliver  into  the  College,  within  six  weeks, 
'^  from  the  Aeath  of  the  testator,  or  testatrix,  an  inventoiy  on  oath, 
"  of  all  the  property  ;  and  give  t^o  or  more  sufficient  securities  for 
^  the  amount,  which  according  to  the  tenor  of  ttie  Will,  such  chil- 
*'  dren  were  entitled  t«,  to  be  refunded  them,  when  they  attained 
^  their  proper  age,  boys  24,  gids  21,*'* 

"  in  a  deeayed  Settlement  like  Cocbin ;  and  what  we  must  regard  (to  say  the  leaat) 
"  u  the  tneonsidtraie  Btippresaion  of  the  Dutch  Orphan  House,  with  ite  ample 
"  funds,  must  have  increased  the  misery  in  many  an  indigent  household." 
tJnprejudioed  readers  may  satisfy  themselves,  how  far  facts  are  in  accordance 
with  this  assertion. 
*  Vatekerry  Records.   M.SS. 


196  DISPBNSAKY. 

In  1832,  when  the  foregoing  report  was  made,  most  of  the  mort- 
gagees, did  not  pay  interest  upon  the  monies,  Xvhich  they  had' receiv- 
ed :  whilst  amongst  the  houses  which  were  mortgaged  as  security 
for  the  repayment  of  the  principal,  some  were  in  ruins,  and  conse-' 
quently  no  rent  was  obtainable  from  them.  Petitioners  then  request" 
•d  the  interference  of  Government,  and  that  the  affairs  might  be 
wound  up,  as  some  of  the  .members  of  the  College  Board,  it 
was  asserted,  were  amongst  the  defaulting  mortgagees.  A  Go- 
vernment Committee  was  therefore  appointed,  who  acceded  to 
the  request  of  the  Petitioner^:  and  in  1836,*  the  funds  as  far  as 
possible,  were  realised,  and  divided  amongst  those  entitled  to  them- 

The  British  when  they  first  came  to  Cochin,  did  not  institute,  the 
present  "  Friend-in-Need  Society,"  but  a  Poor-house  was  built,  prior 
to  1820,  by  the  exertions  of  the  Resident,  and  the  European  commu- 
nity, most  handsomely  assisted  by  the  Bajah  of  Cochin,  who  gave 
a  donation  for  its  erection,  and  also  a  subscription  of  one  hundred 
rupees  a  month,  io  the  poor.  Up  to  the  year  1855,  this  building 
was  employed,  ^la  a  residence  for  paupers,  but  it  was  then  destroyed 
by  a  heavy  monsoon :  and  Government  subscribed  two  thousand 
Fupees  towards  the  erection  of  a  more  spacious  one.  The  Bajah'fi  vsb- 
scription  is  still  continued,  and^th  the  addition  of  Bs.  30  from  the 
Besident  and  Dewan,  and  Bupees  70  from  the  inhabitants  of  the  town, 
forms  a  fund,  employed  for  the  support  of  from  30  to  40  indigent 
persons,  within  the  poors'  house,  and  for  assisting  about  100,  with  out- 
door relief,  without  reference,  to  th«ir  caste,  creed  or  sex.  For  tliis, 
a  Managing  Committee  was  formed,  in  1845,  and  rales  were  orga- 
nized for  its  regulation. 

A  Civil  Surgeon  was  attached  \o  Cochin,  in  May  1817,  and  the 
appointment  has  been  continued  from  that  time :  under  him  are  two 
native  subordinates,  one  stationed  at  the  Dispensary,  and  the  chief 
duties  of  the  other  lying  amongst  the  Police,  and  the  prisoners  with- 
in the  jaiL  There  is  also  a  Vaccinator,  whose  duty  it  ia,  to  vacci- 
nate persons  in  the  place. 

The  Dutch  do  not  appear  to  have  kept  up  any  Dispensary,  for 
the  civil  population,  but  had  extensive  military  hospitals,  in  which  . 
however,  they  very  unwisely,  made  enormous  deductions  from  the 
•  Gova-nment  order^  dated  September  27th,  1836. 


SCHOOLS.  197 

pay  of  the  sick.  Thus  the  soldier,  or  sailor,  knowing  that  whilst 
he  was  on  the  sick  list,  his  family  if  he  had  one,  would  be  starving, 
continued  his  duties  as  long  as  he  was  able,  and  frequently  only  en- 
tered the  hospital,  to  be  speedily  carried  out  a  corpsa  Some  most 
interesting,  and  extraordinary  revelations,  on  this  head,  with  regard 
to  Batavia,  vre^  published  by  Admiral  Stavdrinus. 

The  present  Government  Dispensary,  was  opened  at  the  end  of 
January,  1853,  and  the  following  are  ^e  number  of  admissions,  that 
have  taken  place,  during  the  last  five  years : 
1857    Out  Patients,  admitted    4,711    In  Patients,  admitted  405 
d85«       „        „  „  4,673      „        „  „        337 

1859  „        ^  „  4,580      „        „  „        376 

1860  „        „  „  6,347      „         „  „        415 

1861  „        „  ^  6,980      „        „  „        685 
The  schools  in  Cochin,  are  rather  inferior ;  the  Protestant  free 

schools,  are  «ituated  on  the  site  of  the  old  hotel,  where  the  Domi- 
nican convent  stood,  in  Portuguese  times.  They  are  under  the 
supervision  of  the  Missionary  chaplain.  There  is  also  a  scliool  for 
boarders,  opened  in  1859,  which  contains  about  twenty  boys  and 
girls,  the  average  cost  of  each,  being  about  fifty  rupees  a  year.  The 
"  Free  schools"  have  a  small  endowment,  arising  from  an  old 
^urch  fund,  and  receives  Government  assistance.* 

Paplls.     Oon-ald.    ^^^^*    ^t^oM^^**"  Po«». 

Boys'  School  established  1857     124     Rs.  384     275         30       92 
Girls       „  „  185.^       46      ,,130      „         119        „ 

Vernacular  „  1856       89       „        6       „        '211       15 

Thus  it  will  be  seen,  that  tho  attendance  in  them  is  but  small, 
€k)vemment  aid  for  education  in  Cochin,  which  was  received  during 
the  years  under  review  (the  last  obtainable  in  Cochin,)  was  Rupees  520 : 
and  the  funds  raised  from  subscriptions,  and  fees,  exclusive  of  the 
endowment  Rupees  467.  Government  affords  great  assistance  in 
India,  in  the  form  of  "  Grants-in-aid,"  toward  schools,  should  parties 
be  able  or  willing,  to  come  forward  with  proper  teachers,  who  can 
satisfactorily  undergo  the  Government  test.  No  doubt,  there  are  soma 
persons,  who  would  like  to  see  the  old  Dutch  practice  revived  in 
Cochin,  and  taxes  obtained  from  persons  of  all  denominations,  applied 
•"iU^rtoTDtrccfor  of  Public  Imttuction^  Cor  1860^00. 


198  APPROACHES  TO   COCHIN. 

exclusively  to  tlie  support  of  Protestant  sdiools.  Government 
without  inteifering,  with  the  methods  of  teaching,  where  they  gi^ 
Grants-in-aid,  adhere  to  the  following  principle  in  their  own  scholastic 
establishments.  ^As  a  necessary  part  of  this  policy,  the  Holy 
**  Scriptures  have  been  excluded  from  tlie  course  of  teaching.: 
"l>ut  the  Bible  has  a  place  in  the  School-libraries,  and  the 
*•  pupils  are  at  liberty  to  study  it,  and  to  obtain  instruction 
^'  from  their  Masters,  as  to  its  facts  and  doctrine,  out  of 
•"  School  hours,  if  they  expressly  desire  it."*  Bigoted  indeed 
must  be  that  man,  who  would  deny  instruction,  because  his 
creed  alone  is  net  taughlj,  and  intolerant  that  person,  who  would 
force  his  version  of  the  sacred  volume,  to  be  read  %y  those, 
ivhose  spiritual  teachers  forbid  it  Education  surely  must  be  lae- 
cessary  for  the  rising  masses,  before  they  can-  understand  their  er- 
rors :  and  the  people  must  be  taught  to  think,  before  they  can  be 
^expected  to  be  convinced  by  arguments.  It  has  been  remarked, 
that  it  is  surprising,  such  scrupulous  person^,  as  the  above,  should 
f)emiit  themselves,  on  any  consideration,  to  receive  money  collected 
from  such  unhallowed  sources,  as  taxes  upon  a  Hiadu  and  Mahome- 
dan  population. 

In  the  preceding  chapters,  the  political  vicissitude^  through 
"iv^iich  Cochin  has  passed,  during  the  last  three  centuries  and  a  half, 
have  been  ttaced.  Rising  on  the  site  of  a  native  town,  it  became 
one  of  the  first  of  the  European  fortresses  in  the  east:  dimi- 
nished in  size,  and  shorn  of  much  of  its  splendour  by  the 
Dutch :  its  fortifications  were  finally  destroj^ed  by  the  British,  iJi 
1803.  Though  wanting  in  the  interest  of  former  days,  stiH  it  pos- 
sesses much  to  attract  the  notice  of  the  passer  by.  Some  of  the 
Institutions  of  this  port,  have  alveady  been  adverted  to:  it  now 
remains  to  describe  the  place,  as  dt  at  present  «tands. 

The  stranger  visiting  Cochin,  -arrives  either  by  sea,  %t  by  the 
northern  or  southern  branches  ef  the  backwater,  l^e  highway  to 
Allepey  and  Quilon  on  the  south,  and  to  Trichoor  and  Ohowghat 
•on  the  north :  there  are  no  loads,  or  rather  none  deserving  the  name, 
hj  which  a  traveller  can  enter  the  town.     Riding  is  almost  out  of 

*  Moid  Stanleys  depj«atch  on  education  in  India. 


APPK^IBASCK  O!^   TH^  TOWS.  109 

Ae  qnestion,  and  driving  simply  impossible :  still  ptilonquins  can* 
go  to  Emacollum^  but  nuicb  delay  and  trouble  is  occasioned,  in 
crossing  over  tbe  backwater,  ta  Ocliin. 

The  view  o€  Cochin  from  the  roadsteadyis^by^no  nreaiis  devoid  of 
Snterest:  fitf  away  inlaad,  the  scene  is  bounded,  by  high  hills,  the* 
GontinuatioA  of  th»  western  gha«t»:  whilst  between  these  moun- 
tuns  and  the  sea,  the  country  appears  to  be  a  flat,  cultivated  plain. 
The  broad  opening-  of  the  yy|)een  river,  is  easily  discernible :  but 
Bot  so  the  backwater,  into  whicb  it  expands^  Ther  island  of  Vypeen, 
on  the  northern  baii&  of  the  river,  seems  a  dense  jungle,  or  rather 
gfove  of  cocoanut  trees,  in  which  na  houses  are  perceptible.  Tlie 
Cochin  island,  lying  on  the  southern  bank,  is  also  covered  with  trees, 
from  amidst  which,  churches*  and  bouses,  are  visible.  The  flag  staff 
tower,  the  most  conspicuous  object  amongst  the  Buildings,  first  claims 
Attention.  This  massive  square  structure,  ui>on  which  a  seventy-five 
feet  mast  arises,  is  the  remains  of  the  Cathedral  of  Santa  Cruz. 
Apparently  dose  ta  it,  8tand»  the  large  churcb  of  the  Franciscajis,, 
whilst  several  houses,  situated  on  elevated  porti(»is  of  the  old  ram- 
parts, are  distinctly  discernible. 

As  the  traveller  by  sea  advances  nearer  to*  the  river's  mouth,  the 
scene  again  changes  :  along  either  bank,  are  seen  extraorduiary  Chi- 
nese fishing  nets.  ^The  houses  at  Vypeen,  soon  become  visible  on 
tbe  left  hand,  and  after  passing  one  larger  thau  its-  neighbours,  a 
wHte  Roman  Catholic  chnzrcfa  appears^  thrown  well  back,  and  im>- 
bedded  in  cocoanut  groves.  Turning  to  the  right,  a  house  situated 
en  a  laterite  rock,  is  first  passed,  aad  further  on  a  small  piece  of 
green  is  seen,  in  the  nudst  of  nvjiich,  stands  the  flag  staff  tower ;  any 
farther  view,  is  shut  out,  by  quaint  old  hoises,  with  their  pent  tiled 
roofey  appearing  as  if  they  had  been  bodily  transported,  from  some 
old  town,  ia  comtinenAal  Europe.  Meanwhile  the  vessel  glides  on, 
several  wharfs  are  passed,  then  some  mercantile  yards,  and  the  back- 
water, ejqMnding  to  a  width  of  neariy  three  mila^,  on  the  banks  of 
which,  seven  churches  are  visible,  as  well  as  t)ie  British  Residency,. 
about  two  mOes  away  to  the  east,  and  the  native  town  of  Emacol- 
lozn,  a  little  further  to  tile  south-east.  The  whole  length  of  the  river,. 
IS  about  half  a  mile,  its  width  at  the  mouth  about  800  yards,  and 
opposite  the  tower  a  little  less. 


200  COCHIN  IN  BISHOP  middleton's  time. 

The  river,  or  entrance  into  the  backwater,  divides  the  Blitisft 
territory,  into  two  portions*  The  sea,  or  port  limits,  are  marked  by 
boundary  pillars :  one  being  finite  north  of  the  northern  entrance- 
to  tlie  harbour,  the  other"  three  miles  to'  its-  south.  But  inland 
it  may  be  said,  that  Vypeen  is  about  250  yards,  of  the  most  south- 
em  extremity,  of  one  island:  and  Cochin  the 'last  mile  and  a  half, 
of  the  northern,  extremity  of  the  otl^r.  Thus  the  whole  of  Hker 
outlet,  belongs  to  the  British. 

Cochin  consists  of  that  portion,  within  the  limits  of  the  old  walls, 
about  800  yards  across,  and  still  called  the  fort :  as  weU  as,  that 
which  has  sprung  up  exterior  to  them.  Of  the  latter,  the  most 
important,  are  the  Culvetty^  and' the  first  portion  of  the  Mutten- 
chcny  bazaars,  which  extend  along  the  banks  of  the-backwater, 
about  three  quarters  of  a  mile,  in  an  easterly,  and  south  easterly 
direction,  and  then*  merger  into  the  bazaars,  in^  the- Rajah's  territory. 
Amaravady  also  possesses  numerous  houses,  and  a  good  sized- 
bazaar. 

The  fort  walls  have  been  destroyed,  but  mounds  of  earth,  ther 
remnants  of  the  old  ramparts,  exist  in  parts  of  its  west  or  sea  face^ 
and  also  along  a  portion  of  its  south  and  south-east  fronts.  Exte- 
rior to  a  portion,  of  the  old  rampart,^  on  the  land  aide,  is  the  fort 
ditch,  part  of  which*  still  remains  in  the  form  of  a  tank,  some  portion 
being  employed  for  paddy  fields,  whilst  the  rest  is  a  swamp. 

British  Cochin,  is  a  flat  sandy  plain,  raised  only  a  few  feet,  above- 
the  level  of  high  water  marL  The  whole  of  this  range  of  long  Is- 
lands, situated  between  the  sea,  and  the  backwater,  appears  like  a 
sand  bank,  intermixed  with  alluviid  deposits:  although  in  some 
places,  along  the  banks  of  the  backwater,  a  substratum  of  clay,  has 
been  observed.  Water  is  foundj  at  from  six  to  ten* feet,  from  the 
surface:  it  is  saline,  probably  from  the  amount  of  free  percolation 
that  occurs,  owing  toits  proximity  to  the  sea.  The  use  of  it  for 
drinking  purposes,  appears  to  occasion  that  hideous  disease,  known 
as  elephantiasis,  or  elephant  leg. 

Bishop  Middleton,  thus  describes  Cochin,  in  1816:  "it  proved 
"  to  be  in  a  condition,  in  all  respects,  sufiSiciently  miserable-:  some 
"  of  the  principal  edifices  neglected,  and  falling  into  decay :  the 
"  Dutch  church  shut  up  for  want  of  a  minister,  the  school  in  the 


PKOTESTANT   CLEIiGY.  "  201 

**  fort  (lestroj'ed,  the  children  left  uubaptized,  tho  sick  unassisted, 
"  and  witlumt  the  last  constilatory  offices :  and  a  total  apathy  amongst 
"  the  iiihabitauta,  respecting  wluciition,  and  religion." 

This  lucture  is  hajijiily  at  the  i>resent  time  qnite  inappropriate, 
as  the  town  possesses  a  resident  clcrgj'nian,  a  protectant  scliool  assist- 
ed hy  Qovemment,  another  for  the  Roman  Catholic  cliildreii,  and 
seycral  private  ones,  a  Government  DLsi)eusary,  and  a  flourishing 
trade. 

Amongst  the  most  remarkable  buihlings,  is  the  flag  staff  tower 
already  several  times  alluded  to,  as  boiug  a  i>ortion  of  what  in  form- 
er days,^was  a  magnificent  Portuguese  Cathednd:  subsequently 
converted  by  the  Dutch,  into  a  storehouse  for  their  merchandize: 
whihit  the  nave  is  believed  to  have  been  finally  blown  up  by  the  Bri- 
tish. The  height,  of  this  tower  (now  employed  as  a  light  bouse)  Is 
61  feet  8  inches  above  the  level  of  the  grass.  The  liglit  is  sliewn 
at  an  elevation  of'C7  feot  above  the  tower,  excepting  during  the 
S.  W.  monsoon,  wlicn  it  is  placed  at  32.  On  ifay  11th,  1809,  at 
G  p.  u.  a  fljush  of  lightning  struck  it,  and  sjilit  the  mast  and  yards, 
^'fessels  whether  anchoring,  or  merely  passing,  are  signalled,  and  re- 
ported to  Madras. 

The  present  Protcstint  Church,  Is  a  massive  pile  of  ancient  build- 
ings, capable  of  accommodating  a  very  large  congregation.  It  was 
erected  by  the  Portuguese,  for  the  Franciscans ;  and  renovated,  ac- 
cording to  on  mscription  over  the  entrance,  A.  D.  1779.  It  pos- 
sesses no  beauty,  and  its  lengtli,  extends  across  the  northern  end  of 
the  ]>arade  groimd.*  In  1817,  a  Chaplam  was  ai)pointed  to  Cochin, 
but  subsequently  tho  Clerg^'raan  stationed  at  Quilon,  paid  periodic 
visits.  In  182G,  a  Missionary  settled  in  Cocliin,  but  in  1839,  ill- 
heal  tli  com[)elled  him  to  leave  the  place,  and  shortly  afterwards, 


*  On  the  tjvking  of  Cochin,  the  f<)lh>\vnng  silver  funiitnre  was  delivered  np, 
a?  the  proiv.rty  of  thin  ('liuroh  :  1  font,  1  plate,  2  bread  dishes,  2  waiters,  I  fun- 
nel. 4  goblefca,  68  cyphers  and  letters,  1  margin  and  1  bell  for  the  collecting 
pume,  a  small  font,  and  the  l»raa.«j  standi  of  an  hour  glaiis,  apparently  employ- 
od  for  regulating  the  length  of  the  Hermons,  but  the  glass  unfortunately  is  bro- 
ken :  the  cj'phers  appear  to  have  been  u«ed,  for  marking  the  hymns  on  a  b<^ar(l. 
Besides  these,  there  were  various  designations,  for  as  many  bags :  so  that  aub- 
scribcrii,  knew  whether  their  money  was  given  to  the  Leper-hospital,  thd  or- 
phanage, the  widows,  or  the  poor. 

n  1 


202  PARADE  GKOUND. 

the  ^fission  .was  removed  to  Trichoor.  Again  the  Quilon  Cliaplain 
performed  the  duties,  and  continued  to  do  so,  until  October  1852, 
when  a  Missionary  Chaplain  was  appointed,  for  whom  Government 
subscribed  one  hundred  rupees  a  month,  besides  meeting  most  of 
the  expenses.  In  May  18G0,  the  first  Missionary  Chaplain  lefty 
and  was  succeeded  in  May  1861,  by  the  present  incumbent. 

Inside  the  Cochin  Church,  on  the  flagged  floor,  are  many  very  fine 
tomb-stones.  Some  in  memory  of  Portuguese  Roman  Catholics^ 
others  of  Dutch  Protestants :  some  are  covered  with  magnificent  coats 
of  arms,  interspersed  with  death's  heads,  and  cross  bones :  or  figures 
standing  in  very  Hinduised  attitudes  It  by  no  means  foUpws,  that 
these  stones  are  placed  over  graves:  in  many  places  in  Cochin,  thero 
are  magnificent  tomb-stones,  at  the  door-ways  of  houses,  or  as  cover- 
ings to  drains,  and  in  similar  situations.  Many  of  these  were  collect- 
ed, (probably  in  1816,)  and  the  Church  was  reflagged.  After  the 
British  captured  Cocliin,  no  interments  were  permitted  within  the 
Church. 

The  old  lurial  ground,  now  closed,  bears  the  date  of  1724,  on  its 
gate-way.  It  is  a  small  place  crowded  with  tombs,  of  many  curious 
forms  and  shapes.  Broken  trees  and  pillars,  slabs  and  monumental 
urns,  are  seen  in  rich  profusion :  but  most  of  the  names  of  those 
reposing  beneath,  have  been  effaced  by  time,  and  all  are  hastening,  with 
more  or  less  rapid  steps  to  decay :  whilst  to  render  the  scene  more 
desolate,  rank  grass,  and  the  Indian  heliotrope,  {Lantana  miUabilU), 
with  its  little  scarlet  flower,  springs  not  only  from  between,  but  also 
from  the  sides  and  tops,  of  these  mouldering  monuments. 

The  parade  ground  is  a  nice  little  patch  of  green,  in  nearly  the 
centre  of  the  old  fort,  where  the  arsenal,  and  other  buildings,  are  said  to 
havestood:  which  notbeingrequiredbytlieBritishySharedthefateof  the 
town  walls,  in  1803.  About  30  years  since,  the  officer  commanding, 
had  the  parade  ground,  very  neatly  planted  with  portia  trees,  many 
of  them  arc  now  decaying,  but  it  is  a  [pretty  spot^  about  250  paces 
square,  and  having  the  old  military  (now  police)  buildings,  situated 
on  its  eastern  side.  It  is  surrounded  on  three  sides,  by  a  good 
laterite  road :  a  few  trees  planted  with  some  little  regard  to  appear- 
ance, and  kept  nicely  trimmed,  so  as  not  to  grow  too  high,  would  be 
a  very  great  improvement. 


HOtrSES   IN   THE   TOWN.  .   203 

TLb  Cvlc!i^rry,  is  reputed  to  Lave  been  in  Portogliese  times,  the 
r&ddeDoe  of  the  priests,  of  the  neighbouring  ruined  Cathedral  of 
Santa  Onus.  Many  are  the  vicissitudeH  through  which  this  building  has 
[Hissed.  Here  the  Nairs  broke  in,  and  tried  to  murder  the  British 
Resident :  ^ince  tliis  period,  it  has  been  appropriated  in  the  following 
mami€r: — ^**The  lower  rooms  as  prisons  for  criminals,  «om«  of  the 
^'upjier  ones  as  a  jail  for  debtors.  When  troops  were  in  the  town, 
"  it  was  A  mess-house  for  the  officers,  the  Fiscal  otherwise  resided 
^  in  it,  and  one  room  was  set  aside  for  the  Magistrate,  whenever  he 
**  should  visit  the  place.  When  the  troops  were  decreased,  and  a 
**  mess-house  no  longer  required,  still  the  Magistrate  of  Malabar,  for 
''  a  considerable  period,  retained  his  room  there."  At  lost  it  was 
decided  to  locate  the  Sudr  Ameens  Court  at  one  end,  and  fhat  of 
the  Fiscal  with  the  record-room  at  the  other :  the  prisoners  were 
placed  in  thecentre,and  the  fooms  suirounding  the  yard,  on  the  ground 
floor,  were  appropriated  to  tiieir  use.  Tliis  partition  of  the  buildingy 
still  resnaitis  in  force :  the  portion  occupied  by  criminals,  is  calcu- 
lated to  hold  60,  allowing  each  519  cubic  feet  of  air.  Solitary 
ceUs  have  been  elected  for  Europeans,  in  which  they  are  generally 
tormented  by  mosquitoes,  and  irritated  by  prickly  heat 

T!ic  Qovemmen*^  or  branch  of  the  Madras  Bank,  was  established 
in  Cochin,  in  1S62,  it  stands  at  the  north  east  comer  of  the  parade 
ground.  The  Government  Telegraph  office,  b  situated  at  the  south 
\yest  comer  of  the  same  piece  of  green,  it  was  instituted  in  Cochin, 
in  1859.  The  telegraph  cables,  having  to  cross  several  rapid  rivers, 
and  also  being  exposed  along  tke  line  of  the  sea  coast,  to  the  f  uH 
violence  of  the  S.  W.  monsoon,  occasionally  fail,  as  might  be  anticipat- 
ed. The  Government  Post  offi^oe,  is  placed  at  the  S.  E.  comer  of 
the  parade  ground ;  whilst  in  Mutteucheny,  is  the  Sircar  Ungil^ 
or  Bajah*s  post  There  is  a  little  newspaper,  published  in  the  town 
€veiy  Satuwif^y, 

A  Synag^gKC  of  biack  Jews,  or  rather  a  house  used  by  them  for 
that  purpose,  is  sitsated  in  the  centre  street,  passing  from  the  southern 
end  of  the  parade  ground,  but  there  is  nothing  in  it  worthy  of  note. 

The  majority  of  houses  within  the  fort  limits,  are  of  Portuguese 
<:on8truction,  usually  two  storied  with  laterite  walls,  rarely  parallel,  and 
of  an  average  thickness,  of  2  J  feet :  they  have  tOed,  pent  roof^  with 


20-i  llOABS   AKD   DRIVES. 

comparatively  small  windows,  some  of  which  are  ghaed  iii  small  paneSf 
and  all  have  strong  wooden  out-side  shutters.  Each  window  has  a  setit 
inside^  on  either  hand,  where  the  occupant  can  at  his  eji:*c,  observe 
all  that  is  passing  in  the  street  beneath.  Tlie  o\tt»ide  walls  are  of 
various  hues,  from  white,  to  blue,  yellow,  or  even  red. 

Superstition,  peoples  almost  every  house,  with  ghosts  of  various 
forms  and  8lia]>es :  even  the  Protestant  Chm-ch,  is  said  to  be  haunt- 
ed by  an  old  woman,  who  is  sometimes  seated  disconsolately  in  one 
spot^  sometimes  in  another,  but  most  commonly  on  tlie  sides  of  the 
old  well  close  by,  on  the  parade  ground.  On  being  apjiroaclied,  she 
is  said  to  asmime  the  shape  of  a  pig,  w^hich  on  being  pursued,  dis- 
appears in  the  form  of  a  immber  of  small  grunters. 

The  town  is  built*  in  streets^  miming  in  a  N,  E.  direction,  which 
makes  the  rooms  hot.  Tlie  most  objectionable  style  of  houses,  are 
those  which  partially  enclose  a  square,  within  wliich  is  a  garden,  h» 
in  the  monsoon  time,  tliey  are  thus  rendered  veiy  damp.^  Daring 
the  wet  months^  grasses^  weeds^  and  ^xirasitic  feni'i,  grow  luxuriantly 
on  the  house  tops,  especially  in  locjilities  protected  fn)ni  the  full 
violence  of  the  S.  W.  monsooa  Li  the  hot  weather,  it  all  dries  up, 
and  looks  like  hay.  Along  either  side  of  the  streets,  are  stone 
drains,  which  were  made  by  Government,  in  1812,  at  a  great  expense: 
hut  unf  ortimatdy,  many  of  the  larger  ones,  are  now  rendered  useless^ 
Twice  a  year,  the  convicts  clean  out  those,  which  have  not  been  per- 
manently destroyed,  and  they  also  keq)  the  roads  in  tolerable  onlen 

Strangers  arriving  at  Cochin,  would  be  struck  by  seeing  Euro^ 
pean  lookhig  houses  and  streets,  well  beaten  laterite  roads,  little 
patches  of  green  never  quite  burnt  up,  and  the  open  ^xirade  ground 
in  the  centre  of  the  town. 

There  is  not  much  apace  for  driving  ;  along  tiie  face  of  the  river 


*  As  a  Medical  topography^  is  incompatible,  with  Uie  Bcheme  of  the  present, 
work,  it  c&Q  only  be  observed :  that  it  id  unfortunately  but  too  true,  tiuat  **  ua 
"  tomi  of  corrvsponding  importanoe,  iKjmesses  in  00  siDall  a  degree,  aikplianoes, 
"  for  Uie  preservation  of  the  public  health,  or  where  sewerage  and  dmiu»g€^ 
**  are  ao  Uttle  attended  to:"  but  the»e  matters,  are  in  no  degree  under  medical 
control.  Headers  curious  on  these  subjects*,  ai-e  refen-etl  to  the  first  8  volume* 
of  the  Madras  Qmrtcrfy  Journal  of  Medical  Science,  for  the  yeorB  1860 
and  1861. 


KAtlVE   COSTt'MES.  205 

u  a  road,  that  extendi  ouward.s  through  the  town,  passing  the  Pro- 
tci»taiit  CliUrch,  the  parade  ground,  through  one  street,  by  the  native 
(formerly  Scotch)  Church,  and  the  benches  on  the  S*  W.  extremity 
of  the  fort)  where  it  rejiches  the  sea  beach  road.  Here  there  u  notliing 
to  interfere  with  a  good  view  uf  the  ocean,  wliich  is  only  divided 
from  the  road,  by  a  hH)8e  sandy  ti*act :  whilst  on  the  left  hand,  are 
houses  and  cocooimt  ])lantation3.  After  }»roceeding  about  a  luile,  the 
Umit  of  the  drive«termmates,  near  thU  iK>int  stands  tiie  new  ceme- 
tery, and  beyond  aie  numerous  small  pools,  in  wliich  the  dhobies 
wash  the  clothes.  Here  the  Amaravady  road  is  joined,  it  leads  back 
to  the  town  of  Cochin,  between  cocoanut  plantations,  and  houses : 
first  comes  the  Poor-house,  a  clean  looking  building,  but  almost 
hidden  amongst  the  trees  on  the  left,  next  a  Roman  Catholic 
Church,  erected  in  1834,  with  a  pair  of  cross-keys  carved  in 
stone  over  the  gate- way,  fiulher  on  is  a  Konkanie  pagoda  j(see 
Chapter  VII)  to  the  right,  here  the  rojid  expands,  and  peepid 
trees  are  for  a  short  disUmce,  phmtcd  sdong  both  sided.  Continuing 
in  this  direction,  a  blank  wall  on  the  left,  defines  the  limits  of  an  oil 
yard;  another  further  on,  that  of  the  Government  Disi^ensary,  next 
to  this  is  the  compound  of  the  Syrian  Metropolitan,  within 
which  are  the  walls  of  an  unfinished  Church,  long  since  conmienced, 
but  apparently  never  destined  to  be  completed :  skirting  this,  and 
leaving  a  large  screw  house  on  the  right,  the  flag  staff  tower,  again 
comes  into  view.  In  this  course,  there  is  not  much  to  see,  unless 
it  be  the  vegetation,  or  the  people,  of  whom  large  numbers  are  To- 
passes  (persons  wearing  hats),  who  are  of  two  chisses,  first,  the  regu- 
lar, and  irregular  descendants  of  the  Portuguese,  and  Dutch,  inhabit- 
ants of  Cochin :  and  secondly,  those  of  the  converted  slave  popula- 
tion. Every  caste  and  creed,  in  other  times,  (and  the  Moplahs  in 
the  present  day)  i)urchased  women  and  children,  and  converted  them 
to  their  faith,  this  class,  if  Christians,  di'css  as  Eurasians,  but  ara 
far  inferior  to  the  first. 

There  are  many  varieties  of  costumes,  from  the  fully  dressed 
native,  who  is  clothed  merely  from  the  waist  downwards,  (the  upper 
Wf  of  the  body  being  provided  for  by  a  sacred  string,  and  a  little 
pamt,  or  ashes,)  to  urchins  with  no  clothing  at  all,  or  merely  a  bit  of 
string.     During  the  rainy  mouths,  the  moat  frequented  streets,  have 


306  MUTTEXCIIERRY    BAZAAR. 

ti  Strange  appearance,  as  every  native  carries  an  unibrellA,  composed 
of  leaves  of  the  palm  tree,  mostly  tarred.  The  pandalla,  (bamboo 
mats  nailed  on  to  square  wooden  frames,^  over  the  windows  also 
look  carious. 

That  portion  of  Cochin,  which  has  the  most  Oriental  appearance^ 
is  the  bazaar  along  the  side  of  the  backwater,  and  although  it  is 
rather  too  fragrant  to  be  pleasant,  still  it  is  curious  enough  to 
repay  a  stranger  for  the  trouble  of  \4:4iting  it  Ihe  backwater  lies 
along  the  left  hand  side,  divided  from  the  road,  by  a  few  mer- 
cantile, timber,  and  bttildiAg  yards.  On  the  right  are  shops,  Where 
their  owners  are  seated  cross  legged,  ready  to  meet  the  require- 
ments of  customers.  Tiie  calico  merchant  has  handkerchiefs  of 
ail  colours  for  sale  \  next  is  a  crockery  shop,  where  common  bright 
coloured  Euroi>ean  ware,  is  seen  standing  by  the  side  of  bowls  and 
scent  bottles  from  China,  and  wooden  s^ioons  from  Aden :  a  little 
farther  on,  are  several  carpenter's  sliopa,  where  numerous  brass  bound 
boxes,  are  expo.sed  for  sale,  called  blackwood,  although  not  really  so, 
but  only  the  rough  jungle  wood,  Cooroo  Murradoo  Mai  which  is 
of  much  the  same  colour. 

When  the  gimmd  near  the  Muttenchcrry  bridge  waA  let  for  yards, 
the  inhabitants  of  the  place  remonstrated,  tdleging  that  during  the 
time  of  both  the  Portuguese  and  Dutch,  it  was  never  enclosed :  but 
kept  as  a  spot,  for  depositing  timber,  ready  for  those  who  were  build- 
ing vessels,  as  well  as  for  petty  merchants,  and  duty  was  levied  on 
the  timber,  and  rent  on  the  spot,  whilst  the  vessel  was  being  built 

On  reaching  the  Muttencherry  bridge,  wldch  crosses  a  sluggish  canal, 
of  extremely  dirty  water,  boats  are  generally  seen  in  the  afternoon, 
bringing  in  fish,  oysters,  and  vegetables  for  sala  On  its  further  side 
the  bazaar  may  be  said,  really  to  commence.  On  the  left  hand  stands, 
first  a  Police  Office,  and  then  the  British  Custom's  house,  with 
these  exceptions,  shops  are  seen  on  either  side  of  a  narrow  street, 
and  before  many  of  them,  the  salesman  is  seated  on  the  ground,  with 
his  merchandize  spread  out  around  him.  Here  is  the  fruiterer,  with 
piles  of  pumpkins,  bandikyes,  pine-apples,  guavas,  chillies,  and 
other  vegetable  productions ;  whilst  next  door,  there  are  live  mon- 
keys, of  both  black,  and  brown  varieties,  a  mongoose  or  two,  with 
parrots,  loris,  mynahs,  and  i>igeons.     Again  there  is  an  herbalist's, 


NATIVE   BAHTEU   AND   SALE.  207 

where  the  votaries  of  native  drugs,  procure  tbe  necessary  ingredients 
the  smoker  his  tobacco,  tbe  opium  eater  his  accustomed  stimulus, 
the  bhang  consumer  the  dose  which  givts  him  such  delicious 
reveries,  and  the  betel  cliewer  the  leaf  wherein  he  wraps  pieces  of 
chunam,  with  the  nut  of  the  Areca  palm,  which  when  in  his  mouth 
turns  tbe  saliva  red,  and  leads  the  uninitiated  Europe«an  to  lalx)ur 
under  the  impression  that  the  surrounding  nativc\s  are  constantly 
expectorating  blood.  Another  shop  is  piled  with  chatties  made  of 
baked  red  clay,  and  fire  ovens  of  the  same  materials,  most  of  which 
are  manofaetured  near  Alwaye.  The  petty  Hawker  seated  by  the 
side  of  tbe  street,  is  loudly  proclaiming  tlie  pmibes  of  bis  wares.  On 
cumblies  spread  upon  the  ground  before  him,  are  strings  of  Brah- 
luanee  beads,  true  and  false  tortoise-shell  combs,  and  boxes,  brass  or 
silver  boxes  in  which  to  carry  little  coins,  small  looking  glasses, 
bright  beads,  knives  in  red  leather  sheaves,  English  scissors,  rusty 
nails,  screws,  common  padlocks,  &c. 

Tbe  noise  is  very  great,  but  this  is  no  criterion  of  the  amount  of 
business  transacted,  as  the  rich  man  makes  as  much  commotion 
about  a  poothen  (10  pie)  as  if  his  existence  depended  on  its  being 
saved,  and  here  the  poor  man,  obtains  liis  daily  suppjy  of  foixl,  and 
his  clothing.  All  complain  of  their  extreme  poverty,  whilst  each  endea- 
vours, to  over-reach  his  neighbour.  About  half  a  mile  beyond,  leaving 
the  Arab  and  the  Hindu,  the  Christian  and  the  Jew,  jostling  each 
other,  tbe  stranger  reaches  a  wide  space,  where  on  the  right  hand 
side,  is  a  range  of  quiet  looking  shops,  the  verandahs  of  which  are 
raised  a  little  higher  than  usual,  and  here  the  din  of  the  tin-man's, 
and  copper-smith's  hammers,  are  almost  deafening :  this  is  the  gold- 
smith's quarter,  and  here  a  combination  of  Tuttnns,  money  venders, 
and  jewellers,  reside :  men  who  although  desirous  of  leadhig  their 
customers  to  suppose  tliem  so  poor,  that  an  iinna  more  or  less  is  of 
vital  importance  to  their  existence,  have  in  reidity  within  their 
dwelUngs,  hoards  of  gold  and  silver  ornaments,  and  precious 
stones.  Here  the  numismatic  collector,  may  frequently  obtain  rare, 
and  valuable  coins.  This  road  continues  past  a  white  Eoman 
Catholic  Chapel,  edged  with  black,  and  a  little  further  on,  reaches 
the  Rajah's  palace,  and  Jew's  town. 

Reverting  to  the  town  of  Cochin  in  the  centre  street  of  the  furt, 


208  COCHIN    OR    VYPEEN   RIVER. 

or  in  the  fort  kazaar,  wliich  passes  directly  S.  E.  of  tlio  flag  staflf 
tower,  are  two  or  three  Inns,  wliich  are  made  uae  of  by  stvilors  and 
others,  but  they  scarcely  deserve  the  name  of  Hotels.  Here  also  are 
the  best  shojis,  for  obtiiinining  European  articles :  whilst  tlioso  who 
are  fond  of  animals,  may  procure  a  parrot,  a  monkey,  or  a  mynah. 

Vypeeu  is  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river,  and  but  little  is  to 
be  seen  there,  with  the  exception  of  a  Roman  Catholic  Chapel,  de- 
dicated to  **  Our  Lady  of  Hope,"  and  erected  m  1665  or  1666."*  Ita 
method  of  Church  Government,  during  the  List  few  years,  has  un- 
fortunately given  rise  to  many  dissensions.  Most  of  the  congrega- 
tion, wishing  that  the  rules  in  force,  from  its  erection  to  the  present  " 
time,  should  remain  intact :  wliilst  on  the  other  hand,  the  Bishop  of 
Vempoly,  is  anxious  to  institute  certain  reforms,  which  are  not 
quite  approved  of  by  the  congregation.  The  Church  is  still  said  to 
contain,  the  screen  from  that  of  the  Franciscans,  which  the  Dutch 
pennitted  the  Roman  Catholics  to  remove. 

The  river  half  a  mile  in  length,  which  divides  Cochin  from  Vy- 
peen,  han  been  alluded  to.  The  laterite  wall,  buUt  by  the  Dutch, 
along  its  southern  bjuik,  fell  down  in  1821,  owing  partly  to  the 
inferior  materials  of  wliich  it  was  constructed,  and  partly  to  the 
setting  in  of  tlie  current  in  that  direction  :  but  in  18-43,  it  again 
turned  against  the  Vypeen  side  of  the  river,  and  between  those  two 
l>eriods,  many  fruitless  efforts  were  made  to  preserve  its  banks,  only 
resulting  in  the  walls  being  undermhied  by  the  sea,  whilst  wood 
was  rendered  useless,  by  the  ravages  of  tlio  wood  boring  insects. 
Agtihi,  the  set  of  the  river  altered  to  the  Cochin  side,  but  owing  to 
tlie  laterite  rock  alluded  to,  as  existing  on  the  site  of  the  late  Dutch 
Governor's  house,  the  town  of  Cochin  is  pretty  well  protected. 
Again,  in  1857,  the  sea  washed  away  a  breadth  of  land,  of  between 
90  and  1 00  feet,  leaving  Vyi)een  2,500  f eot  wide,  but  after  the  ter- 
mination of  the  monsoon,  the  S3ix  receded  nearly  200  feet :  but  the 
next  year,  it  again  encroached,  and  has  continued  to  do  so,  every  mon- 
soon :  but  it  generally  recede:^,  in  the  subsequent  fine  weather.  Some 
years  since,  probably  about  1847,  tlie  sea  washed  up  to  tlie  benches, 
Rituated,  on  a  part  of  the  S.  W.  corner  of  the  old  rami)art,  but  it 


OJiciiil  Letter  from  thu  Vicar,  to  the  M;\j^i»tiMtc  of  Coobiu. 


BAZAAR    SUPPLIES.  209 

.^baeqtiently  retired  to  its  original  limits.  It  is  improbable,  that 
any  engineering,  (unless  at  an  enormous  expense)  would  effectuallj 
preserve  the  banks*  The  same  difficulty  was  once  found  to  exist, 
on  the  Ponany  river,  and  a  reward  was  even  paid  by  Government, 
to  a  fortunate  Engmeer,  who  at  the  commencement  of  his  work, 
was  assisted  by  the  current  diverting  in  its  course,  he  consequently 
obtained  the  credit  of  having  saved  the  bank;  but  either  beforo 
the  money  was  paid,  or  immediately  subsequently,  the  current  re- 
turned to  its  old  course,  and  the  erection  was  at  once  undermined 
and  destroyed. 

Near  the  bank  of  the  river,  is  the  Traveller's  bungalow,  in  which 
travellers  can  rest  for  two  days  at  a  time,  one  formerly  existed 
over  the  river,  but  it  has  been  obliged  to  be  pulled  down  as  insecure. 

The  Dutch  kept  up  an  Hotel,  situated  where  the  Protestant 
schools  now  stand,  which  was  annually  pat  up  to  auction,  when  the 
landlord  covenanted  to  supply  travellers  at  a  fixed  rate.  This  was 
continued  undei*  the  British,  until  1811,  when  the  house  had  be« 
come  rather  ruinous,  and  the  Hotel-keeper  complained,  that  his  ex- 
penses were  not  re-imbursed,  or  barely  so,  and  it  was  consequently 
discontinued. 

A  number  of  beggars,  flock  into  the  town  on  Fridays  and  Satur- 
days, but  more  especially  on  the  latter  day,  and  are  accustomed  to 
receive  weekly  alms,  from  various  benevolent  inhabitants.  It  is  cu- 
rious that  these  are  the  two  days,  held  by  Hindus,  as  most  fortunate 
for  b^ging,  and  set  apart  for  such,  in  nlany  parts  of  India.  The 
Dutch  authorities  originated  this  custom  in  Cocliin,  as  on  those  days 
they  permitted  beggars  to  enter  the  fort,  and  on  no  others. 

Cochin  is  pretty  well  supplied  with  articles  of  food,  but  there  is  no 
doubt,  that  the  prices  have  very  much  risen  of  late  years :  this  is  con- 
sidered a  mark  of  the  prosperous  state  of  the  place,  and  to  a  certain 
extent  no  doubt  is  so,  but  not  entirely.  The  doing  away  of  the  price 
hsts,  by  which  those  who  chose  to  sell  articles  at  a  certain  rate,  could 
do  so,  has  been  a  most  serious  loss  to  Europeans,  especially  to  those 
whose  pay  has  not  increased,  in  proportion  to  the  increased  cost  of 
hving.  There  is  now  no  competition,  but  a  large  amount  of  combi- 
nation, for  the  purpose  of  raising  the  prices  of  all  articles. 

*  From  the  Official  Itecords  in  Cochin  Cutcherry  18i3. 

c  I 


210  FISH   AND   BUTCHEK'a  MEAT. 

Tlie  drinking  water  here^  has  been  said  to  cause  the  friglitful 
disease,  known  as  elephantiasis,  firom  which  persons'  legs,  become 
sometimes  as  much  as  21  inches  in  circumference,  or  even  more. 
The  Portuguese  consequently  obtaineil  water  from  Alwaye,  and  this 
was  believed  to  decrease  the  risk  of  incurring  the  complaint.  The 
Dutch  continued  this  plan,  and  supplied  all  their  servants  gratu- 
itously, but  charged  other  persons,  ^  of  a  rupee  for  a  »x  gallon  cask, 
delivered  at  their  doors.  The  English  also  fallowed  the  same  cus- 
tom, but  gave  it  gratuitously  to  almost  every  one :  until  the  Military 
were  removed,  when  they  discontinued  the  supply. 

Beef  la  rarely  procurable,  and  even  then  is  not  very  good.  In 
the  time  of  the  Dutch,  there  was  a  licensed  butcher  in  Cochin, 
who  paid  for  being  allowed  to  supply  the  town  with  meat 
at  a  certain  price,  he  was  permitted  to  kill  beef :  but  there  was  also 
a  regular  beef  butcher,  and  the  sum  paid  by  him  for  his  license, 
was  set  apart,  towards  the  maintenance  of  the  Leperi^  in  the  Lazar- 
retto,  at  Palliport ;  and  the  support  of  that  estabUsliment.  The  mut- 
ton is  pretty  good,  the  sheep  are  brought  from  Coimbatore,  and  Pal- 
ghaut,  as  this  climate  does  not  suit  them  :  goats  thrive  well :  pork 
is  easily  procurable,  but  unless  properly  fed  under  European  supervi- 
sion is  very  unwholesome :  whilst  poultry  is  plentiful,  and  cheap. 
Fish  can  be  obtained  all  the  year  round,  of  a  fair  quality,  and  appear 
rather  superior,  during  the  S.  W.  monsoon,  than  at  other  periods. 
Oysters  abound,  as  do  also  prawns,  and  crabs,  it  is  however  advisa- 
ble, to  abstain  from  them  fh  October,  and  the  two  following  months, 
as  at  that  period  they  are  frequently  prejudicial  to  health :  bread  is 
excellent,  and  vegetables  are  usually  abundant. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


CHRISTIANITY  IN  MALABAR. 
EaHy  Chriituins  io  Ma,labar>-St  Thoioaa^a  arrival— Early  Eccleaiastici— SUio 
in  which  Portngveae  found  the  Syrian  Church— Xavier — Menezea — Synod 
•of  Diaraper — Jesuitu  announce  themselves  aa  Western  Brahmans,  and  forge 
iifth  Veda— Carmelitefl  sent  to  Malabar — Dutch  arrive — European  Catholic 
Priests  ordered  to  leave— Dutch  try  to  dispose  of  congregations  to  Portuguese 
—Agree  to  penait  Carmelites  to  return— English  East  India  Company 
Officials  make  first  attemi^t  to  introduce  Missionaries  to  India— Trial  to 
regenerate  Syrian  Churches — Virulence  of  disputes  increase — Sjrrian 
Architecture— Dreas  «f  Clergy — Means  of  support— Litiurgies—Fasts — 
Feasts — Marriages  —Births  —Burials — Protestant  Missioiis — Court  of  Direc- 
tors, adTioe  to  Miasio«arie«« 

In  Malftbar,  from  almost  the  commencement  of  the  Chiistian  era, 
4  Church  has  existed,  wliich  to  Europeans,  has  been  amongst  the 
vonders  •£  the  Eaatem  world  Those  who  have  followed  its  ancient 
creed,  have  usually  been  denominated  Syrians,  because  their  tenets 
and  principles  of  Church  Government,  are  very  similar  to  those  ob- 
taining amongst  the  Copts  in  Syria.  The  native  appellation  is, 
Natarane  kai,  Suriani  Mopillasy  or  Marggacarer,  "people  who 
bave  a  law."  In  olden  times  they  were  called  Peishcdra  Brahmans, 
owing  both  to  the  class  from  which  they  sprang,  and  to  their  being 
superior  artifieera,  ^PeLihcars.^ 

A  knowledge  of  Christianity,  was  in  very  early  days,  spread  into 
•distant  quarters  of  the  globe,  partly  owing  to  the  persecutions  direct- 
ed against  its  exponents,  which  forced  them  to  seek  refuge  in  more 
<7ongenial  climes,  where  they  might  peaceably  follow  the  practices  of 
their  religion,  denied  them  in  their  native  lands.  It  may  also  have 
partly  arisen,  from  the  eastern  luxuries  imporfa&d  for  the  use  of  the 
Roman  Citixens,  for  some  of  the  merchaitts  engaged  in  this  commerce, 
may  have  been  instrumental  in  the  diffusion  of  the  Christian  faith. 

It  is  not  improbable,  that  in  company  witli  some  of  these  Roman 
merchants,  St.  Thomas  the  apostle  visited  India,   and   the   date 


212  DEATH   OF  ST.   THOMAS. 

generally  given,  is  A.  D.  52.  It  appears  that  he  erected  Churches 
in  Aden,  and  Socotra,  and  subsequently  proceeded  to  Hindustan ; 
although,  whether  he  landed  on  the  western  coast  at  Maliapore,* 
or  Cranganore  near  Cochin,  or  at  Maliapore  near  Madras,  is  very 
problematical,  and  at  the  same  time  immaterial.  Jerome  in  the 
year  420,  speaks  of  the  Mission  of  St  Thomas  to  India,  as  a 
universally  acknowledged  fact  Whilst  in  the  ninth  century,  Alfred 
the  Great  sent  an  embassy  to  his  tomb  in  Hindustan :  and  Marco 
Polo  writing  about  1292,  mentions  this  tomb  as  then  in  existence. 
Baldajus  in  1662,  gives  an  account  of  a  stone  pillar  at  Quilon,  said 
to  have  been  erected  by  St  Thomas;  at  the  i^eseut  time,  a  wmilar 
pillar  stands  there,  and  is  stated  to  have  been  raised  by  the  same 
person.     It  is  highly  venerated,  by  the  Syrians,  and  others. 

Governor  Moens,  in  his  memorial,  states,  that  "  the  prevalent  be- 
"  lief  is,  that  St  Thomas  after  labouring  on  the  Coromandel  coast, 
"  went  to  Cranganore,  and  converted  many :  and  also  at  Maliancara, 
"  (near  PaUiport,)  Cottecay,  Repelim,  Gekkomungalum,  Temetta, 
"  and  Tiroewangotta,  (probably  Travancore),  buUt  some  Churches, 
"  ordained  two  priftsts,  and  then  returned  to  the  Coromandel  coast." 
The  tradition  amongst  the  Syrians  is,  that  St  Thomas  built  seven 
Churches  in  Malabar,  viz.,  one  atPaUoor  near  Chowghaut,  still  in 
existence  :  another  at  Cranganore,  now  destroyed :  a  tliird  at  Cotta- 
kareel,  or  Paroor  still  standing :  as  are  also  those  at  Cocamungalum  or 
southern  Paliapuram:  atQuOon:  and  at  Naranum:  whilst  the 
seventh  at  Shazaloo,  near  the  famous  Chowri  Malla,  kis  been  de- 
stroyed by  wild  elephants. 

St  Thomas  is  beUeved  to  have  made  many  converts,  especially 
the  son  of  a  native  of  rank  at  Cranganore,  whom  he  ordained  a 
Deacon.  Subsequently  he  is  said  to  have  met  with  an  accidental 
death  at  St  Thomas's  Mount,  (Maliapore,  tlte  cUy  of  ih,  peacocks, 
now  caUed  St.  Thomd,)  near  Madras,  where  a  low  caste  man  shoot- 
ing peacocks,  unfortunately  killed  the  Saint  Marco  Polo  mentions 
being  shown  this  spot  at  the  Mount,  in  the  1  Sth  century.     Even  up  to 

♦  At  Cruzmilagri,  midway  between  Cochin  and  MaUapoorarn.  is  the  si»ot 
pointed  out  by  local  tradition,  as  that  where  St  Tliom^ia  kn.led.  But  it  is 
quite  aa  probable,  that,  the  Portuguese  planted  the  cross  in  this  place,  in  token 
ot  territorial  sovereignty. 


ST.  Thomas's  cok verts.  213 

the  present  day,  persons  annual] j  perform  pilgrimages  to  this  place, 
kiss  the  8[K)t  where  he  was  slain,  deposit  their  offerings,  and  rej>eat 
their  prayers  at  the  Apostle's  grave.  Anotlier  legend  is,  that  he 
lived  in  a  place  where  there  were  two  caves,  into  which  he  retired 
for  i>rayer  and  meditiition.  One  day  when  thus  engaged,  a  Brah- 
man thrust  a  8i)ear. through  the  orifice  which  admitted  the  light,  and 
inflicted  a  mortal  wound,  the  head  of  the  spear  breaking  off  into  the 
Apoetle's  body.  He  just  managed  to  crawl  into  the  inner  cave, 
where  he  died  embracing  a  stone  cross.  His  Disciples  subsequently 
found  his  body,  and  removed  it  for  interment  to  a  Cburch  which  he 
had  raised.*  Another  legend  states,  that  St.  Thomas  and  Thad- 
deus,  parted  at  Edessa;  when  the  former  accompanied  a  party  of 
merchants  first  to  Socotra,  and  from  thence  to  Western  India,  where 
whilst  he  was  paying  his  respects  to  the  King  of  the  place,  a  native 
struck  him  without  any  provocation  :  but  this  man  subsequently 
going  to  draw  water  from  a  tank,  had  his  hand  bitten  off  by  a  tiger. 
He  immediately  ran  back  to  the  palace,  to  tell  his  misfortune,  but 
was  followed  by  a  dog,  carrying  the  hand  in  his  mouth.  St.  Thomas 
was  still  in  the  royal  presence,  and  taking  the  severed  member,  re- 
placed it  in  its  proper  i)osition,  where  it  remained  so  firmly  fixed, 
that  even  the  mark  of  the  join  wjis  quite  imi)erceptible.  Tlie  AiH)Stle 
is  stated  subsequently  to  have  gone,  first  to  Calicut,  then  to  China, 
and  returning  from  thence  through  Thibet  into  India,  to  have  ended 
his  days  at  MalLapore  near  Madras. 

It  is  very  probable,  that  these  converts  made  by  St.  Thomas,  or 
St  Thom6  Christians,  as  they  arc  coniiuoiily  called,  were  joined,  by 
others  from  Syria,  who  had  heard  of  their  existyucc.     In  the  second 

*  Portugueae  Historians  affirm,  that  in  1 647,  when  this  cave  was  being  cleaned 
out,  the  old  stone  cross  was  discovered,  and  on  it  many  dark  red  spots  resem- 
bling blood.  Miracles  did  not  ceiise  here,  for  in  155) ,  it  is  stated,  tUat  when  the 
oratory  was  being  repaired,  tliis  stone  was  solemnly  set  up,  and  whilst  the 
priest  was  reading  the  Gospel,  it  commenced  turning  black  and  shining,  then 
perspired,  and  resumed  its  original  grey  colour,  when  the  spots  of  blood  came 
out  clearer  than  ever.  Ten  years  later,  the  hiert>glyphic8  on  the  cross,  were 
translated  by  a  Brahman,  into  a  short  history  of  the  Saint  and  his  Converts, 
with  an  account  of  his  death,  and  the  erection  of  the  stone,  )>y  certain  Kings 
ill  commemoration  of  him.  liefore  the  year  1501,  its  being  in  a  perspiratiou 
was  oou.«siderod  a  good  omen,  but  since  that  [)eriod  it  has  been  a  bad  one. 


21  i  ANCIENT    SYRIAN    RECORDS. 

century,  Egyptian  mariners  carried  tidings  to  Alexandria,  of  the 
Cliristians  reoiding  in  Malabar,  wlio  traced  their  paternity  in  Syria 
to  St.  Paul,  an  J  owned  the  supremacy  of  the  Patriarch  of  Babylon  • 
Therefore  they  m  ist  have  been  here,  at  least  one  hundred  years  prior 
to  the  doctrines  of  Nestorius.  |t  is  by  no  means  improbable,  that 
t!ie  Jews  who  came  to  Malabar,  dividjd  themselves  into  two  parties, 
one  of  which  became  Christians,  and  the  other  retained  their  ancient 
faith.*  Nearly  every  account  mentions  Cranganore,  as  being  the 
central  place  from  whence  both  the  Jews  and  Syrians  spread.  The 
Mahomedan  author  Ferishta,  in  his  general  history  of  India,  says, 
"  formerly  before  the  rise  of  the  religion  of  Itlam,  a  company  of 
**  Jews  and  Christians,  came  by  sea  into  the  country  of  Malabar,  and 
"  settled  as  merchants.  They  continued  to  reside  there,  until  the 
"  rise  of  tiie  Mussulman  religion." 

It  has  been  a.sserted,  that  Cheramal  Permaul,  (whose  rule  ceased 
A.  D.  378,)  g.ive  these  sects  extensive  privileges,  and  a  charter  en- 
graved on  metal  platen,  in  nail  or  triangular  headed  characters,  in 
Malayalim,  Canarese,  Bisnagur,  and  Tamul.  The  witnesses  were 
four  Jews  of  rank,  whose  names  are  written,  in  old  Hebrew  charac- 
ters. These  tablets  appear  to  have  been  lost  in  the  16th  century,  and 
were  not  recovered  until  about  fifty  years  since,  when  owing  to  the 
exertions  of  Major  Macimlay,  then  British  resident  of  Travancore 
and  Cochin,  some  plates,  reputed  to  be  the  same,  were  found. 

Thomas  Cana  is  also  said  to  have  written  the  account  of  these 
jHJople,  anterior  to  his  tune,  on  copper  plates,  which  were  deposited 
in  the  Church  at  Tervalcarre,  near  Culli-Quilon,  but  were  lost 
when  the  Travancore  Rajah  annexed  this  State.  These  privileges 
are  said  also  to  have  been  written  on  a  stone  in  the  Cranganore 
Pagoda,  and  this  mistaken  belief  which  is  now  universal  in  Malabar, 
is  also  mentioned  by  Governor  Moens,  nearly  100  years  ago,  as 
being  then  prevalent. 

»  Paoli  says,  "  had  they  boeu  originally  Indians,  why  should  they  make  use 
"  of  Chaldaic  expressions,  and  not  nauch  rather  words  peculiar  to  the  Malabar 
*'  and  Sanscrit  languages  ?  it  is  therefore  not  improbable,  that  a  considerable 
"  number  of  Christians,  went  from  Persia  and  Chaldea  to  India,  and  united 
''themselves  to  the  small  body  of  the  original  Indian  Christians,  whose  anocs- 
"  turd  were  foruicrly  converted  to  the  Chiistian  faith,  by  the  Apostle  Thomaa." 


DECLINISG   STATE   OF   INDIAN    CHURCH.  215 

After  a  time,  as  the  power  of  these  cnrly  Christians  increased, 
they  were  able  to  throw  off  the  yoke  of  their  heathen  nilers,  and  to 
Ruse  a  Chief  of  their  o^vn  sect  and  creed.  This  line  was  continued, 
until  one  of  their  sovereigns  being  childless,  adopted  tlie  son  of  the 
King  of  DiMnper  as  his  successor :  which  prmce  being  subordinate 
to  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  the  Syrians  again  fell  under  the  Govern- 
ment of  Hindus.  It  may  well  be  said  of  them,  that  as^'soon  as  they 
obtained  political  power,  tlieir  influence  began  to  deteriorate. 

Li  the  commencement  of  the  fourtli  century,  at  the  council  of 
Nice,  one  of  the  names  su1).scril>ed  is  "  Johannes,"  Afttyopolitan  of 
Persia,  and  tJie  Great  Indies,  Tliirty  years  subsequently,  Athaua- 
sius  invested  one  Frununtius,  a  Syrian  by  birth,  witli  episcopal 
authority  in  South  India,  where  he  i>roceeded  with  two  kinsmen 
and  became  a  martyr.  One  of  his  rehitions  wtis  subsequently  made 
Secretary,  and  the  other,  cup  bearer,  to  a  Native  prince,  and  on  his 
death,  they  undertook  the  education  of  his  son.  Tliey  afterward 
erected  a  Church,  and  one  of  them  was  installed  as  Bisliop  by  Athana- 
sius.  Tlie  ophilus  the  fauious  Arian  Bishop,  visited  Lidia  about 
A.D.  350. 

Cosmas  states,  that  in  572,  Cliristian  churches  existed  in  Mala- 
bar  and  Ceylon,  the  Bisliops  being  sent  from  Persia,  where  they 
-were  coasecrated ;  the  doctrines  at  this  period,  Avcre  those  of  the 
Nestorians,*  for  the  Primate  of  Persia,  was  at  that  time  subject  to 
the  Nestorian  Patriarch  of  Seleucia.  About  C58,  the  lilctropo- 
litan  of  Mosul,  declared  that  tlie  churches  in  India  and  Persia, 
were  in  a  declining  statc,t  owing  to  the  neglect  of  the  Primate 


•  The  tenn  Neitorians,  ia  derivetl  frt)m  Nestorim,  who  was  oonBecrated 
Bishop  of  CoMtantmople,  A.  D.  429.  He  ackn<iwledge<l  the  dualitij  of  persoud 
in  the  Saviour  of  the  world,  ianJ  th.it  a  worshipi^i-  miglit  unite  in  hU  adoi-o- 
tionfl,  the  persons  and  the  natureij,  which  he  separated  iu  his  Creed. 

t  During  the  seventh  century,  the  Moplalw  oppressed  the  Syrians,  so  they 
-  retired  from  the  Northern  portions  of  Malabar,  to  the  Cochin  territory,  choos- 
ing a  head  man  or  king.  Subsequently  owiug  to  adoption,  a  Hindu  ]>riuce 
niled  over  them  in  temporal  matters  :  when  the  Portuguese  arrived,  he  was 
named  Beliarte,  Rajah  of  Duimper,  aud  was  bound  to  protect  them  against 
Hindus  or  Mahomechma,  but  being  baiiknipt,  he  applied  to  the  Euioi)eaus  for 
pecuniary  assistance.  The  Christians  were  divided  into  two  parts,  the 
Northern   or  Samoriu's  party,  denominated  Panircurraf   which  included  all 


21 G  JACOBITES    AKRTVE    IN    INDIA. 

of  Persia,  stiting  that  as  he  now  refused  to  acknowledge  the  autho- 
rity of  Selencia,  the  succession  of  Priest-hood  had  been  cut  off  from 
India.  Relying  upon  Apostolic  succession  direct  from  St.  Thomas, 
the  Primate  of  Persia,  now  considered  the  authority  of  the  Patriarch 
of  Stileucia,  unnecessary  :  thus  they  continued,  until  A.D.  780, 
when  tlie  Persian  party,  again  submitted  to  Seleucia,  and  Christi- 
anity flourished  up  to  the  year  920. 

About  A.D.  696,  according  to  one  authority,  a  Bishop  of  the 
Church  of  the  Jacobites'*  arrived  in  India,  from  Alexandria  :  others 
again  have  argued,  that  this  sect  never  came  until  A.D.  1663,  after 
the  Dutch  took  Cochin.  From  this  period,  most  of  the  prelates  of 
the  Malayala  Church,  have  considered  themselves  as  dependent  upon 
the  see  of  Antioch.  Towards  the  close  of  the  eighth  century.  Thomaa 
Cana,  believed  by  some  to  have  been  a  wealthy  Armenian  merchant, 
came  to  Malabar  :  but  whoever  he  may  have  been  he  appears  to  have 
obtamed  great  power  over  the  Syrians,  who  under  his  protectorate 
left  the  jungles,  and  settled  down  along  the  sea  coasts.  Moens  says, 
"  Assemanus  believes  that  Mar  Thomas  was  that  Bishop,  whom  the 
"  Nestorian  Bishop  Timotheus  sent  out  about  A.D.  800  to  India^ 
"together  with  some  monks,  out  of  the  cloisters  at  Beth-Abensi 
"and  that  he  was  by  birth  a  Maronite  of  Moiuit  Lebanon,  who 
"  subsequently  became  a  Bishop.  Manuscripts  state,  that  Mar  Sa- 
"  por,  and  Mar  Peroses,  came  from  Babylon,  A.D.  829,  and  ob- 
"  tained  privileges  from  Changara  Irawisri,  Rajah  of  Culli-Quilon, 
"  to  erect  Churches  in  his  country." 

PriuceB  and  tribes  in  the  Northern  portion  of  Malayala :  and  the  SoutJiem  or 
Cochin  Rajah's  division,  termed  Ciovarecurra,  which  included  the  Princes  and 
tribes  in  the  South  of  Malayala.  This  division  has  been  erroneously  consi- 
dered, to  designate  the  descendants  of  the  legitimate  and  illegitimate  offspring 
of  Thomas  Cana,  reputed  to  have  possessed  two  wives,  one  a  Nairckee,  the 
other  a  Chogan  ;  the  ofTspring  of  the  former  settling  in  North,  those  of  the 
latter  in  South  Malabar.  A  third  tradition  is,  that  all  the  Syrianz  are  de- 
scended from  four  distinct  families,  who  at  different  times,  settled  in  varioua 
places  on  the  Malabar  Coast. 

*  The  name  Jacobite^  is  said  to  have  been  derived,  from*  Jacob  of  Uraha, 
(commonly  known  as  Edessa,  or  Callirhoe,)  who  A.  D.  656,  was  consecrated 
Bishop  of  Uraha,  the  Metropolis  of  Osrhoene^  now  called  Ourfa,  near  the  Eu- 
phrates. He  restored  the  Syriac  Language  to  its  original  purity.  His  doctrines 
were  that  there  wius  but  qm  will  or  operation,  in  the  two  natures  of  Christ. 


8YKIAK8  SESD  DKPCTATIOK  TO  POKTITOUISI.  217 

The  Princes  of  Malabar,  treated  their  Native  CSiristiaii  subjects 
well  They  ^were  given  equal,  or  superior  rank  with  the  Nurs,  and 
allowed  to  be  governed  by  those  of  their  own  aect»  in  both  temporal 
and  spiritual  matters.  Their  first  king,  i»  said  to  have  beoi  a  convert 
from  Hinduism.  Prosperous  times  injured  this  Church,  and  its  pres- 
tige b^an  to  decline  from  the  tenth  century,  when  they  first  had  a 
king  to  rule  over  them,  their  royal  authority  passed  into  the  hands 
*of  the  heathen  prince  of  Diamper,  and  the  Pcwtuguese  found  them 
in  reality,  governed  by  the  Rajah  of  Cochin. 

"  In  1500,"  says  Governor  MoevUy  **  four  Syrian  Bishops  came  to 
**  this  coast^  named  Mar  Mardina,  Jena  Ally,  Mar  Jacob,  and  Mar 
^  Thomas.  *  *  In  1504,  two  Bishops  wrote,  and  informed  the 
"  Patriarch,  of  the  arrival  of  the  Portuguese  in  Malabar :  after  these, 
"  came,  about  A.D.  1550,  another  Bishop  named  Mar  Abraham." 
Moens  also  observes,  **  there  must  have  been  Boman  Catholics  on 
'*  this  coast,  long  before  the  arrival  of  the  Portuguese,  for  it  lb  weU 
"  known,  that  there  was  a  Romish  priest  named  Fre  Jordan  at 
'*  Tanna,  and  Salsette,  but  the  date  is  unrecorded.  Also,  in  A.D. 
"  1320,  there  were  in  Persia  four  Franciscans,  named  Fre  Thomas 
"  de  Tolentino,  Fre  Jocomo  de  Padua,  Fre  Demetrino,  and  Fre  Pedro. 
**  Doubtless,  Yasca  de  Gama  brought  out  many  Priests,  as  it  is  well 
"  known,  no  Portuguese  vessel  started  for  sea,  much  more  so  for  a 
"  long  voyage,  without  having  clergy  on  board."  As  early  as  1503, 
Father  Rhotcrie,  is  mentioned  as  settled  at  Quilon. 

When  Cabral  came  to  India,  in  1500,  he  took  away  with  him  to 
Portugal,  two  brothers,  who  subsequently  in  Europe,  gave  an  ac- 
count of  their  sect  in  India.  The  Christiana  at  Cranganore,  in  1502, 
when  Vasca  de  Qama  was  at  Cochin,  sent  him  a  deputation,  bear- 
ing the  sceptre  of  their  last  monarch,  and  besought  him  to  intercede 
with  the  Portuguese  king,  to  become  their  ruler,  and  protector,  as 
it  was  the  custom  of  the  country,  that  the  head  of  each  sect,  should 
rule  them  in  both  temporal  and  spiritual  concerns.  They  complained 
of  being  much  oppressed  by  the  Native  princes,  and  that  those  who 
resided  on  Pagoda  lands,  were  compelled  to  be  present  at  the  fes- 
tivals of  the  Heathen  Deities  of  the  place. 

On  enquiries  being  instituted  respecting  this  people,  it  appeared 
that  their  bible  and  prayers  were  in  Syriac,  which  was  to  them  an 

p  1 


218  SYBIAir  BITES  AND  CKKBKONIEST. 

unknown  tongue ;  tbat  the7  praddaed  Hindu  rites  of  purificatfonv 
attended  Hindu  feaat^y  used  channs>  consulted  fortune  tellers,  ancll 
Bubmitted  to  ordeals.  Ptoyers  to  the  Saints,  and  those  for  the  dead^ 
were  customary,  whilst  they  ore^  said  to  have  had-  monasteries.  Of' 
Borne  they  bad  never  beard,  her  liturgies  were  not  eni^oyed  in  their 
Ghurdiee)  and  transabBtaotiatioci  was-  unrecognized. 

At  the  head  oi  the  Syrian  church  was  a  Metropolitan^  the  inferior 
dergy  were  termed  Catanara^  who  were  divided  into  two  grades,  the-  * 
senior  corresponiiting  to  our  presbyters,,  whilst  the  inferior  were  dea- 
eons.  Besides  these,  they  had  their  Malpans>  or  doctors.  Qergy^ 
were  permitted  to  hold  secular  offices,  also  to  morryr  whilst  their 
wivea  to<^  precedence  in  the  Church,  and  were  known  by  wearing 
round  theirnedDs  a  golden  crossi.  Though  governed  in  temporal  cases- 
by  the  Prince  of  Diamper,  under  the  control  of  the  Cochin  Rajah,  they 
were  subject  in  dvil,^  spiritual,  and  moral  matters,,  to  tbeir  Bishop  of 
Angamale>  Metropolitan;  of  India.  They  paid  a  certdn  tribute,  and 
had  on  some  specified  occasions,  to  bring  a  niunber  of  troops,  armed, 
and  properiy  equipped,,  into  fte  fLeLd. 

All  these  Christians,  says,  Paoli,  ^*  in  1502,  at  which  period  Vasea 
^  de  Gann  came  a  second  time  to  Malabar,  were  Nestorians.  Some 
*^  of  them  denied  the  Divinity  of  Christ,,  and  coidd  not  endure 
**  images^  bat  on  the  other  hand,  th^  showed  a  greater  reverence  for 
^  the  holy  cross*  They  had  no  other  sacraments,  than  baptbm,  the 
^  last  supper,  and  tine  consecrotioD  of  Priests  They  believed  that 
^  the  soula  of  the  just,  were  not  adnutted  into  the  presence  of  Qod,. 
^  before  the  final  juxigment,  and  that  until  tiiat  period,  they  were  to* 
*^  remain  in  Eden.  They  em^oyed  a  kind  of  ba^sm  quite  different 
^  from  oiETs,  (the  Soman  Catholic) :  and  their  Priesta  all  practised 
**  simony,  as  tdiey  dispensed  the  sacraments^  merely  for  money. 
*'  Many  <^  the  poor  people  were  not  baptized,  because  they  were  not 
'^  al^e  to  pay  the  fees.  The  sacrifice  of  the  mass,,  was  established 
*'  according  to  the  manner  of  the  Nestoriana  The  wine  which  they 
^  consecrated,  waa  palm  wine,  (arrack) :  the  host  consisted  of  some 
**  wheaten  flour,  mixed  with  salt  and  oil :  and  it  waa  always  let 
*'  down  firom  a  hole  above  the  altar,  when  the  priest  was  to  bless  it 
"  Mass  was  read  every  Sunday,  but  no  person  waa  obliged  to  attend 
"  it.     On  Sunday  evening,  every  one  might  eat  flesh,  on  Wednesdays' 


BiacovBRT  OF  ST.  thohab's  ohapxl.  211 

**  and  FridajTs  they  ate  &h  or  herbs:  on  Shrove  SnndayB,  there  was 
^  a  general  fast  Their  holj  water,  the  preparation  of  whioh  was  left 
^  to  the  Sacristan,  consisted  of  common  river  water,  in  which  a  few 
'^  partidee  of  earth,  brought  from  the  grave  of  Si  Thomas,  at  Mali*- 
'^  poram,  were  dissolTed.  Thttr  festival  days  began  die  preceding 
^  evening,  and  ended  towards  erening  the  day  following.  Dnring 
^  that  time,  the  shops  were  shifty  and  afi  Ubonr  Ceased.  Their 
^  Priests  were  accustomed  to  employ  ezcommunicalietty  known  under 
^'  the  name  of  Mahar^n,  and  which  is  rery  serere  against  offenders.^ 

The  Syrians  were  mach  esteemed,  the  greater  the  number  of  them, 
a  Native  prince  had  in  his  dominions,  the  more  lie  Was  feared  by  his 
ndghbours,  as  they  were  said  to  be  very  faithful  and  toust-worthy. 
The  men  always  went  about  armed,  and  were  vrell  trained  in  the  use 
of  weapons,  their  education  being  carried  on  in  this  science,  from 
^eir  8th  to  their  25th  year.  They  were  the  natural  protectors  of 
^he  silver-smiths,  brass-founders,  carpenters,  and  smiths.  They  united 
together  when  any  infringements  were  made  upon  their  rights, 
or  one  of  them  was  subject  to  insult  A  low  caste  man  who  struck 
:a  Christian,  incurred  the  punishment  of  immediate  dtoth,  or  if  ex- 
^empted  from  this,  he  was  obliged  to  carry  a  gold  or  silver  hand  (ac- 
cording to  the  rank  of  the  affronted  person,)  to  the  Church,  and  there 
«ffer  it  up  as  a  propitiation.  In  those  days,  CSiristiaas  never  touched  a 
8iidra,  nor  even  a  Nair.  Any  of  these  castes,  who  refased  to  ac- 
iknowledge  their  precedence,  they  were  empowered  to  slay  forthwith. 
Onty  Rahmans  and  Syrians,  (besides  Jews)  might  have  covered 
porches  before  their  doors,  and  travel  on  elepliants,  (a  distinction 
•otherwise  accorded  to  tiie  Boyal  bars,)  whilst  they  might  sit  in  the 
King's  presence,  even  on  the  same  carpet^  a  symbol  of  an  Ambassador. 

In  the  year  1617,  some  Fortognese  landed  at  Maliapore,  near 
Itadraa,  where  they  found  several  Christian  Chapels,  and  a  Moor 
informed  them,  that  he  had  been  miracalously  cured  of  blindness, 
by  visiting  this  holy  place.  Here  he%tated,  his  ancestors  had  been 
accustomed  to  bum  a  light  in  one  of  the  Chapels,  traditionally 
asserted  to  have  been  erected  by  St  Thomas^  whose  body  was  believ- 
ed to  lie  within  together  with  those  of  two  of  his  disciples,  and  a 
converted  Hindu  king.  An  investigation  was  then  commenced,  and 
«n  digging  near  the  wall,  a  stone  discovered^  which  the  Portuguese 


XAVISR  C0HB8  TO  IKDIA. 

translated  as  follows  : —  '^  When  St  Thomas  built  this  Church,  the 
^^  king  of  Maliapore  gave  him  the  duties,  on  all  merchandize  im- 
"  ported,  which  was  one-tenth."  Going  deeper,  they  reported  the 
diflcoveiy  of  the  body,  with  the  spear  head  within  it:  also  the 
remains  of  his  disciples^  and  of  the  Native  king,  they  observed  that 
the  bones  of  this  last  differed  from  those  of  the  former,  as  they 
were  not  so  whUe  !  On  enquiry,  they  ascertained,  that  when  St. 
Thomas  landed,  Maliapore  now  close  to  the  sea,  was  twelve  leagues 
from  the  coast,  and  that  the  Saint  had  predicted,  "  that  when  the 
^  sea  came  up  to  the  site  of  the  city,  a  people  should  come  from  the 
*'  west,  bringing  with  them,  the  religion  he  taught," 

Besides  these,  there  were  many  miraculous  legends  current,  one 
of  which  was  that  a  Brahman  slew  his  own  son,  and  charged  St. 
Thomas  with  the  murder,  but  the  Saint  raised  the  body  to  life,  who 
forthwith  acccused  bis  father  of  haviiig  done  the  foul  deed.  On 
another  occasion  it  was  asserted,  when  St.  Thomas  required  a  cer- 
tain piece  of  timber  to  be  taken  to  his  chapel,  the  combined* 
strength  of  numerous  men^  and  elephants,  was  insufficient  to  move 
it :  on  which  he  himself  laid  hold  of  it  with  both  hands,  and  easily 
draped  it  to  the  place  of  its  destination.  Eussians  who  visited 
Syria,  in  A.D.  371,  attested  that  St  Thomas  died  a  Martyr  in 
India,  but  that  his  body  was  subsequently  transmitted  to  Edessa. 
This  if  correct,  slightly  militates  against  the  Portuguese  and  Native 
accounts. 

In  1541,  the  celebrated  Francis  Xavier  came  to  India,  he  was 
most  zealous  in  his  efforts  to  convert  the  heathen  around  him,  and 
presented  his  countrymen  with  a  noble  example  of  self-devotion, 
and  perfect  indifference  r^rding  his  own  temporal  welfare,  when 
it  interfered  with  the  spiritual  advantage  of  others.  His  mind 
appears  to  have  been  wholly  engrossed  by  religious  subjects,  and 
efforts  for  benefiting  the  souls  of  his  fellow-men,  and  with  this 
view  he  attacked  vice  wherever  he  found  it,  and  denounced  the 
immorality  and  religious  supineness  of  his  countrymen,  in  indig- 
nant terms.  He  is  said  to  have  converted,  or  perhaps  more  proper- 
ly speaking  baptized,  700,000  Natives,  and  certainly  it  would  be 
difficult  to  find  one,  more  active,  untiring,  and  zealous^  in  Mission* 
aiy  labours.    He  died  in  1662. 


VAR    ABBAHAX   ABBITES   FBOM   BABYLON.  221 

About  this  period,  the  Inquisition  which  had  previously  been  es- 
tabiished  in  Goa,  discovered  that  the  Syrian  Christians  were  here- 
tical in  their  belief,  and  many  came  to  an  untimely  end  by  its  orders, 
Iheir  Priests  eren  forsook  them,  to  scramble  for  the  many  tempting 
mducementa  of  power,  and  pecuniary  rewards,  held  out  by  the  Por- 
tuguese, to  lure  them  from  their  posts. 

In  1545,  Albuquerque,  Archbishop  of  Qoa,  made  proseliiation  a 
Btate  policy,  and  compelled  his  soldiers  to  marry  Native  females, 
who  had  been  converted  to  Christianity.  He  sent  a  Franciscan 
Friar  to  Cranganore,  to  preach  the  Qospel,  and  before  long  erected  a 
College  at  the  same  place,  in  which  Syrian  youths  were  instructed 
in  the  Latin  rites  and  language.  But  when  thay  had  become  fitted 
to  ent^  the  ministry,  the  Syrians  refused  to  admit  the  Romish  form 
of  worship,  into  their  Churches.  A  second  College  was  erected  in 
1587,  for  their  instruction  in  their  own  language,  on  the  Yypeen  Is- 
land at  Palliport,  known  as  Yaipacotta,  where  the  Syrian  costume 
was  allowed  to  be  retained,  and  some  of  their  rites  observed.  But 
«*iU  the  Syrians  refused  to  permit  this  new  clergy  to  preach  in  their 
Chnrdies,  in  which  course  they  were  fully  supported  by  their  new 
Biihop. 

It  now  became  evident,  that  all  idea  of  converting  these  people 
to  the  Romish  faith  must  be  given  up,  or  another  course  pursued, 
either  of  force  or  stratagem  ;  the  former  was  adopted,  and  the  Syrian 
Bishop  Mar  Joseph  was  made  a  prisoner,  and  sent  to  Portugal,  from 
whence  it  was  intended  to  forward  him  to  Rome  in  order  to  afford 
^im  the  benefit  of  instruction  in  Church  mysteries. 

But  Mar  Joseph  was  as  great  an  adept  at  stratagem  as  his  cap- 
tors, and  contrived  to  ingratiate  himself  so  much  with  the  Spanish 
Qiieen,  that  she  permitted  him  to  return  to  Goa,  carrying  letters 
patent  from  her,  directing  the  Portuguese  not  to  interfere  with  him, 
Ui  the  discharge  of  his  ministerial  functions,  as  he  had  promised  to 
exert  himself  to  the  utmost,  to  bring  his  clergy  and  their  congrega- 
tions, over  to  the  Romish  See.  But  in  the  intermediate  time, 
*he  Malabar  Christians,  or  Syrians,  finding  themselves  deprived  of 
4  Bishop,  had  written  to  the  Patriarch  at  Babylon,  to  send  them 
one,  a  request  with  which  he  had  at  once  complied,  by  consecrating 
and  despatching  a  Bishop  named  Abraham.    But  on  Mar  Joseph's 


222  SYRIAN  BISHOP  AGAIN  ABJOltES  HIS  7AITH. 

return,  dissension  of  coiirse  arose,  as  to  which  was  head  of  the 
CJhnrch  in  Malabar.  The  greater  part  'of  the  Sjnafis  sided  with 
Mar  Josi^phy  who  laid  information  with  the  Portagaese,  tigunst 
Mar  Abraham,  who  was  consequently  arrested  in  TnYsncare,  h^ 
emissaries  of  that  nation,  with  the  connivance  of  the  Bajah.  He 
was  despatched  to  Enrope,  but  the  vessel  owing  to  stsess  of  weather, 
being  obliged  to  put  into  Mozambique,  ho  contrived  to  effect  his  es- 
<;ape,  and  reached  Babylon  in  safety,  where  the  Patriarch  re-confer- 
red on  him,  the  title  of  Bishop  of  Malabar.  But  he,  fearing  that 
the  Patriarch's  power  in  Malabar,  was  less  than  that  of  the  For- 
toguese,  proceeded  to  Rome,  and  appealed  to  the  Pope  for  assist- 
iince,  promising  to  yield  him  most  implicit  obedience,  and  was  ac- 
cordingly eonfirmed  by  him  in  his  appointment 

Mar  Joseph  iu  the  mean  time^  considering  himself  firmly  re-estab- 
lished in  his  See,  again  commenced  preaching  according  to  the  tenets 
of  his  Churchy  which  he  had  formerly  abjured.  On  the  Pope's  being 
informed  of  this,  he  issued  a  bull  for  his  arvest,  in  1567,  he  waa 
therefore  captured  and  sent  to  Home,  where  he  probably  died. 

Governor  Moens  states,  that ''  after  the  arrival  of  the  Portuguese, 
''the  Rajah  of  Oochin  issued  a  strict  order,  against  the  Roman 
^  Catholic  religion  being  received  :  but  A.D.  1560,  this  was  cancell- 
^'ed,  and  his  sul^ects  were  permitted  to  embrace  any  fsdth  they 
''liked  best" 

After  Mar  Joseph  had  been  sent  to  Rome^  Mar  Abraham  reiumed, 
but  on  the  «xamination  of  his  briefs,  it  appeared  that  he  had  preva- 
ricated to  the  Pope,  and  he  was  therefore  detained  in  custody, 
whilst  inquiries  were  instituted.  But  not  liking  his  position  at  Qoa, 
he  contrived  to  escape  whilst  the  Friars  were  engaged  in  prayer, 
and  reached  his  flock  in  safety,  where  he  was  joyfully  received. 
But  the  Portuguese  were  determined  to  re-capture  him,  and  issued 
orders  to  that  effect 

Pope  Gregory  XIII  on  receiving  a  report  of  these  proceedings, 
ordered  a  council  to  assemble  at  Goa^  and  directed  Mar  Abraham  to 
attend  it,  sending  him  at  the  same  time,  letters  of  safe  conduct  He 
obeyed,  and  satisfied  the  council,  by  again  abjuring  his  faith,  and 
swearing  allegiance  to  the  Pope.  After  which,  he  was  allowed  to 
return  to  his  people. 


THK  POPS  01RSCT8  IKVSSTIGATION  INTO  TU£  SYRIAN  FAITIF.    22S 

Bolasaoon  as  he  reached  ACalabar  in  safety,  he  lMK>ke  all  his  oatiu,, 
and  taught  the  Syrian  faith  as  fonnerly :  writinga  letter  to  say,  that 
k  bad  only  abjured  it  through  fear  of  the  Portuguese,  **  who  were  over 
his  head,  as  an  hammer  is  over  an  anviL"  His  constant  troubles  ap- 
pear to  hare  affected  his  health,  as  he  applied  to  the  Patriarch  of 
BahyloQ,  lor  aoine  one  to  assist  him  in  hia  labours  during  his  lifetime, 
and  on  his  decease  to  succeed  him  iir  his  office.  His  request  was- 
granted,  and  Mar  Simeon  arrived  in  Malabar.  At  first  he  was  held 
ia  greater  respect  than  Mar  Abraham,  whose  repeated  abjurations 
«C  his  creed,  had  shaken  the  confidence  of  hia  flock,  who  could  no 
longer  be  certain  how  long  his  religious  tenets  would  continue 


Bat  after  some  time,  affairs-  went  on*  less  smoothly.  Mar  Simeon 
vas  imfiatient  fer  the  reins  of  power,  and  Mar  Abraham  tenacious 
of  what  he  coniudered  his  rights,  and  at  last  the  strife  waxed  s» 
warm,  that  the  two  Bishops  commenced  fulminating  ezcommnnica- 
tions  against  one  another. 

Mar  Abialiam  now  thought  that  the  Latin  Church  might  possibly 
sasist  hksa,  sc  he  denounced  Mar  Simeon  to  the  Piortuguese,  as  an 
en^nj  to  their  creed^  and  an  intruder  into  Malabar.  Upon  which 
Mar  Simeon  was  informed,  that  if  he  wished  to  succeed  Mar  Abra* 
ham^  it  was  necessary  for  him  to  proceed  to  Rome,  to  have  his  title 
ratified  by  the  Pope;  He  accordingly  placed  his  Vicar  Jacob  in 
charge  daring  his  absence,  and  went  to  Qoa,  from  whence  he  took 
ftUp  to  Portugal,  and  was  never  again  heard  of,  but  is  believed  ta 
^ve  esqpired  under  the  cruelties  of  the  Holy  office>  which  was  alike 
^orant,  either  of  toleration  or  indulgence,  where  heretics  were- 
concemed 

In  1590,  the  Archbishop  of  Goa,  Don  Matthias,  summoned  Mar 
Abraham  to  another  council,  but  by  this  time  he  had  no  further 
iteed  of  the  Portuguese,  having  got  rid  of  Mar  Simeon,  he  therefore 
vefused  conyliance,  and  declared  his  adhesion  to  the  rites  of 
the  Syrian  Church..  Five  years  subsequently.  Pope  Clement 
VIII  despatdied  a  brief  to  Don  Alexis  de  Menezes,  Archbishop  of 
Qoa,  ardefling  him  to  enquire  into  the  faith  of  the  Malabar  Bishop, 
and  his  flock.  In  the  event  of  finding  him  disseminating  heretical 
doctrines,  he  was  directed  to  supersede  Kim,  and  place  a  Vicar  Apos- 


224    SYRIANS  AND  BOMAN  CATHOLlCJi  COMB  TO  OPEN  RUPTUBE. 

tolic  of  the  Boman  Catholic  communion,  over  his  Bishopric,  and  thus 
bring  these  congregations  under  the  dominion  of  the  Papal  See. 

Menezes  found  Mar  Abraham  guilty  of  eyerything  laid  to  his 
charge,  and  it  was  discovered,  anticipating  that  he  would  be 
deprived  of  his  Bishopric,  he  had  sent  privately  to  Babylon  for  a 
successor.  Orders  were  then  despatched  to  the  Commandants  of 
every  port,  to  arrest  any  Chaldean,  Persian,  or  Armenian  ecclesiastic, 
who  had  no  pass  from  Menezes  himself,  or  any  person  who  might 
be  suspected  of  being  such,  although  under  the  disguise  of  mariners, 
mendicants,  or  any  other  class.  At  Ormuz  the  new  Bishop  was 
arrested,  and  subsequently  several  other  ecclesiastics  at  various  ports, 
disguised  as  mariners. 

Menezes  now  determined  on  bringing  the  Malabar  Church,  under 
the  control  of  the  Boman  Pontiff.  A  letter  was  then  despatched  to 
the  Vicar  Jacob,  whom  Mar  Simeon  had  left  in  charge,  inviting  him 
to  join  the  Boman  Catholic  faith,  and  holding  out  inducements  of 
rich  rewards  and  high  honours,  in  case  of  his  acceptance.  But 
wliilst  negotiations  were  being  carried  on,  Jacob  died,  and  on  this 
letters  were  sent  to  Mar  Abraham  and  his  Archdeacon,  advising 
them  to  lose  no  time,  in  eradicating  the  errors  of  their  Churches, 
and  bringing  th^n  imder  the  authority  of  the  Pope.  But  they 
declined  making  any  alteration,  in  the  rites  of  their  faith.  In  1597, 
this  versatile  Bishop,  Mar  Abraham,  died  :  on  which  Menezes  nomi> 
nated  a  Jesuit,  Francisco,  as  Yicar  Apostolic  of  the  diocese.  But 
subsequently  it  was  judged  advisable,  to  appoint  George,  then  the 
Syrian  Archdeacon,  and  the  President  of  the  Syrian  College  of  Vai- 
pacotta,  as  coadjutor,  with  Francisco  as  Bbhop.  But  the  Arch  dea- 
con refused  to  act  with  his  two  colleagues,  and  was  therefore  made 
the  Governor  of  the  Church,  and  strongly  urged  to  sign  the  confes- 
sion of  faith,  on  which  he  demanded  four  months  for  deliberation. 
At  the  end  of  this  time,  however,  he  positively  refused  to  accede, 
and  assembled  a  synod  of  Syrians,  and  in  their  presence,  swore 
always  to  defend  and  uphold  their  ancient  faith :  whilst  they  on  their 
part,  took  an  oath  to  protect  him,  from  the  power  of  the  Portuguese. 
Coi^ointly  they  then  issued  a  manifesto,  declaring  that  in»future  no 
Catholic  priest,  should  be  allowed  to  enter  within  the  precincts  of  any 
of   the   Malabar   Churches,   and  that  these  congregations  would 


SYRIAN   ARCHDEACON   DECIDES  TO  MEET   MENEZES.  225 

acknowledge    no    Bishop,     who    had    not    been    conjsecrated    at 
Babylon. 

Menezes  now  determined  personally  to  inspect  the  Churches  of 
Cochin,  but  was  compelled  to  defer  his  visit  until  the  following 
spring,  as  the  petty  Rajah  of  Paroor,  was  at  that  time  at  war  with 
a  neighbour.  But  he  wrote  to  the  Archdeacon  to  inform  him  of  his 
intentions,  the  announcement  of  which  was  received  with  great 
alarm,  as  the  Syrians  were  well  aware,  that  if  force  were  employed, 
they  must  succumb,  especially  as  the  Ri^jah  of  Cochin  would  assist 
the  Portuguese.  The  Archdeacon  consequently  wrote  a  most  sub- 
missive letter,  promising  to  sigu  the  confession  of  faith,  provided 
it  was  brought  to  him  by  a  Priest,  who  was  not  a  Jesuit.  A  Fran- 
ciacan  Friar,  accordingly  was  the  bearer  of  it  The  Archdeacon 
however  on  seeing  it,  refused  to  append  his  signature,  and  merely 
wrote  to  say,  that  he  was  a  Catholic,  and  would  believe  whatever 
tenets  were  held  by  that  Church.  But  as  Menezes  declined  accept- 
ing such  an  evasive  answer,  the  Archdeacon  eventually  signed  the 
confession. 

On  December  27th,  1598,  Menezes  accompanied  by  some  troops, 
embarked  at  Qoa.  On  his  arrival  at  Cochin,  the  Governor,  and 
principal  inhabitants,  gave  him  a  most  brilliant  reception.  He  then 
announced  his  intention  of  bringing  over  the  St  Thom^  Christians  to 
the  Catholic  faith,  and  made  enquiries  of  the  Bsjah  of  Cochin,  as  to 
whether  he  might  depend  upon  his  assistance.  The  Bajah  was 
averse  to  the  employment  of  force,  but  feared  to  run  counter  to  the 
Portuguese,  and  therefore  acceded  to  their  wishes  :  Menezes  agree- 
ing to  pay  the  sum  of  30,000  ducats  in  gold,  for  the  use  of  50,000 
Nairs,  should  their  assistance  become  necessary. 

The  Archdeacon  was  ordered  to  repair  to  Cochin,  and  letters  of 
safe  conduct  were  sent  him  for  that  purpose.  He  assembled  his 
Catanars,*  or  native  clergy,  and  the  principal  persons  composing  his 
congregations,  and  consulted  with  them  upon  the  best  course  to  pur- 
sue :  and  it  was  finally  decided,  that  the  Archdeacon  should  attend 
Menezes'  summons,  accompanied  by  3,000  well  armed  men,  to  protect 

*  Literally  iVatr  PHuU,  or  arigtocratio  clergy  :  the  first  Billable  being  of 
Syriac  origin,  the  second  a  corruption  of  NcwTf  a  Malabar  name  for  a  superior 
cbsB  of  Sudras. 

E  1 


226  MENEZES   PBEACHES  AGAINST  THE   SYRIAN  TENETS. 

him  against  treachery.  That  he  should  temporize,  and  give  way  to 
Menezes  in  small  matters,  evading  the  most  important,  in  hopes  that 
the  Portuguese  Priest,  would  soon  return  to  Goa,  and  that  their  long 
expected  Bishop,  would  shortly  arrive,  to  take  the  responsibility  up- 
on himself.  But  the  latter  was  in  prison  at  Ormuz,  of  which 
Menezes  was  aware,  although  they  were  not  so. 

The  party  accordingly  set  out,  the  armed  men  being  commanded 
by  two  Malabar  Chiefs.  On  his  arrival  at  Cochin,  the  Archdeacon 
was  conducted  to  the  presence  of  Menezes,  by  the  Qovemor.  After 
a  long  discussion,  a  truce  was  agreed  upon,  and  it  was  decided,  that 
ihey  should  conjointly  visit  the  Malabar  Churches,  and  meet  for 
that  purpose  on  the  following  day,  at  the  Syrian  College  of  Vypeen. 
On  arriving  there  as  appointed,  Menezes  found  that  the  Archdeacon  had 
not  come,  so  without  waiting  for  him,  he  proceeded  to  the  Church, 
dressed  in  full  canonicals,  and  delivered  an  elaborate  sermon,  on 
'^  John  X.  1,  ''  he  that  entereth  not  in  at  the-door,"  drc,  representing 
that  the  true  door  of  the  sheepfold,  was  not  through  Babylon,  but 
Rome.  He  informed  them  of  the  eidstence  of  purgatory,*  de- 
nounced the  Patriarchs  of  Babylon,  as  merely  thieves  and  robbers, 
and  concluded  by  declaring  his  intention,  of  holding  a  confirmation  in 
that  Church  on  the  following  day,  and  directed  the  whole  congregation 
to  attend,  that  they  might  be  admitted  into  the  true  faith.  Subse- 
quently when  present  during  the  Syrian  service,  he  found  that  the 
Patriarch  was  still  alluded  to  in  it,  notwithstanding  hU  exhorta- 
tion to  the  contrary  :  so,  determined  to  get  rid  of  this  objectionable 
person,  he  formally  excommunicated  him,  and  made  the  Archdeacon 
and  the  Catanars  sign  a  paper  to  the  same  effect,  which  was  affixed 
to  the  Church  door. 

The  people  now  became  greatly  enraged,  and  could  scarcely  be 
restrained  from  avenging  themselves  on  the  Portuguese,  but  the 
Archdeacon  and  Catanars  exerted  themselves  to  the  utmost^  to  keep 
them  quiet,  and  enforce   patience,    urging  that  then    they  could 

*  At  this  period,  the  RomiBh  Church  acknowledged  the  seven  sacraments, 
of  baptism,  confirmation,  the  eucharist,  penitence,  extreme  unction,  holy 
orders,  and  matrimony ;  the  Syrians  are  said  to  have  had  only  three,  viz.,  bap- 
tism, the  eucharist,  Mid  holy  orders,  and  to  have  repudiated  the  idea  of  pur- 
gatory. 


SYRIANS  AT   PAHOOR   RKPVSE  TO   BE   CONFIRMED.  227 

do  nothing  but  dissemble,  as  the  only  way  of  preserving  their  faith 
from  utter  extermination,  and  that  though  they  might  pretend  to  be 
Roman  Catholics,  they  were  all  willing  to  die  martyrs  for  the  Syrian 
f  aithy  when  the  proper  time  to  do  so  had  arrived,  which  they  thought 
was  not  just  then. 

The  Portuguese  governor  now  became  alarmed  for  Meneees,  and 
wrote  to  warn  him  of  the  exasperated  state  of  feeling  amongst  the 
Syrians,  recommending  him  to  use  a  little  more  precaution,  and 
proceed  more  gradually,  and  also  suggesting  that  he  was  perhaps  a 
little  too  despotic,  and  rash  in  his  proceedings.  But  Menezes  in 
reply  assured  him,  that  he  was  acting  according  to  what  he  believed 
to  be  rights  that  therefore  he  felt  no  fear,  and  no  compunction,  for 
what  he  had  done :  and  that  he  fully  intended,  visiting  the  whole  of 
the  Syrian  Churches. 

The  Syriac  Bishop  generally  resided  at  Paroor,  and  at  that  place 
the  Syrians  were  more  incensed  against  Menezes  than  at  any  other, 
and  imbued  with  an  intense  hatred  of  the  Boman  Catholic  creed. 
This  they  even  carried  to  such  an  extent,  that  when  two  of  the 
Bi^ah's  relatives  had  visited  Bome,  they  were  not  re-admitted  into 
this  State,  as  it  was  feared,  they  might  have  imbibed  some  of  the 
tenets  of  the  Latin  Church.  To  this  plaoe,  Meneses  accordingly 
proceeded.  On  his  arrival,  he  was  met  by  only  a  few  people,  and 
on  going  to  the  Church,  found  it  full  of  armed  men,  who  appear- 
ed inclined  to  dispute  his  entrance.  He  therefore  ordered  his  guard 
to  return  to  the  boats,  fearing  they  might  act  hastily :  and  unattended, 
entered  the  Church  in  his  canonicals.  After  blessing  the  congrega- 
tion, he  delivered  a  sermon  to  prove,  that  the  only  true  faith  was 
that  of  the  Boman  Catholic  Church,  and  exhorted  all  to  embrace  its 
tenets. 

He  proposed  confirming  them  all  on  the  following  day,  but  this 
they  positively  declined,  not  having  been  taught  by  their  own 
Priests,  that  such  was  necessary.  They  advised  him  to  return  to 
Cochin  at  once,  whilst  he  was  in  safety,  and  informed  him,  that  even 
if  their  brethren  at  Yypeen,  had  allowed  him  to  touch  their  heads, 
and  those  of  their  wives,  they  would  not  submit  to  such  a  disgrace. 
Menezes  was  quite  undaunted  by  this,  and  proceeded  to  point  out 
the  advantages  of  confirmation,  but  finding  that  they  only  became 


MENEZES  DIBFDTES  THE  NESTORtAN  TENETS. 

more  exdted,  and  that  he  was  doing  harm  rather  than  good,  he 
rose  and  ezckdmed, ''  I  preach  the  doctrines  of  Christ  and  of  St. 
^  Thomas,  believed  in  by  all  Christians^  and  in  defence  of  which  I 
**  fear  not  to  die."  He  diallenged  the  Ardideacon  (who  was  then 
present,)  or  any  of  those  who  were  so  bold  at  their  midnight  con- 
ventieles,  to  meet  him  in  the  broad  light  of  day,  and  argue  on  their 
faith ;  when  if  possible,  tiiey  wonld  have  an  opportunity  of  refut- 
ing Mm  in  his  reasonii^y  on  the  superiority  of  the  Roman  Catholic 
religion. 

The  Arohdeaoon  left  the  Church,  and  presently  retaming  with  » 
few  boys,  insultingiy  UAd  Menezes,  to  confirm  these  lads,  as  no  one 
with  more  sense,  would  submit  to  sndi  a  rite. 

Menezes,  finding  that  he  could  effect  nothing  at  Faroor,  proceeded 
on  his  tour,  to  visit  the  other  Syrian  Churches,  undeterred  by  the 
dangers,  threats,  and  machinations,  which  surrounded  him.  At 
every  step  armed  men  followed  him,  determined  to  compass  hia 
death,  but  he  contrived  to  evade  them.  The  Archdeacon  pursued 
the  same  route  as  himself,  and  entering  the  various  towns  first,  ef- 
(ectusUy  prevMited  the  Archbishop  from  obtaining  eitJier  a  congrega- 
tion, or  a  hearing.  At  length  Menezes  wrote  to  the  Ardideaoon 
again,  inviting  him  ai^  his  Ootanars  to  a  conf erenoe,  promising  to 
meet  them,  and  argue  as  friends,  forgetting  and  forgiving  all  that 
was  past.  Th^  answered  his  samm<m3,  accompanied  by  an  aimed 
force,  to  be  employed  either  fof  their  own  protection,  or  the  destruc- 
tion of  Menezes,  according  to  cirenmstances.  The  Ardideacon  first 
demanded,  if  he  had  not  denounced  their  Patriarch  as  a  heretic 
Menezes  replied  **  Before  I  answer  you,  tell  me  do  you  believe  in 
''  St.  John's  Qospel  V*  The  Syrians  exclaimed  that  th^  would 
rather  die  than  deny  its  truth.  ^  Then"  said  Menezes, ''  you  will 
''find  it  there  stated,  that  the  word  was  made  .fiesh  and  dwelt 
"  fynongst  us ;  whilst  all  Nestorians,  of  whom  the  Palariarch  of  Baby- 
'*  l(m  is  one,  say,  the  word  did  not  make  itself  flesh,  but  dwelt  in 
"  Christ  as  in  a  Temi^"  The  Syrians  could  not  reply  to  this,  but 
insisted  that  Menezes  should  not  attempt  to  confirm  any  more  mem- 
bers o[  their  faith,  but  in  future  conduct  himself  as  a  stranger, 
and  not  again  interfere.  He  agreed  to  convene  a  Synod  on  a 
future  day,  at  which  he  would  meet  them,  and  is  said  to  have  pro- 


MEKBZK8  SXPLIXS  TO  THREATS  OF  BANBE  OF  CAETIABTE.     229 

tnisedy  that  he  would  not  in  the  intermediate  time  confirm  any  more 
Syrians  :  but  tliia  is  probably  an  invention  of  the  Archdeacon,  as 
he  continaed  confirming  all  who  would  submit  to  that  rite. 

The  Archdeacon  then  sent  letters  to  the  heads  of  all  his  congre- 
gationSy  infoimiog  them^  that  Menezes'  object  was  *^  to  reduce  the 
**  Churches  of  Malabar  to  the  See  of  Rome,  and  consequently  the 
'^  Christians  of  St  Thomas^  to  the  authority  of  the  King  of  Portu- 
»gaL"  Meneases  appointed  a  Synod  to  be  hdid  at  Diamper^  at 
which  place  the  Syrian  rulers  had  formerly  resided.  He  repaired 
thither,  sending  to  inform  the  Archdeacon  that  he  intended  holding 
a  public  ordination,  and  suggesting  that  his  presence  would  be 
acceptable  to  him :  but  he  refused  to  attend,  and  requested  Meneses 
BoC  to  ordain  any  Syrian  youths,  unless  they  had  been  brought  up 
in  the  College  of  Vypeen.  Bat  the  Archbishop  replied,  that  his  duty 
to  the  Pope  his  master  must  be  performed,  and  that  he  should 
ordain  any  whom  he  considered  fit  for  the  Ministry,  without  any 
reference,  as  to  the  CoUege,  or  Seminary,  in  which  they  had  been 
educated. 

The  Archdeacon  then  issued  an  order,  forbidding  any  one  under 
pain  of  excommunication,  to  be  ordained  by  Meneses^  who  had  no 
authority  orer  the  Malabar  Churches^  from  which  he  called  on  all 
Catanars  who  had  any  regard  for  their  faith,  rigidly  to  exclude  him. 
But  before  this  edict  was  received,  many  had  applied  to  be  confirm- 
ed^  and  thirty-seven  were  ordained,  subscribing  to  the  Roman 
Catholic  confession  of  faith,  and  swearing  obedience  to  the  Holy  See. 

Meneses  then  continued  his  tour,  being  received  at  different 
places  in  various  manners,  but  on  the  whole  the  majority  of 
the  Syrians,  do  not  appear  to  have  met  him  in  a  hostile  spirit. 
High  mass  was  perfonned  at  Cartiarte,  on  Palm  Sunday.  He 
abdished  the  custom  firom  which  the  Priests  hadhitherto  derived  their 
revenue^  viz.,  the  annual  offerings  presented  at  this  season,  and 
also  attempted  to  introduce  auricular  confession.  The  Queen  of  this 
country,  ordered  him  on  pain  of  death  to  quit  her  dominions ;  but 
Meneses  replied,  ''I  have  my  work  to  perform,  and  untU  it  is  comple- 
^'ted,  I  shall  not  leave.  Compass  my  death  if  you  deem  such  a  course 
''good,  but  I  feel  assured,  that  Qod  will  avenge  himself  on  my  mur- 
"derers  in  the  next  world,  even  if  the  armies  of  Portugal  are  unable 


230  SYRIAN   ABCHBEACON  EXCOMMXTNICATED. 

''to  do  SO  in  the  present,  but  remember  that  you  have  already  felt 
"the  power  of  the  latter,  should  you  act  as  you  propose,  you  may 
"possibly  feel  it  still  heavier." 

That  night  he  held  a  Meeting  of  Catanars,  and  informed  them, 
that  he  was  quite  tired  of  these  constant  disputes  with  the  Archdea- 
con, and  intimated  his  intention,  of  giving  the  appointment  then 
held  by  him,  to  a  man  named  Thomas  Curian  who  was  present  The 
Catanars  pleaded  that  the  Archdeacon  was  very  young  and  inexperi- 
enced, and  asked  twenty  days'  grace  for  him  to  decide  upon  his  f utore 
conduct,  before  he  was  thus  superseded. 

On  Easter  eve,  the  Syrians  celebrated  their  lave  feast,  and  sent 
Menezes  a  double  portion,  which  was  graciously  received.  He  ap- 
pears to  have  been  always  ready,  either  to  visit  and  console  the  sick, 
or  to  give  money  to  assist  the  poor,  he  was  therefore  held  in  great 
esteem  amongst  the  Syrians,  for  his  kindness  and  charity,  as  well  as 
for  his  piety  and  humanity.  When  he  found  the  doors  of  Churches 
closed  against  him,  he  never  employed  force,  but  sending  for  the 
head  officials,  he  quietly  reasoned  with  them,  and  usually  prevailed 
upon  them  to  allow  him  to  enter.  The  Bajah  of  Cochin  sent  orders 
to  all  Syrians  in  his  dominions,  to  acknowledge  and  obey  Menezes 
as  the  head  of  their  religion,  imder  pain  of  his  heaviest  displeasure. 

The  Archdeacon  seeing  that  the  Syrians  were  rapidly  seceding 
from  their  ancient  faith,  and  embracing  that  of  Rome,  sent  a  threat- 
ening letter  to  Meneases,  informing  him  that  if  he  did  not  cease  his 
attempts  at  conversion,  those  who  still  remained  loyal  to  their  reli- 
gion, would  join  together  and  murder  him.  To  this  the  Archbishop 
immediately  responded,  by  ezcommimicating  the  Archdeacon,  as  an 
enemy  to  the  Pope,  and  one  striving  to  stir  up  the  Native  princes 
to  rebel  against  his  authority.  He  also  wrote  him  a  letter,  citing 
him  to  appear  before  the  tribunal  of  Qod,  to  give  an  account  of  the 
souls  that  through  his  obstinacy,  were  then  burning  in  hell,  and 
answer  for  the  crime  of  keeping  them  back  from  the  Church  of  Rome, 
beyond  the  pale  of  which  there  was  no  salvation.  On  the  receipt  of 
this,  the  Archdeacon  fainted  with  terror,  and  on  his  recovery,  declared 
that  he  plainly  saw,  that  now  he  must  either  submit  or  be  destroyed  : 
on  consideration,  he  decided  on  the  former  course,  and  wrote  to 
Menezes  to  that  effect. 


8YN0D  OF  DIAMPBB.  231 

Menezes  then  drew  up  a  deed  of  ten  articles,  wliich  the  Archdea- 
con signed,  promising  to  abjure  the  Nestorian  heresy,  confessing  that 
there  was  onlj  one  Christian  law,  agreeing  to  acknowledge  the  con- 
fession of  Pins  IV,  to  deliver  up  all  the  books  in  the  diocese  either 
to  be  amended  or  burnt,  as  might  be  deemed  advisable,  to  acknow- 
ledge the  Pope,  and  curse  the  Patriarch  of  Babylon.  He  also 
promised  to  receive  no  Bishop  unless  sent  by  the  Pope,  to  obey 
Menezes  as  his  prelate,  to  issue  letters  for  a  Synod  to  assemble  at 
Diamper  at  which  he  himself  was  to  attend,  and  after  it  to  accompa- 
ny Menezes  in  visiting  the  various  Churches.  This  paper  was  signed 
by  the  Archdeacon  at  Yypeen* 

On  Jtme  20th,  1599,  the  Synod  of  Diamper  assembled  at  that 
place.  Menezes  was  attended  by  the  Governor  of  Cochin,  the  civil 
find  militaiy  authorities  of  the  garrison,  and  a  strong  force  of  armed 
men  :  he  was  met  on  his  arrival  by  a  number  of  Romish  and  Syrian 
Priests,  altogether  there  were  153  Catanars  present,  eight  of  the 
most  respectable  of  whom,  with  the  Archdeacon,  and  four  laymen, 
were  nominated  as  a  committee:  to  them  Menezes  submitted  a 
decree,  which  he  had  composed  for  their  consideration,  and  approval ; 
and  it  met  their  unanimous  assent  After  High  Moss,  at  which  the 
choir  from  Cochin  attended,  the  sessions  began,  and  the  varioas 
decrees  were  passed  with  scarcely  any  opposition,  one  of  which  was 
that  Christians  should  refrain  from  touching  persons  of  inferior 
caste,  when  in  the  company  of  high  caste  heathens,*  but  forbade  all 
such  scruples,  when  only  Cjiristians  were  present 

However  there  was  one  thing  which  they  unanimously  agreed  in 
declining  to  give  up,  and  that  was  the  ancient  custom  of  praying  in  the 


*  The  four  Roman  CathoUo  castes,  are  at  the  present  time,  divided  in  the 
following  manner.  The  firsts  the  A  rawuinarleeear^  (or  the  community  of  sixty- 
four,)  is  said  to  have  oonaiflted  originally  of  conTorted  Brahmans  and  Kairs. 
The  Beoond,  the  MoonooUear,  (or  three  hundred,)  are  the  Latins,  or  Topasson, 
so  named  from  wearing  hats,  and  believed  to  have  mostly  sprung  from  domes- 
tic slaves.  The  third,  the  UnuUcar,  (the  five  himdred,)  are  considered  to  have 
originally  sprung  from  Mucuas,  or  converted  fishermen,  and  other  low  caste 
people,  they  generally  call  themselves  Moplabs.  The  fourth,  the  Srunoortecar 
(seven  hundred,)  are  the  descendants  of  the  soil  slaves.  The  Catanars  or  Priests 
are  generally  taken  from  the  second,  or  fourth  of  thcBO  communities  or  ciotcs. 


232  M£N£Z£S  RETURNS  TO  GOA. 

Syriac  tongue,  declaring  that  they  would  rather  sacrifice  their  liyes, 
than  pray  in  Latin.  Considering  that  they  were  equally  ignorant  of 
both  these  languages,  religion  could  scarcely  be  considered  as  being 
much  benefited  by  the  refusal  Menezes  seeing  that  on  this  point 
they  would  not  yield,  conceded  the  question,  as  they  had  allowed 
all  errors  to  be  expunged  from  their  liturgy  ;  and  so  the  Romo  Syriac 
Priests  continued  to  pray  in  the  Syriac  language,  although  very  few 
amongst  them,  comprehended  it  in  the  smallest  d^ee. 

All  married  Priests  who  refused  to  leave  their  wives,  were  excom- 
municated, and  the  Eomish  sacraments  established.  Menezes  thea 
in  order  to  place  the  Syrians  more  under  the  power  of  the  Portuguese, 
advised  the  removal  of  their  See  from  Angamiale  to  the  fortress  of 
Cranganore  ;  this  was  carried  into  effect  in  1605.  He  visited  the 
Syrian  Churches  throughout  the  country,  and  wherever  he  could  find 
any  Syriac  books  which  he  considered  heretical,  he  conunitted  them 
indiscriminately  to  the  flames,  and  once  at  least  whilst  these  sacred 
records  were  consuming,  he  headed  a  procession,  which  marched 
round  the  burning  pile,  chanting  hymns  in  the  praise  of  that  Qod 
whom  they  believed,  themselves  to  be  serving.  For  this  wantcm 
destruction,  his  name  has  been  held  in  execration,  but  scarcely  de- 
servedly so,  as  there  is  no  doubt  that  he  was  acting  purely  from 
motives  of  religious  zeal,  and  his  duty  on  such  a  point  would  be,  not 
to  regard  the  loss  of  valuable  literature,  when  he  considered  it  was 
more  than  imperilling  the  souls  of  numbers,  perhaps  dooming  them, 
to  eternal  miseiy.  Although  such  zeal  might  have  been  mistaken, 
surely  it  was  commendable  in  a  religious  point  of  view. 

At  this  time  the  news  of  the  Eling's  death  arrived,  and  Menezes 
prepared  to  return  to  Goa,  to  celebrate  high  mass.*     He  accordingly 

*  About  this  time  the  Roman  Caiholice  of  Calicut,  were  throvm  into  a  state 
of  great  ezcitemeut,  by  a  play  which  was  acted  by  the  Syrians.  The  principal 
characters  represented  St.  Thomas,  and  St.  Peter,  with  St.  Syriac  as  umpire. 
St.  Thomas  commenced  by  detailing  an  account  of  St.  Peter  and  himself, 
showing  how  they  were  both  disciples  of  our  Lord,  and  that  now  his  territories 
were  infiinged  upon :  that  he  claimed  the  East,  the  West  was  St.  Peter's,  and 
there  he  ought  to  remain.  St.  Peter  replied,  that  he  claimed  all  the  world, 
llie  umpire  St.  Syriac  decided  in  favour  of  St.  Thomas,  because  the  Christiana 
of  India,  depended  not  upon  St.  Peter,  but  on  the  Patriarch  of  Babylon, 
whilst  the  Portuguese  prelate  he  denounced  as  a  faithless  heretic,  and  decided 
that  the  decrees  extorted  by  force  at  Diamper,  were  manifestly  null  and  void. 


JESUIT  MISSIONS   ESTA6USBED   IN  MADURA.  233 

assembled  the  Syrians,  and  infonned  them,  that  as  they  hod  now  no 
Bishop,  they  ought  to  apply  to  the  Pope  to  send  them  one,  and  in- 
quired if  there  was  anybody  they  particularly  wished  to  be  appoint- 
ed to  the  vacant  post  They  replied  that  they  would  prefer  himself  , 
to  any  one  else.  A  remarkable  answer,  considering  the  way  in  which 
he  U  said  to  have  persecuted  them.  Menezes  then  promised  them 
that  if  h^  could  obtain  the  Pope's  sanction  to  such  a  course,  he 
would  resign  his  Bishoprick,  and  live  amongst  them  at  Angamale : 
aend  to  prove  his  sincerity,  he  transmitted  his  request  to  be  appointed 
Bishop  of  the  Syrian  Church,  resigning  his  See  at  Ooa.  But  the 
Pope  refused  to  permit  this,  and  appointed  Francisco  Rotz  a  Jesuit, 
who  was  principal  of  the  Syrian  College,  Archbishop  of  Cranganore. 
He  was  the  first  Latin  prelate,  who  ruled  over  Malabar,  and  from 
that  period  the  Syrians  were  under  the  See  of  Gk>a,  many  of  the  an- 
cient names  of  their  Churches  were  even  changed. 

Menezes  returned  to  Goa  on  November  16th,  1599,  where  he 
found  that  he  had  been  nominated  Governor,  the  people  received 
him  most  joyfully,  and* had  prepared  a  triumphal  arch  in  honour  of 
fais  great  victory  over  the  Syrians :  but  he  declined  any  public  re- 
cognition of  his  services,  remarking,  "  glory  is  due  to  Qod  alone." 

Governor  Moens  states,  that  in  "  A.D.  1600,  this  coast  was  placed 
**  by  Pope  Clement  VIII,  under  the  Jesuit  Father  Franciscus  Rotz, 
^a  Spaniard  by  birth,  as  Bishop  of  Angamale,  and  in  1609  (1605?) 
**  this  title  was  changed  for  Archbishop  of  Cranganore,  by  order  of 
^  Panlus  y,  and  in  1617,  the  aforesaid  Bishop  Rotz  died.  In  1609, 
*'  he  proceeded  to  Verapoly,  to  settle  some  disputes  between  Bishop 
''  DeSales,  and  the  Priests :  and  he  resigned  his  office  as  administra- 
"  tor,  to  Vanischt,  according  to  a  subsequent  order  received  from 
*^  the  Pope.  This  Bishop  had  under  him,  four  Latin  Churches, 
**  which  were  purely  Romanists,  viz.,  at  Chattiatte,  Verapoly,  a  dia- 
^  pel  at  Muttencherry,  and  Perimani  (on  the  Island  of  Vendoorty) : 
"  also  47  Syrian  Churches,  four  of  which  for  a  time  were  under  the 
"  Archbishop  of  Pootencherra,  or  Cranganore,  and  two  under  the 
"  Schismatics  Besides  these  there  were  many  other  Latin  Churches 
"here." 

In  the  year  1606,  a  Jesuit  Mission  was  established  at  Madura 
under  De  Nobili,  and  then  another  phase  of  Christian  worship  was 

F  1 


234  MAB  IGNATIUS  ARRIVES   FROM  BABYLON 

inaiigurated,  and  one  which  has  left  an  indelible  mark  of  disgrace 
upon  that  order,  in  which  "  the  end  sanctifies  the  means."  They 
infused  Hinduism  into  the  doctrines  of  Rome,  and  amalgamated 
the  two,  calling  themselves  western  Brahmans,  of  a  higher  order 
than  any  in  the  east.  They  dressed  and  ate  according  to  Brahma- 
nical  practices,  conformed  in  every  thing  to  their  doctrines,  and  not 
content  with  tliis,  actually /or^^e^  ajlfth  Veda^  as  supplementary  to 
the  four  existing  amongst  the  Hindus.  Idolatrous  Hindu  rites  were 
amalgamated  with  Bomish  ceremonies,  and  before  long  their  fol- 
lowers, (for  they  can  scarcely  be  called  converts,)  numbered  some 
thousands,  surely  it  might  have  been  affirmed  with  truth,  that  the 
Christians  had  become  Hindus,  not  the  Hindus  Christians  I 

^^  In  1617,  a  Jesuit  father,  Heronimus  Xavierre,  a  Spaniard,  was 
<'  made  Archbishop  of  Cranganore,  but  died  the  same  year  at  Qoa : 
"  he  was  succeeded  by  a  Jesuit  father,  Stephanus  de  Britto,  (a  For- 
"  tuguese,)  in  1618,  who  died  A.D.  1634,  and  in  1656,  his  post  was 
"  filled  by  father  Jesuit  Franciscus  Garzia  Mendez,  who  died  at 
"  Cochin  A.D.  1659.  From  that  period,  the  Churches  were  ruled  by 
"  the  Vicar  Apostolic,  as  Archbishop  of  Cranganore,"  (Moens,) 

In  the  year  1619,  a  conclave  of  Roman  Catholic  clergy  was  held 
at  Goa,  when  the  question  of  the  treatment  of  Brahmans  who  had 
embraced  Christianity  was  raised,  as  they  had  refused  to  give  up 
wearing  the  sacred  thread.  It  was  decided,  that  this  Hindu  mark 
of  the  twice  bom  classes,  was  no  badge  of  heathenism,  but  merely 
a  mark  of  nobility,  therefore  there  was  no  necessity  for  resigning  it, 
when  those  entitled  to  wear  it,  became  Christians.  As  the  Jesuits 
had  at  this  time  even  high,  and  low  caste  Churches,  this  decision 
might  have  been  anticipated. 

There  were  Jesuit  Bishops  of  Cranganore,  and  one  was  present  in 
that  fortress,  in  1 662,  when  it  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  Dutch. 
But  the  yoke  of  the  Jesuits,  had  for  some  years  become  intolerable 
to  the  Malabar  Christians,  and  they  had  determined  on  having  a 
Bishop  of  their  own,  they  therefore  appointed  their  Archdeacon  to 
hold  that  office,  and  wrote  to  the  Copts  of  Egypt,  the  Patriarch  of 
Babylon,  and  the  Jacobites  of  Syria,  requesting  that  a  Bishop 
might  be  sent  them. 
In  1653-54,  a  person  named  Attila,  or  Mar  Ignatius,  who  appears 


MAR   IGNATIUS  EXECUTED.  233 

to  have  been  a  Nesiorian,  arrived  as  Bishop  from  Babylon.  He  was 
hated  at  Damascas,  and  his  office  taken  from  him  for  bad  conducty 
on  which  he  fled  to  Alexandria^  and  the  Prelate  of  that  place,  propos- 
ed that  he  ahonld  proceed  to  India.  Bat  the  Portuguese  arrested  him 
near  Cranganore,  and  showed  a  letter  from  the  Patriarch,  approving  of 
thechdcemadeby  the  Syrians,  of  Thomas  as  their  Bishop,  but  under 
the  most  solemn  injunctions,  that  he  was  neither  to  consecrate  the 
oil,  nor  confer  orders,  and  directing  that  four  of  the  principal  eccle- 
siastics should  be  associated  with  him,  in  the  management  of  the 
Ghnrches  and  their  congregations.  Thomas  and  his  four  co-acyntors 
look  a  solemn  oath,  to  obey  every  direction  contained  in  the  letter. 
A  meeting  then  took  place  at  Diamper,  to  consider  the  best  course 
to  pursue  with  respect  to  this  new  Bishop,  the  minority  were  of 
opinion  that  it  would  be  best  to  submit  to  the  Jesuit  prelate,  it  was 
&udly  determined  to  invite  him  to  come  amongst  them,  intending 
to  make  him  prisoner,  and  hold  him  as  a  hostage  for  Mar  AttUa. 
But  he  was  far  too  waiy  to  trust  himself  in  their  hands,  knowing 
that  no  faith  could  be  put  in  their  promises. 

Mar  Attik  was  carried  a  prisoner  to  the  town  of  Cochin,  by  the 
Portuguese^  on  which  twenty-five  thousand  armed  Syrians,  with  the 
Archdeacon  at  their  head,  inarched  to  within  a  mile  of  this  place, 
from  whence  they  sent  messengers,  demanding  that  Attila  should  be 
given  up  to  them :  but  this  was  refused.  A  few  days  subsequently, 
Mar  Thomas  was  consecrated  to  the  office  of  Bishop,  twelve  Cata- 
aars  officiating  at  the  ceremony :  from  this  time  all  confidence  be- 
tween the  Syrians  and  the  Portuguese  was  at  an  end.  Whilst  the 
Syrians  were  before  Cochin,  Attila  in  the  dead  of  the  night  was  con- 
veyed on  board  a  Qalliot,  which  immediately  sailed  for  Qoa,  where 
the  Carmelite  Faoli,  says,  he  perished  in  the  flames  of  the  Inquisi- 
tion.* 


ThflNM  atr«liaonBtmmezistenoe,tlistthiilCar  AttilAWMdrowDedin 
ilie  Ooohvi  river,  by  the  Portugueee,  when  the  Syrians  oame  to  attack  the  town. 
Bui  as  he  is  stated  on  excellent  authority  to  have  been  burnt  at  Ooa,  it  seems 
■carcely  probable  that  he  died  in  two  different  ways,  at  two  different  places,  un« 
less  he  had  more  lives  than  usually  falls  to  the  lot  of  mortals.  Perhaps  when 
embarking,  he  fell,  or  jumped  into  the  river,  from  whence  he  was  dragged  out^ 
and  despatched  to  Qoa^  where  ''  flAmmis  datus  interiit/'    The  Syrians  had  a 


236  CABMBUTES  SSKT  TO  TBS  STBIAKS. 

Alexander  VII  hearing  of  this  defection^  and  considering  that  it 
was  to  a  great  extent  owing  to  the  conduct  of  tiie  Jesoits,  and  to 
their  having  displaced  the  native  Catanars,  to  make  room  for  crea- 
tures of  their  own  :  decided  on  sending  some  barefooted  Caimelites, 
to  supersede  thtf  Jesoits  in  Malabar,  they  arrived  at  Surat,  in  1656* 
But  the  Jesuits  who  believed  themselves  the  lawful  Ecdfisiastical 
masters  of  India^  refused  to  admit  them  into  their  Churches. 

They  however  reached  Cannanore  about  li^7,  and  were  warned, 
that  they  might  expect  great  opposition  from  the  Portuguese,  and 
the  Syrian  Archdeacon^  who  shortly  after  issued  orders^  rigidly 
excluding  them  from  admission  into  the  Churdies  under  his  authori- 
ty. But  the  Carmelites  soon  contrived  to  become  friendly  with  the 
Syrian  people,  especially  those  in  the  South,  although  from  the 
Jesuits  they  still  encountered  great  opposition. 

A  meeting  of  the  Malabar  Christians  was  decided  to  be  hdd  at 
Repelim,  on  the  fourth  Sunday  after  Easter,  in  1657,  and  the  Car- 
melites were  invited  to  join.  The  Syrians  evidently  cared  veiy  little 
who  ruled  over  them,  provided  that  the  Jesuits  did  not  The 
Carmelites  proposed,  that  Mar  Thomas  should  be  arrested,  and 
sent  to  Goa,  but  the  Archdeacon  did  not  approve  of  this  mode  of 
procedure,  as  he  was  aware,  that  a  very  common  maxim  at  Goa 
wasy  that  ''£iiith  need  not  be  kept  with  heretics.''  However 
nothing  was  finally  decided  on.  Shortly  after  this,  a  second  meeting 
was  held,  in  which  the  Carmelites  endeavoured  to  make  some  ami- 
cable arrangements,  which  might  hsing  the  Malabar  Qiurches  once 
again  under  the  sway  of  Rome.  But  their  proposals  to  that  effect  were 
decidedly  negatived,  as  however  informal  the  Archdeacon's  con- 
secration might  have  been,  the  S3rrians  wished  to  retain  him  in  his 
office.  Subsequently  finding  that  Mar  Thomas  himself  admitted  the 
irregularity  of  his  ordination,  his  congregations  became  doubtful,  as 
te  whether  he  really  were  a  Bishop,  and  many  in  consequence  of 

carving,  reproBenting  his  martyrdom  by  drowning;  which  formed  part  of  ft 
shrine  in  the  Church  at  Mayillicamy.  They  appear  to  have  prayed  before  it, 
and  treated  it  with  superstitious  reverence.  But  as  Attila  was  not  drowned, 
he  con  hardly  be  reckoned  a  martyr  on  that  score,  and  as  he  had  never  been  m 
India  previously,  the  Syrians  could  not  have  had  a  very  accurate  idea  of  his 
religious  attainments,  or  admimstratlYe  capacity. 


JESUITS   BSFUSB  TO   ACKNOWLEDOK   THE  CARMELITES.       237 

these  scmples,  rettirned  under  the  authority  of  Rome,  and  even 
Catanars  and  whole  congregations  seceded  in  a  body. 

The  Portuguese  at  Cochin  now  perceiving  that  Mar  Thomas 
conld  ''only  be  conquered  by  force,"  applied  to  the  Hindu  Rajah  of 
Mangatty  for  assistance,  which  greatly  alarmed  Mar  Thomas,  and 
induced  him  to  make  a  feint  of  submission,  by  writing  to  the  Car- 
melites, addressing  them  as  the  Apostolic  Commissioners,  a  title 
which  he  had  previously  refused  to  acknowledge.  He  also  offered 
to  obey  them  in  everything,  and  to  admit  their  authority. 

A  Council  followed,  at  which  deputations  from  twenty-four 
Churches  met  the  Carmelites,  and  decreed  that  as  Mar  Thomas'  ordi- 
nation had  been  informal,  it  was  consequently  null  and  void.  But 
Mar  Thomas  obstinately  refused  to  accede  to  this  decree,  or  to  ratify 
any  treaty  of  re-union  with  Rome.  At  a  meeting  subsequently  held, 
at  the  Church  of  St.  Thomas,  near  Cochin,  it  was  decided,  that 
Joseph  de  Santa  Maria,  should  be  nominated  as  Bishop  of  the  See  of 
Malabar,  an  election  which  was  afterwards  confirmed  by  the  Pope^ 
who  on  December  15th,  1659,  consecrated  him  Bishop  of  Verapoly. 
He  arrived  in  India,  in  April  1661. 

The  Carmelites  now  proceeded  to  Mangatty,  to  meet  the  deputa- 
tion of  the  Churches,  Mar  Thomas  also  went  there,  where  he  openly 
insulted  the  Carmelites,  and  refused  them  seats  before  the  assembled 
people.  It  was  finally  agreed,  that  until  the  arrival  of  the  Pope's 
decision,  one  of  the  Carmelites  should  act  as  Pastor. 

When  the  new  Bishop,  Joseph  of  Santa  Maria  arrived,  he  found 
that  the  Jesuit  Bishop  of  Cranganore,  Garziiei,  was  dead,  and  had 
nominated  as  his  successor,  a  Vicar  Gkneral,  who  refused  to  acknow- 
ledge the  new  Carmelite  Bishop.  The  assistance  of  the  Inquisition 
was  called  in,  and  by  its  aid,  his  opposition  reduced  to  submission. 
Mar  Thomas  had  been  very  active  in  his  exerti<His  against  the  new 
Bishop,  he  wrote  to  the  heads  of  the  various  Churches,  informing 
them  all,  that  Joseph's  briefs  were  forgeries,  as  he  had  never  really 
visited  Rome,  but  vras  merely  a  Jesuit  in  disguise.  Notwithstand- 
ing all  opposition,  fifty-two  Churches  recognized  the  new  Bishop, 
and  on  the  Native  Princes'  seizing  on  the  revenues  of  some  of  the 
most  refractory,  the  remainder  followed  their  example. 

A  conference  between  Mar  Thomas  and  the  new  Bishop  was  held, 


238  ROMO   SYRIAN   GOLLfiGK. 

at  the  Court  of  the  Ranee  of  Cochin,  in  the  presence  of  her  chief 
Officers,  and  numerous  Brahmans,  which  concluded  by  all  the 
Churches,  acknowledging  the  authority  of  Rome.  Mar  Thomas  having 
previously  excommunicated  all  who  had  joined  the  Bishop's  party, 
or  should  afterwards  do  so,  now  found  himself  left  without  friends, 
and  meditated  flight:  but  was  frustrated  by  the  inhabitants  of 
Candenaad,  who  had  been  made  responsible  for  producing  him, 
whenever  he  was  required,  under  penalty  of  an  enormous  fine.  He 
appears  to  have  been  in  communication  with  the  Dutch,  and  iB  a 
great  measure^  to  have  depended  on  their  taking  Cochin. 

When  the  Dutch  possessed  themselves  of  Cranganore,  (where  the 
Jesuit  Archbishops  resided,)  it  was  the  seat  of  learning,  science,  and 
religion,  in  Malabar.  Here  was  a  noble  Jesuit  College,  oontaining 
a  splendid  library,  whilst  within  the  fortress  walls,  a  magnificent 
Cathedral  reared  its  stately  head,  and  around  it  were  the  gorgeous 
and  costly  tombs  of  the  Archbishops  and  Bishops,  who  had  form- 
erly held  sway  over  this  famous  citadel  Beyond  the  walls 
at  Palliport,  was  the  College  of  the  Christians  of  St.  Thomas, 
for  the  instruction  of  youths  of  that  persuasion,  in  the  Syriac 
tongue.  *  This  last  building  was  subsequently  converted  into  a  Leper 
Hospital,  and  the  masters  and  pupils  removed  to  Changanacherry, 
which  from  that  period  they  termed  VaipacottaLf  The  Carmelites 
subsequently,  erected  a  seminary  at  Yerapoly.  Of  the  buildings 
within  the  fortress  of  Cranganore,  no  record  now  remains,  as  they 
were  totally  destroyed. 

After  the  capture  of  Cochin  by  the  Dutch,  in  1663,  all  European  Ro- 


*  History  is  silent  rospecting  what  became  of  the  numerous  Syriac  books, 
the  Dutch  must  have  obtained  at  Cranganore;  they  do  not  ever  appear  to  have 
b^n  given  to  the  world,  and  a  long  personal  search,  has  proved  their  non-exist- 
ence amongst  the  Dutch  records  of  Cochin. 

t  It  seems  that  after  the  advent  of  the  Dutch,  many  institutions  such  as  the 
above,  on  being  removed  to  more  secure  territory  in  the  Native  Statei^ 
took  the  names  of  their  original  stations  with  them.  Consequently  it  does  not 
,  always  follow,  that  Roman  Catholic  stations  which  bear  certain  names  at  the 
present  day,  are  the  eame  x'laces,  which  formerly  in  the  time  of  the  Portuguese 
bore  those  designations. 


CUKOPEAN  CATHOLIC  PRIESTS  ORDSKED  TO  LEAVE  MALABAfi.   239 

man  Catholic  Ecclesiastics,  were  ordered  to  leave  the  coast  Tlie  Car* 
melite  Bishop,  finding  that  he  had  only  ten  days  allowed  him  before  his 
departure,  consecrated  Alexander  de  Campo,  as  his  Vicar  Apostolic, 
and  Bishop  in  heretical  places.  After  which  he  excommunicated  Mar 
Thomas,  and  proceeded  to  the  town  of  Cochin,  to  answer  a  summons 
from  the  Dutch,  which  directed  him,  to  attend  on  them  at  that 
place.  He  there  made  many  ineffectual  efforts  to  obtain  the  coun- 
tenance of  the  new  governing  powers,  and  to  induce  them  to  sanc- 
tion his  remaining  in  Malabar,  but  contrived  to  instil  them  with  aver- 
sion towards  Mar  Thomas  and  his  party,  as  well  as  to  prejudice  them 
in  favour  of  De  Campo.  He  was  naturally  anxious  for  the  welfare  of 
a  Church,  for  which  he  had  done  so  much,  and  was  at  the  same  time 
irritated  against  Mar  Thomas,  who  was  evidently  a  bad  man,  who 
cared  only  for  his  own  aggrandisement,  and  was  indifferent  as  to  the 
means  employed  to  obtain  it,  provided  he  could  keep  himself  secure, 
from  the  strong  arm  of  the  temporal  powers. 

When  the  Dutch  were  established  in  Cochin,  the  position  of  the 
various  Christian  sects,  appears  to  have  been  as  follows.  Hie  Syri- 
ans had  at  last  partially  thrown  off  that  allegiance  to  Rome,  which 
had  been  obtained  from  tliem,  through  conviction,  bribery,  fraud,  or 
violence.  The  Jesuits  had  removed  their  ancient  Bishopric  of 
Angamale,  into  the  Cranganore  fort,  where  the  head  of  their  sect 
was  Archbishop  :  but  their  violence  had  rendered  them  abhorred,  and 
their  frauds  had  caused  them  to  be  detested  :  they  were  now  proscribed, 
but  obtained  an  asylum  in  the  Cochin  State. 

The  barefooted  Carmelites,  had  been  sent  by  the  Propaganda,  to 
attempt  to  stem  the  rising  storm :  to  alter  the  hatred  against  Priests, 
to  affection  for  them  :  and  by  kindness,  and  conciliation  to  the 
wants  of  all,  to  endeavour  to  refasten  the  links  of  that  Romish  chain, 
that  the  violence  of  the  Jesuits,  had  snapped  asunder.  The  Carme- 
lites were  commencing  to  be  favorably  received,  when  the  Dutch 
arrived;  at  this  period  a  Carmelite  Bishop  partly  ruled  the  Malabar 
Church,  whilst  the  Syrian  Bishop  was  a  Negro  unfavourably 
viewed  by  all,  and  in  fact,  a  fugitive  from  his  own  Churches, 
his  party  were  known  as  the  Neio  Christians,  and  lived  most- 
ly in  the  more  hilly  i>ortions  of  the  country.  The  Romish 
Church  was  divided  into  two,   the  Portuguese,   and  the    Italiiui 


240  BRITISH  RULE   OVER  SYRIAN  CHURCHES. 

Carmelites,  who  althougli  hostile  to  one  another,  both  compelled 
their  commnnicants,  to  follow  the  liturgies  of  Borne,  and  obey  her 
doctrines  without  reserve.  There  was  likewise  a  subdivision  of  them, 
or  the  Romo  Syrians,  who  differed  in  some  minor  points  from  the 
Roman  Catholics,  being  permitted  to  employ  the  Syriac  language  in 
their  Churches,  and  continue  some  of  the  Syriac  rites,  and  their 
Priests  were  dressed  in  white,  instead  of  always  in  black. 

When  the  Dutch  ordered  all  Romish  Ecclesiastics  to  quit  the 
country,  they  intended  without  doubt,  when  a  more  favourable  season 
came^  round,  to  purge  the  Roman  Catholic  and  Romo  Syrian 
Churches,*  of  the  errors  of  Rome,  and  the  Priests  of  Portogalt  ^^  well 
as  to  bring  them  all  into  the  bosom  of  the  Lutheran  Church.  But 
that  time  never  arrived,  an  hxmdred  years  passed  away,  and  the  new 
rulers  still  neglected  them,  and  when  a  little  more  than  another 
quarter  of  a  century  had  elapsed,  the  Dutch  sway  had  ceased,  the 
Lutheran  faith  had  passed  by. 

Next  in  succession  over  these  Churches  have  been  the  British, 
who  for  about  fifteen  years  took  no  notice  of  these  ancient  people  ; 
then  suddenly  it  was  discovered,  that  their  doctrines  though  few  in 
number,  were  pure,  and  essentially  i^reed  with  those  of  the  Church 
of  England.  Missionaries  were  despatched  to  them,  a  CoUege  was 
erected,  the  Ranee  endowed  it.  Churches  were  reared,  when  a 
misunderstanding  occurred,  the  Syrians  refused  to  continue  acting 
conjointly  with  the  Europeans,  and  it  was  then  discovered,  that  they 
were  idolatrous,  and  imbued  to  the  core  with  the  errors  of  Rome, 
and  further  connection  was  dissolved.  It  is  a  divided  Church,  con- 
taining much  evil  and  good  intermixed,  but  consisting  of  a  people,  no 
impartial  person  can  view  without  interest,  as  well  as  being  persuad- 
ed, of  their  immeasurable  superiority  over  the  surrounding  Hindus- 
They  appear  to  feel  their  importance,  and  to  be  proud  of  their  ancient 
independence. 

It  has  already  been  mentioned,  (Chapter  lY,)  how  {he  Dutch  at 
first    procured    Converts,   but   how  rapidly  temporal    retribution 

followed.     The  native  (Roman  Catholic)  Christians,  applied  to  the 

.11.1.1  *■  -  II  ■ — . 

*  The  Dutch  never  h;id  the  protectorate  over  the  Syrian  Churches,  common- 
ly known  as  the  "Hill"  or  "  New  or  St.  Thomas'  ChriitiaiiB/'  but  they  had  over 
all  the  other  Chi'istiau  sects. 


DUTCH  BECOME  MOKE  FRIENDLY  TO  THE   CABMBUTES.      241 

lk>chjn  Rajah,  for  a  piece  of  land,  exterior  to  the  Dutch  limits, 
where  th«j  could  erect  houses  for  themselves^  and  worship  in  the 
manner  they  had  been  accustomed  to.  The  Rajah  acceded,  they 
handed  over  to  him  a  large  sum  of  money,  as  a  species  of  mortgage 
upon  the  ground,  and  having  entered  into  possession,  they  were 
permitted  to  enatt  their  own  civil  and  ecclesiastical  rules.  The 
Dutch  at  first  were  more  intolerant  to  Roman  Catholics,  than  were 
the  Hindu  Rajahs,  fur  they  refused  leave  to  the  Carmelite  Bishop 
Joseph,  to  remain  on  their  coasts.  Anticipating  this  order,  a  native 
Catanar,  Alexander  de  Camix)  had  been  consecrated,  to  carry  on 
the  necessary  work.  The  Dutch  officials  when  ordering  the 
European  Priests  to  leave,  raised  no  objection  to  De  Campo  remain- 
ing, as  head  of  Hie  Malabar  Churches,  concerning  the  affairs  of 
which,  they  did  not  at  this  i)eriod  much  concern  themselves.  Had 
they  considered  it  expedient  that  the  Syrians  should  have  again  pos* 
se.ssed  their  old  forms  of  Church  Government,  surely  Mar  Thomas 
would  have  been  encouraged,  but  the  Dutch  forbad  him  to  enter 
the  town  of  Cochin,  and  would  hold  no  intercourse  with  him.  Had 
the  intention  been  to  leave  the  Churches  to  choose  for  themselves, 
tkey  would  not  have  taken  De  Cam|>o  by  the  hand.  In  fact,  they 
either  cared  nothing  for  the  Syrians,  or  believing  they  were  at  that 
period  friendly  to  Rome,  they  wished  for  political  reasons,  to  exalt 
the  Carmelites  who  were  Italians,  above  the  Jesuits  who  were  mostly 
Portuguese,  and  therefore  more  to  be  dreaded.  The  Nestorian 
Bishop  was  consequently  set  aside,  and  the  Carmelite  star  became  in 
the  ascendant,  in  the  person  of  their  pupil  De  Campo. 

The  European  Romish  Priests,  do  not  *appear  to  have  thought 
lightly  of  deserting  their  flocks  ;  some  retired  to  the  Samorin's  terri- 
tory,  and  attempted  to  treat  with  the  Travancore  Rcgah,  who  was 
not  very  friendly  to  the  Dutch,  the  ally  of  his  enemy  the  Rsgah  of 
Cochin.  Some  Carmelites  are  said  to  have  hidden  themselves  in 
thickets,  and  forests,  where  they  lived  in  caves,  or  trees,  supported 
by  their  flocks^  and  tended  by  their  congregations. 

The  Dutch  now  perceiving  the  error  they  had  committed,  wished 
to  induce  the  Roman  Catholics  to  return,  and  communications  between 
the  Cochin  Council,  and  the  banished  Romish  Priests,  assumed  an 
official  form.    In  1673,  Matthoeus,  had  become  so  honoured  by  the 

G  1 


242  DISSENSIONS  IN   THE   SYRIAN   CHTTBCir. 

Dutch  Governor,  that  he  obtained  leave  for  Priests  to  appear  openlyy 
and  even  no  objection  was  offered,  to  the  Cochin  lUyah  giving  them 
leave  to  build  a  house  at  Chattiate,  near  EmacoUum.  This  Mat- 
fhoeus  is  the  same  eminent  Priest,  who  was  so  useful  to  the  Gover- 
nor of  Cochin,  H.  Van  Reede,  (also  a  good  scholar,)  in  the  prepara- 
tion of  his  Uorius  Malabaricus^  ^  • 

In  this  year,  the  Carmelites  were  permitted  by  the  Rajali,  to  erect 
their  present  Churchy  at  Veropoly^  which  was  founded  by  Bishop 
Florentius,,  and  dedicated  to  St  Joseph.  This  beautiful  structure 
(see  page  21)  is  modelled  after  St.  Peters*  at  Borneo  Some  uuJcnowa 
power,  (perhaps  the  Dutch^  induced  the  Cochin  Rajah,  to  yearly 
despatch  an  order  to  Verapoly,  directing  the  Clergy  there,  to  receive 
none  of  his  subjects  into  the  Catechumen's  house,  neither  to  baptize 
any.  This  letter  was  continued,  for  30  or  40  years.  The  Travan*- 
core  Rajah  a  little  later,  threatened  death,  or  imprisonment,  to  all 
high  caste  Hindus^  who  might  embrace  the  Romish  faith,  and  loss 
of  property  to  all  Sudras.  He  even  carried  his  threat  into  executioi^ 
and  had  the  Nair  head  of  a  family,  shot  at  Arampulli,  for  refusing 
to  renounce  this  faith,  which  he  had  recently  embraced. 

In  1680,  an  attempt  was  made,*  to  sell  back  to,  or  exchange  with 
Portugal,  the  stations  where  the  Roman  Catholic  religion  had  taken 
such  hold,  retaining  Cochin  for  the  purposes  of  trade.  The  Dutch  ap^ 
pear  to  have  valued  these  congr^ations,  higher  than  did  the  Portu- 
guese, so  the  sale  was  not  effected. 

Dissension  marked  the  internal  state  of  the  Malabar  Churches 
and  disunion  reigned  almost  supreme.  After  the  accession  of  GuL- 
mer  Vorsburg,  as  Governor  of  Cochin,  in  1G84,  a  series  of  cruelties 
marked  the  treatment  of  all  of  the  Roman  Catholic  creed.  At  last, 
an  arrangement  was  come  to,  and  the  Home  Council  perceiving 
nothing  could  be  done  vrith  the  Malabar  Churches,  neither  would 
the  Portuguese  purchase  them,  permitted  Romish  Priests  to  return 
to  their  flocks. 

"  It  appears  from  a  letter  of  the  Honourable 'Court  of  Directors^ 
•*  of  Amsterdam,  to  the  Government  of  Cochin,  dated  8th  ApriV 


•  Secret  order$,  of  the  Batavian  Government.     Ooremment  Jiecords. 

j  Afemorial  of  Cfovemor  Moens,  M.SS.  p.  308,  Cochin  Oova-nment  Records. 


cniTRCHEa    UKDER   THE   DUTCH.  245 

"  1C98.  Tliat  in  consequence  of  a  request  of  His  Majesty,  (the 
**  Emperor  Leopold,)  and  his  promise  of  jdlowing  tlie  free  exercise 
**  of  the  Protestant  religion  in  his  dominions,  permission  was  granted 
"  to  Mr  Peter  Paul  tie  Paln^  Archbishop  of  Ancyres,  Privy  Coun- 
"  cillor,  and  Envoy  extraordinary  to  the  Courts  of  Persia  and  Ethio- 
**  pia,  by  letters  patent,  to  send  a  f«w  Priests  of  the  order  of  the 
**  barefooted  Carmelites,  (any  other  Komish  Priests  excepted,)  to 
"  thes%  countries,  as  was  hitherto  practicable,  whose  number  is  fixed 
'^  at  ^  or  8.  On  condition,  that  the  aforesaid  Carmelite  Priests, 
^  should  be  Dukhm/ui^  Germans,  or  ItaliaM,  and  liked  by  the  Ho- 
**  nowrable  Company.  And  moreover,  that  they  should  make  them- 
*'  selves  subject  to  every  order  and  regulation  of  the  Company,  as 
"  every  other  of  their  inhabitants  does." 

The  Dutch  have  not  left  many  records  of  Mbt  Christiana  in  Mala- 
bar, when  under  their  rule,  for  they  interfered  but  little  in  their 
ecclesiastical  concerns*  The  Syrians  applied  to  them  to  obtain  a 
Bishop  from  Babylon,  but  they  declined ;  at  last,  a  Jew,  Ezekiel, 
was  induced  to  procure  one.  In  1747,  he  arrived  from  Bussorah,  but 
was  very  much  disliked,  so  a  few  years  subsequently,  was  re-rfiipped, 
to  return  to  his  own  countiy.  Another  was  sent  for,  and  landed  the 
same  year,  from  a  Dutch  vessel,  together  with  three  Metrans,  and 
two  Psiests.  Twelve  thousand  rupees,  were  demanded  for  their  pas- 
sage. Angry  eommunicatioHS  ensued,  until  at  last  the  painful  scene 
was  witnessed,  of  a  suit  ksting  years,  tn  Travancore,  in  which  a 
Christian  Qovernment  were  the  [riaintiffs,  and  a  Christian  people 
defendants ;  and  the  subject,  the  amount  of  money  at  which  a 
passage  for  a  Bishop  and  five  Priests  was  valued,  whilst  a  Hindu 
Court  of  justice,  was  the  place  chosen,  for  the  arbitration  of  this 
unseemly  strife. 

TTie  Ohurches  according  to  MoenSy  **  under  tSie  Company  were, 
"  the  Church  at  Vypeen,  Crusmilagri,  Balarparte,  Palliport,  Cranga- 

*  They  inrere  however  jealous  of  foreign  interference;  thus  in  1740,  when  the 
MoTQivion  United  Brethren,  attempted  to  establish  a  Mission  in  Ceylon,  the 
Clergy  opposed  the  project  so  virulently,  that  the  Governor,  Van  Imhoff,  was 
obliged  to  order  the  Missionaries  to  settle  inland,  beyond  the  Dutch  limits. 
At  the  end  of  that  year,  Van  Imhoff  was  promoted^  to  Batavia,  and  the  Mora- 
vian]^ in  October  were  expelled  the  Island. 


244  DISTOTB  AS  TO  DUTCH  EIGHTS  OVER  CHEISTIANSc 

"nore,  Paponetty,  Chetwye,  Vefndoorty,  Angikaimul,  (this  last 
"  Church  originally  belonged  to  the  Syrians,  it  was  subsequently 
"given  over  to  the  Romanists^  for  the  use  of  the  Topassesand 
"  Christian  Peons,  so  is  under  the  protection  of  the  Company,) 
'*  Muttencherry,  Sande  with  its  chapel  (two  miles  south  of  Cochin), 
"  the  Church  is  called  that  of  ^' Senhora  de  Sande,"  and  its  chapel  that 
'^  of  "  St.  Janquebrado,^'  the  Church  of  St.  Louis,  and  its  chapel  of 
"  St.  Jago,  at  Castella,  one  mile  south  of  Jews*  town.  That«of  St. 
''  Andrew,  and  its  chapel  of  Tangie  (now  called  Attingal,  or  St.  An- 
"  drea),  of  Tombolie  (close  to  Allepey),  Catoorty  (north  of  AUepey), 
"  and  Manikoorde.  The  Topass  Priests  were  taught  in  the  Semi- 
"  naries  of  Yerapoly,  and  Pootencherra  (Cranganore),  and  the  Cata- 
"  nars  in  that  of  Candanatty  (Candenaad.)'' ' 

Amongst  the  accounts  of  the  agreement  between  the  Bajah  of 
Cochin  and  the  Dutch,  respecting  the  Native  Christians,  the  mo&t 
complete  summary  is  found  in  the  Memorial  of  Qovemor  Van 
Angelbeck,  dskted  1793. 

After  observing  that  in  the  treaty  dated  March  20tli,  1663,  the 
Kajah  of  Cochin  consented  to  become  a  vassal  to  the  Dutch.  He 
continued,  that  constant  dilutes  had  taken  place  with  the  Cochin 
Bajah,  respectii^  the  '^  Inland  Christians"  over  the  RouMtn  Catholic 
or  Romo  Syrian  (but  not  the  Syrian)  portion  of  which,  they  claimed 
authority,  ia  accordance  with  article  3  of  the  treaty  of  1663. 

When  discussions  arose  upon  this  subject,  respecting  the  Canarese, 
and  lasted  two  years,  up  to  about  1789,  Mr.  Powney  the  English 
Commissioner,  observed  upon  a  difference  which  existed  between 
the  Kajah's  Malayalim  copy  of  the  treaty,  and  the  Dutch  one.  In 
the  former,  the  Dutch  were  given  authority  over  all  Moondoocara, 
(persons  wearing  white  dothing,)  located  near  the  town  of  Cochin, 
and  those  living  along  the  coast.  The  Dutch  copy  after  the  word 
Moondoocars^  had  added,  '*viz.,  all  Christians,"  words  absent  in  the 
Bajah's  copy.  The  Btgah  and  Mr.  Powney  insisted,  that  by  the  term 
''  Moondoocars,"  only  the  fishermen  were  meant :  but  Mr.  Van 
Angelbeck,  got  the  Carmelite  Priests  of  Yerapoly,  and  other  persons 
well  acquainted  with  the  language,  ^who  declared,  that  it  included 
"  all  who  followed  the  Latin  ritual,  and  not  only  the  fishermen,  but 
''  also  the  Lascorins  (peons),  land  cultivators,  and  handicraftsmen, 


BULES  BXSPECTINO  LANDS  HELD   BT   CHRISTIANS.  245 

"  (if  Christiafifl),  as  well  as  Topasses."  He  added  ''that  by  a  cou- 
"  vention  completed  in  1785,  it  was  clearly  defined,  that  not  only 
''  fishermen,  but  all  the  others,  classes  before  mentioned,  were  includ- 
''  ed  in  the  term  ''  Moondoocars." 

To  prevent  Mr,  Pouniey  from  knowing  anything  of  the  result,  the 
matter  was  settled  with  the  Rajah,  without  being  committed  to 
writing.  Van  Angdbeck  stated,  tluit  the  former  conceded  everything, 
aod  apologized  for  having  listened  to  Mr.  Powney's  advice. 

Reverting  to  earlier  times,  Van  Angelbeck  observed,  that  one 
Dutch  right  was,  that  all  Christians  should  be  tried  by  them.  This 
the  heathen  subjects  of  the  Rajah  often  took  advantage  of,  and 
when  they  had  committed  crimes,  were  baptiz^  in  order  to  be  freed 
from  the  Rajah's  jurisdiction.  But  they  were  frequently  handed 
over  to  the  Native  State,  in  order  that  it  might  not  be  considered, 
that  Christianity  afforded  a  refuge,  from  the  punishment  due  to 
crimes. 

The  second  right  was,  that  the  Rajah  was  unable  to  impose  new 
demands  on  the  Christians,  or  increase  their  taxes  above  what  was 
paid  by  their  forefathers.*  But  it  was  added,  in  the  treaty  of  Fe- 
bruaiy  25th,  1664, — ''  That  the  subjects  of  the  Rajah  who  have  been 
''  accQStomed.  to  contribute  head  money,  and  other  demands,  shall 
"  not  be  freed  from  their  obligations,  by  becoming  Christians."  Any 
daim  the  Rajah  had  on  the  Christians,  had  to  be  made  through 
their  Commandant,  who  alone  ooold  attach  their  houses,  or  gardens, 
or  imprison  thsm.  If  lands  could  be  proved  to  have  formerly  be- 
longed to  heathens,  or  by  the  convention  of  1785,  should  Christians 
porchasey  or  rent  lands  from  the  heathen,  they  were  liable  to  im- 
posts, which  the  purely  Christian  lands  were  exempt  from.  In  1762, 
when  Kyder  made  heavy  demands  on  the  Cochin  State,  the  Dutch 
admitted  the  justice  of  the  Native  Christians,  contributing  their 
Bhare  of  the  expenses. 

*  Land  dispofled  of,  either  by  the  Ooreroment  of  Codiui,  or  by  that  of  Tra- 
▼aiKXffo,  had  certain  ocmditiona  or  obligations  stUched  to  the  transfer.  Some- 
timea  they  were  rent  free,  or  on  a  very  reduoed  rate,  or  tax,  on  condition  that 
the  holder  should  perform  aome  perticular  servioe^  auch  as  beating  out  a  cer- 
tain quantity  of  paddy  in  the  year,  carrying  a  certain  number  of  loads  from  one 
place  to  another,  or  supplying  a  certain  quantity  of  artidee,  such  as  milk,  oil 
floweri^  &e.,  at  stated  periods. 


246  THE   DUTCH   ASSIST   THE  ROMAN   CATHOLICS. 

Vail  Angelbeck  observed,  that  "  the  Company  however,  deriv- 
"  ed  no  advantage  from  these  vassals,  by  their  protection,  either 
"  in  the  way  of  income,  or  personal  work,  and  their  Commandant  had 
"  really  nothing,  but  daily  trouble  with  His  Highness'  Court." 

Many  Eomo-Syrian  congregations,  attempted  in  1709,  to  join  the 
Sjrrians  :  in  1773,  they  declared  themselves  under  the  Latin  Church, 
and  in  1777,  sent  to  Eomo  and  requested  tliat  a  Romo-Byrian  Bishop 
might  be  attached  exclusively  to  them.  In  1787,  they  tried  to  shake 
off  all  connection  with  the  Carmelites  of  Yerapoly,  but  were  reduced 
by  force,  for  which  purpose,  Mr.  Van  Angelbeck,  the  Governor  of 
Cochin,  lent  his  assistance,  and  wrote  several  times  to  the  neigh- 
bouring Rajahs,  requiting  them  to  help  the  Carmelites,  by  force  if 
necessary. 

In  1770,  the  Travancore  Minister  wrote  to  the  Roman  Catholics 
at  Verapoly,  announcing  to  them,  that  they  were  declared  hencefor- 
wards,  free  from  all  Public  burdens  whatever.  Four  years  subse- 
quently, a  petty  officer,  tried  to  reimpose  them,  but  on  the  occasiou 
of  the  presentation  of  a  letter  from  the  Pope  to  the  Rajah  of  Travan- 
core, the  Delegates  took  the  opportunity  of  bringing  all  their 
grievances  to  notice,  when  they  were  rectified,  and  an  instrument 
granted  to  the  Missionary  establishment,  giving  them  immunity  in 
future  from  all  imposts  whatsoever.  In  1 783,  some  of  the  Latin  clergy- 
fined  certain  Christian  congregations  of  i&hermen  in  Travancore, 
who  complained  to  the  Rajah,  who  decided  on  separating  75  Churches 
from  the  Diocese  of  Cochin,  and  placing  them  undei*  the  Verapoly 
Mission,  but  this  was  never  carried  out  in  full.  The  Roman  Catholic 
Bishop  seems  to  have  been  treated  with  civility  by  the  Dutch,  and 
Moens  states,  that  when  once  he  paid  him  a  visit  at  Cochin,  "  he 
"  thought  it  but  right  to  show  him  due  respect,  and  on  his  return 
^  had  a  guard  of  honour  drawn  up,  who  saluted  him,  and  nine  guna 
"  were  fired  from  the  battery."  But  his  successor,  Van  Angelbeck, 
observes,  that  when  the  Bishop  at  a  later  period  visited  him,  he  did 
not  receive  him  with  any  honours.  A  letter  was  received  by  Governor 
Moens,  from  Pope  Clement,  dated  July  23rd,  1772,  thanking  him  for 
the  support,  which  the  Roman  Catholics  had  received  from  the 
Cochin  council. 

The  English  at  this  time,  held  but  little  territory  in  Malabar,  and 


DR.   CLAUDIUS   BUCHANAN   VISITS   THE  8YBIANS.  247 

had  scarcely  commenced  to  be  a  political  power.  The  first  scheme 
of  the  Church  Missionary  Society,  appears  to  have  been  organized 
in  Calcutta,  by  Measra  Orant^  Brown,  Chambers^  and  Udory  :  the 
first  mentioned  of  these  (a  Bengal  Civilian,)  agreed  to  give  Bs.  300 
a  month  towards  supporting  a  Missionary,  who  it  was  proposed, 
Bhould  go  to  Benares^  to  leani  the  Sanscrit  hun^goage,  and  native  man- 
ners and  customs,  before  afttemptii^  to  argue  against  a  creed,  the 
leading  features  of  which  he  might  otherwise  very  possibly  not  un^ 
derstand.  This  plan  unfortunately  failed,  but  not  from  any  want 
of  support,  amongst  the  lay  members  * 

In  17^3,  Mr,  Wilberforee  carried  a  series  of  resolutions  in  the  House 
of  Commons,  pledging  it,  that  Christianilj  and  education  should  bo 
extended  in  India.  The  Court  of  Directors  considering,  that  their 
rights  were  being  encroached  on,  and  unfair  reflections  passed  upon 
themsekes  and  their  actions,  assailed  these  measures,  and  thus 
opposition  was  engendered,  where  conciliation  only  was  needed. 
Wilberforce's  party  were  in  too  great  haste  to  commence  the  evangeli- 
zation of  India,  an  event  no  less  desired  by  the  Court  of  Directors 
than  by  themselves^  although  in  a  less  impetuous  and  safer  manner. 

In  1714,  two  Bishops  ruled  the  divided  Syrian  Church  of  Mala- 
bar, Mar  Thonuis  a  Jacobite  in  the  south,  and  Mar  Gabriel  a  Nesto- 
lian  in  the  north*  In  1751,  the  Patriarch  of  Antioch  was  no  longer 
able  to  send  a  Bishop,  and  for  many  years  subsequently,  the  Syrians 
elected  and  consecrated  one  from  amongst  themselves* 

During  the  remainder  of  the  eighteenth  century,  but  litde  was 
done  in  religious  matters  in  the  Cochin  territory.  The  Dutch  were 
flw^ept  away  by  the  British,  who  at  first  were  too  much  engaged  in 
temporal  arrangements,  to  occupy  themselves  with  the  requirements 
of  the  Syrians.  In  1806,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Claudivs  Buchanan  visited 
these  Churdies,  anl  interested  himself  warmly  in  their  behalf :  but 


*  It  must  be  ft  subject  of  regret,  to  the  welt  wiahers  of  a  Christianity  of 
peace  and  love,  to  perceive  the  -virulent  declamations,  of  some  Protestants, 
ftgamst  those  in  authority,  whom  Ihey  denounce  as  passively,  if  not 
actively  hostile  to  religion.  The  chapter  on  the  Dutch,  shows  how  Christianity 
flourishes  under  hot  house  cultivation  :  and  the  present  lamentable  paucity  of 
Protestants,  in  the  Cochin  and  Tranvancore  States,  the  subsequent  result  of 
such  a  plao^ 


248  THE  INQTJISITION  OF  GOA. 

he  was  rather  of  a  head  strong  disposition,  and  effected  little  good. 
He  requested  the  Carmelite  Vicar  Apostolic  of  Verapoly,  not  to  offer 
any  objections  to  the  circulation  of  the  Scriptures  in  the  Malayalim, 
and  Syriac  languages,  amongst  his  congregations,  a  request  also 
strongly  urged  by  CoL  Macaulay,  and  at  once  acceded  to.  Up  to 
within  the  last  few  years,  Protestant  publications  were  freely  receiv- 
ed, but  unfortunately  one  of  the  Missionaries,  who  was  unable  to 
obtain  converts  from  the  Boman  Catholics  around  him,  published  a 
tract  in  Malayalim,  a  portion  of  which  endeavoured  to  prove,  that 
ths  Roman  Catliolic  feasts^  were  as  had,  or  worse,  than  those  of  the 
Hindus  !  In  consequence  of  this  unfortunate  production,  which  was 
distributed  gratuitously,  all  Protestant  works  have  since  then,  until 
just  lately,  been  strictly  prohibited.  The  Roman  Catholics  are  now 
removing  this  prohibition,  and  surely  it  will  be  unwise,  to  cause 
any  further  irritation.  • 

For  some  years  the  worship  in  the  Churches  under  Romish  sway, 
continued  much  in  the  same  mamier  as  formerly;  Captain  Swanston 
speaking  of  them  about  the  latter  period  of  the  Dutch  rule  says, 
'^  The  Christian  religion  has  degenerated  in  the  Roman  Catholic 
<'  Churches  of  Malayala,  into  the  most  abominable  superstitions : 
^  which  are  equal  to  many,  if  not  to  all  the  disgusting  ceremonies, 
'<  of  the  monstrous  worship  of  Brahma."  But  since  then  a  partial 
improvement  has  become  visible,  and  many  rites  which  a  few  years 
ago  were  countenanced,  are  now  almost  unknown.  StUl  the  native 
Roman  Catholic,  seldom  enters  a  Portuguese  Church :  and  the  Romo- 
Syrian,  goes  to  neither  of  them.  Thus  Churches  may  be  seen  stand- 
ing side  by  side,  belonging  to  persons  who  acknowledge  the  same 
creed,  but  are  unable  to  worship  in  the  same  building.  Four  dis- 
tinct castes  also  exist,  which  sever  these  congregations  still  more 
widely.  The  Inquisition  at  Goa,  after  for  nearly  three  centuries 
practising  the  most  inhuman  barbarities,  and  enacting  the  most 
disgraceful  and  revolting  crimes,  finally  ceased  its  blood-stained 
career,  in  1816. 

In  1796,  according  to  Pao/t,  the  Cochin  and  Travancore  States, 
contained  64  Nestorian  Churches,  32  Jacobite,  75  of  Mucuas  and 
Paravers,  and  20  belonging  to  the  Latin  ritual :  in  all  181  congre- 
gations, apparently  without  including  the  Carmelites.    In  the  year 


CinTBCHES  IN  SOUTH  MALABAB.  249 

1 86 1 ,  the  following  nmnben  were  returned  *  as  being  ia  the  Cochin^ 
Calicut^  aud  Travancore  States,  under  the  authority  of  the  Syrian 
Metropolitan  See,  105  Latin  Churches^f  62  Parochial  Churches,  with 
246  chapels  attached  to  them:  and  139  Carmelite  Parodual  Ohnrchea, 
with  168  Chapels  attached,  one  quarter  of  which  are  Latins,  and 
the  remainder  Romo-Syrian.^  The  Protestant  Qiurch  Missionary 
Society,  have  10  Churches  in  the  North,  and  the  London  Missionary 
Society  7  in  the  South. 

The  Travancore  census  shows  1,91,009  Native  Christians,  and  that 
of  Cochin  72,631 :  or  a  total  of  2,63,640  in  the  two  SUtes.  Out  of 
the  'above  10,336  have  been  baptized  into  the  Protestant  faith: 
1,38,337  into  the  Bomon  Catholic:  and  the  remainder  1,16,483  are 
Syrians. 

Li  1813,  Migor  Munro,  the  British  Resident  of  Travancore  and 
Cochin,  circulated  a  series  of  questions  to  the  various  Syrian  Churches 
in  these  States,  and  the  replies  proved  their  depression  to  be  extreme. 
When  they  separated  from  the  Romish  Church,  they  became  expos^ 
cd  to  the  attacks  of  numerous  enemies,  with  no  one  to  protect  them. 
The  Roman  Catholics  persecuted  them  as  apostates,  and  rebels,  the 
Brahmans  and  Nairs  domineered  over  them,  and  the  Officials  of  both 
States  plundered  and  insulted  them  at  discretion.    Their  books 

*  Trevandrum,  Owemment  AlnuMaCf  1861.  Some  Churches  which  haye  been 
inoorreetly  included,  have  been  here  expunged. 

f  The  Churches  have  been  divided  in  the  following  manner :  The  Hotnan 
Catholics,  and  the  B^iM-Sfrianif  are  under  two  distinct  Missions. 

The  Rorao-Syriaos  and  the  Latin  Churches,  were  originally  under  the  autho- 
rity of  the  Portuguese.  The  Archbishop  ef  Cranganere,  receiving  his  instruc- 
tions from  Qoa»  and  having  under  him  the  two  subordinate  Bishops  of  Cochin, 
who  were  removed  in  1663  to  Quilon,  the  Churches  under  the  latter  were  con- 
sidered to  be  m  within  tight  of  the  tea.  In  1709,  they  wished  to  join  the 
Syrians. 

The  Romo-Syrians,  or  at  all  events  some  of  them,  obeyed  the  Carmelite 
Vicar  Apostolic,  or  tibe  Verapoly  Mission,  which  receives  orders  from  Rome* 
In  1773,  they  erected  schools  for  the  instruction  of  Romo -Syrian  Priests,  and 
began  to  encroach  considerably  on  the  Latin  Churches,  then  acknowledging  the 
authority  ef  Goa.  The  Syriant  are  ostensibly  under  the  Patriarch  of  Antioch, 
and  are  Monophysites,  or  Jacobites,  with  some  slight  differences. 

t  Their  return  of  Christians  professing  their  faith,  is  about  228,000,  but 
tills  is  obviously  erroneous.  Their  native  clergy  are 30,  and RomoSyrianB  33^ 

u  1 


250  ATTEMPT  TO  KLKVATE  THE  SVRIANS. 

had  been  almost  all  destroyed,  their  pastors  were  destitute  of 
instruction,  "  they  had  lost  in  their  union  with  the  Jesuits,  the 
"  pure  system  of  religion  and  ^morals,  and  the  high  spirit  by  which 
"  they  were  formerly  distinguished:  and  the  Dutch  fomerly  in  i>osse3- 
"  sion  of  Cochin,  whose  policy  was  marked  by  perfidy  and  meanness, 
"  abandoned  them  to  their  fate."  Still  many  virtues  were  to  be 
perceived  in  this  interesting  sect,  and  an  attempt  was  therefore  very 
properly  made,  to  bring  them  to  a  purer  faith. 

Major  Munro*  ascertained  that  there  was  great  dissension  amongst 
them,  that  the  Bishop  under  whom  they  were  at  that  period,  had 
been  irregularly  consecrated,  and  was  altogether  unfit  for  such  an 
office.  There  was  therefore  a  large  body  of  the  clergy  and  laity  an- 
tagonistic to  him,  and  opposition  was  rife  on  all  subjects.  But  this 
Bishop  died  shortly  afterwards,  and  was  succeeded  by  the  Rambaii 
named  Joseph,  a  good  and  pious  man,  by  whose  assistance,  a  little 
more  unanimity  was  brought  about,  and  the  Resident  was  enabled 
to  make  arrangements  for  the  erection  of  the  Syrian  College  at  Cot- 
tayam.  But  now  it  was  found  that  an  educated  English  Clergyman 
would  be  a  requisite,  as  the  Syrians  themselves  were  far  too  deficient 
in  energy,  knowledge,  or  ability,  to  effect  much  good,  in  the  way 
of  training  up  youths,  in  a  more  enlightened  manner.  An  applica- 
tion was  then  made  to  the  Church  Miwionary  Society  for  their  assist- 
ance, the  Resident  proposing  to  endow  the  College  for  the  support 
of  a  certain  number  of  students,  and  masters,  to  teach  English, 
Syriac,  and  the  Scriptures,  and  to  raise  up  efficient  Native  Priests 
and  Catanars,  to  officiate  in  the  Churches,  as  well  as  schooimastera 
to  diffuse  learning  throughout  the  country.  He  also  proposed  erect- 
ing a  printing  press. 

It  was  not  originally  intended  to  alter  the  Syrian  form  of  worship, 
in  any  way,  but  merely  to  educate  the  people,  and  trust  that  in  time 
they  would  be  enabled  to  see  their  errors,  and  themselves  commence 
the  work  of  reformation.  It  was  simply  suggested^  to  raise  up  this 
prostrate  Church,  and  assist  it  in  endeavouring  to  follow  the  right 
course. 

*  In  1808,  three  thousand  star  pagodas  were  given  by  the  Syrian  Metropoli- 
tan Mar  Thomas  to  the  British  Resident  for  investment  in  GoYernmeut  securi- 
ties at  8  per  cent,  interest  for  charitable  purposes. 


SKD0WXB2IT  OF  THE  STfiUN   COLLEGE.  251 

In  April  181 69  Mr.  Norton,  a  Missionary,  arrived  at  iVllcpey,  to 
asMst  in  the  above  purpose :  and  in  the  July  following  visited 
tlie  Metran  Joseph,  at  Cottayam,  where  he  found  he  was  regarded 
wifcksome  suspicion.  This  ancient  Church,  had  in  former  timeH, 
mtStred  too  -much  from  false  friends,  not  to  be  cautious  how  they 
formed  connections  with  strangers.  But  this  feeling  soon  wore 
away,  and  Mr.  Norton's  advmit  was  hailed  with  joy. 

Li  1816,  the  Travancore  Government,  made  the  Syrians  a  donation 
of  8,000  Rupees,  to  enable  them,  **  to  prosecute  the  study  of  the 
"  Holy  Scriptures,  according  to  the  custom  of  their  sect,  •  •  by 
**  means  of  the  dissemination  of  the  Bible^  and  other  religious  works 
^in  the  vernacular  tongue,  amongst  the  Syrians  in  general" 
Colonel  Munro  observed,  that  ''the  principal  object  of  the  esta- 
**  blishment  of  a  CoU^ge  in  Travancore,  wa$  to  instruct  the  Catanars 
^  and  officiating  Priests  amongst  the  Syrians,  in  a  competent  know- 
**  ledge  of  the  Sjfriac  language,  in  which  th^  were  apparently  too 
^  generally  deficient :  *  *  with  the  study  of  the  Syriac  language, 
**  would  of  course  be  combined  that  of  the  Scriptures,  and  other 
**  religious  books,  written  in  that  tongue." 

The  Eanee  of  Travancore,  acting  under  the  advice  of  the  British 
Besident,  gave  the  timber  for  erecting  a  Church  at  Allepey ;  in 
addition  to  this  it  cost  4,155  Rupees.  It  was  opened  on  July  18th9 
1819,  but  was  subsequently  pulled  down,  to  build  a  larger  one, 
which  is  now  in  a  ruinous,  and  almost  deserted  condition.  The 
Kanec  also  endowed  the  Syrian  College  at  Cottayam,  in  1818,  with 
Rupees  20,000,  as  well  as  the  ground  on  which  it  stands.  The  CoU^ge 
was  intended  to  accommodate  forty  or  fifty  students,  and  the  money 
invested  in  land  as  an  endowment,  for  the  support  of  the  Coll^ga 
The  title  deeds  were  drawn  up  in  the  names  of  the  Syrian  Metropo- 
litan, and  one  of  the  Missionaries.  ''The  object  of  this  endowment 
'^  was,  the  political,  moral,  and  religious  renovation,  of  the  whole  of 
"  the  Syrian  people,  through  the  instruction  of  English  Mission- 
aries.'' Shortly  afterwards,  the  Syrian  Bishop  died,  and  his  coadju- 
tor Philoxenus,  who  had  (accorduig  to  the  usual  custom  since  1751,) 
been  ordained,  "cum  spe  successionis,"  succeeded  him. 

At  first  all  went  on  smootlily  at  Cottayam,  with  a  resident  Syrian 
Bishop  at  the  head.    The  Protestant  Missionaries  acted  under  hia 


262  DIflPTTTKS   AT  COTTAYAM. 

orders,  and  the  Scriptures  were  translated  into  Malayalim.  But 
after  a  time,  when  the  novelty  wore  off,  the  result  of  this  was  found 
of  a  less  favourable  character,  than  was  at  first  imagined.  The 
Natives  having  Europeans  under  their  authority,  became  exact- 
ing, and  often  overbearing ;  whilst  the  latter,  not  liking  their 
position,  were  perhaps  too  ready  to  look  upon  common  occurrences, 
as  intentional  insults.  After  a  time,  when  the  Protestant  Mis- 
sionaries had  become  more  fully  acquainted  with  this  Church,  they 
reported  that  the  spiritual  worth  of  the  Syrians,  had  been  formerly 
much  over-estimated,  that  the  people  were  careless  about  true  religion, 
the  Priesthood  unconverted,  formal  in  their  service,  and  too  much  occu- 
pied in  looking  after  their  pecuniaiy  gains,  to  care  for  the  welfare  of 
their  flocks.  That  in  fact,  the  whole  body,  was  lifeless,  and  cold. 
Disputes  about  their  various  creeds,  and  tenets,  then  ensued :  th^ 
Syrians  denounced  those  taught  by  the  Missionaries,  who  in  Iheir 
turn  asserted  that  the  Syrian  doctrines  were  not  evRiigelical. 

The  Bishop  of  Calcutta  then  addressed  a  letter  to  the  Syrian  Me- 
tropolitan, who  in  1836,  held  a  conclave  of  his  clergy,  and  drew  up 
an  answer  stating,  that  they  were  Jacobites,  under  the  Patriarch  of 
Antioch,  and  that  if  the  Missionaries  wished  to  preach  the  doctrines 
of  the  Jacobites  in  their  Churches,  they  were  at  liberty  to  do  so. 
The  Metran  after  the  signature  of  this  document,  imposed  a  solemn 
oath  on  the  clergy,  not  to  have  any  intercourse  with  the  Protestant 
Missionaries  in  future,  whilst  the  Metran  prohibited  Djeacons,  from 
again  attending  the  Syrian  College.  Thus  ceased  the  connection  be- 
tween these  two  Churches,  which  had  been  in  existence  since  1816, 
and  the  Protestant  Missionaries  were  from  that  period,  to  divide 
themselves  from  the  Syrians,  "  as  converts  in  Bengal,  or  Tinnevelly, 
"  separate  themselves  from  the  heatheiL"* 

Now  dissensions  respecting  money  matters  arose,  and  the  Syrian 
Metropolitan,  complained  that  the  box  containing  the  title  deeds, 
and  the  copper  plates,  had  been  abstracted  from  the  Church,  during 
service  time  :  a  person  having  broken  into  its  place  of  security,  by 
means  of  a  crowbar.  Fortunately  the  box  just  at  this  time,  came 
into  the  possession  of  the  Missionaries,  who  preserved  these  impor- 

*  Mullen's  Missious  in  South  India,  piOge  130. 


SYRIAX   CHUBCB   GOYEBNMHI^T.  258 

tant  documents  from  destruction.  In  1838,  a  Government  Commis- 
luoner  was  sent  to  arrange  matters,  consequent  on  the  separation  of 
the  Syrians  and  the  Missionaries,  and  he  directed  the  knds  to  be 
aoidy  and  the  money  deposited  in  the  Trayanoore  treasury.  (Munro 
Ishmd  was  not  disposed  of.)  In  1840,  three  arbitrators  were  nomi- 
nated by  the  Travancore  Goyemment,  the  Missionaries,  and  the 
Syrian  Metropolitan,  finally  to  arrange  the  division  of  property. 
.  Some  of  the  moneys  and  deeds  were  then  returned  to  the  Syrians. 
But  with  r^ard  to  Munro  Island,  it  was  decided,  that  as  its  rents 
were  to  be  employed  for  a  specific  purpose,  in  which  the  assistance 
of  the  Missionaries  was  necessary,  and  the  Syrians  in  Synod  as- 
sembled, had  broken  off  all  connection  with  them  :  they  thereby 
resigned  tdieir  part  of  the  trust,  leaving  its  duties  to  be  executed 
by  the  remaining  party. 

At  the  time  that  this  amalgamation  took  place,  the  orders  of 
Priesthood. were  as  follows  in  the  Syrian  Church  :  a  Bishop  styled 
MetropclUanj  who  had  a  coadjutor,  whom  he  consecrated  as  his 
successor,  in  the  event  of  his  death :  Doctors  of  the  Law,  or  Malpans, 
who  were  instructors  of  youths,  and  those  intended  for  Holy  Orders, 
Priests  or  Catanars,  and  Deacons. 

The  Metropolitans  had  been  elected  from  amongst  the  Malpans, 
and  consecrated  in  readiness,  from  the  year  1751,  when  it  was  found 
extremely  difficult,  or  almost  impossible  to  obtain  foreign  Bishope^ 
as  heretofore.  The  election  took  place  in  a  general  assembly  of 
the  Clergy,  and  elders  of  the  Church,  who  ratified  or  rgect- 
ed,  the  choice  of  the  person  previously  selected.  If  there  were 
several  candidates,  lots  were  drawn  by  them,  and  tiiie  result  regarded 
as  decisive.  It  should  be  mentioned  here,  that  until  the  year  1751, 
the  ojke  of  Atxh/deacon  was  hereditary,  in  the  family  of  Palikom- 
matta,  because  it  was  believed,  that  the  first  person  who  held  that 
post,  was  chosen  by  St.  Thomas,  from  that  family.  When  Bishops 
came  from  Antioch,  they  were  expected  to  give  up  all  authority  into 
the  hands  of  the  Archdeacon,  the  Portuguese  on  this  account,  used 
every  exertion-  to  convert  the  whole  of  that  family  to  their  faith, 
and  finally  succeeded  in  doing  so.  Many  years  since,  the  Palikom- 
matta  family  became  extinct. 

The  Priests  could  be  admitted  into  minor  orderS;  as  early  as  seven 


254        A  NEW  MierBOPOUTAN  ABBIVSS  FOB  TUB  8TBIANS. 

yearo  of  age,  unless  anything  very  unnsnally  bad  could  be  brought 
against  them.  They  were  not  under  the  necessity  of  observing  a 
life  of  celibacy,  but  such  had  become  the  custom,  and  gained  them 
higher  favour  with  the  people.  The  Kanee  of  Tranvanoore  ofiGoed 
Bupees  400  to  any  of  them  who  would  marry,  but  only  a  few  accepted 
the  inducement. 

.  In  1814,  when  the  Oovernor  in  Council  revised  the  regulations 
of  Cochin,  it  was  brought  to  his  notice,  that  the  Christians  lathe 
Native  State,  were  under  British  controul,  and  consequently  treated 
with  harshness  and  injustice  by  the  Officials  of  that  State.  They  were 
regarded  by  their  fellow  subjects  with  suspicion^  and  ill  will,  and 
that  in  spite  of  all  efforts  to  ameliorate  their  condition,  no  good 
could  be  effected,  whilst  there  remained  this  distinctioa  between 
them  and  others.  It  was  suggested,  that  this  irritation  might  be 
removed  by  allowing  them  to  be  tried  in  the  Bcgah's  Courts^  to 
each  of  which  a  Christian  Judge  was  appointed,  the  whole  bmg 
under  the  supervision  of  the  Besident.  This  course  was  according 
pursued,  and  the  result  has  exceeded  all  expectations,  the  feeling  of 
dislike  and  jealousy  with  which  they  had  been  formerly  regarded, 
soon  passed  away,  and  they  are  at  the  present  time,  as  thriving  a 
community  as  any  other  in  the  State. 

In  the  year  1825,  the  long  interrupted  intercourse  with  Antioch  was 
renewed,  and  the  Bishops  who  had  for  such  a  length  of  time  been  Na« 
tives  of  the  country,  now  lost  their  power  of  consecrating.  The  Patri- 
arch of  Antioch  hearing  flourishing  accounts  of  this  distant  Church, 
despatched  a  Metropolitan  named  Athanasius,  and  a  Bamban  or  Arch'* 
deacon,  named  Abraham,  to  Malabar,  quite  overlooking  the  existence 
of  Philoxenus,  and  his  coadjutor  Dionyaius.  These  new  arrivals 
had  several. interviews  with  Bishop  Heber  in  Bombay,  who  subse- 
quently enjoined  the  Missionaries,  to  take  no  part  in  the  dissensions^ 
he  saw  their  advent  must  occasion  amongst  the  Syrians  in  Malabar. 

The  new  Metropolitan  Athanasius,  c(Mnmenced  by  excommunicat- 
ing Philoxenus  and  Dionysius,  who  on  the  other  hand  obtained  an 
order  from  the  Ranee  of  Travancore  and  the  British  Resident,  for- 
bidding the  new  arrivals  to  exercise  any  functions  in  that  State. 
The  majority  of  the  congregations  appear  to  have  wished  to  place 
themselves  under  the  strangers,  and  great  dissensions  arose.   Bishop 


DISfiSKSIOKS  AMOKOST  THE  SYRIAKS.  255 

Hebet  pfooeeded  towarda  Malabar,  in  hopes  of  being  enabled  to 
Iniiig  aboQt  some  amicable  arrangement,  bat  unfortnnately  he  ex- 
pired on  the  joomey.  Soon  afterwards,  Mar  Athanasios  and  his 
Malpan,  sailed  from  Cochin. 

Bat  his  departure,  only  gave  the  Syrians  a  short  respite  from  in* 
oessant  disputes,  as  a  succession  of  claimants  to  the  Metropolitan 
See  arose.  The  Bishop  who  legally  bore  that  title,  resided  at  the 
Cottayam  College,  and  received  from  its  funds,  Bnpees  600  a  year 
for  his  maintenance. 

In  the  year  1848,  the  Patriarch  of  Antioch  had  five  Bishops  in 
Malabar,  each  denouncing  the  other  four  as  intruders.  When  there 
were  only  three,  the  Patriarch  sent  a  fourth,  to  supersede  the 
otiiers,  with  orders  to  transmit  his  dues  to  him  punctually :  but  in- 
stead of  obejring,  this  last  followed  the  example  of  his  predecessors, 
and  commenced  collecting  for  himself.  A  fifth  was  then  deapatdied 
with  the  same  orders,  but  he  too  flew  upon  the  spoil,  leaving  the 
unfortunate  Patriarch,  vainly  clamouring  for  his  rights.  It  was 
Impossible  to  decide  which  amongst  these  five  Bishops  was  the  real 
o&e,  and  therefore  none  of  them  were  recognized  by  the  Travancore 
•ad  Cochin  States.  But  without  the  legal  sanction  of  these  States, 
they  were  powerless  to  correct  abases,  or  exercise  any  authority. 
Each  consequently  did  as  he  liked,  and  ordained  as  many  Catanars 
as  he  pleased,  without  reference  to  anytliing,  excepting  whether  the 
fees  were  forthcoming.  Thus  an  immense  number  of  Catanars  were 
ordained,  from  seven  years  of  age  and  upwards,  who  were  in  every 
respect,  unfitted  for  the  ministry.  These  scandalous  disputes  and 
dissennons,  have  continued  since  that  period,  and  at  the  present  time 
the  Church  is  thoroughly  disunited. 

In  1856,  two  Catanars,  and  twenty  one  Syrians,  provided  with  the 
necessary  funds,  and  letters,  left  Cochin,  and  proceeded  to  Mosul,  to 
endeavour  to  induce  the  Patriarch,  Mar  Yoosuf,  to  consecrate  a 
ffishop  for  the  Syrians  of  Malabar,  as  was  done  in  1825.  They  suc- 
ceeded in  their  embassy,  and  in  May  13th,  1861,  a  Bishop  arrived  at 
Cochin.  It  is  said  that  Mar  Yoosuf  was  imposed  upon,  and  did  not 
exactly  comprehend,  what  their  intentions  were. 

The  Bishop  Apostolic  of  Borne  in  Mesopotamia,  finding  that  Mar 
Thomas  had  been  consecrated  as  Metran  of  Malabar,  fortlimth  ex- 


256  SYBIAN  AKCHIT£CT(7ItS. 

communicated  both  him,  and  the  Patriarch,  as  well  as  every  one  who 
had  taken  part  in  the  consecration.  Thus  another  schism,  and  cause 
of  discord  arose,  in  this  divided  Church. 

Hardly  had  the  new  Bishop  landed,  when  as  always  has  been 
the  case,  a  large  party  joined  him,  and  many  Bomo-Syrian  cougre> 
gationa,  placed  themselves  under  his  authority,  and  wished  to  hand 
over  the  Churches  to  him.  Riots  in  many  places  consequently  en- 
sued, until  Mar  Thomas,  an  infirm  sickly  old  man,  began  to  think 
it  time  for  him  to  leave  such  an  unruly  set  of  people^  and  in  March 
1862,  he  finally  left  Cochin. 

At  the  present  time  there  are  still  three  Bishops  remaining,  two 
of  whom  claim  equal  rank  and  power,  both  having  been  consecrated 
by  the  Patriarch  of  Antioch,  the  third  admits  his  inferiority  to  the 
other  two. 

The  crown  of  Portugal  which  has  up  to  the  present  year  claimed 
ecclesiastical  jurisdiction  over  the  Roman  Catholics  of  Malabar,  has 
now  received  orders  to  resign  that  pretension  in  British  territory. 
A  concordat  has  consequently  been  entered  into,  and  the  Bishop  of 
the  Cape  de  Verd  Islands,  has  been  appointed  Archbishop  of  Qoa, 
and  Primate  of  the  Catholic  Church  in  India,  thiis  bringing  the 
Yerapoly  Mission,  and  the  other  Churches  in  the  Cochin  and  Tra- 
vancore  States,  under  one  head. 

There  can  be  no  doubt,  that  each  succeeding  Christian  sect,  has  ob- 
tained less  power  in  Malabar,  than  those  which  preceded  them,  which 
may  be  accounted  for  in  the  following  maimer.  The  Syriaru  before 
the  advent  of  the  Portuguese,  appear  to  have  confined  their  attempts 
at  conversion  to  Brahmans  and  the  highest  castes  of  Sudras  (Nairs,) 
in  the  country.  The  Portuguese  obtained  converts  from  any  classes 
they  could,  and  these  were  consequently  looked  down  upon  by  the 
higher  castes,  as  the  greatest  proportion  were  fishermen  and  slaves. 

The  architecture  of  the  ancient  Syrian  Churches  was  always  the 
same,  and  it  has  been  calculated,  that  none  of  them  could  have 
cost  less  than  half  a  lac  of  Rupees,  and  some  double  that  sum. 
The  one  at  Paroor,  is  capable  of  containing  15,000  persons.  They 
were  formerly  buUt  long  and  narrow,  with  low  entrances,  having 
buttresses  8upiK)rting  the  walls,  and  sloping  roofs,  and  were  easily 
distinguished  from  those  of  any  other  sect,  by  having  the  chancel 


BTBIAV  GHTTBGH  rUBNITUBX.  257 

end  always  higher  than  the  nare,  msteod  of  being  lower  as  with  mu 
The  facade  had  small  oolomnsy  but  these  were  never  carred  with 
emblematical  figures  externally,  as  some  of  those  of  later  erections 
are.  No  bells  were  permitted  to  be  rang  from  the  belfreys,  as  tiie 
Hindus  asserted,  that  their  gods  in  the  nesghbonring  Pagodas,  were 
diatorbed  by  the  noise. 

Inside  tiiese  Chnrches,  there  were  galleries  corresponding  to  our 
<N^gan  lofts,  for  the  residence  of  unmarried  Priests.  There  were 
numerous  crosses  in  Tsrious  parts,  and  one  on  the  ahar,  opposite 
which,  at  the  entrance  to  the  chancel,  a  lamp  was  kept  buraing  night 
and  day. 

Oradnally  some  of  these  andent  f onus  have  changed,  both  with 
respect  to  worship,  architectore,  ▼estments,  and  the  method  of  per- 
forming the  services,  a  summary  of  which  is  as  f oUowa  The  m<»e 
modem  Churches  are  built  in  a  style  something  simikr  to  those 
erected  by  the  Jesuits,  with  pointed  arched  windows,  circular  and 
fretted  ceilings  over  both  the  altar  and  choir,  whilst  the  beams  aie 
exposed  to  view.  No  images  are  allowed  within  them,  but  some  of 
them  are  adorned  with  paintings^  which  are  taid  to  be  simply  for 
ornamental  purposes.  There  are  three  altars  (or  as  th^  are  termed 
ikronetf)  in  each  Church,  the  largest  being  at  the  east  ead  and 
within  the  chancel,  and  one  on  each  side  just  without  the  entrance 
of  the  chancel,  covered  with  a  white  doth,  having  a  cross  on  it 
The  chancel  is  raised  two  steps  higher  than  the  boc^  of  the  Church. 
Before  it  hangs  a  veil,  so  that  if  necessary  it  can  be  concealed  from 
the  congregation.  Near  the  chancel  are  the  bells  used  in  honour  of 
the  host  Crucifixes  are  placed  on  the  altars,  and  in  various  other 
parts  of  the  buildings^  tome  of  them  being  plain,  others  adorned 
with,  or  composed  of  gold,  silver,  wood,  or  stone. 

The  Bishop  when  no  great  state  is  necessary,  wears  a  long  dark 
purple  silk  vest,  but  when  officiating,  he  wears  a  long  yellow  muslin 
robe,  thrown  over  his  other  garments :  a  large  golden  cross  hangs 
from  hb  neck,  on  his  finger  is  a  ring,  and  on  his  head  an  epbcopal 
mitre,  whilst  in  his  hand  he  bears  the  croxier,  or  pastoral  staff.  The 
Priests  at  their  ordination,  engage  to  observe  the  canons  of  the 
Coundl  of  Nice.  When  not  employed  in  religious  ceremonies,  they 
*  loose  white  shirts,  over  a  pair  of  wide  trowsers,  either  white  or 

I  1 


258  STEIAC  LITUBGISS. 

of  some  black  mateiiaL  On  occasions  of  oeFemcmy,  a  wMte  gown  is 
worn,  in  addition  to  an  embroidered  collar  and  waistband,  and 
narrow  sleeves.  They  have  a  crimson  scar^  and  a  long  white  cotton 
cord  passing  around  the  shonlders,  and  fastening  in  front  with  a 
waistbelt)  meeting  there  like  a  cross.  Their  hair  is  cut  in  the  form 
of  a  tonsure,  and  their  beards  are  sometimes  of  great  length. 

Their  means  of  support  are  prindpaliy  derived  fix>m  the  fees  they 
neceive,  especially  from  those  for  prayers  for  the  dead.  Attached  to 
each  congregation,  is  a  small  Court,  consisting  of  the  Catanar,  and 
four  lay  elders,  who  meet  in  the  Church,  and  puniah  wrong  doers,  by 
admonitions,  finest,  or  excommunications.  Each  parish,  or  ittther 
the  boundaries  of  eadi  separate  congregation,  ar«  divided  off  by 
land  marks,  and  the  names  of  persons  belonging  to  it  taken  down,, 
who  must  all  receive  the  sacraments  within  their  own  Parishes.. 
Before  leaving  their  district  for  another,  they  must  obtain  a  testi- 
monial  from  their  Catanars,  of  having  conducted  themselves  soberly 
and  steadily.  A  residence  of  twelve  years  in  one  Parish,  is  neces- 
sary before  a  person  can  become  an  elder. 

The  Syriae  Hturgies  are  numerous,  this  Church  maintains  the 
doeUines  of  Trinity  in  unily,  and  that  of  the  atonement,  but  does  not 
whoUy.admit  justification  by  faitL    Transubstantiatlon  is  now  part 
of  their  creed,  the  Priests  pray  for  the  quick  and  the  dead,  and  also 
separately  and  distinctly  for  the  dead    They  supplicate  the  inter- 
cession of  the  Virgin  Mary,  worship  her  with  many  prayers,  and 
fast  in  her  honour.    They  also  worship  the  Saints,  the  altars,  and 
the  Host    The^prayers  cffe  in  the  Syriae  tongue,  a  language  believed 
to  have  been  used  by  our  Lord,  and  his  Apostles,  but  not  understood 
by  the  Syrian  congregations  of  tiie  present  day.    The  Clergy  daim 
the  power  of  cursing,  and  thereby  destroying  the  souls  and  bodies  of 
offenders.     They  have  extreme  unction,  and  auricular  confession. 
God  the  father  is  represented  in  their   Churches,  and  incense  is. 
burnt,  but  there  is  no  exposition  of  the  Scriptures.     The  practice  of 
blessing  holy  water  was^con^menced  atncmgst  them,  about  the  7th  cen- 
tury, it  is  generally  mixed  with  a  little  earth  from  St  Hiomaa' 
Mount,  near  Madras.  The  excommunicated  murdwer,  is  never  absolv- 
ed, not  even  after  deaUi. 
The  altar  is  twelve  by  eighteen  inches  in  size,  and  is  consecrated  at 


SYRIAN  PASTS.  259 

Easier,  after  wiuch  it  must  not  be  touched  by  anconsecrated  hands. 
The  sernees  are  chanted  by  the  Priest,  in  a  loud  tone  of  voice,  the 
eldest  Catanar  present,  always  officiating.  During  the  service,  the 
Priests  at  intervals  pray  in  a  low  tone,  accompanied  by  frequent  cross- 
ings and  prostrations :  the  congregation  being  in  the  mean  time, 
occupied  with  their  own  devotions.  When  the  Priests  chant  the 
words,  "  peace  on  earth,  good  will  towards  men,"  the  Catanars 
take  the  right  hand  of  the  officiating  Priest,  between  both  theirs, 
and  so  pass  the  '<  peace"  to  the  congregation,  each  of  whom  takes 
his  neighbour's  right  hand,  and  salutes  him  with  the  word,  "  peace.'' 
The  women  are  seated  apart  from  the  men.  At  the  conclusion  of 
the  service,  the  senior  Priest  present,  stands  at  the  door,  and  as  the 
eongregation  passes  out,  each  individual  member  receives  his  bless- 
H^,  unless  guilty  of  any  act,  considered  sufficiently  bad  to  deprive 
him  of  it :  in  former  times,  its  being  withheld,  was  regarded  as  a 
very  severe  punishment. 

Dttring  Lent,  and  other  great  fasts,  service  is  performed  three 
times  a  day,  at  morning,  ev^iing,  and  midnight,  at  the  two  former 
no  one  fails  te  be  present,  to  receive  their  blessing,  and  offer  vows  of 
^eace  and  obedience,  which  is  done  by  taking  the  Priest's  hands  be- 
tween their  own,  raising  them  on  high,  and  then  kissing  them.  On 
Sundays,  service  is  performed  twice  a  day.  On  the  first  Wednesday 
in  Lent,  they  anoint  the  head  with  holy  oil,  which  consists  of  olive 
oil  made  from  the  branches  of  oUve  trees,  that  were  blessed  before 
the  fruit  was  formed,  for  doing  which  there  is  a  peculiar  ceremony. 
At  this  period,  the  Roman  Catholics  use  ashes,  and  it  is  probable 
tins  custom  has  originated  the  use  of  oil  by  the  Syrians,  as  abo  the 
theatricals  performance^  which  take  place  a  few  weeks  before  Lent, 
and  may  be  styled  a  species  of  carnival  During  Lent  which  with 
fhem  lasts  fifty  days,  they  abstain  firom  flesh,  fish,  eggs,  milk,  butter, 
and  spirituous  liquors.  They  also  fast  in  Advent,  on  the  Assumption 
of  the  Virgin  Mary,  firom  the  first  to  the  fifteenth  of  August,  and  in 
eommemoration  of  the  Aposties  TPddch  begins  after  Pentecost  and 
lasts  fifty  days,  and  at  the  Nativity  of  our  Saviour  for  twenty-five 
days  before  CSiristmas,  and  also  on  every  Wednesday  and  Friday, 
4X>mmencing  at  sunset  the  preceding  day,  and  lasting  24  hours.  All 
Siese  fdsts  must  be  kept,  under  pain  of  excommunication. 


260  SYRUN   LOVE  FEABTS. 

At  the  celebratioii  of  the  EttchariBt,  the  cup  is  placed  on  the  East 
end  of  the  altar,  and  the  plate  on  the  West,  dose  to  two  others,  one 
containing  a  sponge  to  wipe  the  Priest's  fingers,  the  other  a  dish  and 
spoon,  the  whole  being  covered  with  a  white  cloth.  The  cake  is  cir* 
cular,  and  composed  of  wheaten  flour,  like  a  pie,  in  a  silver  dish,  of 
leavened  bread  made  during  the  service.  Some  portion  of  it  is  in- 
variably kept  until  the  communion  following,  and  mixed  with  the 
next  baking,  and  thus  they  believe  that  they  have  retained  some  of 
the  bread,  which  was  used  at  "  Our  Lord's  Supper."  This  cake  is 
stamped  with  the  figure  of  the  crosses  of  St  George,  and  St  Andrew, 
with  a  square  in  the  centre,  exterior  to  which  are  two  circular  lines, 
and  between  each  line  of  the  crosses  is  a  smaller  line  in  the  same 
direction,  convei^g  to  the  centre.  Consequently  each  quarter  of 
the  cake  has  a  perfect  cross,  and  three  lines  or  twelve  in  all,  signify- 
ing the  twelve  Apostles.  When  the  Priest  consecrates  the  bread, 
he  raises  it,  on  which  tom-toms  and  cymbals  strike  up,  and  the  cur- 
tain is  drawn,  shutting  the  Priest  out  from  the  gaze  of  the  congregation. 
He  then  prays  alone  after  which  the  curtain  is  drawn  aside,  and  he 
advances  holding  the  bread  in  his  right  hand,  and  the  wine  in  hia 
lefty  and  chanting  a  hymn :  he  then  turns  round  to  the  altar,  and 
receives  the  elements,  the  music  again  strikes  np^  followed  by  silence, 
during  which  the  Priest  says  a  short  prayer  to  himsel£  Three  Priests 
celebrate  the  Eucharist  at  the  same  time,  at  the  three  different  altars. 
The  Clergy  receive  the  elements  separately  every  day,  the  Laity  only 
three  times  a  year,  with  the  difference,  that  for  them  the  bread  is 
dipped  into  the  wine,  which  is  not  the  case  with  the  Priests. 

Love  feasts  are  still  held.  Large  quimtities  of  sugar-cane,  rice, 
honey,  and  flour,  are  collected,  and  stared  up  for  the  occasion. 
When  the  time  arrives,  cakes  are  baked,  and  plantains,  4^,  procured, 
the  feast  being  celebrated  in  a  room  a^ioining  the  Church.  The 
various  portions  are  distributed  with  a  blessing  by  the  Priests.  The 
guests  are  seated  in  rows,  each  provided  with  a  plantain  leaf  on  their 
knees,  to  serve  instead  of  a  plate ;  silence  is  then  commanded,  and 
the  Church  Overseers  walk  down  the  rows,  to  see  that  no  one  is  omit- 
ted, and  that  aU  share  alike.  What  is  left  may  be  eaten  by  the 
heathen. 

Other  feasts  are  held,  not  so  harmless  in  their  character.     In  one 


8TBIAN  MAEBIAOES.  261 

of  their  CSiturches,  both  Syriars  and  Heathen  meet,  and  worship  the 
image  of  St  Qeorge,  and  in  many  of  them  songs  m  praise  of  the 
heathen  Deity  Rama,  are  permitted.  It  is  difficult  to  distinguish 
between  Syrian  feasts,  and  those  of  low  caste  Hindus.  On  a  hill 
near  Maleatnr,  there  is  a  mountain  sanctuary  called  Crucemah,  or 
Cpoes  Hill,  on  the  rocky  summit  is  a  cross,  believed  to  have  sprung 
miraculously  from  the  rock :  both  St.  Thomas  and  Xavier,  are  re- 
ptited  to  have  visited  it,  and  pilgrimages  are  annually  made  to  this 
piace  at  Whitsuntide.  Penances  are  endured  there,  and  vows  carried 
into  effect  Penitents  crawl  up  the  hill,  and  roll  themselves  down 
along  any  parts,  sufficiently  level  to  admit  of  their  doing  so.'  Booths 
are  erected,  in  which  liquors,  cakes,  and  sweetmeats  may  be  pur- 
chased: music  enlivens  the  scene,  which  somewhat  resembles  an 
Eogliah  £ur,  and  certainly  tiiere  are  no  outward  signs,  of  the  endur- 
ance of  any  very  painful  penances.  Beggars  flock  in  from  the 
surrounding  country,  jugglers  exhibit  their  arts,  and  fireworks 
dispel  the  midnight  gloom.  At  Palliport  some  of  the  Virgin 
Mar/s  hair  is  believed  to  be  preserved,  and  an  annual  feast  is 
held  there  in  her  honour,  and  celebrated  much  in  the  Hindu  fashion. 
Manriages  amongst  the  Syrians  take  place  at  a  very  early  age,  and 
are  negotiated  for  by.  the  family,  whose  business  it  is  to  provide 
what  they  consider  an  eligible  alliance  for  the  children.  The  bride 
receives  her  dower,  which  she  takes  to  her  husband,  but  subsequent- 
ly obtains  nothing  else  from  her  parents.  Mr.  Van  Angelbeck  en- 
deavoured ineflbctualiy  to  alter  this  custom,  which  the  Syrians  re- 
fused to  agree  to,  as  they  said  it  had  been  established,  in  order  to 
obviate  the  sub-division  of  estates  into  small  portions.  The  bride  is 
dressed  in  white,  with  a  muslin  clotili  over  her  head,  and  a  jacket 
with  a  red  stripe  down  the  front,  and  sometimes  worked  round  the 
sides  and  neck  with  yellow  silk.  She  is  loaded  with  jewels,  general- 
ly hired  for  the  occasion,  strings  of  gold  coins  round  her  neck,  large 
gold  ornaments  in  her  ears,  with  bangles  on  her  arms  and  ankles. 
A  hirge  red  silk  umbrella,  usually  with  green  fringe,  is  carri- 
ed over  her  head.  The  bridegroom  wears  a  gold  frontlet,  with 
bangles  on  his  arms,  and  occasionally  a  silver  belt.  The  ceremony 
always  takes  place  on  Sunday,  and  is  generally  celebrated  in  the 
Church,  the  bridegroom  throws  a  cloth  over  the  bride  as  a  symbol 


302  FUmSRALS. 

of  her  having  bound  herself  to  bfind  obedience  to  his  commandB,  he 
then  ties  a  golden  cross  attached  to  a  silken  cord  round  her  neck. 
The  party  then  adjourn  to  the  brid^;room's  house,  at  the  entrance 
to  whieh^  they  are  met  by  a  near  female  relative,  bearing  a  lighted 
lamp,  behind  her  are  more  women,  some  carrying  watter  to  symbolize 
purity,  and  others  rice  to  denote  plenty.  The  first  female  touclie-s 
the  various  articles  with  her  finger,  and  then  applies  them  to  the 
forehead  of  the  young  couple,  who  make  obeisance  to  her.  They 
are  then  conducted  inside  the  house,  placed  on  raised  seats  of 
honour,  and  fed  with  sweet  rice.  The  friends  then  partake  of  some 
betel  nut,  and  separate.  On  the  following  day  a  feast  is  hel4,  either 
in  the  house,  or  under  a  pandall  erected  for  the  purpose,  at  which  a 
considerable  sum  of  money  is  frequently  spent,  pork  is  one  of  the 
principal  articles  of  consumption  in  these  repasts. 

After  the  birth  of  a  son,  the  mother  may  not  enter  the  Churdi  for 
forty  days,  but  if  the  child  be  a  girl,  not  for  eighty,  at  the  end  of 
which  time,  she  presents  herself  at  the  altar,  and  offers  the  babe  to 
Qod,  and  the  Church.  Baptism  is  generally  celebrated  on  the  eighth 
day  after  birth,  but  in  some  instances  not  before  the  forty-first,  al- 
though it  is  occasionally  left  until  a  more  advanced  period  For  a 
boy  there  is  one  Godfather,  and  for  a  girl  one  Godmother.  Hie 
sign  of  the  cross  is  made  in  oil,  on  the  eyes,  nose,  ears,  and  mouth  of 
the  infant,  consecrating  all  these  senses  to  God. 

Members  of  the  congregation  are  often  buried  inside  the  walls  ot 
the  Church.  Bishops  close  to  the  altar  :  and  the  laity  in  the  body 
of  the  Church :  no  coffin  ia  used,  and  no  particular  service  is  era- 
ployed,  with  the  exception  of  a  few  chants.  Deaths  are  bewailed  with 
loud  lamentations,  wax  candles  are  carried  in  procession,  incense 
burnt,  and  masses  celebrated  for  the  soul,  if  for  that  of  a  rich  man 
for  forty  days,  but  for  a  poor  man  only  one  day.  The  Metropolitan 
is  buried  seated  in  a  high  wooden  chair,  dressed  in  his  robes,  with  a 
wooden  cross  suspended  from  his  neck,  another  held  in  his  right 
hand,  and  in  his  left  his  pastoral  staff.  The  chief  mourner  shuts 
himself  up  for  about  a  week,  or  ten  days,  at  the  end  of  which 
time,  he  receives  his  friends'  condolences,  and  gives  them  an  enter- 
tainment, when  one  of  his  nearest  relatives  presents  him  with  a  new 
tiirban,  which  he  puts  on,  and  thus  ends  the  mourning. 


PROTESTANT   MISSIONS.  263 

The  Syrian  oostcune  does  not  essentially  differ  from  that  of  the 
surrounding  Hindus,  a  piece  of  cloth  descends  from  the  waist  to 
about  the  knees,  the  quality  of  which  depends  upon  the  wealth  of 
the  wearer.  When  out  of  doOTs,  or  on  occasions  of  ceremony,  they 
wear  a  square  handkerchief  either  of  coloured  silk,  or  white  cotton, 
on  their  heads.  They  shave  their  beards,  but  allow  the  hair  on 
their  heads  to  grow  to  a  great  length,  which  they  tie  up  behind  in  a 
knot,  and  fasten  with  a  cross,  either  of  gold,  silver  or  some  other  ma- 
teriuL  The  women  have  bangles  of  silver,  brass,  or  copper,  on  their 
\eg»  :  a  cross  suspended  from  their  necks.  A  jacket  reaches  from  their 
necks  below  the  waist,  and  a  cloth  descends  from  thence  nearly 
as  low  as  their  ankles.  When  they  go  to  Church,  or  visit  their 
Priests,  they  cover  themselves  wi^h  a  long  white  muslin  scarf,  which 
is  put  over  their  heads,  and  reaches  to  the  ground,  leaving  only  their 
face  visible. 

The  Syrians  are  for  these  parts  a  fine  race  of  people,  lighter  in 
colour  than  the  other  inhabitants,  and  in  most  respects  very  superior 
to  the  surrounding  heathen.  Their  manners  are  rather  ceremonious, 
but  full  of  simplicity,  at  times  even  amounting  to  rudeness.  They 
are  generally  speaking  an  honest  race,  but  exceedingly  superstitious, 
placing  their  principal  dependence,  on  soothsayers  and  omens.  They 
are  inquiutive,  devoted  to  their  Priests,  and  suspicious  of  any  inter* 
ibrence.  Their  pursuits,  principally  relate  to  agriculture  and  trade. 
The  Romo-Syrians  are  rather  inferior  to  the  Synana,  more  given  to 
intoxication  and  quarrelling,  and  not  quite  so  honest,  but  exceeding 
them  in  civility.  The  Roman  Catholics  are  taken  from  amongst  quite 
the  lower  grades  of  the  population,  and  are  as  a  rule  in  consequence 
the  least  honest  race. 

The  Syrian  women  are  modest  and  retiring,  and  keep  themselves 
respectable  in  the  midst  of  Hindu  immorality,  and  vice.  If  they 
have  no  children,  they  occasionally  adopt  those  of  their  servants. 
The  men  stand  uncovered  before  •  their  superiors,  and  hold  their 
light  hands  before  their  mouths.  When  two  of  them  meet  in  the 
food,  the  inferior  uncovers  his  head,  and  inclines  his  body  a  little 
forward,  and  this  mark  of  respect  is  dways  shewn  the  clergy. 

The  Protestant  Missions  require  a  short  notice,  but  not  having 
existed  anything  like  the  length  of  time  in  Malabar  that  the  other 


264  MI6SI0NABY  CBUSCH  OOVSRNHBNT. 

Chrifltian  sects  have,  they  may  be  said  to  be  still  in  their  infancy, 
and  will  probably  so  continue,  until  a  suffici^cy  of  Native  pastors 
have  been  educated,  and  placed  in  charge  of  the  yarious  congrega- 
tions. Any  religion  in  Asia,  which  requires  a  resident  European 
Clergyman,  can  never  take  root  in  the  country,  and  will  only  last,  as 
long  as  the  white  races  who  are  its  exponents,  continue  ihera  Thus 
when  the  Dutch  left  India,  their  creed  disappeared  with  them.  Far 
different  is  it  with  the  Boman  Catholic  faith,  the  Clergy  of  which 
have  with  great  wisdom,  educated  very  many  Native  Priests.  The 
Dutch  found  that  the  fact  of  their  driving  away  the  European 
Pastors  of  that  faith,  scarcely  affected  the  numbers  of  the  converts* 
Europeans  may  be  necessary  to  teach  in  the  first  instance,  until  they 
have  raised  up  Natives,  competent  to  carry  on  the  work:  and 
they  may  also  be  advisable,  as  a  species  of  Bishop,  to  supervise 
the  Priests,  and  their  congregations,  in  large  tracts  of  country, 
until  the  Natives  have  acquired  more  self-reliance.  The  head  quar- 
ters of  the  Church  Missionary  Society,  has  since  its  separation  from 
the  Syrian  Church,  been  fixed  at  Cottayam,  where  there  is  a  print- 
ing press.  About  half  the  Missionaries  belonging  to  that  Society, 
reside  within  a  radius  of  only  a  few  miles  from  the  above  town.  In 
the  Cochin  State  there  are  three  stations,  at  Trichoor,  and  Kunun- 
kulum  respectively,  presided  over  by  European  clergymen,  and  one 
in  the  town  of  Cochin,  under  the  superintendence  of  a  Native 
Minister. 

The  tenets  and  mode  of  Church  Qovemment,  are  the  same  as 
elsewhere.  .Education  is  used  as  an  adjunct  to  religious  instruction. 
The  question  of  caste  in  the  Homish  Church  has  already  been  allud- 
ed to.  The  Danish  Missionary  Schwartz,  divided  the  congr^ations 
of  converts  into  two  parties,  the  highest  castes  being  seated  on  one 
side,  and  the  lower  on  the  other,  and  at  the  celebration  of  the  Eu- 
'  charist,  a  separate  cup  was  used.  It  was  subsequently  arranged, 
that  if  the  Pariahs  would  agree  ^ot  to  eat  o£y,  they  might  use  the 
same  cup,  after  the  higher  castes  had  been  served.  It  is  not  thirty 
years  since,  that  it  was  authoritatively  ordered,  that  caste  distinctions 
should  cease  once  and  for  all,  in  the  Protestant  Missions,  of  the 
Madras  Presidency. 

In  the  year  1808,  the  Court  of  Directors  made  the  following  ob- 


COT7RT  Of  DIEECTOBS  AND  CHRISTIAyiTY.  265 

servailoiiy  in  an  official  despatch.  "  When  we  afforded  oar  countc* 
**  nance  and  sanction  to  the  Missionaries,  who  hare  from  time  to 
^*  time  proceeded  to  India,  for  the  purpose  of  propagating  the  Giris- 
'*  tian  religion,  it  was  far  from  being  in  our  contemplation,  to  add  the 
**  influence  of  our  authority,  to  any  attempts  they  might  make :  for  on  the 
••  contrary  we  were  perfectly  aware,  that  the  progress  of  each  conver- 
**  sion  would  be  gradual  and  slow,  arising  more  from  a  conviction  of 
"  the  purity  of  the  principles  of  our  religion  itself,  an(>  the  pious 
"  examples  of  its  teachers,  than  from  any  undue  influence,  or  from 
**  the  execution  of  authority,  which  are  never  to  be  resorted  to  in  such 
"cases.*    ♦    • 

"  We  shall  content  ourselves  at  present,  with  remarking  that  Dr, 
"  Biichanan^  as  well  as  other  Ecclesiastics,  who  promulgate  the  doc- 
*^  trines  of  Christianity  in  India,  and  who  bestow  such  just  and 
"  merited  encomiums  on  the  conduct  of  the  Missionary  Schwartz, 
'^  would  do  well  to  adopt  it  as  the  model  of  their  own  3  and  would 
"always  recollect,  that  discretion  and  moderation  in  their  language 
''  and  actions,  are  more  consistent  with  the  mild  spirit  of  our  reli« 
"gnm,  and  are  indispensably  requisite,  for  those  who  are  employed 
'^  in  prosecuting  the  laborious  work  of  conversion." 

The  £(Ut  India  Company^  endeavoured  to  raise  the  moral  and  reli- 
gious cliaracter  of  their  servants  in  the  East,  as  they  rightly  consi- 
dered, that  he  who  not  only  professes  to  be  a  Christian,  but  acts 
as  such,  must  greatly  influence  those  around  him,  and  acquire  es- 
teem even  from  the  heathen.  Such  a  man  spreads  religion,  much 
more  than  could  be  done  by  controversial  arguments,  he  becomes  a 
star  in  his  sphere,  and  an  object  of  respect  to  the  surrounding  Na- 
tives, who  although  possibly  unable  to  comprehend  the  theory  of 
the  Christian  faith,  are  perfectly  competent  to  understand  its  prac- 
tice. 


%A.W%^WW\r-WW» 


K     1 


CHAPTERJ^II. 

THE  HINDUS. 

Ori^n  of  Hindufl— Thair  andeiit  faith — ^Its  Indian  comiptions— Vedas — 
Laws  of  Menti — ^Puranas — Origin  of  Hindu  triad,  and  Hinda  pantheon — 
Devil   worship — ^Feasts  and   fasts — ^Births — ^Siarriages — ^Deaths— Funerals 

Suttee — Good  and  evil  souls — Hindu  protest  against  religious  intolerance 

Origin  of  castes — Namboorie,  Imbran,  Putter  and  Eonkanie  Brahmans — 

Umbalavassies — Schatriyas — ^Vysias — Sudras — Nairs — Chogans  or  lUovers 
— ^Mucuas — Kanakas — Paravers — ^Cunnians — ^Velluna — ^Carcarlans  and  Ni- 
conxars — Soil  slaves — Hill  races — ^Mulchersi  Kardars^  and  Niadis—Sicknessea 
— Funerals — Inheritance. 

Cochin  is  an  exclusivelj  Hindu  state^  irliere  the  Brahman  has 
flourished,  since  the  legendary  Parasu  Bama,  obtained  from  Yemna, 
the  gift  of  the  country,  from  below  the  waters  of  the  ocean.  Here  the 
l^ahman  still  hcdds  partial  sway,  and  proclaims  to  a  credulous  popu- 
lation, that  his  creed  is  unalterable.  In  this  Native  state,  Europeans 
obtained  their  first  permanent  settlemeent  in  India ;  amongst  this 
people,  the  Arab  and  Moplah  dwelt  in  peace,  and  traded  in  amity. 
Here  the  New  St  Thomas's  Christians,  the  Romo  Syrians,  the  Roman 
Catholics,  Protestants,  and  Jews,  have  obtained  an  amount  of  free- 
dom  of  discussioo,  unaccorded  to  them,  in  some  more  civilized 
countries  of  Europe. 

The  Hindus  are  generally  acknowledged,  as  sprung  from  one  of 
the  branches  of  the  Arians.  In  Bluiratay  or  Punyabhumi  ''the  land 
of  virtues,'^  subsequently  termed  Hindustan,  ''the  land  of  the  Hindus," 
or  from  the  Sancrit  word  SindhHy  "  ocean/'  a  name  first  transferred 
to  a  river,  and  then  to  the  country,  colony  after  colony  spread  over 
the  peninsula.  They  assert  that  their  national  existence  had  continu- 


VEDia  AGE.  267 

ed  unaltered,  a  great  number  of  centuries,  before  the  commencement 
of  the  Christian  era,  in  the  countries  lying  between  the  Himalayas  and 
the  Yindhya  mountains.  Their  dominions  were  extended  under 
two  dynasties,  south  and  eadt  Whilst  the  Bactrian  race  spread 
towards  the  west,  perhaps  canying  the  Druidical  system  te  Europci 
in  all  its  varied  forms. 

The  Hindu  fiEuth  in  its  ancient  purity,  was  not  idoUtry,  but  great 
changes  have  come  oVer  it,  requiring  a  short  sketch,  before  passing 
onwards  to  the  various  classes  or  caste$,  into  which  all  its  professora 
in  the  Cochin  state,  (excepting  the  out-castes,)  are  now  divided. 

On  their  first  entrance  into  India^  their  religious  works  owing  to 
the  art  of  writing  being  unknown,  appear  to  have  been  handed  down 
by  tradition,  from  generation  to  generation^  in  a  series  of  compositions 
termed  the  Yedas,  this  period  is  therefore  commonly  dengnaitod  the 
Yedic  age.  Oral  traditions  alter  by  tune^  and  as  might  be  antici- 
pated, certain  differences  were  observed  in  the  Yedas,  as  knows  hi 
different  places  :  and  it  has,  and  probably  correctly  been  surmised^ 
that  most  outlying  Hindu  tribes,  included  amongst  their  Yedio 
hymns,  some  which  were  addressed  to  the  Gods  of  the  countriea 
-which  they  conquered,  perhaps  to  obtain  favour  in  the  eyes  of  the 
inhabitants,  and  assist  in  persuading  them  to  enter  the  new  sect 
Universal  conquest  no  doubt  waa  aimed  at^  and  maybe  an  universal 
xeligion  hoped  for. 

jSome  period  before  the  Christian  era,  the  Yedas  which  up  to  that 
period  had  been  handed  down  by  tradition,  and  symbolical  represen- 
tations, were  collected  and  inscribed ;  they  consist  of  four,  the  Rig 
Veda,  whose  origin  was  said  to  have  been  from^fire,  and  the 
bymns  of  which  are  amongst  the  most  ancient  of  records.  The  Sama 
Veda,  derived  from  the  sun,  in  which  hymns  from  the  Rig  Yeda  are 
arranged  for  worship.  The  Yagur  Veda  which  gives  later  hymns  as 
well  as  some  new  reading  of  old  ones  :  and  the  Athavama  or  fourth 
Yeda,  consisting  of  formularies.  The  Puranas  have  also  been  called 
a  Yeda.  The  four  Yedas  are  commonly  known  as  the  Great 
Shoitras,  or  "  books  of  sacred  ordinance,'*  from  SJioe,  "  to  govern," 
or  as  it  signifies  in  this  case,  "by  divine  authority." 

Each  Yeda  is  a  collection  of  prayers,  and  precepts,  the  former 
termed  S<3^nhk<M :  in  the  Furftoaa  it  is  observed;  that  there  are  six- 


CONTENTS  OP   VEDAS. 

teen  Sanhitas  in  the  Big  Veda:  eighty-six  in  the  Tagur  Veda,  in- 
creased by  a  second  revelation  to  one  hundred  and  one  :  not  less 
than  one  thousand  in  the  Sama  Veda :  and  nine  in  the  Athavama. 
But  different  Tersions,  or  Sakhoi  of  £he  Vedas  eadst^  which  reduce 
the  Sanhitas  of  the  first  Yeda  to  five,  and  of  ihe  second  including 
both  revelations  to  eighty-six. 

The  Tedas  have  become  greatly  altered  in  the  course  of  time, 
which  is  thus  expressed  in  the  Puranas,*  '^  the  tree  of  science  spread 
abroad  its  numerous  branches.''  The  Rig  Yeda  is  said  to  have  been 
taught  to  PaUa,  who  in  his  turn  communicated  it  to  two  disciples, 
Bahcala,  and  IndrapramatL  The  first  of  these  wrote  a  Sanhita,  or 
collection,  which  branched  into  four  schools:  whilst  Indrapramati 
taught  his  son,  and  also  Vedamitra,  each  of  whom  gave  his  own 
version  to  the  world,  'vdiich  was  improved  upmi  by  his  successora 

The  Yagnr  Yeda,  having  been  communicated  to  Vauampayana, 
he  taught  it  to  twenty-seven  pupils,  and  then  instructed  Yajnya- 
walcya  to  teach  it  to  other  disciples.  Subsequently  Yaisampayana 
accidentally  killed  his  sister's  son,  and  asked  Yajnyawalcya  to  go 
shares  in  the  guilt  incurred,  which  he  declined  doing  :  so  Yaisam- 
payana, directed  him  to  cease  teaching,  and  return  what  he  had 
learned.  He  obeyed  the  order,  and  disgorged  the  Yeda  in  the  f curm 
of  food.  The  disciples  were  ordered  to  pick  it  up,  and  to  do  so 
were  changed  into  partridges.  This  Yeda  being  so  soiled,  was 
termed  "  black"  also  "  tittiri,"  from  the  name  of  a  partridge^  now 
known  by  Europeans,  as  one  of  the  filthiest  feeding  of  Indian  birds. 

Yajnyawalcya  went  to  the  sun  and  bewailed  his  loss,  when  this 
luminary  obtained  for  him  a  new,  or  second  revelation,  termed  the 
whitey  or  pure,  in  contrardistinction  to  the  first  or  black.  He  taught 
this  to  fifteen  pupils,  each  of  whom  originated  a  scho<^ 

The  Sama  Yeda,  having  been  learnt  by  Jaimini,  he  instructed  his 
son  in  it,  who  founded  a  separate  school,  from  which  sprang  two 
others,  and  they  branched  off  into  one  thousand  more. 

The  Atharvana,  was  taught  to  Sumantu,  who  divided  his  know- 
ledge between  two  others. 

Each  Yeda  consists  of  two  parts,  the  Muntrtu  or  prayers,  the 

*  Golebrooke  Anaiic  lUtearehet,  YoL  B,  p.  888. 


OEIGIN  OP  HlXDr   PniLOSOPmCAt  SCHOOLS.  2(59 

complete  collection  of  which  is  termed  a  Sanhiia  :  and  the  Brah^ 
vianas  or  precepts.  The  first  diffecs  but  slightly  in  the  numerous 
tezts^  the  latter  so  considerably,  that  what  is  taught  in  some 
schools,  is  rejected  in  others.  The  aigumentative  portion,  entitled 
Vedanta,  is  contained  in  tracts  termed  Upanishads. 

The  Brahmanas  of  the  Yedas,  instituted  full  directions  for  official 
duties,  detailing  those  for  each.  The  priests  were  divisible  into  four 
dasses,  the  Adhvdryus  who  according  to  the  Yagur  Veda,  prepared 
the  places  for  the  ceremonies,  the  materials  for  offerings^  and 
muttered  invocations.  The  Udgdtru,  who  sang  the  sacred  hymns 
according  to  the  Sama  Veda.  The  Hotri,  who  recited  in  loud  clear 
tones,  the  whole  of  the  Rig  Veda,  its  holy  texts,  its  prayers,  and 
invocations.  The  Brahmans  who  superintended  the  whole,  had 
titles  of  honour,  conferred  upon  those  who  were  most  learned  in  the 
Yedas.  The  priests  were  divided  into  two  great  divisions,  the 
aecular,  and  the  regular  clergy.  A  Brahman  may  be  an  householder, 
and  also  officiate  as  a  priest,  such  belonged  to  the  former  class  :  but 
one  who  had  gone  through  the  prescribed  devotional  exercises,  was  of 
the  latter. 

Probably  600  years  before  the  Christian  era,  many  discussions 
jurose  concerning  the  correct  reading  of  texts,  the  authenticity  of  cer- 
tain hymns,  and  the  authority  for  some  of  the  practised  rites  :  so  it 
was  proposed,  to  collect  and  inscribe  the  Yedas,  which  were  accord- 
ingly written  down,  in  the  smallest  possible  space,  in  the  form 
of  aphorisms,  and  called  SiUras.  Consequent  upon  the  mode 
in  which  they  were  written,  from  the  first  explanatory  commentaries 
were  necessary,  which  were  many  in  number.  The  Brahmanas  were 
likewise  condensed  into  the  Kcdpa  Sutras^  which  were  so  plain,  that 
many  preferred  the  study  of  the  easier  condensation,  to  the  more 
abstruse  Brahmanas. 

Owing  to  the  form  of  the  collected  Yedas,  disputes  arose  as  to 
their  meaning  on  various  points,  and  different  schools  of  Hindu 
philosophy  obtained  pkces.  Three  great  systems  became  pre-end- 
nent  The  SanJchya  which  is  said  to  have  been  written  by  Kopila,  one 
€if  the  seven  Rushis  or  penitents.  In  it  nature  without  a  god  may 
be  said  to  be  advocated.  The  Nyaya  attributed  to  Qautuma,  which 
asserts  the  existence  of  a  supreme  Deity,  and  that  everything  consists 


2t0  PHILOiK>PUIC  ENQUmiES. 

of  indestructible  ultimate  atoms.     The  Vedanta,  the  composition  of 
BadarlLyan,  or  Veda  Vya&a,  which  attributes  all  to  Brahm. 

The  Sankhya  (reason,  or  judgment,)  is  amongst  the  earliest 
works  of  the  philosophic  age:  it  may  be  said  to  be,  the  Yedas 
examined  by  reason,  in  contradistinction  to  Brahmanical  assertion. 
For  many  years  it  was  considered  Jieretical.  It  has  two  divisions, 
differing  as  to  the  existence  of  the  Deity. 

Eopila  taught,  that  there  were  two  agencies,  substance  and  spirit : 
that  each  existed  in  a  dormant  state  from  all  eternity,  and  would 
continue  undestroyed  to  the  end  of  time.  That  the  tw&  were 
separated,  but  at  length  through  the  assistance  of  nature,  .^^7 
became  re-united :  and  thus  twenty  five  secondary  products  were 
formed.  All  evil  to  the  soul,  was  caused  by  its  union  with  the 
body,  or  substance  by  which  it  came  into  communion  with  the  ma- 
terial world,  consequently  the  great  wish  should  always  be  for  the 
soul  to  be  freed  from  the  body,  and  its  transmigrations  to  ceasa 
Whoever  learnt  the  Sankhya,  it  was  said  would  attain  to  this  most  de- 
sirable end.  From  this  it  appears  probable,  the  Buddhist  sect  arose 
The  Yoga  doctrine  added,  the  existence  of  a  Supreme  Being,  Aum, 
which  performed  the  part  assigned  by  Kopila  to  nature,  and  declared 
that  intense  devotion  to  him,  would  cause  transmigrations  to   cease. 

The  Nyaya^  advocated  the  existence  of  a  Supreme  Deity,  it  is  di- 
visible into  two  parts,  the  first  consisting  of  an  enquiry  into  truth, 
the  second  into  objects  existing  in  the  universe.  It  asserted,  that 
everything  was  sprung  from  atoms,  or  ultimate  particles,  that  were 
indestructible,  and  consequently  eternal 

Perfect  beatitude,  or  the  restoration  of  the  soul  to  its  original 
state  of  rest,  by  a  cessation  of  its  transmigrations,  and  its  union  with 
the  body  being  no  longer  sustained,  was  said  to  be  only  obtainable 
by  a  perfect  knowledge  of  truth,  which  embraced  many  topics.  The 
soul  was  divided  into  two  kinds,  the  animal,  and  the  supreme. 

The  Vedanta,  The  design  of  this  system,  was  to  exhibit  the 
scope  of  the  Vedas  in  a  classified  form.  They  were  considered  to 
consist  of  eleven  Upanishads  or  inspired  writings,  learning  was  said 
to  be  reserved  for  the  twice  bom. 

Aum  was  given  as  the  Supreme,  "  when  there  was  neither  day 
^uor  night  He  was,  who  is  witlxQut  darkaess;  and  pure   goodness 


IDEAB   OF   BKApM.  271 

Alone."  The  Hindu  notion  of  Aum,  is  thus  beautifully  rendered  * 
"  perfect  truth  :  perfect  happiness  :  without  equal,  immortal,  abso- 
•*  lute  unity  :  whom  neither  speech  can  describe,  nor  mind  compre- 
^  hend  :  all  pervading  :  all  transcending  :  delighted  with  his  own 
*<  boundless  intelligence  :  not  limited  by  space  or  time  :  without  feet, 
"  moving  swiftly  :  without  hands,  grasping  oil  worlds  :  without 
**  eyes,  all  surveying  :  without  ears,  all  hearing  :  witliout  an  intelli- 
*^  gent  guide,  understanding  all :  without  cause,  the  first  of  ail 
*•  causes  :  all  ruling  :  all  powerful :  the  creator,  preserver,  transfoj:- 
**  mer  of  all  things  :  such  is  the  great  one.'* 

This  Supreme  Aum,t  or  Brahm,  is  considered  to  pervade  all 
space.  "  If  Qod  leaves  the  system  of  man  which  he  pervades,  then 
**  what  of  it  can  remain.  Not  through  their  vital  powers,  do  mortals 
"  remain  alive  :  they  live  through  him,  by  whom  those  powers  are 
^  themselves  sustained.^'  At  death  the  speech  of  the  dying  Hindu, 
and  his  exterior  faculties,  (said  to  number  ten,)  are  believed  to  be 
absorbed  into  the  mind,  -wdiich  along  with  the  other  vital  functions, 
retires  into  the  breath :  the  breath  recedes  into  the  soul,  which 
attended  by  all  its  faculties,  retreats  into  a  rudimentary  body  com- 
posed of  light.  TJ^s  spirit  with  its  frame  of  light,  remains  intact, 
during  all  its  transmigrations,  until  the  dissolution  of  all  things, 
-when  it  merges  into  the  Supreme  Aum. 

Thus  the  spirit  of  all,  is  a  portion  of  the  supreme  spirit  at  the  first, 
and  merges  into  it  at  the  last.  The  followers  of  the  Vedas,  according 
^  to  the  theology  which  is  explained  in  the  Vedanta,  considering  the 
*'  human  soul  as  a  portion  of  the  Divine  and  universal  mind,  believe 
**  that  it  is  capable  of  perfect  union  with  the  divine  essence :  and  tho 
*'  writers  on  the  Vedanta,  not  only  affirm  that  this  union  and  identity, 
**  are  attained  through  a  knowledge  of  Goi>,  as  by  them  taught :  but 
^  have  hinted,  that  by  such  means,  the  particular  soul  becomes  Qod, 
**  even  to  the  actual  attainment  of  supremacy."} 

Men  are  said  to  be  bom  in  ignorance,  '<  living  in  the  midst  of 

♦  Sir  Wm.  Jona  Vol  vi.  p.  418. 

f  Tha  three  mystical  letters  aum  are  said  to  mean,  the  Creator,  preserver 
and  destroyer:  and  like  the  mystical  name  of  the  Deity,  HvH,  amongst  the 
Jews,  is  never  pronounced  aloud. 

t  U.  T.  CoUbradkc,  Amlic  ReieaicheB,  YoL  ix,  p.  269. 


27i  THE   LAWS   OF   MENU. 

^  ignorance,  and  believing  themsdves  to  be  wise,  fools  frequently  are 
^'  led  astray,  through  crooked  paths,  like  a  blind  man  led  by  a  blind 
'^  man."  Man's  consciousness  is  asserted  to  be  a  delusion,  until  the 
soul  is  freed  from  which,  it  must  undergo  a  series  of  transmigrations, 
the  cessation  of  which  is  the  commencement  of  true  happiness. 

There  is  an  inferior  liberation  of  soul,  obtainable  by  religious 
merit,  sacrifices,  and  ceremonies ;  or  by  faith.  ^  He  who  performs 
''  his  actions  for  me,  intent  on^B,  devoted  to  me,  free  fipom  interest, 
'*  and  from  enmity  towards  any  being,  comes  to  MB." 

A  superior  liberation  of  soul,  is  affected  by  a  true  and  complete 
comprehension,  of  what  Brahm  is,  and  man's  relation  to  him : 
this  must  consist,  in  understanding  that  all  is  Brahm,  who  is  the 
only  real  thing  in  the  universe :  this  must  be  weaved  into  the  be- 
liever's nature,  embraced  by  his  inmost  soul.  To  obtain  this,  pro- 
found meditation  is  necessary,  and  the  mode  is  pointed  out  Man 
must  understand,  the  non-existence  of  his  own  individuality,  as 
apart  from  Bralim.  His  proudest  wish,  his  chief  thought,  should  be, 
to  discover  that  he  has  no  separate  existence. 

There  are  three  degrees  of  rewards  held  out.  Those  deserving  of 
the  least  go  to  Indra's  heaven,  where  having  fended  their  good 
works,  they  are  bom  again  into  the  world.  The  second  go  to  Pra- 
japatMs,  or  Brahma's  heaven,  where  they  enjoy  without  the  power 
of  action,  and  after  a  time  are  bom  again,  and  carry  their  good 
works  with  them.  The  highest  rewards  are  kept  for  him,  who  has 
learnt  wisdom,  and  obtained  a  distinct  understanding,  that  he  is  a 
portion  of  Brahm.  This  may  be  obtained  in  this  world,  and  after 
it  is  attained,  good  and  evil  are  to  him  unknown.  <'  He  can  do 
*'  neither  good,  or  evil."  "He  doea not  become  greater  by  good  deeds, 
"  nor  less  by  evil  ones."  Now  his  passions  may  have  free  vent^  now 
his  vices  or  his  virtues  may  hold  unlimited  sway,  for  at  his  death, 
he  will  be  at  once  absorbed  into  Brahm,  transmigrations  will  be  to 
him  unknown.  "  As  rivers  flowing  go  into  the  sea,  and  lose  their 
^  name  and  form,  so  the  wise  freed  from  name  and  form,  gain  him 
*^  who  is  supreme,  perfect,  and  splendid." 

The  laws  of  Menu  (who  has  been  asserted  to  be  either  Noah  or  else 
the  son  or  grandson  of  Brahma,)  are  the  production  apparently  of 
fourteen  distinct  persons,  commencing  about  nine  centuries  before 


LAW3  RSSPEOTIKO  CONQTTEBSD  NATIONS.  £73 

Christ,  and  extend  over  a  long  period  of  years,  marking  a  progres- 
sive era.*  Sir  W,  Jones  states,  that  many  learned  Hindns,  consi- 
der some  of  these  laws,  were  only  enacted  for  the  earlier  stages  of 
civilization  in  the  world,  and  are  now  obsolete.  Ifamhaories  do  not 
hesitate  to  say,  that  HinduiBm  in  Malabar,  in  many  of  its  great 
essentials,  differs  from  tlie  roles  laid  down  in  the  Shastras.  In  the 
laws  of  Menu,  are  regulations  for  the  treatment  of  conquered  nations, 
who  were  to  be  kept  roaming  about  from  place'to  place,  not  allowed 
any  settled  residence  unless  as  perpetual  slaves,  shunned  by  the 
higher  classes,  and  only  permitted  the  possession  of  pariah  dogs,  and 
asses.  They  were  o)|)iged  to  execute  all  criminals,  for  which  they 
received  the  culprits'  clothes,  bedding,  and  ornaments.  Even  their  ap- 
parel was  to  be  that  of  deceased  persons,  and  their  ornaments  only 
of  iron.+ 

Hard  again  are  the  laws  of  Menu  upon  the  lower  castes,  "  the 
**  impure  can  never  be  relieved  from  bondage,  though  he  may  be 
^  emancipated  by  a  master.  How  can  he  whom  Qod  has  destined  to 
^  be  the  slave  of  the  Brahmans,  ever  be  released  from  his  destiny  by 
**  man)"  Though  an  inferior  killing  a  superior  suffered  death,  a 
Brahman  slaying  another  had  his  property  confiscated,  his  head 
shaved,  he  was  branded  on  the  forehead,  and  banished.  Should  he 
slay  a  Schatriya,  he  was  fined  one  thousand  cows,  and  a  bull.  A 
Vysia's  life  cost  him  one  hundred  cows,  and  a  bull.  A  Sudra's  ten 
cows,  and  a  bull ;  but  pariahs  and  out-castes,  were  not  mentioned. 
A  Sudra  was  valued  at  the  sixteenth  part  of  a  Brahman. 

Towards  their  close,  these  laws  most  distinctly  repeat,  that  there 
is  but  one  Qod,  ''  the  principal  object  is,  to  obtain  from  the  Up- 
"  anishad,  a  true  knowledge  of  one  Supreme  God."  No  mystical 
union  of  a  triad  is  alluded  to,  and  though  respect  is  directed  to  be 
shewn  to  idols,  their  adoration  is  reprobated,  whilst  offerings  to 
them,  are  not  even  alluded  to.  Still  there  is  this  great  difference 
between  the  Vedas,  and  the  laws  of  Menu;  for  in  these  latter, 

*  The  ages  of  the  world,  are  divided  into  the  ^oMen,  w  hen  men  lived 
400  years :  the  silver,  when  they  lasted  300  :  the  brass,  when  they  had  sank  to 
200:  and  the  iron,  when  a  further  reduction  to  100  occurred. 

+  This  may  be  one  reason,  why  the  castes  in  Slabbar,  below  the  Nurs,  call 
their  silver,  copper :  their  copper,  iron,  &c. 

L   1 


274  CREATION  OF  THE  WOBLD. 

it  is  asserted,  that  tike  substance  of  the  Creator  was  the  effi- 
cient cause,  in  the  formation  of  all  things  :  whereas  the  Vedas  dis- 
tinctly state,  that  th^  were  all  created  by  the  will  of  the  Creator. 
It  must  be  here  distinctly  mentioned,  that  no  Hindu  questions  in  the 
slighest  degree  the  truth  of  the  Vedas,  but  merely  the  constniction 
placed  upon  them. 

The  age  of  the  Puranas,  or  eighteen  legendary  poems,  which  may 
be  fairly  considered  the  worst  period  of  the  Hindu  religion,  nowb^an: 
and  it  is  surmised,  continued  between  the  eighth  and  sixteenth  cen- 
turies, of  «the  Christian  era.  Then  the  principle  of  one  Supreme  God 
was  neglected,  other  divinities  were  by  degr^^s  introduced,*  mor- 
tals became  canonised  andddfied,  sects  were  created  by  priests  for  their 
own  benefit,  and  the  sanctity  of  their  order  for  their  own  aggrandise- 
ment. The  doctrine  was  advanced,  that  faith  in  saints  or  deified 
mortals,  was  more  efficacious  than  good  works,  and  ceremonial 
observances,  than  a  well  spent  life. 

Some  of  the  heavens  mentioned  in  these  poems,  can  hardly  be 
deemed  a  place  in  which  decorous^  or  even  slightly  respectable  per- 
sons would  desire  to  find  themselves,  for  there  deeds  of  the  most 
abominable  description  are  asserted  to  be  of  common  occmrrence^ 

The  world  is  said  to  have  Iain  in  embryo  in  the  mind  of  Brahnv 
until  the  creation :  when  he  spoke,  light  appeared :  from  himself 
came  the  inert  matter  to  fill  up  space :  water  was  condensed  from 
around,  seeds  appeared  and  vegetated 

Again  Brahm  spoke,  and  on  the  surrounding  water,  floated  a  gold- 
en  ^gS'  ^  which  were  three  emblems,  of  wisdom,  power,  and  de- 
struction, or  birth,  increase,  and  death,  in  the  forms  of  the  gods, 
Brahma,  Vishnu,  and  Siva :  or  the  first  of  the  nature  of  earth,  the 
second  of  water,  and  the  third  of  fire.  The  symbols  are,  red  for 
Brahma  signifying  matter,  blue  for  Vishnu  signifying  space  or  wa- 
ter, and  white  for  Biva  in  contrast  to  the  black  niglit  of  eternity. 

*  PaUrwn  gives  the  three  first  symbols  of  the  Deity  as  follows  :  To  t!^ 
Swan^  on  which  Brahma  rides,  he  attributes  purity,  justice^  and  truth,  it  beiug 
a  pure  tinspotted  fowl,  that  swimming  amongst  the  waters  of  the  worlds  is  dis- 
tinct from,  and  unsuUied  by  them,  however  filthy  they  may  be.  The  Garuda 
of  Vishnu,  is  the  full  blaze  of  day,  the  dazzling  truth.  The  Bull  of  Siva,  Ilaa 
a  virtue  in  every  joint,  his  three  horns  are  the  three  Vedas,  and  his  tail  endn, 
where  injustiGe  commences. 


ORIGIN  OF  THXKE  SUPIBIOS  DUTIIS.  275 

Tlie  shell  of  the  egg  Ib  said  to  have  bunt  into  14  fragments,  seven 
flying  upwards  formed  as  many  superior  worlds,  the  remainder  pas* 
King  downwards,  were  converted  into  an  equal  number  of  inferior  ones. 

Another  version  wms,  that  Brahm  having  created  nature  in  the 
form  of  a  material  woman,  Bowaney  the  mother  of  the  gods,  she 
produced  three  eggs,  which  enacted  the  part  of  the  one  just  men- 
tioned :  having  done  this,  she  became  resolved  into  three  female 
f ormsy  thus  «reatiag  a  wife  for  each. 

A  third  mode  was,  that  Brahma  created  Vinj,  who  either  con- 
tinued the  work  of  creation,  or  created  Menu  to  do  so. 

The  Vishnuites  assert,  that  as  Vishnu  lay  sleeping  on  the  ocean, 
from  him  sprang  a  lotus,  which  gave  birth  to  Brahma.  Or  else 
that  Brahma,  Siva»  and  all  the  minor  gods,  were  created  from  Ins 
substance. 

However  these  three  gods  were  created,  it  is  admitted,  that  forth- 
with Brahma  and  Vishnu,  commenced  a  strife  concerning  which 
was  the  eldest  As  they  were  quarrelling,  Siva  suddenly  appeared, 
and  affirmed  that  he  was  older  dian  either,  but  would  willingly 
resign  his  right,  to  whichever  of  them  could  find  the  crown  of  his 
head,  or  the  soles  of  his  feet  Brahma  at  once  ascended,  and 
although  he  discovered  nothing,  returned,  dedatiug  that  he  had 
foand  a  cow,  and  likewise  produced  some  of  the  screw  pine,  which 
he  asserted  he  had  gathered  there.  Siva  became  very  angry,  at 
Itearing  this  untruth,  and  propheeied  that  Brahma  would  never  have 
sacred  rites  performed  to  him :  at  the  present  day,  he  is  said  to 
have  only  one  temple  reused  to  him  throughout  Hindustan,  whilst 
the  screw  pine,  is  never  used  in  religious  ceremonies 

The  disciples  of  Brahma  assert,  that  as  he  burst  from  his  shell, 
or  dse  at  a  later  period,  he  was  directed  to  continue  the  work  of 
creation.  That  above  him  grew  the  blue  expanse  of  sky,  whilst 
below  sprang  the  earth.  He  ordered  the  waters  to  recede,  and  dry 
lands  appeared.  He  peopled  the  .world  with  men,  into  whose 
breasts  he  implanted  discrimination  between  good  and  evU  At  the 
aame  time,  he  endowed  these  mortals  with  good  and  bad  passions, 
and  five  senses  were  added,  for  the  purpose  of  connecting  their 
internal  faculties,  with  the  external  or  material  world. 

Such  were  the  three  first  Hindu  gods,  whose  origin  is  thus  ac- 


276  KSPSE8EKTATI0NS  OF  BBAHMA. 

counted  for  by  Pater^on,*  and  others  :  viz.,  that  the  most  ancient 
Brahmanical  leligiony  simply  attributed  to  the  Deity  the  wonders 
that  filled  die  surrounding  i^>aoe :  due  to  his  creative,  protective,  and 
destructive  powers.  To  make  this  more  plain,  they  attempted  in 
time  to  explain  these  attributes  by  hieroglyphics,  maybe  letters  had 
not  then  been  invented,  or  that  signs  and  emblemalical  figures,  were 
better  understood  by  the  mass  of  the  people;  Thus  it  occuned, 
that  three  figures  representing  the  ^ree  great  attributes  of  the 
Divinity^  became  respectively  known,  as  Brahma,  Vishnu,  and  Siva  : 
the  Creator,  Preserver,  and  Destroyer  for  the  purpose  of  r^ewaL 

As  years  rolled  on,  the  imagesf  became  considered  more  than 
m^re  emblems  of  the  attributes  of  the  Deity^  and  the  mass  of 
Hindus,  believed  them  to  be  representatives  of  three  distinct  divi> 
nities.  Sects  then  became  instituted,  some  of  which  took  one  for 
their  immediate  object  of  adoration,  whilst  others  preferred  another. 
After  a  time  the  followers  of  Vishnu,  and  those  of  Siva,  invented 
new  symbohi  aa  descriptive  of  the  spedal  atbtributes.  of  th^  par^ 
ticular  Deity. 

Then  arose  contentions  for  pre-oninence,  and  at  this  time  the 
worship  of  Brahma  became  suppressed,  whilst  the  followers  of 
Vishnu  temporarily  succumbed  to  those  of  Siva.  But  soon  rehgioua 
crusades  raged  amongst  these  two  secta  The  Sunmyamet  fighting 
fcNT  the  superiority  of  Vishnu  :  the  Vairagiea  or  Bairagies  iot  that 
of  Siva  Sometimes  victcHry  attended  one,  sometimes  the  other^ 
and  bloodshed,  destruction  and  misery,  overspread  the  Hindu  lands* 

Ketuming  to  the  three  gods,  Brahma  is  usually  represented 
dressed  in  white,  having  four  heads,  arms,  and  handa^  symbolical  <^ 
earth,  air,  fire,  and  water^  holding  the  Vedaa  of  which  he  was  the 
author.  He  has  a  ladle,  to  pour  out  holy  water  for  religious  cere- 
monies :  a  rosary  to  count  pray^«  upon :  and  a  chatty  for  ablutioik 
He  is  generally  seen  riding  upon  a  swan.  Sometimes  he  is  represent- 
ed with  three  hands,  due  it  is  said  to  Siva  having  cut  off  one,  and 
ordered  his  worship  to  oeaae^  because  when  the  Brahmans  w^re  van* 

*  Afiattc  Reteardiei,  VoL  8,  pi^  44. 

t  «  The  Brahmaoioal  worship  is  generally  divided  into  the  Narganey  P<ycs<»% 
^  ukd  the  Sarffanejf  Pooja :  or  the  worship  of  the  great  invisible  Qod^  and 
'*  the  worship  of  idols.'' 


REPRESENTATIONS  OP   VJSHNU.  277 

quiiihed,  he  refused  to  acknowledge  it  He  is  reputed  to  Lave  origin* 
ally  possessed  five  heads,  and  the  first  was  amputated  by  Siva,  in 
the  following  way.  The  Qods  having  invented  intoxicating  liquors, 
all  became  in  a  state  which  must  have  been  peculiarly  obnoxious  to 
sober  persons.  At  this  time  they  committed  actions  too  disrepu- 
table to  detail,  and  too  disgusting  to  insert.  Brahma  boasted,  that 
he  was  as  great  as  Siva,  wlio  threatened  to  cut  off  one  of  his  five 
heads.  At  last  Brahma  uttered  a  curse  upon  whoever  should 
drink  intoxicating  liquors,  so  Siva  and  he  became  friends. 
Subsequently  when  he  asserted  his  superiority,  Siva  actually  carried 
his  threat  into  effect  and  cut  off  one  head.  Bloody  sacrifices  are 
never  offered  to  Brahma. 

Viihnu  the  preserver,  is  considered  an  emblem  of  goodness,  and 
is  the  Deity  which  the  majority  of  the  Cochin  Hindus,  more  especially 
pay  their  vows  to.  He  lias  about  one  thousand  names,  and  is  gene- 
rally represented  as  a  comely  young  man,  of  a  dark  azure  colour, 
dressed  as  a  king,  and  crowned  ^ith  a  Boyal  diadem.  Or  else  re- 
clining on  a  coiled  seven  headed  cobra,  or  hooded  snake,  (Anantn^) 
which  expanding  its  hoods  over  him,  forms  a  canopy  shielding  him 
from  the  sun's  rays.  Or  he  may  be  perceived  riding  on  the  eagle 
fforudaj  a  compound  of  a  bird  and  a  man :  or  on  a  Brahmanee  kite. 

Vishnu  is  represented  with  four  hands,  in  one  he  holds  a  shell  of 
the  genus  JSuccinum :  in  the  second  a  quoit,  or  wheel,  whieh  emits 
flames  on  being  thrown :  in  the  third  a  mace,  his  emblem  of  civic 
authority :  in  the  fourth  a  lotus,  either  designating  the  flower  from 
which  Brahma  sprung,  or  eke  typical  of  water.  B^ore  his  image  no 
animals  are  killed,  only  fruit,  flowers,  vegetables,  uulk,  honey,  and 
incense,  are  offered  up :  whilst  his  followers  pi'ofisSy  never  to  eat 
animal  food.  There  are  no  festivals  to  Vishnu,  but  there  are  to  his 
kicamations. 

IHshnu  is  the  Hindu  Avatar,  nine  times  has  he  been  incarnated,  and 
descended  on  the  earth,  at  his  tenth  advent,  all  things  it  is  said  are  to 
be  consummated,  and  the  world  resolved  into  himself.  These  incarna- 
tions no  doubt  are  mere  symbols,  thus  disciples  of  religious  teachers 
-were  formerly  termed  their  spiritual  sons,  or  are  even  mentioned  as 
their  incarnations.     Vishnu's  nine  incarnations,  were  as  follows  : 

The^r«t  was  a  fish  (MaUia)y  which  he  assumed  when  the  Supreme 


278  IMCAnUATIONS  OF  VISHNU. 

Creator  seut  a  flood  which  covered  the  earth  :  to  his  pectoral  fin  was 
bound  a  vessel,  wherein  a  holy  man  and  seven  persons  found  refuge, 
along  with  pairs  of  the  various  animals  which  inhabited  the  earth. 
The  holy  man  was  Menu  Vaivaswata,  or  the  sun-born,  who  with 
seven  other  sages,  disembarked  after  the  subeidence  of  the  flood, 
upon  the  holy  mountain  Meru,*  from  whence  their  posterity  descend- 
ed into  the  plains  of  India.  Whilst  the  earth  was  submerged,  a  bad 
spirit  (Haya^rivay)  stole  the  books  of  the  Vedas  from  Brahma,  who 
was  asleep,  and  flung  them  into  the  flood,  whence  Vishnu  in  his  flsh 
like  form,  rescued  them.f  It  has  been  asserted,  that  it  was  not  the 
substance  of  the  god,  but  merely  his  spirit^  that  was  within  the  fish- 
like  body. 

The  Second  was  a  tortoise  (Kachyapa^)  which  form  he  took,  when 
he  perceived  the  world's  foundations  giving  way,  and  smking 
into  a  sea  of  milk,  when  he  supported  it  on  his  back.  Another 
version  of  this  is,  that  after  the  world's  destruction  by  water,  the 
Soor^  or  good  genii,  assembled  on  the  summit  of  the  golden  moun- 
tain Meru,  to  meditate  upon  the  best  means  of  discovering  the 
Avnreeta^  or  waters  of  immortality,  or  as  others  have  believed,  the 
''  reanimation  of  nature  as  an  indestructible  whole,"  after  the  deso- 
lation of  the  deluge.  It  was  first  considered  necessary  to  agitate 
the  ocean,  by  the  rapid  rotation  of  the  mountain  Mandar.  The 
genii  asked  Vishnu's  advice  and  assiitance  to  help  them  in  theijr 
task,  which  was  accomplished  in  the  following  manner  : 

The  great  serpent  Auanta,  wound  itself  around  the  mountain, 
which  was  placed  upon  the  body  of  a  tortoise :  the  god  Indra  taking 
the  serpent  by  thi  tall,  used  him  as  a  rope  is  employed  in  a  chum. 
The  churning  of  the  ocean  ws^t  tremendous,  the  harder  Indra  pulled 
Ananta's  tail,  the  more  rapidly  revolved  the  mountain  Mandar. 
Every  thing  having  life  was  destroyed,  from  the  beast  on  the  earth, 
to  the  fish  in  the  ocean  :  and  from  the  tree,  to  the  sea-weed.  The 
result  of  this  great  destruction  of  life  was,  the  creation  of  a  milk-like 

*  The  esAcfc  gitaatiou  of  the  mouotam  Meru,  has  not  been  defined,  but  it  is 
generally  believed  to  be  located  to  the  north  of  Hindustan. 

t  Some  believe  that  Vishnu  did  not  rescue  the  book  of  the  Vedas,  or  Sacred 
lawty  from  the  flood,  but  restored  the  law  of  noiturt,  and  the  natural  order 
and  cannection  of  the  elemeots,  which  th^  flood  had  .sttbyerted. 


IKCASKATION  AS   PA^AStJ  ItAMA.  279 

juice,  which  arose  from  the  ocean,  and  was  the  much  wished  for 
Amreeta,  or  waters  of  immortality. 

The  third  was  a  boar,  ( Varaha,J  which  form  he  took  when  h^ 
found  the  giant  Hirinacheren,  had  rolled  the  earth  into  a  shapeless 
maj9s,  and  carried  it  to  the  lower  regions,  or  a  muddy  abyss.  Lift" 
ing  it  out  with  his  task,  he  replaced  it  in  its  proper  position. 

The  fourth  was  a  monster,  (NaraainghaJ  in  which  form  he  came 
to  destroy  a  brute  who  ruled  the  world.  Originally  this  tyrant  bad 
received  Brahma's  blessing,  on  account  of  his  religious  austerities, 
with  the  promise  that  he  should  neither  die  in  the  day,  or  night 
time :  in  earth,  or  heaven :  by  fire,  water,  or  the  sword,  nor  fSedl  a 
victim  to  any  mortal.  Relying  on  this  blessing,  he  commenced  a 
series  of  wars  and  conquests,  until  he.  became  the  tyrant  of  the 
world :  and  besides  all  this,  he  had  «  son  whom  he  wished  to  destroy, 
but  whom  Vishnu  had  promised  to  protect. 

One  evening  between  day  and  night  time,  standing  under  the 
droppings  of  the  thatch,  (Hindus  denominate  such  a  place  ''without 
"  the  world,")  the  tyrant  asked  his  son  where  his  friend  Vishnu 
resided]  everywhere  was  the  answer.  ''  Then''  said  he,  ''  he  must 
''  be  in  this  pillar,  and  if  so  I  will  kill  him."  Forthwith  he  struck 
the  pillar,  when  from  it  emerged  Vishnu,  in  the  form  of  the  monster 
Narasingha,  half  a  man  and  half  a  beast^  who  at  once  killed  him, 
and  subsequently  became  intoxicated  on  his  blood. 

Thejifth  was  a  dwcirf,  (Vamanaj)  which  form  he  took,  to  rid 
the  world  of  kmg  Balee,  who  was  oppressing  mankind.  To  obtain 
this  king's  favour,  he  served  him  most  faithfully,  and  the  monarch 
became  so  pleased,  that  before  all  his  nobles^  he  told  him  to  choose 
his  own  reward.  ''  Give  me"  he  replied,  ''  as  far  as  I  can  stride  in 
"  three  steps."  This  was  immediately  acceded  to.  His  first  w«a3 
half  way  round  the  world,  his  second  brought  him  to  his  original 
starting  point,  and  nothing  being  now  left,  he  claimed^  to  place  his 
foot  on  the  kmg's  crown,  whilst  he  was  wearing  it.  This  he  did 
with  so  much  force,  that  he  pressed  him  down  into  the  bottomless 
{ut,  where  he  still  reigns. 

The  iixth  was  as  a  priest  (Param  Rama  J  also  called  Rama  of  the 
battle  axe.  He  came  in  tliis  form  to  destroy  the  Schatriyas,  who  had 
declared  themselves  opposed  to  sacrifices,  and  the  worsliip  of  idols. 


230  I5fCARNATI0JJ   AS   RAMA. 

He  had  numerous  adventurer,  and  as  already  mentioned,  (pa^e  38)« 
obtained  Malabar,  from  the  depths  of  the  ocean,  as  a  place  for 
Brahmaus  to  reside  in. 

The  sevefith  was  as  a  prince,  (Rama)  of  the  moon  or  bow.  He 
destroyed  the  giant  of  Ceylon,  Ravana,  who  possessed  ten  heads, 
and  twenty  arms.  He  had  carried  away  llama's  wife  Seeta, 
-with  whom  he  safely  arrived  at  Ceylon.  Rama  pursued  Ravana, 
but  first  entered  into  an  alliance  with  a  monkey  king,  who  sent  ]ii3 
monkey  general  Hunaman,  to  discover  where  Seeta  was. 

Ifanamau,  began  searching  for  Seota,  whom  he  discovered  was 
in  Ravana*3  garden  in  Ceylon.  As  Hunaman  was  enacting  the  spy, 
he  unfortunately  was  made  a  prisiouer,  when  as  a  punishment,  liis 
tail  was  oiled,  and  then  set  fire  to.  Attempting  to  blow  out  the  fire, 
his  face  became  singed,  and  permanently  blackened,  so  all  his  tribe, 
had  their  physiognomies  turned  the  same  colour,  which  should  any  one 
doubt,  they  have  only  to  examine  the  Hunaman  monkey,  Semnopi- 
thecus  entellus,  which  with  its  black  face,  may  to  this  day  be  found 
along  the  western  Ghauts. 

On  Hunaman  with  his  blackened  face,  returning  to  Bama  with 
the  intelligence  of  where  Seeta  was  to  be  found,  they  immediately 
departed  for  Ceylon.  But  Rama  was  unable  or  unwilling  to  swim 
over  to  the  Island,  so  the  monkeys  under  Hunaman,  collected  large 
stones  from  northern  India,  aud  throwuig  them  into  the  sea,  formed 
stepping  stones,  over  which  Rama  proceeded  to  Ceylon,  where  he 
destroyed  Havana^*  and  recaptured  Seeta. 

It  has  also  been  alleged,  that  when  sufficient  stones  had  been  de- 
posited in  the  sea,  the  line  of  mouke3rs  who  were  bringing  more,  receiv- 
ed an  order  to  cease  their  labours,  when  each  at  once  threw  down  his 


*  After  Vishnu  in  the  form  of  Rama  had  killed  Ravana,  the  ynte  of 
the  latter  cainefmd  pniyed  £orable.iding,  and  he  proiniaed  she  should  never  be  a 
widow.  Then  discovering  to  whom  he  had  made  this  promise,  he  directed 
Hunaman  to  constantly  heap  up  wood  on  Ravana's  funeral  pyre,  which  he  oon- 
tinuea  uutil  the  present  time.  Until  the  fire  goes  out,  Ravana*ti  body  cannot 
be  considered  to  be  consumedi  and  uutil  it  is,  his  wife  U  not  a  widow.  Should 
a  Hindu  be  asked  for  a  proof  of  the  truth  of  thu),  he  directs  one  to  place  a 
finger  in  either  ear,  when  the  noise  of  the  fire  still  burning  may  be  distinctly 
heard. 


TnHKO'S  WIVES.  281 

load  where  he  stood,  and  thus  the  long  line  of  the  western  Qhants 
was  formed  It  is  a  little  unfortunate  for  this  legend,  that  in  his 
previous  incarnation,  Vishnu  was  said  to  have  inhabited  these  Qhauts^ 
perhaps  the  monkey  army  increased  their  elevation. 

The  eighth  incarnation  was  Kridna,  a  man  of  very  bad  morals, 
and  an  especial  favorite  with  the  female  part  of  tlie  population.  The 
less  said  of  his  doings  the  better,  what  would  now  be  called  murde^, 
were  amongst  his  lesser  crimes.  His  bones  are  believed  to  rest 
within  the  wooden  image  of  Juggernaut^  which  is  triemiially 
renewed.  The  bones  are  then  most  respectfully  taken  from  the  old 
idol,  and  deposited  inside  the  new  one.  The  offidatiog  Brahman  never 
sees  the  bones,  (or  whilst  removing  these  precious  relics,  he  covers 
his  eyes,  as  a  sight  of  them  it  is  l^»erted,  would  cause  his4nstanta- 


The  ninth  was  a  warrior  Buddha^  distinguishable  by  his  long 
asinine  ears,  and  curly  hair.  He  taught  that  it  was  sinful  to  take 
the  life  of  lower  animals,  steal,  tell  untruths,  drink  intoxicating 
liquors,  or  indulge  in  other  evil  propensities,  but  his  especial  object 
is  said  to  have  been,  to  abolish  human  sacrifices,  believed  to 
have  been  enjoined  by  the  Vedas. 

The  tenth  unfdlfilled  Avatar,  is  to  be  an  avenger,  or  Judge, 
KtUhee,  with  seven  crowns  upon  his  head,  whilst  in  his  hand  he  will 
carry  a  sword.  He  is  to  destroy  the  wicked,  bum  up  everything, 
and  then  re-create  a  new  world,  having  no  wickedness  in  it 

'^abnu  under  different  names,  is  the  god  of  Malabar.  In  Tra- 
vanoore,  he  is  termed ''  Palmanabha  Sawmy,"  and  the  Hindus  assert, 
that  to  him  belongs  the  country.  Eveiy  new  ZUgah  of  Travancore, 
before  commencing  his  reign,  goes  to  the  Pagoda,  and  receives  the 
hi^  title,  of  Sre  Palmanabha  Dausa,  or  Vishnu's  head  servant  He 
Ib  given  a  sword,  whilst  a  belc  is  put  over  his  shoulder,  and  having 
recdived  a  doth,  and  some  rice,  he  henceforth  reigns,  as^the  Deity's 
viceregent^  promising  to  return  him  the  country,  whenever  he  shall 
personally  come  to  claim  it ! 

Vishnu  is  said  to  have  as  wives,  Lutchmee^  the  goddess  of  pros- 
perity, and  SurwasvcUee,  the  goddess  of  learning.  At  each  of  his 
incarnations,  his  wife  is  supposed  to  be  also  incarnated,  and  although 
their  forma  are  represented  in  mortal  shapes^  their  heads  are  the  same 

M  1 


282  SIVA. 

as  those  of  the  animals  on  which  their  Lords  came,  as  of  a  lion,  an 
elephant,  &c.,  or  those  on  which  they  rode,  as  a  bull,  swan,  eagle,  &a 
These  goddesses,  appear  originally  to  have  been  intended  to  typify 
a  female  or  passive  energy,  attached  to  each  god. 

Siva  is  the  third  god,  of  the  Hindu  triad,  and  lias  as  many  aliases 
as  Vishnu,  some  of  the  best  known  being,  "  the  enemy  of  demons," 
"  the  moon  crested,"  "  the  Lord  of  devils,"  "  the  conqueror  of  death," 
•*  the  bearer  of  the  tiger's  skin,"  "  the  Lord  of  the  hiUs,"  and  "  the 
Lord  of  the  moon."  He  is  the  destroyer  with  a  view  to  renew,  and 
is  believed  to  have  been  taken  from  Adam.  He  is  thus  described 
in  the  Puranas.  "  He  wanders  about,  surrounded  by  ghosts  and 
"goblins,  inebriated,  unclothed,  with  dishevelled  hair,  covered  with 
"the  ashes  of  a  faneral  pile,  ornamented  with  human  skulls  and 
"bones,  sometimes  laughing,  and  sometimes  cryiag."*  He  has 
three  eyes,  r^resenting,  past,  present,  and  future :  a  trident  in 
one  of  his  four  hands,  which  may  typify  heaven,  earth,  and  the 
lower  regions,  and  signify  that  he  rules  three  worlds :  in  the  secoiMi 
a  cord,  wherewith  to  strangle  the  wicked:  his  third  is  bent 
downwards,  as  if  inviting  petitioners  towards  him :  his  fourth 
is  raised  as  if  in  blessing.  Bound  his  neck,  is  sometimes  seen  a 
string  of  htiman  skulls,  signifying  his  destructive  powers,  as  regards 
the  generations  of  mankind.  In  his  ears  are  serpents,  representing 
immortality.t  Sometimes  he  holds  a  ray  of  lightning  in  his  hand,  as 
a  symbol  that  fire  is  under  his  control.  He  is  occasionally  represented, 
riding  upon  a  dog,  and  is  then  designated,  "  Regent  of  Benares,"  the 
holy  city  of  the  Hindus. 

Siva  divides  with  Vishnu  the  adoration  of*  the  millions  of  Lidian 
Hindus,  still  the  orthodox  worshippers,  do  not  address  their  exclu- 
sive prayers  to  one  Divinity.  It  has  been  asserted,  that  Siva  having 
been  poisoned  from  drinking  the  waters  which  first  arose  from  the 
ocean  when'  churned  by  Auanta,  the  good  spirits  became  alarmed. 


♦  Kenntdt/9  Besearckes,  page  291. 

t  The  serpent  appeare  as  a  type  of  the  evil  one,  to  have  always  had  altars 
rawed  for  his  service,  to  deprecate  his  anger.  As  this  reptile  is  long  lived,  and 
yearly  changes  bis  skin,  it  after  a  tune  became  to  be  considered,  as  almost  im- 
mortal, and  employed  to  typify  immortality. 


EVIL  fiPiKira.,  28^ 

laid  the  evil  ones  filled  with  triumph,  hoping  that  he  would  die. 
But  JDoorya  took  him  in  his  anna^  and  by  the  aid  of  incantations, 
restored  him  to  health.  This  is  the  first  place,  where  the  efficacy  of 
incantations  are  alluded  to,  for  the  purpose  of  destroying  the  power  of 
IK>iaons.  Although  Siva  recovered,  an  indelible  blue  mark  was  left  on 
Ida  throat,  which  is  the  reason,  why  he  is  sometimes  caMed  l^e  ^  blue 
throated  God"  It  is  to  Siva  the  Vair^es  perform  their  abominable 
rites,  and  before  one  of  his  numerous  aliases,  or  those  of  his  wife 
Kali,  persons  torture  themselves,  to  carry  into  effect,  vows  already 
made^  as  piercing  the  tongue,  «r  swngDig  by  means  of  hooks  fixed 
cato  their  flesh.  Iliese  persons  have  attained  so  sublime  «  staite, 
that  when  death  occurs,  their  souls  are  believed  to  go  direct  to  a 
cuperior  world,  aftd  to  be  exempt  froiu  transmigrations. 

Other  minor  deities  exist,  but  their  numbers  render  them  too  numer- 
ous to  name.  They  preside  more  immediately  over  the  sea,  air,  fire, 
and  water,  the  sun,  the  moon,  and  such  like :  whilst  the  goddesses  ^re 
oqual  in  nunaber  t»  the  gods.  Ltttchmee^  is  the  wife  ef  Vishnu,  who 
la  usually  mentioned,  «nd  i>oor^  or  Kali,  that  of  Siva.  To  tins  last 
malevoleut  spirit,  robbers  pray  before  commencing  their  deeds  of 
violence  and  bloodshed 

The  Saktia,  or  evil  spirits,  are  very  numerous,  presiding  over  all 
tniafortunes,  accidents,  sicknesses,  and  crimes :  new  ones  are  con- 
stantly coming  into  being,  and  old  ones  sinking  into  oblivion.  Some 
are  considered  to  be  the  souls  of  those  who  have  ^ommiMed  suicide, 
•er  died  from  such  diseases,  as  preeiude  their  cither  reaching  lieaven, 
or  descending  into  the  worlds  iieneatL  In  company  with  devils, 
they  haunt  mankind,  striving  to  render  them  as  miserable  as  they 
are  Uiemselves.  To  keep  them  quiet,  propitiatory  offerings  are 
made.  One  of  Iliese  evil  spirits,  most  dreaded  in  the  Oochin  and 
Travancore  states,  was  Falaveshun,  a  Maraver  of  a  low  family,  but 
whose  numerous  murders  and  robberies,  had  become  celebrated,  and 
at  the  latter  end  of  the  last  century,  he  was  feared  even  as  far  as 
Madras.     To  propitiate  him,  thousands  of  infants  ree^ved  his  name. 

As  the  Supreme  Bang  it  is  considered,  can  never  be  the  author  of 
evil,  or  caiuse  pain  to  mankind,  his  worship  is  not  deemed  essential, 
like  that  of  evil  spirits,  the  originators  of  all  hnman  miseries, 
consequently  ofierings  to  the  latter,  have  in  many  places  totdly 


284  ofhesikos  to  spibits. 

superseded  those  to  the  former.  The  same  principle  is  carried  out 
with  regard  to  their  earthly  masters,  for  the  kind  and  indulgent  one, 
is  not  so  well  served,  as  he  who  is  severe  and  strict*  The  first  the 
Hindu  saysy ''  is  a  good  many  he  willnot  hurt  me,  the  latter  asevere 
**  one,  he  may  punish  me." 

During  the  rebdlion  in  Travancore  in  1809»  a  Captain  Pole  was 
mortally  wounded.  After  his  death,  he  was  buried  about  20  miles 
distant  firom  the  field  of  action,  in  a  sandy  waste :  a  few  years  sub- 
sequently his  worship  was  established  by  the  Shanars^  not  because 
they  feared  his  spirit,  but  that  it  might  drive  away  the  wild  animab 
from  that  part  of  the  country,  where  whilst  alive,  he  had  been  a 
most  successful  sportsman.  Brandy,  or  arrack,  and  ch^oots, 
were  there  offered  up,  but  such  have  been  discontinued  during  the 
last  few  years,  as  owing  to  extensive  dealings,  the  wild  beasts  have 
diminished. 

Offerings  are  made,  that  diseases  may  be  cured,  or  limbs  preserved 
healthy.  Thus  should  an  arm,  eye,  or  ear,  be  diseased,  a  represen- 
tation  of  the  affected  member  is  made  of  silver,  and  offered  up. 
luppen  is  believed  especially  by  the  Chogans  and  lower  castes,  to 
roam  the  jun^es :  and  in  order  that  he  should  {nreserve  them  from 
harm,  wooden  representations  of  limbs,  Ac,  are  left  in  his  domains, 
large  heaps  of  them  may  sometimes  be  found  in  the  jungles,  and  it 
is  expected  that  they  will  not  be  removed  by  passers  by.  Many 
tales  are  current  regarding  the  punishments  inflicted  by  luppen, 
upon  those  who  have  interfered  with  these  offerings  that  have  been 
made  to  him;  one  gentlemen  is  now  said  by  the  natives  to  be  lame; 
owing  to  his  having  contemptuously  spumed  a  heap  of  Hxem  vidth 
his  foot,  and  asked  some  Hindus  who  were  present  whether  they 
imagined  their  god  could  avenge  himself.  Unfortunately  owing  to 
some  cause,  his  leg  subsequently  became  affected.    Skulls  of  animals. 


*  This  may  be  one  roMon,  why  iH  gofvenied  NaAIre  statei^  are  preferred  by 
the  inhabitants,  to  the  well  ruled  British  poeemBbae.  Natives  appear  better 
satisfied  if  kept  in  order  by  force,  and  bulBed  into  reason,  than  if  treated  by 
kindness,  and  ruled  with  forbearance,  which  is  synonymous  amongst  |hem, 
with  oowaidice,  fear,  or  foolishness.  So  it  is  in  msgisterial  matters,  he  vho 
decides  all  cases  upon  their  merits,  without  allowii^  bribes  to  sway  him,  has 
the  epithet  of ''  silly  fellow,"  or  "  fool,"  affixed  to  his  name  1 


BtVDtr  FEASm  28.5 

Bucli  as  C0W8  or  dogs^  are  plaoed  in  cultivated  fields,  and  gardens, 
to  prevent  "  the  evO  eye." 

The  good  spirite  are  believed  to  hover  around  those  of  their  re- 
latives and  friends,  who  remain  behind  them  in  this  world :  whilst 
their  Ruahis,  obtain  almost  as  much  veneration  as  their  Deities. 

The  Hindu  adores  nature  in  all  its  forms,  from  the  sun  in  the 
sky,  to  the  stone  on  the  earth  :  the  oxen  and  implements  of  agricul- 
ture are  both  alike  venerated,  as  are  also  the  kite  soaring  in  the  hea- 
vens, the  monkeys  in  the  trees,  and  the  snakes  on  the  ground  :  whilst 
killing  a  cow,  has  been  considered  as  deserving  of  greater  punishment, 
than  slaying  a  low  caste  man. 

The  foregoing  is  a  very  brief  and  imperfect  summary  of  the  Hindu 
iaws^  and  the  objects  of  their  adoration,  from  which  it  must  be  evi- 
dent, that  in  olden  times  gods  now  recognized,  never  polluted  the 
lips  of  the  Hindus.  The  change  has  been  gradual,  and  owing  to 
symbols  having  by  degrees  become  to  be  considered  as  real  substances, 
and  figures  signifying  attributes  for  real  persons,  first  made  into  idols, 
and  now  termed  gods. 

The  demon  worship  of  the  Aborigines  of  India,  and  also  of  the 
Buddhists,  is  absent  from  the  old  Hindu  code,  but  exists  everywhere 
in  the  Cochin  state.  Two  Genii  are  supposed  to  be  attendant  upon 
every  person,  one  recording  his  good  actions,  the  other  keephig  n 
history  of  his  bad  ones.  These  accounts  are  finally  to  be  examined 
by  the  Supreme  Judge. 

The  Hindu /4?«(«foare  frequent,  but  differ  very  considerably  from  those 
keld  elsewhere,  the  chief  ones  arc  as  follows.  When  the  sun  commences 
its  southern  declination,  the  night  time  in  Meru,  the  supposed  abode 
of  the  gods  begins,  and  in  March,  the  feast  of  Baranee  is  held  to 
Biva's  wife,  in  most  parts  of  India  designated  Kali,  but  in  Cochin 
eonunonly  known  by  the  name  of  Bhagavadi  or  Bargawutti. 
This  goddess  has  no  symbol  of  time,  but  as  the  world  is  occasionally 
destroyed  and  renewed,  her  necklace  of  skulls  denoting  ^  destruction," 
IS  still  perceived.  She  is  a  hideous  idol,  symbolical  of  bloody  sacri- 
fices^ holding  a  veil  to  cover  over  the  sun,  and  leave  the  world  in 
impenetrable  darkness.  An  account  of  the  various  ceremonies  which 
are  performed  to  avert  her  anger,  it  is  needless  to  detail.  Originally 
ftpimida  were  typically  held  as  deserving  of  destruction,  signifying 


tSG  FEASTS   or   VISFIOO   AND   OHNAM. 

that  man  should  destroy  and  root  out  his  evil  i)assions,  each  of 
which  was  t.mfied  by  some  beast.  The  multitudes  took  these  sjmi- 
bolical  representations  as  realities^  and  instead  of  destroying  their 
bad  passion^)  they  slattghteved  innocent  creatures,  and  thus  bloody 
sacrifices  in  time  became  offered  up.  As  the  Hindu  religion  extendi 
ed  itself,  new  nations  saw  the  reality,  ignorant  of  its  being  (or  rather 
that  it  ought  to  be,)  a  symbol :  therefore  considmng  blood  would 
be  acceptable,  increased  the  horror:*,  by  offering  up  human  victims. 
The  Craiiganore  or  Kodungaloor  pagoda,  is  the  most  celebrated  place> 
where  the  feast  of  Baraneo  is  held,  and  thousands  resort  thither^ 
each  carrying  a  live  cock,  whose  head  is  cut  off,  and  the  blood  poured 
forth  in  honor  of  Bhagavadi,  whom  the  suppliants  implore  to  pro- 
tect them  from  diseases  and  misfortunes,  throughout  the  ensuing 
twelve  montlis. 

Tlie  feast  of  Vishoo,  or  of  the  "Astronomical  new  year,"  is  held  in 
April,  and  appears  to  have  many  characteristics,  in  common  with 
tlie  Hoolie.  This  Was  one  of  the  periods,  when  subjects  in  Malabar, 
were  expected  to  bring  their  new  year's  offerings  to  the  ruling  Prince, 
or  authorities  under  wliom  they  wore  placed.  The  British  Qoyem- 
ment  finding  this  a  greiit  burden  on  the  people,  obtained  a  promise 
from  the  native  Princes,  that  the  exiiction  of  presents,  should  be 
discontinued  from  1790.  It  is  consequently,  now  shorn  of  m|if;h  of 
its  ancient  sjileudour. 

The  Ohnam  is  the  great  feast  of  the  year,  and  occurs  in  August 
or  September,  on  the  day  of  the  new  moon.  During  the  first  fort- 
night of  the  latter  month,  usually  about  the  tenth,  the  rains  cease, 
nature  is  considered  renovated,  it  is  the  return  of  the  Malabar  spring. 
Hindus  now  snp[)licate  f.jr  a  fruitful  year,  and  pray  for  plenty. 
Every  one  now  puts  on  new  clothes,  and  employers  are  oz|)ected  to 
make  a  present  of  a  new  cloth,  to  each  of  their  yearly  employees* 
Many  throw  away  their  old  clothes,  and  toss  their  chatties  out  of 
their  houses,  which  they  adorn  with  flowers,  and  make  as  smart  as 
possible.  Games  are  played  by  the  men  ;  in  the  evening  bon 
fires  are  lighted,  and  the  sounds  of  music  are  heard  from  almost 
every  quarter.  It  is  believed  that  at  this  time,  the  god  Vishnu,  is 
wandering  about  in  a  variety  of  forms,  for  the  purpose  of  ascertain- 
ing how  his  people  are  tlu-iving,  whether  they  are  contented  and 


FKAST   OF    POO  J  A   WIPOO.  287 

happy,  or  are  tyrannized  over  by  their  temporal  Princes.  Therefore 
each  vies  with  his  neighbour,  to  appear  as  hap]|)y  and  contented,  as 
well  as,  as  wealthy,  as  he  possibly  can. 

The  fast,  or  funeral  rites,  of  PtUta  or  BhuUa  Thannm,  (gifts*  to 

learned  Brahmans,)  is  held  at  Tripoonterah,  in  the  month  of  August. 

It  is  a  ceremony  of  expiation,  and  wa^  instituted  in  the  time  of  a 

Rajah,  who  died  in  1775,  in  memory  of  his  mother,  who  expired  in 

.  17G9. 

The  Cocoanut  Feast,  is  held  on  the  new  moon  of  the  month  Cliin- 
gUm,  or  between  August  15th  and  September  15th.  At  this  time 
the  south  west  monsoon  is  sup^iosed  to  have  tenninated,  coconuute 
and  other  fi-uits,  are  therefore  taken  to  the  sea,  and  launched  into  it. 
After  this  ceremony,  the  coast  is  considered  open  for  country  crafts^ 
frdm  Bombay  southward. 

The  feast  of  Poafa  Wipoo,  known  elsewhere  as  the  "  Dusserah,*' 
or  ten  days'  f^t,  occurs  about  the  end  of  September,  or  beginning  of 
October.  It  was  after  this  feast,  that  in  olden  times,  the  Pinda- 
reed  "took  the  auspices,"  by  trying  to  annex  their  neighbour's 
dominions,  or  to  assist  themselves  to  their  property,  llobbers  and 
murderers  did  the  same,  and  all  looked  upon  it  as  a  s^jecies  of  religious 
duty,  with  one  proviso  attached,  that  it  was  incumbent  upon  them 
to  giv^  a  portion  of  their  booty  to  the  Idols.  In  the  Cochin  state, 
it  is  now  held  in  a  more  peaceful  manner,  the  Tailor  takes  his 
needle,  the  Scrivener  his  style,  and  all  Artizans  implore  a  blessing, 
upon  the  means  by  wliich  they  obtain  their  livelihood.  The  Bajah 
of  Travltncore  commemorates  this  feast,  by  going  to  Curramunay, 
where  a  plantain  tree  and  another  are  bound  together,  and  into  them 
he,  shoots  a  golden  arrow.  It  is  commonly  said  that  this  is  done  as 
a  symbol  Df  hunting,  in  pursuit  of  which  he  trusts  that  his  imple- 
ments of  the  chase  will  be  blessed,  imt  it  is  questionable,  whether 
this  custom  did  not  in  reality  originate,  in  commemoration  of  Pa^ 
rasu  Rama'a  famous  shot  with  the  long  bow. 

After  the  celebration  of  the  Pooja  Wipoo,  there  is  another  feast 
called  the  Ataha  Murtiya  Teyum,  or  the ''  Feast  of  burnt  sacrifices 
to  the  great  Siva."  Clarified  butter  is  cast  into  the  sacred  fire,  as 
an  offering  to  the  god,  and  the  Deity  is  invoked  to  bless  the  country, 
and  protect  the  Sovereign.    This  ceremony  should  properly  speak- 


288  HINDU  IDOLS. 

lug  be  performed  once  every  twelve  years,  but  owing  to  the  great 
expense  wliich  it  entails,  it  has  of  late  been  neglected,  and  is  now 
only  held,  when  considered  from  some  causes  absolutely  necessary. 
It  was  celebrated  in  1862,  for  the  purpose  of  extending  the 
life  of  the  present  BajaL  It  lasted  forty  days,  during  wMoh 
time  Namboorie  Brahmans  from  all  parts  were  fed,  and  received 
also  gifts  in  money.  The  expense  has  been  estimated  at  about 
Rs.  20,000. 

The  Tiwaiee  or  Diwalee  festival,  is  held  with  great  honour  in 
October  or  November,  and  is  celebrated  by  nocturnal  iiluminations, 
in  honour  of  Carticeya. 

Numerous,  as  are  their  feasts,  Hindus  show  their  sense,  in  this 
depressing  climate,  in  having  few  fasts  excepting  for  the  Brahmans. 
One  of  the  greatest  of  these  occurs  in  March,  and  is  hardly  symr- 
bolical  of  politeness,  as  it  is  held,  in  commemoration  of  Siva's 
marriage. 

When  there  is  a  deficiency  of  rain,  an  order  is  sent  round  to  the 
various  head  men  of  villages,  and  the  communities  under  them 
have  to  raise  money,  to  pay  the  Brahmans  to  perform  the  necessary 
devotions,  (viz.,  the  JeUa  J^bum,  or  ^^  water  prayer,")  for  rain. 
Should  a  stranger  view  some  of  these  holy  devotees^  patiently 
standing  up  to  their  necks  in  a  tank  of  water,  hour  after  hour,  he 
may  rest  assured,  that  there  they,  or  some  of  their  fraternity  will 
remain,  until  rain  descends  upon  the  earth. 

There  are  several  sects  of  Holy  men,  or  Ascetics,  whose  austerities 
are  believed  by  the  Natives  to  be  great,  their  filth  is  certainly  so. 
They  ought  to  mortify  the  flesh,  luad  be  indifferent  to  hunger, 
thirst,  heat,  or  cold  :  they  should  neglect  no  ceremonies,  reproach 
no  Brahmans,  and  destroy  no  life.  Two  or  more  Sunnyassies,  live  at 
Trichoor,  who  are  said  for  years,  not  to  have  moved  out  of  their 
huts,  excepting  to  go  to  the  Pagoda.  As  a  rule,  this  class  worship 
Vishnu,  and  the  Bairagies  or  Vairagies,  Siva 

Hindu  idols,  may  usually  be  known  by  their  representing  mons* 
ters,  with  partly  brutal  heads,  or  hands.  The  Buddhist  temples 
are  semi  globular  at  their  summits,  and  their  idols  are  seated  cross 
legged.  The  Jains  have  twenty-four  figures  without  a  pyramid. 
All  Hindu  temples  face  the  east,  and  as  they  have  no  windows,  the 


BOBOSCOPES.  2B9 

BToma  wiUiin,  is  as  may  be  imagined^  much  too  strong  to  be  agree* 
able.     The  lingum  is  sacred  to  Siva. 

In  some  places,  where  the  Brahmans  are  occasionally  dissatisfied 
with  the  amoont  of  offerings  they  receive,  they  give  out  that  the 
Deities  are  in  chains  for  debt,  and  show  them  in  this  state  to  the 
devotees.  Or  else  they  are  sometimes  said  to  be  seriously  ill,  ow- 
ing to  their  afiUction  at  the  manifest  decrease  of  piety  amongst 
their  worshippers,  and  to  have  determined  in  consequence,  to  aban- 
don this  ungrateftd  country,  and  remove  to  other  parts,  where  a 
more  religious  population  will  render  them  due  honour.  But  they 
are  subsequently  appeased  by  offerings,  which  are  regarded  as  a 
^nnbol  of  renewed  devotion. 

The  idols  are  consecrated  by  Brahmans,  who  commence  their 
proceedings,  by  invoking  the  Deity,  to  take  up  his  abode  in  the 
image :  prayers  are  then  muttered,  and  the  ceremony  terminates, 
by  their  pouring  oil  and  ghee  over  it  Subsequently  if  the  figure 
is  touched  by  any  person  not  a  Brahman,  or  by  any  lower  animal, 
(with  the  exception  of  a  cow,)  it  is  defiled:  the  extent  of  the 
pollution,  being  in  accordance  with  the  degradation  of  the  being  who 
destroyed  its  sanctity.  The  spirit  is  believed  to  take  flight,  and  the 
image  is  no  longer  regarded  as  a  god.  If  the  idol  be  of  clay,  it  must 
be  thrown  away  as  useless,  or  if  of  more  valuable  materials,  it  must 
be  re-consecrated,  the  expense  of  doing  which,  dex>ends  upon  the  ex- 
tent of  the  defilement  sustained. 

The  religious  observances  of  the  Hindus  are  numerous,  and  ap- 
pear to  exist  for  every  possible  and  impossible  emergency,  but 
as  they  are  so  many,  they  cannot  be  gone  through  by  any  devotees. 
Everyone  therefore  takes  credit  for  what  he  has  done,  and  deema 
the  religious  services  he  performs,  sufficient  for  the  purposes  of 
devotion. 

Should  a  child  be  bom  under  an  unfavourable  constellation,  it  is 

considered  to  be  illegitimate,  but  this  reproach  can  be  removed  by  a 

Brahman,  on  the  receipt  of  a  fee.   As  soon  as  it  is  bom,  its  horoscope 

is  drawn,  for  everyone  is  believed  to  have  his  doom  written  upon  the 

crown  of  his  head,  where  the  coronal  suture  runs,  the  digitationa  of 

which  are  considered  the  writings  of  the  Deity,  and  consequently  a 

persQn's  fate  is  said  to  be  inscribed  on  his  skull  in  bony  characters, 

N  1 


290  MARBUOE  CEREH0KIE3. 

before  his  birtL  Parents  always  desire  sons  rather  than  daughters, 
for  "  by  the  former  they  are  reverenced,  whilst  the  latter  are  only 
raised  for  others." 

Marriages  are  performed,  partly  in  the  following  way.  The  Bride- 
groom is  received  in  state  in  a  room  by  the  Bride's  father,  according  to 
the  rules  of  the  astrologers.  "  The  jewels  and  other  presents  intend- 
"  ed  for  him,  are  placed  there :  a  cow  is  tied  on  the  northern 
**  side  of  the  apartment,  and  a  stool  or  cushion  and  other  furniture 
"  for  the  reception  of  the  guests,  are  arranged  in  order.  On  his 
"  approach,  the  Bride's  father  rises  to  welcome  him,  and  recites  a  short 
•*  prayer,  while  the  Bridegroom  stands  before  him.  After  the  com- 
"  pletion  of  many  ceremonies,  presents  suitable  to  the  rank  of  the 
"  parties,  are  then  presented  to  the  guests.  At  the  marriage  cere- 
**mony,  the  Bride  is  formally  given  by  her  father  to  the  Bridegroom, 
'*  in  this  stage  of  the  solemnity  according  to  some  rituals,  but  later 
"  according  to  others.  The  hospitable  rites  are  then  concluded,  by 
*'  letting  loose  the  cow,  at  the  intercession  of  the  guests." 

"  Many  more  pages  of  ceremonies  then  follow,  which  lead  to  one 
"  of  more  consequence,  when  the  Bridegroom  puts  his  left  hand  un- 
"der  the  Bride's  hands,  which  are  joined  together  in    a  hollow 
"  form,  with  cusa  grass,  and  then  taking  her  right  hand  in  his,  he 
«  recites  the  six  following  texts.     First,  I  take  thee  for  the  sake  of 
"  good  fortune,  that  thou  mayest  become  old  with  me  thy  husband. 
"  May  the  generous,  mighty,  and  prolific  sun,  render  thee  a  matron, 
<*  that  I  may  be  an  householder,.    Secmid,  be  gentle  in  thy  aspect, 
"  and  loyal  to  thy  husband  :  be  fortunate  in  cattle  :.  amiable  in  thy 
*'  mind,  and  beautiful  in  thy  person  :  be  mother  of  surviving  sons  : 
«  be  assiduous  at  the  five  sacraments  :  be  cheerful,  and  bring  pros- 
"  perity  to  our  bipeds,  and  quadrupeds.     Third,  may  the  lord  of 
"creatures,  grant  us  progeny,  even  unto   old  age:  may  the   sun 
**  render  that  progeny  conspicuous.     Auspicious  Deities  have  given 
«  thee  to  me.     Enter  thy  husband's  abode  :  and  bring  health  ta 
"  our  bipeds,  and  quadrupeds.     Fourth,  Oh  Indra,  who  pourest 
"  forth  rain,  render  this  woman  fortunate,  and  the  mother  of  chil- 
"  dren  :  grant  her  ten  sons,  ^ve  her  eleven  protectors.     Fifth,  be 
"  submissive  to  thy  husband's  father,  to  his  mother,  to  his  sisters, 
''  and  to  his  brothers.     Sixth,  give  thy  heart  to  my  religious  duties: 


SrAPE   GOATrf.  291 

"  may  tliy  mind  follow  mine^  be  thou  consentient  to  my  speech. 
•*  May  Vrihaspati  unite  thee  unto  me."* 

Then  follow  many  other  ceremonies,  and  the  husband  places  the 
Tali,  around  the  Bride's  neck  :  upon  the  Tali  is  engraved  the  image 
of  the  Deity,  held  in  most  estimation  by  their  caste.  The  string  is 
comiK)sed  of  108  fine  threads,  dyed  yellow  with  saffron,  and  the  knot 
once  tied,  is  in  most  parts  of  India  indissoluble  ;  it  will  presently 
be  shown,  why  widowhood  is  almost  unknown  in  Malabar,  owing  to 
the  peculiar  customs  which  obtain  there. 

On  the  fourth  day,  the  Bridegroom  takes  the  Bride  to  her  ntw 
abode,  where  matrons  are  waiting  to  welcome  her  arrival  That  is 
to  say,  if  she  is  not  too  young,  for  marriages  frequently  take  place 
before  the  age  of  ten  years. 

When  so  ill  that  recovery  appears  impossible,  they  have  a  species 
of  "  extreme  unction**  with  Ganges  water,  or  that  in  which  the  idol 
in  the  i>agoda  has  been  washed.  At  this  period,  presents  of  some 
description,  especially  cows,  made  to  the  Bralimans,  will  ensuro 
a  comfortable  transmigration :  whilst  scape  goats,  are  also 
permitted.  Every  one  it  is  believed  has  to  pass  the  burning  river, 
over  which  those  who  have  given  a  cow  to  the  Brahmans,  are  assist- 
ed by  one  of  those  animals.  Brahmans  can  become  sureties,  for  tho 
shiH  of  the  dying  Hindu  in  the  world  to  come.  The  sick  man  lays 
his  hands  on  the  Priest's  head,  and  the  latter  repeats  the  following 
words,  "  I  hereby  take  this  man's  sins  upon  me."  Having  said 
which,  the  scape  goat  Bralunan,  flies  the  house  and  country,  for  he 
has  now  become  a  most  infamous  out-caste,  and  even  his  life  would 
probably  be  unsafe,  from  those  of  his  former  sect.  A  Brah  man 
having  received  extreme  unction,  and  absolution,  in  the  belief  tliat 
he  is  about  to  die,  should  he  recover,  becomes  an  out-caste  as  his 
spirit  appears  to  have  been  rejected.  Brahmans  can  expiate  the 
sins  of  deceased  persons,  by  swallowing  portions  of  their  burnt 
bones.  Scape  goaU  are  sometimes  made  use  of,  to  atone  for  the  sins  of 
persons  or  communities,  when  visited  by  sicknesses.  The  gDat  is 
invariably  a  black  one,  and  covered  with  a  black  cumblie,  garlands 
are  placed  around  its  neck,  and  after  prayers  and  invocations  have 

*  Colcbrooke,    ForM  Oi^kntd  Memoirs^  Vol.  II,  p.  310. 


292  CERBMbKY  or  INCItBMATION. 

been  muttered  over  it,  it  is  led  to  the  confines  of  a  neighbonnng 
jungle,  to  the  sea  shore,  or  the  limits  of  the  place,  and  there  turned 
loose.  Should  it  return,  such  is  a  very  bad  omen,  but  the  Oolahders, 
the  wild  beasts,  or  the  fishermen,  generally  prevent  such  an  occur- 
rence. 

When  death  at  last  lays  his  tribute  on  a  Hindu,  and  he  pays  his 
debt  to  nature,  he  hopes  to  be  remembered  in  this  world,  by  the 
works  of  utility  which  he  has  constructed.  As  the  shadow  follows 
the  body,  so  good  deeds  are  believed  to  accompany  the  soul,  conse- 
quently canals,  wells,  bridges,  and  other  works,  are  frequently  spon- 
taneous gifts  from  pious  Hindus,  for  the  benefit  of  their  race. 
Death  should  not  occur  in  doors,  as  the  spirit  is  believed  not  to 
take  its  departure,  with  the  same  ease  it  would,  were  the  dying 
person  in  the  open  air,  and  besides  this,  the  house  becomes  defiled. 
The  sick  man  should  expire  on  the  ground,  as  if  death  overtakes 
him  on  a  bed,  or  mat,  his  spirit  will  be  encumbered  with  them  in 
the  next  world. 

Amongst  those  who  have  regular  wives,  the  female  should  just 
before  her  husband's  death,  dress  herself,  and  as  soon  as  he  is  no 
more,  be  convulsed  with  grief,  for  she  is  esteemed,  in  a  ratio  corres- 
ponding with  the  amount  of  her  lamentations. 

After  death,  but  little  time  elapses  before  the  funeral  eercTnonies 
commence.  The  body  having  been  placed  on  the  funeral  pile,  is 
set  fire  to  by  the  eldest  son  or  by  the  nephew,  should  he  become 
head  of  the  family,  whilst  he  offers  up  the  obsequies  to  the  maines 
of  his  dead  relatives.  Beating  of  drums,  and  noisy  music,  rarely 
occurs,  unless  at  the  funeral  of  those  below  the  caste  of  Nair.  Cere- 
monies for  the  dead  are  gone  through,  on  the  anniversary  of  the 
death  yearly,  in  accordance  with  the  lunar  calendar  :  whilst  on  the 
new  and  full  moon,  offerings  are  made  on  account  of  the  departed. 

During  the  ceremony  of  incremation,  the  Brahmans  address  the 
elements  much  in  the  following  way.  ^'  Oh  earth !  to  thee  we  com- 
'^  mend  our  brother:  of  thee  Ae  was  formed :  by  thee  he  was  maintain- 
"  ed :  and  unto  thee  he  now  returns.  Oh  fire  1  thou  hast  a  claim 
"  upon  our  brother,  during  his  life  he  subsisted  by  thy  influence  on 
"  nature :  to  thee  we  commit  his  body :  thou  emblem  of  purity,  may 
"  his  spirit  be  purified  on  entering  a  new  state  of  existence.    Oh  air ! 


CSBEMOKT  OF  SUTTEB.  293 

"  while  the  breath  of  life  continued,  onr  brother  respired  by  thee : 
^  Aw  last  breath  has  now  departed  j  to  thee  we  yield  him.  Oh  water  t 
"  thon  didst  contribute  to  the  life  of  our  brother:  thou  wast  one  of 
''  hie  sustaining  elements,  ffie  remains  are  now  dispersed :  receive 
"  thy  share  of  him,  who  has  now  taken  an  everUsting  flight."* 

A  death  in  a*  family  causes  pollution  to  the  head  of  it,  thus 
Brahmans  are  defiled  10  days:  Schatriyas  eleven :  Vysias  twelve : 
Sudras  (including  Nairs)  thirteen.  The  first  vieit  of  condolence 
after  a  man's  death  is  to  his  mother,  as  his  widow  is  un- 
recognised, excepting  in  a  few  classes,  and  even  then  she  comes  after 
the  motiier.  FolluHon  is  of  many  varieties,  too  numerous  in  fact  to 
detail  Should  one  of  the  higher  castes  touch,  or  in  some  instances 
approach  one  of  the  inferior  classes,  he  must  go  through  certain 
ceremonies,  before  he  loses  the  effects  of  the  pollution. 

One  of  Siva's  wives,  named  Suttee,  is  said  to  )iave  died  of  grief, 
upon  hearing  her  husband  spoken  badly  o^  and  her  name  is  now 
too  well-known,  to  pass  over  in  silence.  Up  to  within  a  recent 
date.  Suttee,  or  the  burning  of  widows  on  their  husbands'  funeral 
pile,  was  considered  one  of  the  highest  works  a  woman  could  perform, 
whilst  in  the  next  world,  she  would  be  permitted  to  live  with  her 
hufiband,  the  same  number  of  years,  she  possessed  hairs  on  her 
head,  generally  computed  at  38,000,000.  The  Schatriyas  are 
believed  to  have  originated  this  rite,  which  was  especially  employed 
by  the  Bajpoots,  amongst  whose  wives  it  became  so  fashionable  to 
poison  their  husbands,  that  it  was  introduced  by  the  men,  as  a  law 
of  self-preservation.  It  was  believed  that  if  a  woman's  hopes  of 
earthly  happiness  ceased  with  her  husband's  life,  she  would  be  more 
likely  to  interest  herself  in  his  preservation,  than  in  his  destruction. 

Under  the  same  circumstances  which  in  Europe  preclude  Capital 
punishments  being  carried  into  effect.  Suttee  was  not  allowed. 
Should  a  widow  refuse  to  be  burnt  with  her  husband's  corpse,  she 
was  considered  disgraced,  and  had  to  devote  her  life  as  a  dancing 
girl  in  the  service  of  some  Deity,  or  have  her  head  shaved,  was 
allowed  to  eat  no  betel,  use  no  saffron  water  to  colour  her  face, 
wear  no  coloured  clothing,  attend  no  joyous  ceremonies,  but  was  kept 

♦  Forbes*  Oriemai  Mefooirh    Vol.  II,  p.  182. 


294  TRANSMiaRATION   OF   SOULS, 

in  a  state  of  servile  degradation  in  her  husband's  family.  Subse- 
quently the  Vysias  followed  this  q]astom  of  the  Bchatriyas. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  present  century,  strict  prohibitions 
against  Suttee  were  promulgated  by  the  Indian  Government,  and 
every  succeeding  year  they  became  more  stringent,  until  it  was 
enjoined,  "  That  should  any  woman  feel  disposed  to  burn  with  the 
"  corpse  of  her  husband,  notice  should  be  given  to  the  Magistrate  : 
"  and  should  it  be  sanctioned,  she  must  gather  the  firewood  herself, 
*^  and  prepare  the  pile  without  making  any  fence  to  ii,  and  it  should 
"  be  done  in  the  presence  of  the  Daroga.  After  putting  a  slow  fire 
•*  to  the  pile,  she  must  voluntarily  get  on  it,  and  should  any  person 
'^  be  found  assisting,  advising,  and  encouraging  her  in  the  horrid 
"  deed,  they  should  be  prosecuted.  As  the  flames  touch  her  body, 
"  should  she  wish  to  get  off  the  pile,  nobody  should  prevent  her,  and 
"  should  any  person  be  found  threatening  her,  in  order  to  keep  her 
*'  in  the  flames,  that  they  should  be  prosecuted  as  murderers."  On 
December  4th,  1829,  Suttee  or  the  burning,  or  burying  alive  of  the 
widows  of  Hindus,  was  finally  abolished  in  Bengal  by  Lord  William 
Bentinck,  and  in  Madras  two  months  subsequently,  whilst  in  Bombay 
within  a  year,  by  Sir  G.  Malcolm. 

As  already  observed,  the  wish  of  the  Hindu  should  be,  that  his 
spirit  should  in  a  future  state  be  incorporated  in  the  essence  of  the 
supreme  Brahm.  The  spirit  of  the  Brahman  is  nearest  to  this 
desirable  re-union,  and  should  he  have  been  a  good  man,  at  his 
death,  his  desire  will  be  accomplished.  Should  he  have  been  an 
evil  one,  his  soul  goes  to  a  place  of  torment^  and  {titer  a  certain  pur- 
gatorial or  expiatory  process,  it  re-ascends  to  earth  to  occupy  the 
body  of  some  animal,  for  the  period  of  torment  is  not  eternal,  but  in 
accordance  with  the  owner's  demerits,  and  the  soul  must  be  cleans- 
ed in  a  body  of  affliction.  Buddha  had  to  wander  999  times : 
Vishnu  10  :  and  Siva  innumerable.  All  the  bad  spirits  are  under 
the  inspection  of  the  vigilant  Yama,  or  Shahadeva,  the  "  god  of  la- 
mentations." 

The  origin  of  trmwnigrations  is  said  to  have  been,  that  when 
some  of  the  angels  rebelled  against  the  supreme  god,  he  condemned 
them  to  eternal  torments.  After  a  time,  at  the  intercession  of  the 
faithful  angels,  they  were  released,  on  promising  amendment,  and 


COURdS  TAKEN   BY   BAD   SOULS.  205 

admitted  to  a  state  of  probation.  Worlds  were  created,  and  mortal 
bodies  prepared  for  these  apostate  spirits.  First  animated  in  the 
bodies  of  lower  animals,  after  a  varying  number  of  transmigrations, 
that  of  human  beings  was  attained,  when  if  the  spirit  failed  to  re- 
form, it  again  had  to  pass  backwards,  through  the  lower  grades. 

By  a  process  of  transmigration  of  the  soul,  it  gradually  re-ascends 
until  it  again  enters  a  Brahman's  body,  whom  we  will  charitably  sup- 
pose, will  be  a  good  man  this  time.  Tumraj,  is  the  appointed  final 
judge  of  men's  lives,  or  the  judicial  Ddty,  and  is  assisted  by  a  secre- 
tary ChuttergopaL  Glood  persons  at  each  transmigration,  are  ad- 
vanced one  step  onwards,  towards  the  immortal  Brahm  :  bad  spirits, 
go  one  or  more  steps  backwards.  There  are  certain  exceptions  to 
this  rule,  thus  if  a  Hindu  dies  at  Benares,  there  is  no  need  of  be- 
coming a  Brahman  before  being  rejoined  to  Brahm,  consequently 
from  many  parts  of  India,  good  Hindus  are  always  flocking  in  that 
direction.  There  is  an  account  extant,  of  a  certain  wicked  Brahman, 
whose  soul  was  taken  to  a  place  of  torment,  but  when  his  body  was 
burnt,  a  crow  flew  away  with  one  of  his  bones,  and  dropped  it  into 
the  Ganges.  Hardly  had  it  reached  those  holy  waters,  when  the 
culprit's  soul  was  perceived  emerging  from  the  lower  regions,  in  a 
splendid  chariot,  and  evidently  on  its  way  to  celestial  bliss. 

Some  religious  works  of  the  Hindu's  state,  "  he  who  steals  rice 
"^  will  go  into  Hell,  at  his  next  birth  he  will  become  a  crow  for  18 
"  years,  afterwards  a  heron  for  12  years,  and  then  a  diseased  man. 
"  He  who  kills  an  animal,  or  laughs  at  the  reading  of  the  Puranas^ 
"  will,  after  enduring  excessive  torment,  become  a  snake,  then  a 
'*  tiger,  a  white  heron,  a  crow,  and  lastly  a  man  having  an  asthma. 
"  He  who  steals  alms  will  sink  into  Hell,  and  afterwards  be  bom 
"  blind,  and  afflicted  with  consumption.  He  who  lives  in  affluence 
"  without  communicating  of  his  substance  to  others,  will  be  punish- 
"  ed  in  Hell  30,000  years,  and  then  be  born  a  musk  rat,  then  a 
"  deer,  and  then  a  man  whose  person  emits  an  offensive  odour  and 
"  who  prefers  bad  to  excellent  food."* 

Good  souU  leaving  their  tenements  of  clay,  proceed  through  beauti- 
ful paths,  having  silver  streams  murmuring  along  either  side.    Over- 

*  Weitbrech's  Missions  in  Bengal. 


296         HIKDU  PROTEST  AGAINST  BEUGIOUS  INTOLEBANCE. 

head  they  are  shaded  by  fragrantand  luxuriant  trees,  which  at  every 
step  shower  down  flowers  on  the  passing  spirit.  Hymns  and  sweet 
sounds  resound  in  the  otherwise  still  atmosphere,  and  angels'  melodi- 
ous strains,  are  heard  in  the  distance. 

Bad  Bouls  having  in  pain  parted  from  the  body,  pass  naked,  weaiy, 
parched  with  thirst,  and  covered  with  blood  and  dirt,  through  dark 
and' dismal  roads,  sometimes  under  hideous  trees,  from  out  of  which 
evil  spirits  appear  in  terrible  forms  :  again  emerging  from  these 
dark  passages,  they  have  to  proceed  over  burning  sands,  or  sharp 
cutting  stones,  which  wound  them  at  every  step.  Occasionally, 
showers  of  red  hot  coals,  or  burning  ashes,  are  rained  down  upon 
them.  Shrieks  and  wailings  are  heard  overhead,  whilst  imagination 
must  conceive,  what  they  will  find  when  their  journey  is  completed. 

The  Hindu  satisfied  with  the  religion  of  his  forefathers,  is  disin- 
clined to  enter  upon  any  arguments  respecting  that  of  others.  He 
does  not  deny  tliat  either  Christianity  or  Mahomedanism  are  true,  he 
merely  believes  them  unsuited  to  himself.  Should  miracles  be  ad- 
duced, he  closes  discussion  by  bringing  forward  greater.  He  points 
to  Malabar  as  having  been  created  for  the  Brahmans,  or  talks  of  the 
bridge  to*  Ceylon  erected  by  Hunaman  and  his  monkey  army.  He 
placidly  performs  his  rites,  and  keeps  his  festivals,  without  interrupt- 
ing the  observances  of  others,  so  long  as  they  leave  him  in  peace  to 
perform  his  own. 

The  institutes  of  Menu  say,  that  the  Supreme  Being  selected  man, 
the  centre  of  knowledge,  to  have  dominion  and  authority  over  the 
remainder  of  creation.  Having  bestowed  on  him  comprehension  and 
judgment,  he  gave  him  supremacy  over  the  world,  as  far  as  its  ex- 
treme limits,  and  when  he  had  placed  in  his  hands  the  controul  and 
arbitrary  disposal  of  all  aflairs,  he  appropriated  to  each  tribe  its  own  * 
faith,  and  to  every  sect  its  own  religion.  Having  introduced  a  va- 
riety of  castes,  and  diversity  of  customs,  he  views  in  each  different 
place,  the  mode  of  worship  appointed  to  it. 

A  Hindu  addressing  Aurungezebe,  complaining  of  his  intolerance, 
said.  <'  If  your  Majesty  places  any  faith  in  those  books  by  distinc- 
^  tion  called  Divine,  you  will  there  be  instructed,  that  Qod  is  the  Qod 
^  of  all  mankind,  not  the  Gk>d  of  the  Mahomedans  alone.  The  Pagan 
^'  and  the  Mussalman  are  equally  in  his  presence ;  distinctions  of 


HINDU  CASTES.  297 

•*  colouf  are  of  his  ordination :  it  is  he  who  gives  existence.  Li  your 
"  Temple  to  his  name  the  voice  is  raised  in  prayer  :  in  the  house  of 
"inures  where  the  bell  is  shaken,  still  he  is  the  object  of  adoration. 
"  To  vilify  the  religions  and  customs  of  other  men,  is  to  set  at 
"  naught  the  pleasure  of  the  Almighty." 

The  remarkable  institution  of  castes  amongst  the  Hindus,  is  per- 
haps a  result  of  their  early  fondness  for  symbolical  representations. 
It  is  probably  a  cunning  invention  of  an  unscrupulous  Priesthood, 
who  lusting  for  temporal  power,  altered  the  meaning  of  the  symbols, 
and  whilst  giving  themselves  the  pre-eminence,  were  also  careful  that 
it  should  be  hereditary. 

Man  at  first  in  a  savage  state,  became  as  years  rolled  on,  piore  and 
more  civilized :  luacuries  were  more  general,  and  employments,  trades, 
and  professions  multiplied.  Different  offices  must  have  fallen  to  the 
lot  of  different  classes  of  persons  :  some  were  Priests  fattening  on 
the  credulity  of  their  fellows  :  some  subsisted  by  physical  force  as 
soldiers :  some  by  cultivating  the  soil :  and  others  by  trades  or 
manual  labour.  What  more  rational,  than  symbolically  it  should 
have  been  represented,  that  the  Priests  who  expounded  the  law,  and 
were  considered  the  wisest  of  the  people,  should  have  derived  their 
existence  from  Brahma's  mouth,  from  whence  the  Vedas  sprung  1 
That  the  man  of  war,  living  by  the  strength  of  his  arm,  and  ruling 
his  fellows  by  the  law  of  force,  should  be  typified  as  created  from 
the  god's  shoulder  1  That  the  agriculturist,  who  by  tilling  the  soil 
provides  sustenance  for  himself  and  others,  and  gives  strength  ^- 
abling  man  to  stand  fatigue,  should  be  shown  as  coming  from  the 
divine  thighs  1  Lastly,  that  those  who  subsist  by  manual  labour,  as 
artificers,  servants,  and  slaves,  to  the  higher  classes,  should  be  shown 
as  coming  from  the  feet  of  Brahma,  they  being  the  servile  races  ? 

These  four  classes,  or  castas  denominated,  the  Brahmans :  the 
Schatriyas:  the  Vysias :  and  the  SudraSf  are  the  divisions  of 
which  Hinduism  now  consists,  whilst  the  out-castes  are  the 
Pariahs,  a  name  derived  from  the  Sanscrit  word  Pari,  "  aban- 
doned," separated,  having  no  part  or  lot  with  the  Hindu  sect. 
It  is  said  by  the  Brahmans,  that  when  Brahma  created  men,  he 
asked  each  as  he  appeared  what  he  wished  to  be,  and  received  the 
answer,  ''  Whatever  duty  we  may  be  ordained  to,  that  will  we  faith- 

o  1 


208  LOSS   OF   CASTE. 

"  fuDy  perform :"  and  the  four  castes  were  directed  what  office 
each  was  to  assume.  The  word  caste  is  of  Portuguese  ori- 
gin, (CaUa,  "  a  breed.")  The  native  word  Varna,  means  either 
caste  OF  colour,  and  it  is  asserted,  that  the  Brahmans  were 
created  white,  the  Schatriyas  red,  the  Vysias  yellow,  and  the  Sudras 
black.* 

The  trivial  word  "  caste,"  is  one  of  most  momentous  import,  a 
loss  of  it  signifies  a  moral,  and  in  olden  times  a  civic  death  also. 
The  share  of  the  out-caste's  inheritance,  (if  living  in  the  Native 
State,)  passes  away,  his  funeral  ceremonies  are  performed  by 
his  friends,  who  recognise  him  no  more.  Father,  mother,  wife, 
and  children,  loathe  him  :  his  mere  presence  contaminates  those, 
who  were  previously  his  nearest  and  dearest  friends.  If  he  dies 
funeral  rites  are  denied  to  his  remains.  He  has  become  a  thorough 
out-caste,  and  must  so  continue,  unless  he  is  below  the  caste  of  Nair, 
in  which  case,  he  can  be  purified  by  a  slight  ceremony,  which  will 
"he  alluded  to  further  on. 

The  three  superior  Hindu  castes,!  are  designated  the  "twice  bom," 
and  as  such  are  invested  with  the  sacred  thread,  and  may  hear  the 
reading  (^  the  Yedas,  which  privilege  is  denied  to  the  Sudras,  and  the 

*  OasteB  existed  amongst  the  Egyptians,  Medea,  Persians,  and  others. 
-Castes  are  maintained  amongst  some  Roman  Catholic  cong^gations  in  Malabar 
to  this  day.  (See  page  231.)  Caste  distinctions  were  observed  in  the  Tanjoro 
and  other  Protestant  missions,  from  the  time  of  Schwartz  and  Gerickd,  it  was 
only  July  5th,  1833,  that  Bishop  Wilson  declared,  that  the  Native  Christians 
had  not  followed  the  advice  given  by  his  predecessors  for  its  discontinuance, 
that  **  in  short  under  the  name  of  Christianity,  half  the  evils  of  Paganism  are 
retained/'  and,  that  it  *^  must  be  abandoned,  decidedly,  immediately,  finally," 
In  Tanjore  the  reading  of  the  circular,  "  waa  received  by  the  Native  Cliris- 
"  tians  with  great  displeasure,  and  they  showed  their  views,  by  seceding  in  a 
**  body."~PEnciVAL,  Lwnd  of  the  Vedas. 

+  In  every  place  the  above  rank  of  castes  does  not  hold  good,  thus  a  Nair 
who  is  a  Sudra,  would  consider  himself  polluted,  eating  mth  an  Oonoe,  who  is 
an  Ambalavassee,  and  wears  the  sacred  thread.  That  caste  is  the  cause  of 
many  of  the  evils  of  India,  the  AbhS  Dubois  declares  to  be  a  mistaken  notion. 
Without  caste,  he  believed  the  natives  of  Hindustan,  would  rapidly  degenerate 
into  a  barbarous  state :  thus  he  held  the  Pariah  Who  is  without  caste,  as  an 
example  of  how  the  want  of  it  would  act.  The  Abbd  asserts,  that  a  nation  of 
J'ariahs  left  to  themselves,  would  speedily  become  worse  than  the  hordes  of 
Cannibals,  that  wander  over  the  African  deserts. 


TRIBES   OF   BBABMANS   IK    MALABAB.  299 

isferibr  classes.  In  speaking  generally  of  Malabar,  there  are  only  two 
castes  lefty  the  Brahmans,  and  the  Sudras  :  for  the  Schatriyaa  are 
very  few  in  number,  and  Vysias  very  sparingly  distributed. 

It  has  been  already  mentioned,  that  Vishnu  is  the  presiding  Deity 
of  these  parts,  though  Siva's  npirks  are  more  commonly  perceived  upon 
the  people.  Whilst  painting  on  caste  marks,  prayers  are  muttered  to 
the  Deity  in  whose  honor  they  are  being  applied.  Some  are  made 
with  red  sandal  wood,  some  with  ashes,  rice  meal,  earth  taken  from 
,  a  sacred  river,  or  the  vicinity  of  some  consecrated  spot ;  sandal 
wood,  saffron,  and  ashes,  are  more  especially  consecrated  to  the  fire, . 
mm,  moon,  or  planets.  Whilst  earth,  and  rice  meal,  are  usually 
only  employed  by  the  worshippers  of  Vishnu,  and  Lutchmee. 

Caste  marks  are  printed  upon  the  forehead,  breasts,  or\rms,  and 
demonstsate  devotion  to  some  Deity,  or  sect  The  trident  on  the 
forehead,  is  generally  a  distinctive  mark  of  the  followers  of  Vishnu, 
and  horizontal  white  lines  across  the  forehead,  chest,  and  shoulders, 
those  of  Siva.  But  there  are  exceptions  to  tliis  rule,  the  round  mark 
which  in  some  parts  of  India  denote  the  worshippers  of  Siva,  here 
usually  distinguishes  those  of  Vishnu,  or  of  one  of  his  incarnations,, 
and  the  red  dot  those  of  either  Kama,  or  Krishna,  separately,  or  of  the 
two  conjoined.  The  nuurks  in  honour  of  Siva,  are  as  a  general  rule, 
composed  either  of  ashes,  or  cow  dung. 

The  BrahmoDB  divided  Bharata,  now  known  as  Hindustan,  into  two 
divisions,  the  northern  portion,  or  that  extending  firom  the  Hima- 
layas to  the  banks  of  the  Nerbudda,  where  one  division  of  them  call- 
ed Panjacowdars  resided :  and  the  southern,  or  that  part  between 
the  Nerbudda  and  Ca[)e  Comorin  including  Ceylon,  where  the  other 
division  of  them  termed  Pacjadravadals  were  located.  These  were 
again  sub-divided  into  three  principal  divisions,  subject  to  an  almost 
endless  sub*division. 

In  the  "Mackenzie  Manuscripts,"  (No.*  17,  counter-mark  910,) 
there  are  stated  to  be  fifteen  different  tribes  of  Brahmans  in  Malabar. 
In  the  Cochin  state,  they  are  often  divided  into  five,  tne  Dravada,  Tel- 
inga^  Camatic,  Mahratta,  and  Guzeratta.  The  common  division  is,  the 
I^amboaries*  or  those  of  the  country,  who  are  said  to  be  an  inferior 

•  The  term  Namboorie,  is  said  to  bo  derived  from  yamboo,  **  a  paddle," 


goo  LAWS  BESPSCTIKO  BRAHMAKS. 

race,  and  consequently  are  peculiarly  proud  and  arrogant :  the 
Imhrans,  from  Mangalore ;  the  Putters  or  foreign  Brahmans,  who 
come  generally  from  Coimbatore  :  and  the  K<mkanies.  The  Amba- 
lavasaies,  i^who  are  not  Brahmans,)  are  attached  to  the  Temples,  and 
act  as  Levites,  they  thread  the  flowers^nd  the  lights,  &c. 

Many  of  the  feasts,  and  the  days  on  which  they  are  held,  differ 
considerably  from  those  in  other  parts  of  the  Presidency,  and  even 
from  those  in  the  neighbouring  state  of  Travancore.  Much  of  the 
creed,  and  the  customs,  which  obtain  in  Cochin,  are  not  in  accord- 
ance with  the  laws  laid  down  in  the  Shastras.  The  very  names 
of  the  castes  differ  from  those  in  other  places,  thus  a  Pariah  from 
the  eastern  coast,  may  approach  quite  close  to  a  Nambooiie  Brah- 
man without  defiling  him,  unless  he  actually  touch  him,  because 
he  bears  here  the  title  of  a  Paandee.  Consequently  it  mil  not  be 
extraordinary,  if  many  of  the  following  remarks  upon  the  Hindu 
castes  of  Cochin,  appear  strange  to  the  dwellers  in  other  parts  of 
India. 

The  BrahmanSf  are  regarded  as  emblems  of  the  Deity,  or  of 
knowledge.  They  are  a  priestly,  and  dominant  race,  whose  words 
are  esteemed  laws,  and  whose  decrees  are  believed  to  have  the 
power  of  condemning  persons,  to  torment  in  a  future  state.  Their 
office  is  stated  to  be  to  teach,  preach,  perform  religious  ceremonies, 
and  make,  or  expound  laws.  They  are  said  to  owe  the  origin  of 
their  seven  divisions,  to  the  seven  Ettshis,  who  were  saved  by 
Vishnu,  at  the  general  flood,  and  after  giving  the  example  of  a  holy 
life  on  earth,  were  translated  into  Heaven,  and  are  now  visible,  in 
the  form  of  the  seven  stars,  in  the  constellation  of  the  "  Great  Bear," 
each  of  the  brilliant  luminaries  of  which,  represent  one  of  these  lights 
of  the  sublunary  world.  As  these  illustrious  individuals,  existed 
before  the  Vedas  were  transcribed,  the  origin  of  the  worship  accorded 
to  the  stars  in  the  firmament,  might  possibly  be  traced  to  their 
translation  into  the  heavens. 

The  lives  and  persons  of  Brahmans,  were  protected  by  the  most 
severe  laws,  for  the  punishment  of  offenders  in  this  world,  and  the 

which  is  used  in  this  part  of  India^  to  steer  boats  with,  and  is  believed  to 
signify,  that  these  Priests  can  steer  persons,  free  from  the  shoals  and  quick 
sands,  on  which  others  less  favoured  are  wredied. 


BEA80NS  WHY  BBAHMAKS  DO  NOT  ESTEEM  XUSOPSAKS.     301 

most  awful  denunciationfl  of  what  they  would  suffer  in  a  future  state. 
They  themselves  are  exempt  from  capital  punishment,  (in  the  Native 
State,)  and  their  offences  are  treated  with  the  utmost  lenity,  whilst 
transgressions  against  them  are  punished  with  the  greatest  severity. 
In  ancient  times,  their  religiqp  directed  austerities,  and  ei^oined  them 
not  to  engage  in  schemes  of  aggrandisement  and  ambition.  But 
this  system  was  of  short  duration,  Kings  were  then  advised,  to  take 
Brahmans  for  their  confidential  councillors,  and  all  judicial  autho- 
rity not  vested  in  Royalty,  was  entrusted  to  them.  Thus  they 
became  in  time  the  exponents  of  all  laws,  whether  human  or  divine, 
and  liberality  to  them  became  the  first  duty  incumbent  on  all 
monarchs,  whilst  every  religious  ceremony,  implied  feasting  the 
Brahmans,  and  making  them  handsome  presents. 

The  Abbe  Bitbais,  gives  the  following  as  being  some  of  the  reasons 
which  preclude  the  possibility  of  the  Brahmans  having  any  esteem> 
or  regard,  for  Europeans,  and  his  observations  are  well  worthy  of 
consideration.  The  European  eats  the  flesh  of  the  sacred  cow, 
whose  destruction  they  look  upon  as  worse  than  manslaughter,  and 
eating  the  flesh  of  which,  they  esteem  more  horrible  than  Cannibal- 
ism.* He  admits  Pariahs  as  his  servants,  a  class  of  persons  whose 
very  shadow  causes  defilement  to  the  Brahmans.  Sometimes  they 
see  him  intoxicated  in  public,  and  drunkenness  they  regard  as  one 
of  the  most  infamous  vices.  And  again,  he  admits  females  to 
society,  where  they  even  dance  in  public,  whilst  in  their  opinion,  all 
thoee  who  thus  "  amble  and  caper,''  are  only  fit  for  the  lowest 
depths  of  degradation.  European  dress  shocks  them,  and  the  use  of 
leather  causes  the  greatest  disgust. 

Unsatisfied  with  their  enormous  powers,  desirous  of  extending  the 
sphere  of  their  gains,  penances  for  sins  became  ei\ioined,  but  commu- 
table  by  paying  fines  to  the  Priests.  The  same  vein  of  legislation 
was  perceptible  in  all  their  laws,  thus  should  a  Brahman  discover  a 
treasure  he  might  keep  it,  any  one  else  had  to  deliver  it  to  the  Kin^ 
who  usually  divided  it  with  the  Priests.     When  heirs  failed  in  any 

*  The  Ahh6  also  teUa  us,  that  in  Mysore,  the  intenaal  arrrangementa  of  a 
Hindu,  are  under  the  control  of  his  spiritual  guide,  who  in  cases  of  grave  delin- 
quency, such  as  eating  a  porcupine,  a  snake^  or  an  onion,  has  the  power  of 
expelling  him  from  his  caste. 


302  INVESTITUBE  WITH  THE  SACEKD  STRING. 

class  except  the  Brahmanical,  property  reverted  to  the  Rajah,  but  with 
Priests  to  their  caste.  Exempt  from  taxation,  if  poor  they  had  to  be 
maintained  by  the  King.  They  were,  and  are,  prohibited  from  ac- 
cepting offerings  which  have  been  made  to  Siva,  but  that  hiw  i^ 
now  partially  evaded. 

So  jealously  are  their  Vedas  guarded,  that  the  Brahman  may  not 
read  them  even  to  himself,  should  a  Sudra  be  present.  K  he  assisted 
one  of  the  servile  class  in  sacrificing,  taught  him  the  law,  or  how  to 
expiate  his  sins,  he  was  condemned  to  the  lowest  depths  in  the  next 
world,  but  now  this  law  appears  partially  obsolete.  If  starving,  a 
Brahman  may  accept  dry  grain  from  a  Sudra,  but  should  never 
receive  any  other  gifts  from  him.  The  Nairs  being  rich  people,  are 
often  looked  upon  more  favourably  by  Brahmans,  than  is  joined  by 
their  sacred  laws. 

Were  the  Brahman  to  live  according  to  the  precepts  laid  down 
in  the  Vedas,  his  life  would  be  passed  in  the  most  severe  austerities, 
laborious  study,  and  close  retirement.  But  taught  from  lus  infancy 
to  believe,  Malabar  to  be  Ids  lawful  inheritance,  and  that  to  him 
alone  pertains  any  right  to  its  soil,  he  looks  with  contempt  upon 
all  those  beneath  him,  and  becomes  the  type  of  a  thoroughly  selfish 
man.  Pity  for  his  inferiors  is  to  him  unknown,  and  compassion  for 
the  starving  slaves  worthy  only  of  Ms  supreme  contempt,  expecting 
kindness  and  attention  from  all  as  his  by  right,  he  repays  it  to 
none. 

A  young  Brahman  should  receive  from  his  spiritual  teacher,  the 
sacred  string,  or  "  sacrificial  cord,"  (PoonoolJ  when  he  is  seven 
years  of  age,  but  as  the  ceremony  is  an  expensive  one,  it  is  some- 
times deferred  to  the  ninth,  or  even  to  the  fourteenth  year,  but 
should  the  investiture  not  take  place,  then  the  child  becomes  an 
outcaste.  Until  he  has  learnt  the  prayers,  he  wears  a  band  of  lea- 
ther twisted  with  the  Poonool,  this  is  made  firom  the  skin  of  the 
spotted  deer,  as  that  of  the  unicorn,  of  which  it  aught  properly 
speaking  to  be  manufactured,  cannot  be  procured.  Before  the  inves- 
titure, he  is  said  only  to  have  been  bom  once,  viz.,  when  he  entered 
into  the  world,  but  the  cord  gives  him  a  second  birth,  and  he  is 
subsequently  known  as,  a  "  twice  bom "  and  allowed  to  read  the 
Vedas.    After  marriage,  or  at  least  as  soon  as  his  wife  resides  with 


CSBEMONIBS  AT  A   B&AHMAlf's  BIBTH.  303 

him,  he  becomes  a  Grihasta.     When  he  marries,  he  twists  his  cloth 
in  the  same  way  as  his  Poonool,  viz.,  over  the  left  shonlder,  and  under 
the  right,  where  it  meets  over  the  right  hip.     The  Poonool  consists 
of  three  threads,  each  of  which  is  composed  of  three  others.     Should 
his  thread  be  worn  out,  or  destroyed,  he  can  obtain  another.    The 
heads  of  all    Brahmans  at  their  first  or  third  year,  are  shaved, 
excepting  on  the  upper  and  forepart,  where  the  hair  is  allowed  to 
grow  in  a  long  lock,  called  a  cudumi.     The  first  quarter  of  a  Brah- 
man's life,  ought  properly  to  be  passed  in  retirement,  and  in  the 
study  of  the  Vedas,  during  which  period,  abstinence  is  enjoined,  and 
implicit  obedience  to  superiors,  with  various  species  of  self-humilia- 
tion, strictly  enforced.     The  second  quarter  of  his  life,  he  is  permit- 
ted as  a  married  man  to  spend  in  his  own  home,  where  he  may  em- 
ploy himself  in  bestowing  alms,  receiving  gifts,  dsc.,  but  the  most 
honourable  occupation,  is  considered  to  be  teaching  :  whilst  he  is 
warned  against  living  in  a  city  governed  by  a  Sudra  King,  or  receiv- 
ing a  gift  from  such  a  person.     A  Brahman  should  not  trade,  join 
in  popular  conversation,  music,  dancing,  or  any  thing  else  inconsist- 
ent with  a  grave  deportment :  he  ouglit  to  shun  temporal  honours, 
to  perform  three  great  actions,  read  their  sacred  books,  have  a  son, 
and  offer  regular  sacrifices :  after  which,  he  may  in  due  time,  make 
over  his  duties  to  his  son.     They  are  not  unfrequently  expelled 
their  caste,  for  heinous,  and  even  trivial  offences :  the  ceremonies  which 
are  elsewhere  employed  on  this  occasion,  are  here  unpractised.    A 
Namboorie  woman  who  is  sentenced  to  lose  her  caste,  is  s^t  to 
Tripoonterah,  where  a  stage  is  erected,  on  which  she  stands,  holding 
an  umbrella  over  her  head.     The  Dellawah  then  reads  the  sentence 
to   the    assembled  people,    declares   her    expelled  her  caste,  and 
taking   her  umbrella,    breaks  its    stick  in  two  pieces.      Persons 
willing  to  take  the  woman  may  now  do  so,  on  giving  a  written  pro- 
mise, to  support  her  whilst  she  lives. 

At  a  Brahman's  bit-th,  a  great  feast  is  held,  and  the  constellation 
under  which  he  was  launched  luto  existence  duly  considered,  and 
inquired  into,  and  from  its  character,  and  position,  his  future  des- 
tiny is  foretold.  The  younger  sons  of  a  Namboorie  Brahman  are  not 
obliged  to  marry  a  woman  of  their  own  caste,  unless  their  elder  brother 
lias  no  son,  thus  the  inheritance  is  kept  in  the  family,  but  they 


304  HAHBIAOE  CEREMONIES. 

are  pennitted  to  form  temporary  alliances  with  Nair  women^  their 
ohildren  being  of  the  same  caste  as  the  mother.  This  arrangement 
is  considered  very  honourable  to  the  Shudramah,  sometimes  called  a 
Nairchee,  and  to  elevate  her  in  the  social  scale  ! 

A  Brahman  wishing  to  marry,  goes  to  the  high  Priest,  Videnm, 
from  whom  he  obtains  a  license,  and  to  whom  he  pays  a  fee.  Parties 
generally  keep  a  register  of  such  occurrences  in  their  houses,  adding 
a  leaf  to  their  Kerala  Ulpati,  on  which  all  important  family  occur- 
rences are  noted  down.  On  the  marriage  of  a  Brahman,  many  cere- 
monies are  gone  through.  He  should  not,  if  it  be  his  first  marriage^ 
be  above  twelve  years  old,  when  it  is  celebrated,  whilst  the  Bride  is  even 
younger.  If  the  nuptials  do  not  take  place  at  this  time,  the  parties 
are  in  some  places  considered  as  lying  under  the  displeasure  of  the 
Deities.  But  the  ceremony  \a  expensive,  and  some  are  unable  to 
afford  it  at  that  early  age,  Brahman  women  therefore  occasionally 
marry  as  late  in  life  as  twenty,  or  thirty  years  of  age.  K  the  family  is 
too  poor  to  give  the  Bride  a  dower,  they  apply  to  the  Rajah  to  do 
so  for  them,  and  he  rarely  refuses. 

The  Bridegroom  meets  the  bridal  party  at  the  gate,  dressed  in  old 
clothes,  saturated  with  water,  in  which  charcoal  has  been  washed. 
All  then  adjourn  to  the  tank,  where  they  bathe,  and  re-dress,  after 
which  they  return  to  the  Bride's  abode,  preceded  by  music,  and  con- 
tinue the  various  ceremonies.  As  soon  as  the  Tali  is  tied  around 
the  girFs  neck,  she  is  declared  to  be  married,  and  it  is  not  removed 
until  after  her  husband's  death,  when  it  is  burnt  with  Ms  body. 

On  leaving  her  home,  the  Bride  cuts  down  a  plantain  tree,  and 
the  sacred  betel  vine,  and  places  her  foot  upon  the  curry  stone,  signi- 
fying that  she  no  longer  needs  a  parent's  sustaining  care.  On  arriv- 
ing at  her  new  home,  she  first  plants  a  small  cocoanut  tree,  which 
she  has  taken  from  her  father's  house.  She  is  allowed  to  eat  with 
her  husband  on  the  day  of  her  marriage,  in  a  certain  fashion,  but 
never  subsequently,  as  it  is  her  duty  to  wait,  until  he  has  finished  his 
meals,  before  she  commences  hers.  The  ceremony  of  eating  together 
is  performed,  in  the  following  manner.  As  soon  as  the  Tali  is  tied^ 
a  plate  of  boiled  rice  is  brought,  out  of  which  the  husband  helps 
himself,  and  then  places  his  right  hand  on  the  top  of  the  rice,  the 
wife  next  imposes  her  right  hand  upon  lus,  the  man  now  withdraws 


DIVISIONS   OF  BEAHMANS.  305 

his,  and  the  woman  finishes  the  food.  As  a'  wife  she  remains  in 
strict  seclusion,  no  stranger  being  ever  admitted  within  her  abode,* 
and  she  must  never  even  pronounce  her  husband's  name  during  his 
life-time. 

ANamboorie  woman  is  called  &n  Argieooloothoo,  and  has  about 
four  Nair  females  attached  to  her,  each  being  known^  as  a  Pnaw. 
Three  out  of  four  of  the  Nair  divisions,  are'slaves  to  various  Illums, 
and  their  wives  consider  it  an  honour  to  serve  a*,Wamboorie 
woman,  from  whom  they  merely  receive  their  rice,  and  sometimes 
come  in  for  a  share  of  what  is  left  at  the  pagodas.  When  an 
Argieooloothoo  goes  out,  one  female  attendant  precedes  her,  and  one 
follows  her,  whilst  they  continue  to  shout  to  keep  low  caste  persona 
at  a  distanca  They  have  two  styles  of  dress,  the  one  indulges  in 
very  little  clothing,  but  carries  a  very  large  umbrella  :  the  other  is 
clothed  from  the  head  to  the  feet,  and  her  umbrella  is  comparatively 
small  An  unmarried  or  widowed  Namboorie  woman,  wears  no 
ornaments,  but  the  married  ones  do  not  keep  to  this  rule. 

An  European  on  witnessing  one  of  their  entertainments,  would 
hardly  consider  their  hospitality  great,  as  the  hostess  serves  out  the 
ingredients,  and  each  cooks  for  herself.  The  men  of  this  caste  are, 
even  worse  off  than  the  women,  as  on  going  a  journey,  they  are  ex- 
pected not  only  to  cook  enough  for  themselves,  but  also  for  their 
Sudra  servants. 

The  Namboorie  Brahmans  may  be  divided  into  two,  those  who 
pass  their  time  almost  solely  in  religious  exercises  within  the  pre- 
cincts of  their  sacred  Temples,  either  studying  the  histories  and 
legends  of  their  Deities,  and  saints  who  have  passed  away,  or  diving 
into  the  mysteries  of  astrology  and  medicine.  Their  duties  render 
them  benevolent,  and  they  preach  kindness  to  the  whole  animal 
kingdom.  The  second  division  of  Namboories,  dwell  in  towns,  and 
hold  situations  under  the  native  Qovemment.  Some  as  the  MooBoh- 
tha  are  doctors,  and  they  do  not  perform  religious  ceremonies,  but 


*  The  hoiue  of  a  Namboorie  is  called  an  Ulum,  the  grotnd  on  which  it 
standa  ia  freehold  property.  That  of  a  Putter,  \b  termed  a  Muddum :  of  a 
Nadr,  a  Veedoo,  unless  a  Dewan,  or  Judge,  should  be  a  Nair^^when  it  is  called 
a  Muddum:  a  Chriatian't,  a  Peediga:  a  Cko^an'i,  a  Cotikul:  a  Churmur*if  a 
CkahlfiL :  an  European*9,  a  Bungalow, 

P  1 


306  BRAHMAKS   LOSING   CASTE. 

tliey  can  eat  witli  their  Priestly  bretiuren,  as  they  have  not  lowered 
themselves  in  their  caste. 

Arrogant  and  oppressive,  vindictive  and  grasping,  these  Brah- 
mans  will  tarn  aside  sooner  than  tread  on  a  worm  or  any  other 
insect,  but  think  the  nmrder  of  a  slave  no  crime,  shonld  he  provoke 
his  death  by  too  near  an  approach  to  one  of  their  bigoted  race,  or  by 
fehowing  them  any  impertinence.  They  raise  Temples  in  which  to 
feed  animals,  but  will  let  a  Chunnur  die  sooner  than  give  him  a 
morsel  of  food  to  save  him  from  starvation.  When  they  walk  along 
a  road,  runners  always  precede  them,  to  drive  away  all  low  caste 
persons:  in  olden  times,  certain  roads  were  exclusively  appropriated 
to  them.  Every  one  must  alight  from  his  carriage,  or  horse,  before 
passing  into  a  temple,  which  is  usually  surrounded  by  a  walL 

Namboories*  of  late  years,  have  become  much  more  particular  re- 
specting their  food  than  they  were  formerly,  and  they  subsist  ezclu- 
eively  on  vegetables,  ghee,  <fec.  Near  their  houses  they  generally 
have  a  sacred  grove,  where  snakes  are  an  object  of  adoration. 

In  the  Cochin  State,  the  Namboorie  Brahmans  only  are  permitted 
as  a  right,  to  perform  the  duties  of  the  Pagodas,  or  Umhalams,  which 
are  of  two  classes,  those  belonging  to  the  Sircar,  and  the  property  of 
the  native  Government,  and  those  appertaining  to  the  various  villa- 
ges, called  Oaraulum  devassom,  A  description  of  the  internal  ar- 
rangements of  one  of  these  buildings  will  suffice  for  all,  as  they  are 
identical,  or  nearly  so.  The  Namboories  are  divided  into  four  classes. 
First,  the  Brahman  Ootamun,  who  may  perform  all  the  ceremonies. 
Secondly,  a  class  who  are  able  to  officiate  in  all  but  one,  provided  a 
Namboorie  of  the  superior  dass  is  present  The  third  class  may 
only  hear  the  prayers.  The  fourth  is  merely  a  nominal  Brahman, 
and  may  only  see  the  ceremonies,  it  is  this  last  class  alone,  (with  one 
exception),  who  have  Illums  in  Travancore-f 

'  Brahmans  losing  their  caste,  as  for  instance  by  having  their  cu- 
dumis  cut  off,  or  by  being  compelled  to  eat  beef  even  if  by  violence, 
cannot  regain  it.  A  knowledge  of  this,  enabled  Hyder  and  Tippoo, 
to  commit  many  enormities  in  Malabar. 

*  A  Namboorie  rarely  g^ves  a  decided  answer,  this  is  said  to  be  owing^  to 
his  being  very  £earf id,  lest  he  should  state  what  ia  not  exactly  the  troth, 
t  Any  Kambooiie  woman  going  south  of  the  Quilon  river,  loses  oaste* 


THK  UMBALATASaiSS.  S07 

BdoDgiiig  to  each  Pagoda^  are  two  officiating  Brahnums,  tenned 
Shanties,  who  are  allowed  a  small  salary,  and  their  food.  They  re- 
main some  years  in  each  Pagoda,  after  which  they  are  generally 
transferred  to  another.  Some  Shanties  are  hereditary,  (ThutUreesJ 
and  only  attend  occasionally.  As  a  rule  their  duties  are,  after  per- 
forming their  ablutions  at  day-break,  to  proceed  to  the  Pagoda,  and 
open  the  windows  of  the  rooms,  where  the  Sawmies  are  kept,  remove 
all  fielded  flowers  which  remain  from  the  previous  day,  and  then  com- 
mence the  daily  ceremonies,  (Poof  ah,  J 

Shanties  live  either  in  the  Pagoda,  or  in  an  adjacent  house,  and 
are  not  permitted  to  speak  to  any  woman,  during  their  term  of  duty. 
They  walk  to  the  Pagoda  with  their  eyes  fixed  on  the  ground,  and 
no  one  is  aUowed  to  approach  them,  for  fear  of  causing  pollution. 
There  is  a  manager  attached  to  every  Pagoda,  assistant  Shanties 
varying  in  number  in  accordance  with  the  work  for  them  to  do,  an 
Accountant,  a  Cash-keeper,  a  store  Maistry  to  attend  to  the  lights, 
sweepers  for  the  interior,  and  Nair  women  to  sweep  around  the 
exterior  of  the  building,  besides  Peons,  Umbalavassies,  and  some- 
times Elephants.  Dancing  girls  are  occasionally  kept,  or  otherwise 
men  musicians,  as  five  times  a  day,  the  Temple  resounds  with  their 
sacred  tunes.  Sandalwood  is  kept  constantly  burning,  to  perfume  the 
Temple. 

Offerings  differ  according  to  the  occasion  on  which  they  are  pre- 
sented, and  the  individuals  who  give  them,  thus  sick  or  maimed 
persons,  offer  representations  in  gold  or  silver,  of  the  limb  or  organ 
believed  to  be  affected  and  those  who  wish  for  protection  against 
reptiles,  figures  of  snakes,  and  jewels.  Offerings  made  to  Siva, 
the  Namboories  will  not  touch,  they  are  given  to  the  Umba- 
lavassies. There  are  occasionally  treasure  chests  in  the  porch  of 
the  Pagoda,  in  which  persons  may  deposit  their  offerings.  They 
are  only  opened  at  stated  times.  The  Temples  generally  have  gar- 
dens attached  to  them,  where  the  Occimum  ianctum,  or  Holy  Basil, 
is  grown,  the  fragrant  purple  flowers  of  which,  are  sacred  to  Vishnu, 
and  constantly  in  bloom.  The  roots  are  made  into  beads,  and  worn 
as  necklaces  by  the  Vishnu  Brahmans.  Orme  states,  that  these 
Brail  mans  sometimes  devote  themselves  to  death,  and  effect  it  in  the 
unpleasant  mode,  of  eating  until  they  actually  expire  of  surfeit ! 


308  THE  KONKANIES. 

The  Umbalavassies  already  alluded  to,  are  persons  employed 
within  the  Pagoda,  many  of  whom  wear  the  sacred  thread,  they  are  in 
fact  a  species  of  Levite,  attached  to  the  Temple,  who  as  a  rule  take 
precedence  of  Nairs,  they  are  said  to  be  descended  from  Namboorie 
fathers.  There  are  several  sub-divisions  of  them,  1,  Numhuddie,  who 
are  accountants,  wear  the  poonool,  are  superior  to  the  others,  and 
have  no  duties  to  perform,  2,  Prishardiey  3,  Warrien,  4,  Pushputtoo 
also  called  UTamHer,  these  three  string  flowers  for  the  idols,  but 
only  the  first  wears  the  sacred  thread.  Nambiers  are  said  to  have 
been  originally  descended  from  the  head  men  of  villages,  and  to 
have  received  this  distinctive  title  from  an  assembly  of  Namboories ; 
6,  Poodoowaaly  who  are  sweepers,  6,  MootoodoOy  7,  Moostoodoo,  who 
are  the  Brahman's  barbers,  but  can  also  act  in  that  capacity  for 
other  persons,  8,  OoneCy  who  wear  the  poonool,  act  as  accountants, 
cultivators,  in  fact  in  almost  any  capacity,  and  are  held  in  but 
little  esteem.  9,  Maraan^  or  tom-tom  beaters,  caUed  also  Shedeean 
when  they  perform  ceremonies,  for  the  Nairs.  Many  of  them 
are  not  attached  to  Pagodas,  but  at  feasts  most  of  them  are  fed 
before  the  Sudras. 

Imbrans  are  a  tribe  of  Brahmans,  who  are  not  Namboories,  but 
have  come  from  Mangalore,  and  are  permitted  as  a  great  favour,  to 
officiate  in  the  Namboorie  Pagodas ;  at  Cranganore  they  even  have 
an  Umbalum  of  their  own. 

The  Putter*  Brahmans  frequently  subsist  upon  charity,they  are  all 
foreign  Brahmans,  in  fact  all  those  in  the  country  excepting  the  Nam- 
boories, and  Konkanies.  They  amount  to  about  6000,  and  often 
reside  in  a  room  of  a  Nair*s  house,  they  are  mostly  worshippers  of  Siva 
their  females  are  termed  Amieers.  During  the  ceremony  of  mar- 
riage, the  Bride  is  yoked  to  the  Bridegroom,  by  a  miniature  repre- 
sentation of  a  plough,  and  thus  coupled,  they  are  driven  round  the 
room.  It  is  curious  that  this  ceremony  should  obtain  amongst 
Brahmans,  who  never  till  the  soil. 

The  Konkanies  in  the  Cochin  State,  are  nearly  twice  as  numerous 
as  the  Namboorie  Brahmans.  They  are  not  allowed  to  officiate  in  the 
Temples  of  the  latter,  or  the  Namboories  in  theirSj  whilst  many  deny 

*  Potie,  is  a  name  given  in  Travancore,  to  all  Brahmans. 


IMMIOBATIOK  OF  K0KKANIS8  TO   COCHIN.  309 

them  the  title  of  Brahmans,  to  which  they  are  nndonbtedly  entitled* 
They  originally  came  to  Malabar,  from  the  Concan,  from  which  their 
name  is  derived. 

The  arrogant  Namboories,  and  jealous  Nairs,  assert  that  this  tribe 
were  originally  fishermen,  and  that  Parasa  Bama  finding  that  no 
Brahmans  would  live  on  the  western  coast,  and  consequently  there 
was  no  one  on  whom  to  bestow  his  alms,  invested  some  of  this 
race  of  fishermen  with  the  sacred  thread,  thereby  constituting  them 
Brahmans.  As  a  proof  of  this,  they  point  out  that  the  Eonkanies 
eat  fish,*  and  drink  spirits,  and  also  affirm  that  at  their  marriage 
ceremonies,  the  Bride  and  Bridegroom  have  to  catch  a  fish  with  a 
net,  out  of  a  tub  of  water,  which  is  placed  in  the  centre  of  the  room. 
Following  out  their  arguments  by  stating,  that  as  the  true  Brahmans 
increased  on  the  western  coast,  the  Eonkanies  gradually  sank  into  in- 
significance and  became  traders. 

The  Konkaniea  in  Cochin  are  not  strictly  speaking  Canareens,  but 
they  frequently  designate  themselves  so,  they  are  sub-divided  into 
four  grades,  the  Tuttam,  or  goldsmiths  :  the  Wunnears,  or  oil 
merchants :  the  Chetties,  who  are  shroffs,  and  general  merchants  :  and 
the  Cudumu,  who  pound  rice,  and  perform  inferior  offices.  They  are 
not  bound  to  continue  in  the  occupation  of  their  fathers,  many  of  the 
Tuttans  are  now  trying  to  give  up  their  trade,  which  they  consider 
degrading.  They  have  a  Temple  of  their  own  in  Cochin,  and  once 
a  year  they  give  their  idols  a  grand  entertainment,  by  the  side  of  the 
public  road.  According  to  the  Mackenzie  Manuscripts,  the  Eonkanies 
emigrated  from  the  Concan  into  Malabar,  in  consequence  of  some  dis- 
turbances, and  prevailed  upon  the  Rajah  of  Cochin  to  permit  them  to 
settle  and  build  Temples  in  his  dominions.  The  four  sub-divisions  of 
Eonkanies,  were  under  the  protection  of  the  Dutch  Company,  and 
amenable  to  their  laws,  until  1772 :  since  which  period,  authority 
over  them  has  been  claimed  by  the  Cochin  Rajah. 

The  following  is  their  account,  of  the  origin  and  history  of  their 
present  Chief  Bhimmum,  or  idoL  Up  to  A.D.  1589,  they  possessed 
in  Cochin  a  small  metal  idol,  and  in  that  year  their  High  Priest, 

*  The  Konkanie  denies  that  he  eata  fish,  true  he  la  seen  constantly  carrying 
them  to  his  house,  but  he  declares  it  to  be  only  for  the  eatt.  It  is  ciuious  that 
all  afi&nn,  that  they  keep  many  of  these  four  legged  animals. 


310  DA0WAB3  KIKia  WAR. 

Coombacontun  Madam  Swamiyar  visited  the  pla^e,  bringing  with 
him  a  Bhimmum,  before  which  he  p^ormed  his  {^vate  devotioiis. 
Having  remained  about  six  months,  he  prepared  to  depart,  but  at 
every  attempt  to  leave  became  seriously  ill  Alarmed  at  this,  the 
Boothsayers  were  consulted,  and  they  discovered,  that  his  little  god 
had  taken  such  a  fancy  to  Cochin,  that  he  declined  to  leave  the 
place.  The  Swamiyar  then  offered  to  give  up  the  Bhimmum,  pro* 
vided  he  were  given  as  many  Venetian  gold  sequins,  as  would  cover 
the  image,  when  placed  in  a  large  salver.  This  was  acceded  to^ 
but  as  fast  as  they  heaped  up  the  money,  the  higher  grew  the  idol's 
head,  until  all  the  sequins  in  Cochin  were  expended.  Again  Sooth- 
sayers were  consulted,  and  they  discovered,  that  although  thA 
Bhunmum  wished  to  reside  in  Cochin,  he  had  an  aversion  to  lose 
sight  of  his  former  master,  and  his  family,  so  a  contract  was  drawn 
up,  in  which  the  Pagoda  worshippers  stipulated,  that  they  would 
always  obey  the  Swamiyar,  or  one  of  his  family  as  High  Priest,  and 
that  his  descendants  should  have  the  right  to  perform  three  days' 
devotion  yearly,  in  the  Pagoda. 

The  Bhimmum  therefore  remained  peaceably  in  Cochin  until 
about  1719,  when  it  miraculously  disappeared,  and  was  found  oa 
thtf  sea  beach,  and  taken  to  the  house  of  the  Dutch  Governor.  He 
saw  nothing  but  a  little  misshapen  figure,  apparently  composed  of  an 
admixture  of  gold,  silver,  and  other  metals  :  and  thinking  it  of  little 
value,  gave  it  his  children  as  a  plaything.  But  hardly  had  it 
reached  the  house,  when  the  Qovemor's  wife  was  attacked  with 
severe  colic,  which  did  not  cease,  until  the  idol  had  left  their  roof, 
and  obtained '  shelter  in  the  house  of  a  native  Doctor.  The  poor 
man,  as  weU  as  his  family,  were  tormented  with  illnesses,  for  seven 
years,  when  it  was  fortunately  discovered,  that  the  idol  was  the 
cause  of  his  misfortunes,  and  was  the  long  lost  Bhimmum.  Again 
it  reached  the  Pagoda,  where  it  rested  quietly  until  1791,  in  which 
year  the  Bajah  of  Cochin,  directed  the  Pagoda  to  contribute  a  laige 
quantity  of  sugar-cane  jaggery,  towards  a  feast  at  Tripoonterah. 
The  trustees  refused,  one  of  them  being  Dagwars  Einni,  and  the 
*'  Dagwars  Kinni  war,"  as  it  is  termed,  ensued.  About  the  third 
week  in  September,  two  of  the  Elijah's  Eurasian  Officers,  accom- 
panied by  a  Ragiadoor,  went  to  Dagwars  Kinni*s  shop,  and  stated 


DISFUTSS  KBSPECTINa  THX  BHIMMUM.  311 

tiial  they  required  some  silks ;  but  while  serving  them,  he  was 
murdered,  his  head  cut  off,  and  carried  away  to  the  Rajah  ;  whose 
troops  made  a  rush  upon  the  Canarese  Bazaar.  The  priests  hear- 
ing the  uproar  hastily  deposited  the  idol  and  its  jewels  in  a 
box,  and  sou^t  refuge  under  the  guns  of  the  Dutch  fort,  in^ 
Aide  which,  the  Bhimmum  was  placed  for  safety.  Fearing  it  might 
be  g^ven  up  by  the  Dutch,  they  the  next  day  sent  it  by  a  canoe  to 
Chellana,  and  about  a  month  subsequently  to  Allepey,  where  the 
Trayancore  Rajah  permitted  it  to  be  placed  in  an  Ootoopamtti, 
where  it  remained  securely  guarded  for  many  years. 

As  soon  as  British  supremacy  had  caused  tranquillity,  it  was 
proposed  to  build  a  large  Temple  at  Cochin,  and  again  install  the 
Bhimmum  there.  They  believed  that  it  was  owing  to  the  good  will, 
manifested  by  the  idol  that  Cochin  had  become  a  prosperous  place, 
still  they  agreed,  that  if  a  Pagoda  were  built  at  Allepey,  and  lands 
yielding  Rupees  12,000  yearly  given  as  an  endowment,  they  would 
let  it  remain  there,  and  these  terms  were  acceded  to  by  the  Rtgah  of 
Travancore.  The  importance  of  Allepey  is  now  decreasing,  which 
18  attributed  by  the  Hindus,  to  the  Cochin  Pagoda,  having 
regained  possession  of  the  idol,  owing  to  the  Bhimmum  hav- 
ing been  conveyed  out  of  the  Allepey  Pagoda,  in  the  bread  basket 
of  a  Cochin  Brahman,  and  thus  reached  its  old  abode.  It  is  usual 
after  the  Brahmans  have  been  feasted,  inside  the  Pagoda,  for  the  re- 
msdnder  of  the  food,  to  be  carried  outside  in  long  baskets,  where  per- 
sons are  awaiting  their  shares  of  the  precious  morsels.  In  February 
1853  after  a  feast,  a  Cochin  Brahman  concealed  the  god  in  one  of 
these  baskets,  and  thus  it  was  conveyed  out  of  the  Temple,  and  was 
Boon  placed  in  a  boat,  and  rapidly  propelled  to  Cochin.  Early 
the  following  morning,  great  was  the  dismay  at  Allepey,  the  image 
bad  disappeared,  and  the  Travancore  Gbvemment  protested  that  the 
Cochin  people  had  robbed  Allepey  of  its  chief  treasure.  Communi- 
cations at  last  led  to  angry  recriminations,  and  in  1856  troops  were 
ordered  from  Quilon,  to  march  towards  Cochin,  and  compel  the  re- 
stitution of  the  highly  prized  idoL 

The  Cochin  Dewan  now  offered  to  return  it,  this  was  acceded  to, 
a  day  was  chosen,  on  which  to  receive  it  and  a  portion  of  the  Nah: 
Brigade  was  in  readiness  to  meet  it  with  all  honours  at  AUepcy,  at 


31B  THE    8CHATRIT1B. 

last,  on  January  28th  1857,  the  boat  hoye  in  sight,  and  the  Priests 
met  it  at  the  landing  place.  Having  broken  a  cocoanut  the  chief 
Brahman  making  profound  salaams  entered  the  cabin,  but  soon  in 
wrath  and  disgust  re-appeared,  declaring  the  image  was  a  spurious  one^ 
dressed  up  in  the  true  jewels.  Having  deposited  it  in  the  verandah 
of  the  Pagoda,  another  letter  was  despatched  to  Cochin,  and  another 
idol  declared  to  be  the  true  one,  was  sent  on  January  31st,  1857^ 
but  was  as  false  as  the  first  Finally  in  1859,  the  Madras  Qovem- 
nl^nt  settled  this  important  question,  by  deciding  that  as  the  idol 
had  originally  deserted  from  Cochin,  and  had  now  returned  to  that 
place,  there  it  was  to  remain :  whilst  the  Travancore  officials  are 
said  to  have  finished  the  business,  by  resuming  the  lands  they  had 
granted,  for  the  idol's  support. 

The  Schatriya^  (Tirripard  MaL)  or  royal  caste,  is  that  from  which 
His  Highness  the  Bajah  of  Cochin  has  sprung.  This  caste  is  said 
to  have  emanated  from  Brahma's  shoulders,  and  to  have  been 
launched  into  existence  with  orders  to  rule  the  world,  with  justice, 
tempered  by  mercy.  It  is  divided  into  two  great  divisions,  the 
Solar  race  who  came  from  Brahma's  right  shoulder,  and  the  Lunar 
race  who  issued  from  his  left  These  are  again  sub-divided.*  The 
female  is  termed  an  Umbattahree. 

The  ceremony  of  coronation  has  not  been  performed  for  many 
years,  as  the  Temple  in  which  it  is  obliged  to  be  celebrated,  is  at 
Ponany,  and  some  reason  has  militated  against  the  Rajahs  of  Cochin 
visiting  this  place.  The  Schatriyan  caste,  were  almost  extirpated 
by  Parasu  Bama,  as  previously  alluded  to.  It  is  now  principally 
represented  by  the  B^jpoots  of  Oude.  Kings  of  this  caste,  may 
wear  gold  rings  on  their  toes,  and  ankles,  but  no  inferior  mem- 
ber of  it,  is  permitted  this  privilege.  Inheritance  in  Malabar, 
descends  through  the  sister's  children.  The  Schatriyas  are  allowed  to 
read  the  Vedas,  but  not  to  comment  upon  them,  or  place  any  inter- 
pretation of  their  own,  on  the  various  passages. 

*  The  whole  of  the  Hmdu  raoea,  are  divided  into  the  northern  and  southera 
sects,  said  to  have  been  by  the  direction  of  Kali,  who  delivered  the  order  on 
copper  plates  at  the  Conjaveram  Pagoda,  but  the  plates  cannot  now  be  found. 
As  a  rule,  those  of  different  divisions  do  not  inter-niany.  The  (Syrians  aro 
also  similarly  divided. 


THX  StmSAB.  SIS 

fichatriya  Bajaha,  sack  of  thoee  of  Cochin  and  Cranganore,  pos- 
the  privilege  of  re-admitting  to  their  caste,  all  beneath  Naira, 
who  hare  forfeited  it  A  email  fee  is  necessary.  The  individual 
who  has  lost  caste,  appears  before  the  Rajah,  who  holds  a' copper  or 
btaas  vessel  containing  water  in  his  hands,  some  of  which  he  sprinkles 
IB  the  ont-caate's  face,  and  then  hands  him  the  vessel,  contact  has 
thns  oecorred  between  them,  and  the  lUgah  then  calls  him  by  his 
caste  title,  after  which  he  is  no  longer  an  oat-caste. 

The  Vysiasy  are  a  mercantile  and  agricultural  caste,  said  to  have 
been  derived  from  Brahma's  thighs,  for  the  purpose  of  providing 
for  the  Brahmans.  They  are  divided  into  the  Boo  Vysias,  the  Qho 
Vysias,  and  the  Dana  Vysias,  each  of  which  is  again  sub-divided. 
Th^  believe  that  about  the  end  of  the  sixth  centuiy,  a  King  reigned, 
who  re-modelled  the  castes,  and  formed  eighteen  classes,  each  of 
whick  had  a  distinct  trade :  but  that  the  invasion  of  foreigners,  dis- 
turbed all  these  rules. 

Yysias  are  not  allowed  to  read  the  Tedas,  but  they  may  listen  to 
them  when  read  by  a  Brahman.  There  are  so  few  of  this  caste  in 
Cochin,  that  a  further  account  of  them  is  unnecessary.  They  are  re- 
quired in  certain  ceremonies,  but  if  unprocurable,  XJmbalavassiea 
take  their  place.  * 

The  Sudroi  are  considered  as  sprung  fh>m  Bfahma's  feet,  and 
their  office  is  to  serve  the  Branmans.  This  caste,  and  the  Pariahs 
form  more  than  half  the  population  of  the  Cochin  State.  Sftdras 
do  not  belong  to  the  twice  bom  classes,  and  may  not  wear  the  sa- 
cred thread.  They  are  prohibited  from  either  reading  the  Shastras, 
or  hearing  them  read.  In  olden  times  if  they  infringed  this  regu- 
lation, they  were  punished  by  having  boiling  metals  poured  into  their 
cars,  and  were  even  occasionally  executed.  All  the  irregular  off- 
spring of  the  three  twice  bom  classes,  sink  into  Sudraa,  who  are  in 
their  turn  quite  as  intolerant  of  thoee  beneath  them,  as  the  higher 
grades  are.  In  modem  times,  they  have  been  divided  into  the  right 
hand,  and  left  hand  castes.  The  first  includes  many  landlords,  great 
agriculturists,  dhobies,  and  others :  whilst  the  second,  is  principally 
composed  of  artisans. 

A  Sudia  is  directed  to  endeavour  to  become  a  Brahman's  servant, 
as  in  that  case,  his  transmigrations  will  probably  be  happy.    If  he 

Q  1 


314  THK  NAIBB, 

eannot  procure  employment  with  a  Brahman,  he  should  tiy  and  ob^ 
tain  it  with  a  Schatriya,  failing  which,  he  may  apply  to  a  Vysia. 

Sudras  it  is  asserted,  cannot  pass  from  a  lower  grade  to  a  higher, 
Ibut  the  lUijahs  of  Travancore  aa*e  always  manufactured  into  Brahmans, 
on  ascending  the  musnud,  an  important  part  in  this  transmigration, 
being  sometimes  played  by  a  golden  cow,  at  the  mouth  of  which,  the 
Bi^ah  enters  a  Sudra,  and  having  crawled  along  its  interior  arrange- 
ments,  emerges  under  the  animal's  tail,  as  one  of  the  twice  bom: 
otherwise  he  bathes  in  a  golden  lotus.  The  gold  figures  are  subse- 
quently divided  amongst  the  officiating  Brahmans.  During  the  last 
century  two  Travancore  Brahmans  visited  England,  thereby  of  course 
fosing  their  caste,  which  was  only  restored,  by  their  passing  through 
the  sacred  yoni,  made  of  the  finest  gold,  which  afterwards  with  many 
ether  valuable  gifts,  were  presented  to  one  of  the  Temples. 

Formerly  if  a  Sudra  abused  his  superiors,  the  punishment  was  slit^ 
ting  his  tongue,  if  he  seated  himself  next  a  Brahman  the  offending 
part  was  gashed,  and  if  he  presumed  to  offer  him  any  advice  respecting 
his  religious  duties^  hot  oil  was  poured  on  his  tongue.  The  penance 
for  killing  a  Sudra,  was  little  more  than  that  for  killing  any  lower 
animal,  excepting  a  cow  which  of  course  was  far  above  him.  Nairs 
were  not  subject  to  tlnse  punishments,  and  appear  in  many  wayB 
to  have  held  a  superior  position  to  any  other  Sudras.  They  may 
all  perform  sacrifices,  but  must  onut  the  holy  texts. 

Ths  Nairs  form  about  one-fifth  of  the  whole  population  of  the 
Cochin  State,  and  although  Sudras,  in  fact  termed  Shudrum  par 
eocceUence,  hold  the  highest  position  amongst  them,  and  are  generally 
admitted  to  be  the  nobility  of  the  coimtry ;  as  there  are  so  very  few 
Schatriyas  and  Vysias,^they  may  be  said  to  be  only  divided  from  the 
Brahmans,  by  the  Levites,  or  the  Umbalavassies,  who  are  the  inters 
mediate  link. 

The  question  of  who  these  Nairs  are,  is  one  open  to  considerable 
discussion.  It  appears  probable,  that  the  Sudra  race  were  originally 
formed  of  the  aborigines,  and  those  Hindus  who  had  lost  their  caste 
none  of  whom  were  permitted  to  wear  the  sacred  thread.  But  it 
is  admitted  by  the  Namboories,  that  in  Cochin  there  are  four  castes, 
the  three  twice  bom,  and  the  Nairs :  all  below  these,  being  summed 
up  under  the  term,  addira  Jardee,  Mai,  who  are  regarded,  (by  the 


DIVISIONS  OP  NAIR4.  315 

iTamboories,)  as  out-tustes.  Perhaps  -when  the  Hindus  first  over- 
ran Malabar,  they  found  that  the  nature  of  the  country  formed  such 
a  barrier  to  their  further  progress,  owing  to  the  ghauts  in  the  rear, 
the  sea  in  the  front,  and  the  numerous  streams  by  which  it  is  inter- 
sected, that  they  were  convinced  that  they  could  only  conquer  it,  with 
the  assistance  of  the  aborigines,  or  of  some  portion  of  them.  It  may 
therefore  be  surmised,  that  certain  classes  were  for  this  reason  taken 
as  soldiers,  and  given  privilege^  which  as  a  rule  were  not  accorded  to 
Sudras  elsewhere. 

The  Nairs  are  a  proud  and  warlike  race,  arrogant  to  inferiors, 
subservient  to  superiors,  profuse  in  promises,  and  slack  in  t^eir  p€ir- 
lormance.  They  occasionally  officiate  as  accountants,  but  their 
statements  must  be  received  with  caution,  and  additional  testimony 
is  generally  advisable.  Their  security  is  always  requested  in  writ- 
ing, otherwise  it  cannot  be  greatly  relied  on.  They  are  not  un- 
cleanly in  their  habits,  but  certainly  have  no  superfluity  of  clothing. 
Their  complexion  is  remarkably  clear,  in  a  foreign  country  they 
49oon  pine  away,  and  die. 

This  tribe  is  variously  divided  in  different  places,  and  the  cus- 
toms in  North  Malabar,  diffi^'  considerably  frtm  those  which  obtain 
in  Cochin.  Everywhere  they  have  certain  work  to  do  in  the  Pagoda, 
-80  their  presence  is  a  necessity.  They  are  divided  into  four  classes, 
each  of  which  is  sub-divided  into  at  least  four  more.  1,  Faniaputtoo 
JShudrum,  supplies  oil  and  grass  for  the  Pagoda,  and  are  slaves  to 
vn  Ilium.  2,  VeUalun,  a  class  only  employed  when  the  others  are 
-absent,  and  can  then  perform  any  work,  they  axe  not  slaves  to  an 
lUum.  3,  PulUchan,  also  called  Kiriit,  or  VilliU,  and  many  other 
names,  according  to  the  locality  in  which  they  reside;  they  are 
bearers;  and  slaves  to  an  Ilium.  4,  Wutticara,  who  are  too  low  to 
perform  any  work  for  the  Pagodas. 

The  Nairs  may  procure  materials  for  meals,  and  collect  what  is 
required,  but  cannot  cook.  A  very  low*caste<of  them  VelUcatlurra^ 
are  barbers,  to  the  Brahmans.  The  barber  to  the  Nairs,  is  termed 
Umbatan,  but  he  is  very  low  in  the  scale  of  caste,  and  works  for 
anybody. 

Vishnu  is  their  Deity,  but  they  often  wear  the  mark  of  Siva  on 
their  foreheads.     The  Namboories  act  as  their  Qurus,  but  will  not 


310  KAIB  TITLES. 

be  predent  when  they  o&r  bloody  sacrifices  to  Kali,  and  other  Dei' 
ties,  consequently  the  greater  part  of  their  feasts  are  performed  by 
a  race  of  Priests  of  their  own  caste,  called  Mlada,  who  are  said  to 
have  been  originally  Brahmans,  who  were  degraded,  in  consequence 
of  their  having  performed  religious  rites  for  Sudras. 

The  Nairs  were  in  olden  times  the  Militia  of  the  country,  and 
held  their  lands  in  military  tenure,  being  liable  to  be  called  out  at 
any  time,  for  active  service.  The  Eajah  of  Cochin  was  the  head  of 
these  Militia,  in  his  own  country,  and  under  him  were  Namboorie 
commandants.  When  each  man  was  of  age  to  bear  arms,  he  pre- 
sented the  Riyah  with  a  nuzzer,  who  in  return  gave  him  his  weapons. 
They  were  trained  to  warfare  from  infancy,  but  were  "  more  inclined 
^  to  use  their  weapons  for  the  purposes  of  assassination,  or  surprise, 
"  than  in  the  open  field." 

Nairs  may  receive  the  title  of  Menxm^  from  the  Rajab,  an  honour 
which  may  also  be  purchased,  and  of  which  there  are  two  kinds : 
one  hereditary,  and  the  other  only  for  a  life-time :  the  last  of  these 
costs  at  the  lowest  rate  about  sixteen  fanams,  (13  annas,  4  cash.) 
When  the  Bajah  intends  to  confer  this  honour,  he  salutes  the 
person  to  whom  he  means  to  give  it,  by  the  title  of  Menon 
prefixed  to  his  name,  abd  should  two  other  persons  present,  imme- 
diately address  him  in  the  same  terms,  the  title  is  confirmed,  if  not 
he  does  not  receive  it  After  becoming  a  Menon,  he  is  called  a 
Tumbaran,  previous  to  this  a  FraJkkulloo.  They  have  also  an  here- 
ditary title,  of  Kooroopoo. 

Should  a  Chogan,  a  Mucua  or  one  of  a  lower  caste,  dare  to*  pol- 
lute a  Nair  by  approaching  nearer  than  the  prescribed  distance,  he 
was  formerly  at  liberty  to  cut  him  down.  It  is  curious  to  observe 
two  of  them  coming  along  the  road  in  opposite  directions,  each  is 
afraid  of  being  polluted  by  the  other,  and  shout  out  to  clear  the  way, 
and  if  this  is  not  done,  they  themselves  turn  aside.  The  only  sol- 
diers in  olden  times  were  Nairs,  and  it  was  considered  a  great 
breach  of  etiquette,  to  bring  Tiers  or  those  of  any  other  lower  grade 
to  fight  against  them,  it  was  only  in  the  latter  end  of  the  last  centuiy, 
that  this  rule  was  broken  through,  previously  the  lower  castes  had 
been  employed,  only  as  coolies  and  menials. 

The'Nairs  are  at  the  present  time,  rather  a  superior  race.     Most 


KAIB  MABRIAQE8.  317 

of  the  men  and  women  can  read,  but  of  conne  being  Sndras  are 
prohibited  from  opening  the  Shastraa.  They  eat  yeniaon^  goats, 
pcMrk,  fowls,  and  fish,  and  are  excessirely  addicted  to  intozicatiiig 
liquors. 

It  cannot  be  doubted,  that  the  Nairs  of  Cochin,  are  much  less 
moral,  in  the  European  sense  of  the  word,  than  those  living  in  North 
Malabar.  On  the  death  of  an  owner  of  property,  the  landed  estate 
is  looked  after  by  the  eldest  competent  male  member  of  the  family, 
but  each  individual  has  a  right  to  his  share  of  the  income.  The 
mother  manages  the  family,  and  after  her  death  the  eldest  sister 
takes  her  place.  All  the  brothers  generaUy  live  under  the  same  roof, 
but  should  they  lea^e  it,  one  of  their  sisters  usually  accompanies 
them. 

The  law  of  succession  to  property  is  as  follows,  it  ^  goes  to  a 
''man's  sisters :  sister's  >  sons,  sister's  daughters :  sister's  daughters' 
''sons,  and  daughters:  Mother:  Mother's  sisters,  their  children; 
"  then  to  his  maternal  grandmother,  her  sisters,  and  their  children. 
" Failing  these,  and  their  'stock,  in  the  same  way  of  descent,  it  goes 
"  as  in  other  parts  of  the  Presidency,  to  a  man's  disciple,  and  fellow 
''  student,  and  then  escheats."* 

The  females  who  are  termed  Amahs  or  Shudrunmara^  are  nomi- 
nally married,  between  the  ages  of  six  months  and  ten  years,  but 
rarely  if  ever  at  a  later  period.  The  mode  in  which  the  Bridegroom 
is  chosen,  is  according  to  the  constellations,  as  both  parties  must 
have  been  bom  under  the  same.  The  consequence  is,  that  although 
two  persons  bom  at  the  same  time  may  thus  be  united,  it  also  acts, 
that  the  husband  may  be  60  or  80,  and  the  bride  a  baby :  still  there 
is  no  necessity  for  their  ever  meeting  subsequent  to  the  ceremony. 
The  Bride  lives  in  her  mother's  house,  where  she  has  separate  rooms, 
and  indulges  in  indiscriminate  polyandrism,  with  any  of  her  own  caste 
or  of  a  higher  grade  :  but  should  she  receive  the  visits  of  a  man  of  in- 
ferior caste  to  herself,  she  becomes  an  out-caste.  The  infamy  and 
shame,  which  in  most  other  parts  of  India,  attends  an  erring  wife,  and 
extends  to  her  family,  is  here  unknown.  Such  deeds  can  be  no  sub- 
ject for  vituperation  against  the  Shudrunmar,  for  in  Malabar  no 

*  Strange,  page  67*  Civil  Law. 


318  SUCCE8SI0N   AMONGST   NAIE3. 

disgrace  attends  them.  Until  a  change  in  this  system  occurs,  thid 
portion  of  India  can  hardly  be  said  to  be  advancing  in  civilization. 
Some  ignorant  writers,  unacquainted  with  the  Hindu  laws^  view  this 
idea  as  puerile,  and  denounce  it,  as  "  pious  declamation,"  they  have 
yet  to  learn,  that  it  is  not  in  accordance  with  the  Hindu  religion, 
and  is  directly  antagonistic  to  their  Shastras. 

The  Nair  is  very  particular  respecting  his  dress,  and  is  evidently 
anxious  to  make  an  impression  on  the  softer  Shudrunmar.  Until 
the  last  fifty  years,  on  going  abroad  he  always  carried  a  firelock,  or 
sword,  and  should  he  consider  himself  a  very  valiant  individual,  he 
armed  himself  with  two.  In  his  more  amorous  campaigns,  the 
richest  suitor  presents  the  Shudrunmar  on  his  first  visit,  with  some 
ornaments  and  a  cloth,  he  also  whilst  on  terms  with  her,  provides 
oil  for  her  head.  When  she  returns  him  the  cloth,  it  is  a  sign  he 
must  cease  his  visits.  It  must  not  be  concluded  that  the  lady  has 
only  one  favoured  visitor.  Each  of  these  gentlemen  friends,  pro- 
vides her  with  something,  such  as  rice,  &c.,  and  thus  the  Shudrun- 
mar lives,  and  indidges  her  own  inclinations,  unfettered  either  by 
domestic  ties,  or  social  observances.  These  fugitive  connections,  are 
as  easily  dissolved  as  formed. 

Formerly  if  a  Nair  was  too  intimate  with  a  Chogan  woman,  he 
was  put  to  death,  and  the  female  was  sold  to  the  Moplahs ;  or  if  he 
had  been  too  friendly  with  a  slave  girl,  both  were  doomed  to  de- 
45truction. 

The  succession  in  this  caste,  is  that  best  adapted  to  a  military 
people.  Their  property,  <kc.,  descends  to  the  eldest  of  their  sister's 
children,  as  it  would  be  almost  impossible  for  fathers  to  know  their 
own.  Thus  having  no  family  in  which  to  interest  themselves,  denied 
the  right  of  adoption,  (even  of  their  own  sons  could  they  point  them 
out,)  excepting  by  the  Kajah's  special  pemussion :  unable  either  to 
wiU  away  their  family  property,  or  to  give  any  away,  funless 
personally  their  own  savings,  they  have  no  ties  of  kindred,  and 
no  occasion  to  save  money  like  other  men.  But  the  time  when 
military  Nairs  were  a  necessity  has  now  passed  away,  and  it  is 
to  be  hoped  that  ere  long,  some  great  pliilanthropist  will  arise 
■amongst  this  large  and  influential  class  of  natives,  who  will  reform 
some   of    the  melancholy   and   vicious  regulations  now  in    force 


THC  CHOOANS.  319 

ftmongist  them.  It  may  be  trosted  that  the  time  is  not  far  distant, 
when  parents  can  recognize  and  maintain  their  own  children,  when 
marriage  ^11  be  no  longer  a  misnomer,  but  a  reality;  and  husband 
and  wife  be  permitted  to  share  the  same  home.  Instead  of  squander-- 
ing  their  money  on  their  personal  appearance,  they  would  then  take 
an  interest  in  their  property,  and  the  State  would  be  as  great  gainers 
as  the  persons  themselves.  But  this  work  of  reformation  must  be 
commenced  by  an  influential  member  of  their  own  caste,  and  he  who 
effected  such,  would  be  a  public  benefactor  to  his  race,  and  one  whose 
name  would  be  always  revered  by  the  Natives  of  Malabar. 

The  Nairs  bum,  and  but  seldom  bury  their  dead.  Suttee  of 
course  could  never  have  been  carried  out,  as  owing  to  the  peculiar 
customs  of  this  caste,  widows  are  unknown.  They  believe  that 
good  men  go  to  Heaven,  but  that  bad  ones  suffer  transmigrations, 
A  death  in  a  family  causes  pollution  for  fifteen  days,  during  which 
time  only  the  Shedeeans,  who  are  Maraans,  and  perform  their  faneral 
ceremonies,  can  go  near  the  mourners,  over  whom  they  pour  milk  and 
water,  mixed  with  less  cleanly  substances,  on  the  fifth,  tenth,  and 
fifteenth  days,  after  the  death;  on  the  last  occasion,  they  are  considered 
purified. 

Nairs  live  in  detached  houses,  surrounded  by  gardens,  and  usual- 
ly of  a  rather  superior  description.  They  are  raised  off  the  ground, 
and  have  white  washed,  laterite,  or  nrad  walls,  generally  forming 
two  sides  of  a  square.  The  entrance  to  their  compounds,  (d^sasy)  \a 
at  some  little  distance  from  the  house,  and  consists  of  a  door,  in 
the  centre  of  a  strong  gateway.  These  domiciles  in  former  times/ 
were  frequently  like  little  fortresses,  a  necessary  precaution,  when 
violence  and  assassination,  were  rife  in  every  direction.  Nains  who 
have  once  lost  their  caste  cannot  regain  it. 

The  Chogam,  also  termed  Cliagowansy  and  Illovers,  appear  to  have 
been  one  of  the  aboriginal  tribes,  and  to  have  derived  their 
designation,  from  the  Sanscrit  word  Sevagura,  "  a  servant,"  whilst 
the  term  "Dlover,"  is  supposed  to  be  from  Ceylon,  which  was 
formerly  called  Izoowen  Dirpa,  or  Izoowen  island,  from  whence  they 
are  believed  to  have  come.   They  are  nearly  identical  with  the  Teers* 

^Teera  in  Travancore,  are  taid  to  have  purohased  the  title  of  Shanar^  the 
latter  assert  that  previously,  the  Teen  had  stood  in  the  same  position  to  them. 


820  CHOGAN  CEREMONIES. 

in  the  north,  the  Shanars  in  the  south,  and  the  Cinnamon  prunen 
of  Ceylon.  Their  females  are  termed  Choties.  They  say  that  they 
are  descended  from  the  impure  race  called  Panchamas,  and 
are  supposed  to  have  been  the  slaves  of  the  Brahmans,  Nairs 
and  Syrians,  for  whom  they  cnltiyated  dry  crops,  took  care  of  their 
gardens,  and  tended  cattle  :  receiving  in  return,  a  rather  uncertain 
remuneration.  Nearly  fifteen  hundred  years  ago,  it  is  said  many 
classes  were  emancipated  from  serfdom  to  the  Brahmans,  but  this 
boon  did  not  eictend  to  the  Chogans,  or  those  beneath  them,  and 
their  lot  remained  unaltered,  whilst  others  commenced  paying  rent 
to  the  crown,  and  obtained  the  privilege  of  residing  and  renting 
land  where  they  pleased.  They  are  now  mostly  known  as  toddy 
drawers,  this  laborious  occupation  is  carried  on  by  the  poorer 
classes,  who  as  soon  as  they  possess  sufficient  means,  purchase  trees, 
and  let  them  out  to  others.  They  also  manufacture  coarse  sugar 
(ifigg^ry^)  from  toddy,  distil  arrack,  make  country  vinegar,  act  as 
cultivators:  and  in  jungly  places,  as  collectors  of  firewood.  In 
the  native  State,  they  are  prohibited  from  milking  cows ;  (although 
in  most  places  these  laws  are  now  obsolete,)  from  possessing  calves 
with  red  horns ;  with  a  white  mark  on  the  forehead ;  or  twins : 
these  ought  all  to  be  sent  to  the  nearest  Pagoda  or  to  the  house  of 
a  high  caste  man,  as  also  a  Chogan's  cow  should  it  have  a  calf,  when 
it  rarely  happens  that  the  young  animal  is  returned  to  its  owner. 
The  produce  of  their  gardens,  also  is  in  some  places  considered  fair 
spoil  They  are  not  permitted  to  express  oil  from  their  cocoanuts, 
as  the  Syrians  and  Bomo-Syrians  claim  the  monopoly  of  this  trade. 
The  Chogans  are  an  industrious  people,  coarse  in  their  manners 
and  customs,  covetous  in  their  dispositions,  and  in  their  religion 
devil  worshippers,  or  rather  propitiators  of  evil  spirits :  their  ofier- 
ings  consisting  of  bloody  sacrifices,  for  a  cock,  hog,  sheep,  or  goat, 
are  generally  considered  acceptable  to  the  Deity,  who  has  also  no 
objection  to  ardent  spirits.  They,  and  the  classes  below  them,  must 
not  enter  Hindu  Temples.  Their  barbers  GooroopoOy  are  their  Priests, 
and  are  held  in  very  low  esteem.  The  head  men  of  the  villages, 
who  have  received  their  titles  from  the  Bajah,   have  chaige  of  a 

that  Nain  do  to  Brahmans^  but  there  appears  no  foundation  for  this  statement. 
Teens,  Chogans,  and  Shanars,  will  all  eat  together,  but  do  not  inter-marry. 


BOTATOB  OP  THE  DEMON.  821 

eMun  number  of  houses,  and  decide  when  certain  ceremonies  are 
necessary,  which  without  their  sanction,  are  null  and  void.  Their 
imagination  peoples  the  forests  with  demons,  and  the  wilds  with 
Fengeful  spirits,  especially  the  ghosts  of  their  ancestors  ;  they  fre- 
quently have  recourse  to  charms,  some  of  which  consist  only 
of  the  leaves  of  jungle  trees.  Their  Temples  if  they  can  be  called 
such,  are  merely  pyramidal  pillars  of  mud,  six  or  seven  feet  high, 
constructed  with  their  faces  towards  the  cardinal  points,  and 
frequently  in  the  vicinity  of  a  tamarind  tree.  In  front  of  this  idol, 
is  a  small  raised  flat  surface  made  of  mud,  on  which  sacri- 
fices are  offered  4ip.  Bloody  sacrifices,  and  dances,  are  essentials 
to  the  Demon  worshipper.  The  person  who  conducts  these 
ceremonies,  is  known  as  the  Vellichapard*  or  Rotator  of  the  Demons 
and  is  must  commonly  one  of  their  own  caste,  but  any  person,  even 
a  Nair,  may  officiate.  The  animal  to  be  sacrificed,  is  ornamented 
with  red  ochre,  and  usually  adorned  with  flowers,  the  head  is  severed 
by  one  blow  of  the  sacrificial  knife,  and  the  trunk  held  up  over 
the  altar,  that  the  blood  may  be  poured  out  on  it  Subsequently 
those  who  have  presented  the  offering,  cook  and  eat  its  flesh.  In 
some  cases,  the  Vellichapard  must  drink  the  blood  of  the  sacrifice, 
and  during  the  time  of  the  ceremony,  he  appears  Hke  one  possessed, 
and  jumps,  or  rather  rushes  through  the  fire,  cutting  himself  with 
knives,  or  other  sharp  instruments,  until  he  is  covered  with  blood  : 
altogether  the  sight  appears  more  like  what  might  be  conceived  of  a 
pandemonium,  than  anything  else. 

The  Chogans  are  a  people  despised  by  the  higher  castes,  such  as  the 
Nairs,  and  Brahmans,  who  nevertheless  in  former  times  whenever 
they  required  money,  invariably  looked  to  these  classes  from  whence 
to  obtain  it  They  have  thus  been  rendered  suspicious,  whilst  they 
have  not  advanced  with  an  advancing  age.  Always  destitute  of  li- 
terature, both  sacred  and  profane,  they  are  not  apparently  solicitous 
for  education.  Fearful  of  losing  money,  even  in  British  territory, 
where  little  fear  need  exist,  they  often  bury  their  savings  in  some 
secure  place,  by  which  means  considerable  sums  must  annually  dis- 


*  This  person  is  believed  to  be  moved  by  a  spirit,  and  his  words  to  have  a 
«gnificance  none  nhould  neglect.  Even  women  are  at  times  supposed  to  be 
posBOdicd  ^Tith  wpirits,  and  able  to  foretol  future  events. 

ml 


S22  TWO  TRIBES   OF   CH0GAN3. 

appear,  from  the  currency  of  the  empire.  This  class,  suspicious  of 
not  obtaining  justice  from  the  hiws  of  the  reabn,  formerly  resorted  to 
ordeals,  and  even  at  the  present  time,  have  frequently  recourse  to  the 
decision  of  punchayets,  or  umpires,  chosen  by  the  consent  of  both 
parties.  They  are  not  permitted  to  enter  within  a  native  court  of 
justice,  by  the  laws  of  caste  they  should  remain  thirty-six  paces  from 
a  Brahman,  and  twelve  from  a  Nair,  the  latter  class  generally  become 
their  paid  advocates,  in  these  Courts  of  Jtuticel 

Chogans  in  the  Native  State,  were  not  permitted  to  wear  any 
clothing  above  the  waist,  whether  they  were  males  or  females. 
This  prohibition  was  enforced  throughout  Malabar,  until  about  the 
commencement  of  the  present  century,  and  in  Travancore,  until 
1859 :  whilst  in  Cochin,  it  has  always  be^  strictly  observed,  up 
to  the  present  time.  Even  in  British  territory,  where  they  can 
dress  as  they  please,  they  manifest  no  desire  to  change  their  style 
of  clothing,  a  proceeding  which  would  probably  occasion  them  ex- 
pulsion from  their  caste. 

Chogans,  may  like  Naira,  receive  titles  from  the  Rajah  of  Cochin, 
that  of  Tundaan  is  purchaseablo,  and  gives  a  person  the  right  to 
be  the  head  man  of  the  village,  as  well  as  of  his  caste  in  the  place. 
He  can  wear  a  gold  knife,  and  style^  may  walk  before  a  Nair  with  a 
cloth  on  his  head,  ride  in  a  palanquin,  or  on  a  horse,  carry  a  silk 
umbrella,  and  have  a  brass  lamp,  coalloo  vellaJcoo^  borne  before  himk. 
For  each  of  these  privileges,  he  pays  separately.*  A  Tundaan  is 
prohibited  from  doing  any  cooly  work,  ploughing,  or  going  up  cocoa- 
nut  trees,  &c.  There  are  also  inferior  honours,  such  as  Funnikans, 
Ponumhans,  &c.  Chogans  may  not  use  horses'  bones  for  tapping 
trees,  so  they  employ  those  of  the  Buffaloe,  or  the  Sambur  loaded 
with  lead.  Those  of  horses,  are  said  to  increase  the  amount  of  toddy 
procured  from  the  trees. 

They  are  divided  into  two  tribes,  who  do  not  inter-marry^  the  first 
is  called  the  MukktUti,  and  their  property  descends  to  their  own 
children.  In  all  cases  of  dispute,  they  have  a  councO  of  31  persons, 
of  their  own  tribe,  who  decide  on  the  subject.    The  second  is  known 

*  If  any  persoDS  use  these  privileges,  who  are  unauthorized  to  do  so,  thoy 
lay  themselyes  open  to  the  Native  penal  eode,  and  they  would  probably  be  pun- 
ished by  hard  labour  on  the  roads. 


CtJKNtANS   OB   ASTtlOLOOfiRS.  323 

fts  the  Afurri  MukkuUiy  amongst  whom  the  descent  goes  through  the 
Nephews,  they  have  a  council  of  61,  to  decide  disputes.  Some  of 
both  these  divisions  marry,  but  the  majority  merely  form  fugitive 
connections. 

Widows  cannot  re-marry,  those  who  have  acted  improperly  are 
~not  divorced,  but  merely  flogged.  At  the  marriage,  some  money 
is  presented  to  the  girl's  mother,  a  piece  of  cloth  to  herself,  and  food  to 
her  relations.  Many  of  the  women  have  no  husbands,  and  as  they 
are  considered  handsome,  they  are  unfortunately  exposed  to  much 
temptation,  especially  in  sea  port  towns,  which  they  hardly  ever  resist. 
In  olden  times,  if  the  seducer  were  a  Namboorie,  his  eyes  were  put 
out,  and  the  girl  and  all  her  family,  were  either  put  to  death,  or 
sold  to  the  Moplahs. 

They  do  not  appear  to  be  quite  so  much  addicted  to  intozicatioa 
as  the  Nairs,  in  fact  they  are  prohibited  from  drinking  the  toddy 
which  they  draw.  They  believe  in  a  future  state.  They  bury  their 
dead,  always  facing  the  east,  and  generally  at  the  threshold  of  their 
houses,  almost  invariably  in  their  own  compounds.  They  daily 
cross  over  these  tombs.  If  they  die  in  a  hired  place,  the  body  must 
be  removed,  because  its  intermeut  gives  the  family  of  the  deceased 
a  speciee  of  claim  to  the  ground. 

The  Cunnians,  or  Astrologers,  are  a  low  but  learned  and  distinct 
division  of  the  Chogans.  If  one  of  them  approach  within  24  feet 
of  a  Namboorie,  he  causes  pollution,  whilst  his  touch  defiles  a  Nair. 
They  are  permitted  to  read  the  Yogi  Shastra,  which  contains  no 
prayers.  The  ignorant  refer  to  them,  to  learn  the  best  time  for  sow- 
ing seeds,  or  if  they  are  sick,  to  discover  from  what  evil  spirit  their 
disease  is  due,  and  how  it  can  best  be  got  rid  of.  They  also  pretend 
to  cast  out  evil  spirits,  and  are  regarded  with  great  awe.  They  pray 
both  to  Siva  and  Yishnu,  and  appear  to  offer  sacrifices  to  every 
divinity  in  the  Hindu  calendar. 

They  employ  themselves  in  cultivation,  making  umbrellas,  and 
similar  occupations.  They  believe  in  a  future  state,  and  hold  that  the 
spirits  of  the  good,  will  remain  with  God :  and  those  of  the  bad^ 
occasion  trouble  on  the  earth.  They  eat  animal  food,  and  drink 
spirituous  liquors.  Their  marriages  «ure  conducted  in  the  same  man- 
ner as  those  of  the  Ctogans,  and  may  be  dissolved  at  pleasurtr 


324  CAftTES   INFERIOR   TO  CHOOA^S. 

Property  descends  to  their  children^  some  bum,  and  othetft  barf 
their  dead. 

There  are  many  chMses  of  Artificers,  the  yarioos  disldnctions  and 
customs  of  whom  might  fill  volumes,  but  space  does  not  «dmit  of 
even  giving  a  slight  sketch  of  them  here. 

The  four-joined^n-ane  race,  consist  of  4  distinct  dasaes,  all  of 
which  are  said  to  have  had  <Hie  common  descent.  They  are  as  fol- 
lows ;  1st,  the  Arjarrtt  (Carpenters),  should  one  of  these  enter  an 
Ilium,  it  is  defiled,  unless  he  carries  hid  chisel  and  hiB  rule.  He 
can  even  if  thus  armed,  enter  a  Nair's  coddng  house.  2nd,  the 
Moqjarrtej  (Brass  founders).  3rd,  Perincdun  (Smiths,)  a  Black- 
smith* entering  an  Ilium,  must  have  a  hammer,  a  pair  of  tongs,  or 
some  of  his  tools  with  him,  and  be  very  careful  that  they  are  not 
aU  absent  from  his  hands  at  the  same  time,  in  which  case  the  house 
would  be  defiled.  4th,  the  TuttuM  (Silversmiths).  All  these  four 
believe  that  they  had  one  common  ori^n,  but  as  their  numbeis 
increased  they  divided  into  four  trades,  which  their  descendants 
are  bound  to  follow.  In  performing  ceremonies,  all  four  unite; 
and  they  also  eat  together,  whilst  if  one  of  them  forms  a  temporary 
alliance  with  a  woman  of  <Hie  of  the  other  three  divisions,  he  does 
not  lose  his  caste.  Still  there  are  two  sub-divisions  of  the  Carpen- 
ters  and  Smiths,  who  must  not  be  included  in  the  above,  as  they  are 
esteemed  of  an  inferior  |x)Mtion :  amongst  the  first  are  the  Tuch- 
huns,  who  as  they  make  ploughs,  and  cut  firewood  for  burning  the 
dead,  are  looked  down  upon  by  the  Aijarreos  :  amongst  the  latter, 
are  the  Parrickarcolum,  who  besides  working  in  iron,  will  manu£kc- 
ture  leather  sword  belts,  or  even  shoes,  and  are  consequently 
thought  very  inferior  by  the  Perincoluna  The  CuUens,  are  workers 
in  granite,  but  owing  to  their  propensities,  their  synonyme  is  equiva- 
lent  to  that  of  a  rogue,  or  a  thief :  the  Pdjidarran*  or  popadum 
makers,  are  a  working  cfiiss  :  whilst  the  Cujinaains  are   Braziers. 

All  the  above  are  esteemed  superior  to  the  Chogans,  but  there  arc 
many  others,  such  as  the  Tarrogan*^  (Weavers)  :  the  Cunnya  Coo^ 
roopoo,  (Schoolmasters,)  who  are  Astrologers,  who  are  equal  to  them  : 

*  A  Blacksmith  may  obtain  a  Poonool  from  the  Rajah,  but  only  rich  men 
can  afford  the  luxury,  subsequently  they  cannot  make  plough  sharen,  carry 
llr<iwood|  or  perform  many  other  important  offices. 


THB  MUCUA9.  325 

and  some  far  inferior  as  the  Cojamimy  (Potters),  a  word  often  used  to 
designate  a  foolisli  fellow  :  the  Chucklers,  (Cobblers,)  a  foreign  race  : 
and  the  ParnunSy  (Necromancers),  Besides  these,  there  are  many 
more  castes. 

The  Arrians,  and  VaMuns,  appear  identical  castes,  the  first 
invariably  fish  in  the  sea,  the  latter  always  in  the  backwater.  They 
both  claim  superiority  over  the  Chogans. 

The  Mwuas  or  Muckwas,  are  an  inferior  tribe  to  the  Chogans,' 
and  live  along  the  sea  coasts,  rarely  going  inland.  Until  within  the 
last  fifty  years,  they  were  not  permitted  to  travel  along  the  inland 
roads,  but  were  compelled  to  keep  to  the  sea  beach.  They  act  as 
boatmen,  palanquin  bearers,  and  in  some  places  also  cmltivate  cocoa- 
nut  trees.  Many  of  those  a  little  to  the  north,*  have  become  Maho- 
medans,  and  some  also  in  the  Cochin  State,  but  the  majority  are 
Christians.  Faoli  speaking  of  these  people  anterior  to  1788,  says 
that  at  that  time,  they  had  to  pay  "net  money,"  which  amounted  to 
six  poothens,  or  five  annas,  yearly.  The  following  remarks  refer 
only  to  the  Hindu  Mucuas,  and  not  to  the  Christians,  who  are  call- 
ed MarggacarevBy  or  "people  having  a  law."  The  females  are 
termed  Mueattees. 

Some  amongst  them  marry,  the  ceremony  consisting  merely  of  a 
feast,  without  the  aid  of  any  religious  exercises,  and  in  this  case  a 
woman  can  only  be  divorced  for  infidelity.  But  another,  and  a  sim- 
pler union  is  more  prevalent,  which  leaves  both  parties  able  to  sepa- 
rate at  pleasure,  the  children  always  accompanying  their  mother. 

They  are  not  particular  as  to  their  food,  excepting  with  regard  to 
the  exclusion  of  beef.  Their  Deity  is  Kali,  who  is  represented  by  a 
log  of  wood,  placed  inside  a  hut.  They  must  sacrifice  a  cock  to  her, 
four  times  a  year.  They  must  not  enter  within  the  precincts  of  any 
Temple,  although  they  sometimes  send  offerings  by  the  hands  of 
those  of  superior  castes,  especially  for  recovery  from  sickness.  They 
are  quite  ignorant  of  any  future  state,  but  are  convinced  of  the  exist- 

*At  ChoyDghautf  the  Mucuas  dissatisfied  at  having  no  religious  observances  like 
other  people,  and  feeling  the  want  of  them,  whilst  they  are  awa^  that  they 
cannot  ascend  in  the  Hindu  scale^  are  rapidly  decreasing  in  numbers,  as  it  has 
become  the  custom,  for  one  son  in  every  family  to  become  a  Mahomedan  Mop- 
lah.     This  ckws  are  known  as  the  Pooddia  Islam,  or  the  "  now  Mahomedans.*'^ 


326  SOIL  SLAVES. 

ence  of  bad  'spirits,  who  inflict  pains,  losses,  and  other  evils  on 
mankind.     They  bury  their  dead. 

The  Ferdana  Kanakas,  BTe  a.  tribe  who  act  as  boatmen,  float 
timber,  make  chunam,  and  bear  the  same  relation  to  the  inland 
rivers,  as  the  Mucuas  do  to  the  sea.  They  are  fishermen,  but  also 
act  as  cultivators. 

The  Farravar$,  reside  along  the  sea  coast  to  the  south,  and  f  or^ 
merly  were  employed  in  the  manufacture  and  dyeing  of  cotton 
articles.  At  page  99  is  an  account  of  their  having  sent  an  embas- 
sage to  Cochin,  seeking  assistance  against  the  Moors. 

VaiUun  is  a  tribe  of  Washermai,  who  cleanse  clothes  for  all 
castes,  from  Namboories  downwards.  They  also  collect  medicines. 
They  are  a  necessity  for  many  ceremonies,  and  often  finding  such  to 
be  the  case,  make  their  terms  accordingly :  thus  a  child  must  go 
through  a  ceremony  on  a  certain  day  after  birth,  for  which  the 
VaiUun  must  have  a  cloth  ready,  and  if  it  is  not  forthcoming,  both 
mother  and  child  are  put  out  of  caste.  After  the  birth  of  a  child,  a 
woman  must  for  twenty-four  hours  wear  a  cloth,  which  is  the  property 
of  a  Vaillun. 

There  are  two  castes,  who  are  said  to  have  arrived  about  the  time 
of  the  Mysore  invasion,  both  of  which  can  only  contaminate  a  Nam- 
boorie  by  contact.  They  themselves  however,  do  not  appecur  to  care 
about  even  being  touched  by  a  soil  slave.  They  are  the  Carcarlans, 
or  Jugglers,  who  also  do  a  little  tailor  work,  such  as  making  bed* 
ding,  (fee,  and  the  N^koman,  who  are  the  Tank  diners,  they  also 
make  dams,  and  do  similar  work.  They  catch  and  eat  field  mice, 
jackalls,  &c.  It  is  said  that  none  of  this  tribe  have  ever  been  either 
imprisoned,  or  brought  up  before  a  Magistrate,  on  any  charge.  They 
never  drink  spirits,  and  acknowledge  that  the  Chogans  are  their 
superiors  in  caste. 

The  soil  slaves  are  sometimes  called  Churmurs  as  a  whole,  and  are 
rather  a  numerous  race.  The  term  "  Churmur,"  appears  to  be  an 
abbreviation  of  the  word  Cherrimucknll,  (cherri,  "  a  dam,'^  muchdy 
"  children")  as  they  always  are  bom  and  live  on  dams,  and  cultivate 
fields.  Although  nominsJly  emancipated  in  1854,  such  has  never 
been  carried  out  in  its  entirety.  At  the  present  day  it  is  by  no 
means  rare,  for  persona  to  speak  of  their  slaves,  whom  they  consider 


THE   CHURMUIW   OR    PfiLLIANS-  327 

dependent  upon  them,  in  old  age,  or  sickness.  Some  there  are  no 
doubt,  who  when  those  in  their  employ  fall  sick,  immediately  re« 
member  the  emancipation  act,  and  dismiss  them  their  service,  espe- 
eioily  in  cases  of  leprosy.  Other  hard  masters  are  accused  of  refusing 
to  feed  them,  whilst  unable  to  work,  but  these  cases  form  the  excep- 
tions, not  the  rule.  Slaves  generally  speaking,  are  terrible  thieves, 
and  great  drunkards,  this  perhi^s  is  mainly  owing  to  their  condition  : 
they  even  teach  their  children  to  drink  toddy.  Education,  is  of 
course  unknown  amongst  them.  They  are  divided  into  four  classes 
Fellians,  Pariahs,  OolaMura  and  the  Kanakas. 

They-are  pre-eminently  a  degraded  race.  When  speaking  of  their 
bodily  members,  such  as  an  eye,  or  an  ear,  to  a  superior,  they  (as 
must  also  Chogans,  and  those  inferior  to  them,)  prefix  it  by 
the  epithet  oldy  such  as  "  old  eye,"  "  old  ear."  They  are  obliged  to 
call  their  childien  *'  calves,"  their  silver  ''  copper,"  and  their  paddy 
**  cha£L"  They  commence  speaking  by  saying,  "  your  slave  has  re- 
**  ceived  permission  to  observe."  Nairs  they  must  call  "  Kings," 
and  Brahmans  they  may  not  approach :  they  ore  not  allowed  to  draw 
near  a  Temple  to  pray,  and  must  leave  the  public  road  to  permit 
those  of  higher  caste  to  pass  undefiled.  However  the  phOanthropist 
may  desire  it,  they  can  never  as  a  class  be  elevated  by  legislation,  as 
the  first  step  must  be  to  raise  them  in  their  own  estimation,  and 
tmtH  this  is  gained,  they  will  make  no  real  advance  in  civilization. 

Amongst  the  highest  division  of  this  tribe,  when  the  word  is  not 
taken  for  the  whole  race,  are  the  Churmurs,  (clierra,  "  a  dam,"^ 
also  known  as  the  Fellians.  These  poor  creatures,  usually  reside  in 
the  paddy  .fields,  where  their  miserable  little  huts,  may  be  seen  raised 
apon  the  dams,  which  keep  the  water  at  its  proper  level  They  are 
employed  in  cultivating  fields,  in  cleaning  and  watering  the  cocoanut 
trees,  and  picking  the  nuts,  but  in  some  places  must  use  no  knife, 
as  these  trees  rank  too  high  in  the  social  scale,  to  submit  to  the  in- 
dignity of  being  cut  by  a  Churmur.  They  also  tie  hedges  around 
the  trunks  of  the  trees,  to  prevent  unauthorized  persons  from  tres- 
passing, tend  buffaloes,  look  after  the  crops,  and  separate  the  rice, 
from  the  husks. 

This  tribe  is  divided  into  several  families,  all  of  which  may  inter- 
marry and  cat  together.     They  acknowledge  no  hereditary  chiefs, 


826  THE  PARIAHS. 

but  have  assemblies  of  the  eldera,  who  settle  disputes.  The  Pellian 
rejects  carrion,  but  will  eat  animal  food,  and  drink  intoxicating 
liquors.  They  are  a  debased,  ignorant  race,  and  seem  as  timid  as 
hares,  at  the  approach  of  any  human  being.  An  European  can 
scarcely  ever  succeed  in  coming  near  them,  as  their  eyes  and  ears 
alwa3rs  appear  watching  for  strangers,  and  they  rush  away  in  spite 
of  every  attempt  to  induce  them  to  stop.  They  rarely  go  along  a 
public  road,  but  if  they  do,  they  keep  looking  about,  to  see  if  any 
person  of  a  higher  caste  is  near,  in  which  case  they  dare  not  proceed. 
Whilst  on,  or  near  a  road,  they  shout  to  give  warning  of  their  apr 
proach,  as  their  presence  within  a  certain  distance,  causes  pollution 
to  those  of  superior  classes.  When  defiled  by  the  touch  of  a  Pariah, 
they  have  to  bathe  in  5  separate  places,  and  take  a  d/op  of  blood 
from  one  finger. 

The  slave  castes,  appear  as  a  rule,  never  to  have  worn  the  Cudn- 
mi,  but  latterly  many  of  those  to  the  north,  have  commenced  to  do 
so.  They  wear  the  Tali,  but  the  marriage  ceremony  is  very  simple, 
a  man  brings  a  woman  to  his  master,  and  states  that  he  wishes  to 
keep  her  as  his  wife,  subsequently  she  receives  her  allowance  of 
rice,  but  she  may  leave  her  husband  when  she  pleases,  and  is  not 
particular  in  changing  one  spouse  for  another.  The  husband's  mas- 
ter by  the  old  law,  maintains  Ms  wife  and  cliildren,  until  they  are 
able  to  work,  when  the  eldest  son  becomes  his  property,  and  the 
others  that  of  the  mother's  master. 

They  worship  a  goddess  which  is  merely  represented  by  a  stone, 
raised  on  a  mound  in  the  open  air.  Their  Priest  is  one  of  their  own 
caste,  and  at  the  commencement  of  the  new  year,  offers  up  fowls,  firuits, 
and  spirituous  liquors.  They  believe  that  after  death,  the  spirit 
ezerdses  an  influence  in  terrestrial  affairs,  those  of  the  good  being 
the  most  powerful,  but  offerings  axe  made  to  both  species.  They  do 
not  recognize  the  Brahmans  as  their  teachers.    Their  dead  are  burnt 

The  Pariahs  are  a  lower  caste  of  slaves,  and  eat  carrion,  even  that 
of  cows.  They  cultivate  paddy  fields,  clean  ponds,  and  till  the 
ground,  but  will  not  use  buffaloes  to  assist  in  this  purpose,  as  if 
they  touch  these  animals,  they  are  defiled,  they  have  however  no 
objection  to  bullocks.  They  also  skin  animals,  make  baskets,  bam- 
boo mats,  umbreUas,  and  such  like.    The  males  alone  were  saleable. 


THE  OOLAHDUBS.  329 

tlie  females  who  according  to  tradition  are  believed  to  be  descended 
from  Brahmanee  women  who  had  forgotten  themselves,  could  not  be 
disposed  of.  After  death,  good  men  are  believed  to  resemble  gods, 
and  bad  ones  demons.  They  have  small  huts,  in  which  the  Deity  is 
represented  by  a  rude  stone.  They  make  offerings,  and  pray  to  both 
good  and.  evil  spirits. 

The  OolakdMrs,  are  said  to  have  derived  their  name,  either  from 
OoUtdana^  "it  is  true,"  being  the  answer  given  by  a  Brahmanee 
woman,  to  a  grave  accusation,  by  which  she  became  an  out-caste,  and 
the  prog^tor  of  a  class  of  slaves.  Or  else  from  the  two  words 
Ool^  "within,"  Adana^  "runs,"  or  a  person  who  runs  into  the  forest, 
evidently  when  any  of  a  higher  caste  should  approadi.  They  are, 
the  lowest  class  cf  soil  slaves,  and  are  unable  to  approach  any  of  the 
other  tribes,  even  the  Mulchers.  They  live  more  especially  around 
the  base  of  the  Ghauts,  and  may  collect  bees'  wax,  gums,  iS&c,  from 
bushes  or  shrubs  if  wiliiin  reach  of  the  ground  :  but  they  must  not 
dimb  trees,  as  that  would  necessitate  their  driving  pegs  into  them, 
which  could  not  be  permitted.  They  may  not  tou<^  water,  and  if 
they  do  so,  must  fast  for  a  day.  Their  clothes  are  usually  merely 
leaves,  their  filthiness  is  extreme.  Tliey  snare  birds,  and  small  game, 
and  watch  crops  by  night 

Their  marriage  ceremony  is  very  simple,  but  it  is  also  employed 
-by  some  of  the  other  inferior  tribes,  at  certain  times,  although  quite 
contrary  to  their  rites.  A  large  round  building  is  made  of  leavesi 
and  inside  this  the  Bride  is  ensconced.  All  the  eligible  young 
men  of  the  village  then  assemble,  and  form  a  ring  around  this  hut. 
At  a  short  distance,  sits  the  girl's  father,  or  nearest  male  relative, 
with  a  tom-tom  in  his  hands,  and  a  few  more  such  musical  instru- 
ments, complete  the  scene.  Presently  the  music  begins,  and  a  chant 
which  may  be  translated  as  follows,  is  sung  by  the  f ather^ 

*'  TMie  the  stick  my  sweetest  daugliter. 
Now  seize  the  stick,  my  dearest  love. 
Should  you  not  capture  the  husband  you  wish  for, 
Bemember  'tis  fate,  deoMes  whom  you  shall  have." 
The  yoiuig  mea  each  aimed  with  a  bamboo,  commence  dancing 
cound    the    hut»    into    which    ^ach    of  ih^ai  thrusts   his  stick. 
This  continues  about  an  hour,  when  the  owner  of  whichever  bamboo 
she  seuses,  become  the  iortimate  husband  of  the  concealed  bride. 

s  1 


330  THE   MULCHKRS. 

A  feast  then  follows,  the  ceremony  is  now  complete,  whilst  there  k 
no  divorce. 

The  MvilcherSy  MulHars,  or  Malasirs,  derived  their  name  appa- 
rently from  Mala,  "a  hill,"  and  Kaira,  "to  go  up,"  for  their  present 
designation,  appears  to  be  an  abbreviation  from  "  Malakaira,"  or 
"  Malaira."  The  high  caste  natives,  affirm  that  they,  and  the  Kai^ 
dahs,  are  identical  races,  but  that  the  Molchers  originally  lived  on  the 
Malabar,  or  western  side  of  the  ghauts,  and  the  Kardahs  on  the 
Coimbatore,  or  eastern.  The  Mulchers  are  a  tribe,  who  are  not  consi- 
dered slaves  :  their  nature  partakes  both  of  that  of  the  Aborigines, 
and  of  the  Hindus  of  the  plains,  above  whom  they  are  found  in  a  to- 
pographically ascending,  but  a  socially  descending  scale.  Each 
Mulcher  believes  that  both  himself,  and  his  neighbour,  have  many 
spirits  at  their  command  :  consequently  if  one  offends  another,  his 
bodily  health  may  suffer,  or  even  his  life  fall  a  sacrifice ;  thus  it  is,  that 
should  a  quantity  of  bees'  wax  be  perceived  on  a  tree,  the  Mulcher 
first  well  examines  the  bark,  to  see  if  one  of  his  tribe  has  been  before 
him,  and  left  his  sign  manual  there,  should  he  have  done  so,  nothing 
would  induce  him  to  touch  it,  for  fear  of  the  consequences  which 
might  ensue,  from  his  offended  neighbour's  demon.  They  do  not 
believe,  that  their  spirits  have  any  power  over  the  white  races. 

The  Mulcher  language,  is  a  compound  of  Tamil  and  Malayalam, 
with  some  words  of  their  own  added,  and  a  most  curious  pronuncia- 
tion.    They  bury  their  dead. 

The  Mulchers  live  in  small  villages,  situated  on  the  skirts  of  the 
Hills,  or  part  of  the  way  up  them,  but  between  them  and  the  Kar- 
dahs is  a  species  of  neutral  ground,  which  is  trodden  on  by  neither 
tribe.  In  appearance  they  are  superior  to  the  slaves,  or  to  the  Kar- 
dahs. They  are  defiled  if  touched  by  one  of  the  latter  tribe.  Men  wear 
a  string  of  beads  around  their  necks  :  whilst  the  women,  have  also 
strings  of  laige  red  and  white  beads,  bangles  on  their  arms,  and  some- 
times rings  on  their  fingers  and  toes.  There  is  a  head  man  over  each 
community,  who  receives  a  certain  amount  of  the  sums  they  coUect, 
and  arranges  their  barters  for  them.  When  they  have  nothing  to  ex- 
change for  rice,  they  subsist  on  wild  yams,  Dioicoreas,  but  they 
cultivate  small  spots  of  Rali,  Cynomrus  corocanus,  Avaray,  Bolichoi 
LaMabj  and  Tonda,  Ricinus  palma  chrisH.    They  will  fell  timber 


THE  KARDAH8.  331 

and  firewood,  collect  honey  and  bees'  wax,  and  are  good  beaters  for 
game,  or  trackers  in  the  jungles.  They  are  very  fond  of  arracki 
brandy,  and  toddy* 

They  take  wives  from  their  own  village,  and  the  girFs  father  is 
particular  that  the  husband  is  such  a  one  as  he  would  be  satis- 
fied with.  During  the  wife's  life,  they  do  not  take  a  second.  Mar- 
riages may  be  dissolved  for  infidelity  on  the  woman's  side,  on 
which  occasion  the  people  of  the  village  assemble,  and  should  the 
case  be  proved  to  their  satisfaction,  she  is  returned  to  her  parents. 
The  husband  does  not  again  receive  her,  but  any  one  else  who 
wishes  to  marry  her,  may  do  so,  if  she  accedes,  but  this  is  a  very 
rare  case.  On  the  occasion  of  a  marriage,  the  boy's  father  gives  a 
feast  to  all  the  relations,  a  certain  sum  to  the  girl's  mother,  and  a 
present  to  the  daughter  to  buy  a  new  dress.  The  Bride  and  Bride- 
groom, now  proceed  to  a  new  hut,  which  has  been  erected  for 
their  future  residence.  The  Bridegroom's  parents,  continue  to  live 
with  the  youngest  son. 

Their  god  called  Mallung,  is  merely  in  some  places  a  stone,  sur- 
rounded by  a  wall,  but  more  generally  a  collection  of  stones,  each  of 
which  represents  one  of  their  forefathers,  whose  spirits  they  suppli- 
cate, to  protect  them  from  harm.  In  April  they  sacrifice  honey,  and 
sometimes  goats,  in  the  belief  that  should  they  neglect  this  duty, 
tigers  and  elephants,  would  be  sent  to  destroy  them.  The  Mul- 
chers  do  not  acknowledge  any  dependence  upon  the  Brahmans,  in 
their  religious  ceremonies. 

Their  diseases  are  numerous,  and  at  times  cholera  sweeps  their 
villages,  but  in  their  own  locality,  they  are  said  very  seldom  to  be 
attacked  by  malarious  fevers.  They  are  famous  snake  charmers,  and 
assert  that  they  possess  the  knowledge  of  some  tree,  the  green  leaf 
of  which  taken  internally,  as  well  as  applied  externally  to  any  part, 
bitten  by  a  venomous  snake,  is  an  infallible  cure. 

Along  the  highest  range  of  the  Hills  in  the  Cochin  territory,  are 
found  a  race  of  true  jungle  people,  known  as  the  KardahSy  {Kardah 
"  a  jungle.")  The  most  numerous  division  of  them,  live  at  Nelliam- 
puddy  at  the  summit  of  one  of  the  highest  motmtains,  on  the  Anna- 
mullies,  and  Kollumkode.  Their  villages  are  collections  of  small 
hovels,  composed  of  the  branches  of  trees,  covered  over  with  leaves 


332  KARDAHS'  MODS  OF  TAKING    HONFT. 

They  are  a  very  lazy  race,  and  appear  to  greatly  dialike  mamtal  lor 
horn,  but  are  excellent  trackers  in  the  jungles,  or  collectors  of  wild 
produce :  ^ey  are  also  useful  in  finding  out  the  proper  trees  for 
felling,  when  timber  is  required. 

The  Eardahs  are  a  short  muscular  race,  of  a  deep  black  colour, 
with  thick  lips.  Their  language  is  Tamul,  but  their  dialect  such, 
l^t  few  Tamul  persons  can  understand  them.  The  women  wear 
dark  coloured  clothes,  and  beads,  bangles,  rings,  and  charms.  They 
have  a  head  man,  who  decides  all  questions  for  them,  and  acts  as 
a  sort  of  Priest.  He  is  entitled  to  the  proceeds  from  certain  large 
trees,  and  rocks,  and  a  certaui  percentage  of  all  honey  and  wax 
collected.  Their  Temples  are  small  huts,  in  which  rude  stones 
painted  over  with  red,  represent  their  Deities,  who  are  believed 
to  protect  them  ^m  tigers,  eiep^ants,  and  misfortunes;  once  a  year 
at  the  time  of  the  feast  of  Vishoo,  they  as  well  as  tlie  Mulchers, 
viait  the  low  country ;  they  pray  to  any  image  they  see,  but  have 
nothing  to  do  with  the  Brahmans.  They  dislike  the  Mulchers  to 
come  too  near  them,  and  if  ^y  encroach  on  what  they  consider 
their  domain,  they  drive  them  away. 

They  subsist  upon  animals  they  are  able  to  trap,  wild  yams,  seeds 
ef  the  bamboo,  and  other  productions  of  the  jui^le  ;  whilst  they 
also  receive  a  certaui  amount  of  rice,  for  collecting  honey  and  bees 
wax*  They  obtain  the  latter  in  the  following  manner ;  around  their 
waist,  th^  carry  a  bundle  of  sharp  pointed  pegs  of  bamboo,  that 
have  had  their  points  hardened  in  the  fire,  and  over  their  shoulder  is 
swung  a  basket)  containing  a  mallet,  and  an  additional  supply  of 
pegs,  in  case  of  their  bemg  required.  Having  driven  one  of  the 
pegs  into  the  trunk  of  the  tree,  in  which  the  bees'  nest  is  situated, 
they  mount  it,  and  insert  another  higher  up,  continuuig  this  pro- 
ceeding, until  in  about  half  an  hour,  they  have  succeeded  in  ascend- 
ing the  highest  tree.  But  the  prize  is  not  captured  until  night, 
when  armed  with  a  lighted  tott^,  they  ascend,  and  the  flame  scares 
away  the  insects.  Should  the  nest  be  oa  the  face  of  the  precipice, 
or  rock,  another  expedient  is  resorted  to.  Having  obtained  some 
large  and  very  long  rattans,  they  sjg^t  o^Tthe  outside  of  tiiis  species 
of  creeper,  and  fasten  them  together,  so  as  to  form  a  long  rope  ladder 
which  fixed  from  the  overhanging  ledge,  rsacbes  the  nest,  and  they 


TEE  NUI>]8.  333 

eiimb  dofwn  this.     The  Mnlchers  and  Kardahs,  both  of  which  tribes, 

eollect  honey  in  this  manner,  are  quite  as  susceptible  to  the  stings 

of  bees,  as  other  people.     In  eating  wild  yams,  they  cat  them  np 

into  small  pieces,  and  leave  then^to  soak  in  a  running  stream,  for 

tiiree  days  or  more.     This  effectually  removes  all  poisonous  particles. 

Men  are  only  permitted  one  wife,  and  never  take  one  who  is 

related  to  themselves,  on  the  male  aide.     A  swain  who  wishes  for  a 

wife,  leaves  liis  own  community,  and  goes  to  another,  where  he 

^orks  from  six  months  to  a  year,  by  which  time  he  will  no  doubt 

liave  made  his  choice  :  he  then  returns  to  his  village,  to  obtain  the 

consent  of  his  family,  and  having  gained  this,  he  re-visits  his  Bride 

elect,  and  works  in  her    community  for  a  year,  for  her  dowry. 

The  lover  presents  the  girl's   mother  with  some  cloth,  and  iron 

tools,  and  the  marriage  ceremony  consists  of  a  feast     After  which 

the  pair  return  to  the  husband's  village.     Should  a  woman  have 

formed  any  fugitive  connection,  the  tribe  assemble,  and  oblige  the 

paramour  to  take  her  as  his  wife,  and  should  she  be  a  married 

woman,  she  has  to  pay  her  former  husband  a  fine.    Widows  are 

allowed  to  re-marry. 

This  people  suffer  little,  if  at  all,  from  fever  so  long  as  they 
continue  in  their  native  juntos,  but  not  so  when  they  descend  to 
the  plains.  They  attribute  all  their  diseases  to  witchcraft,  aud  the 
exorcist  carries  on  a  thriving  trade.     They  bury  their  dead. 

The  Mulchers  and  Kardahs,  are  let  with  the  hills  on  which  they 
live,  they  collect  the  produce,  especially  arrowroot  for  their  winter 
food  :  they  keep  the  last  of  the  honey,  and  mix  it  with  an  equal 
proportion  of  pounded  arrowroot.  They  then  place  the  whole  in  a 
hollow  bamboo,  which  they  sink  into  the  floors  of  their  houses, 
where  it  becomes  hard,  and  is  considered  capital  eating. 

The  last  tribe  that  space  will  allow  any  mention  of,  are  the 
NiadU,  a  wandering  out-caste  abject  race,  so  impure  that  hardly  a 
slave  will  touch  them.  Roving  about  in  small  companies,  or  drag- 
ging out  a  miserable  existence  in  wretched  hovels,  they  live  by 
watching  crops,  and  protecting  them  from  wild  animals.  They 
also  howl  at  passers  by  for  charity,  which  they  must  not  advance  to 
receive.  They  positively  refuse  to  perform  any  manual  labour 
whatever,  though  they  do  not  object  to  act  as  beaters  for  sportsmen. 


334  FUNERAL   RITES. 

They  collect  roots  for  their  ordinary  sustenance,  but  have  no 
knowledge  of  snaring  birds,  or  animals^  A  tortoise  sometimes 
comes  in  their  way,  when  they  kill  and  eat  him,  and  occasionally 
they  capture  crocodiles  by  means  of  hooks  and  ropes,  these  they 
consider  great  luxuries. 

The  Niadis  from  continually  howling  for  charity,  have  most  un- 
naturally loud  voices.  Their  habits  are  of  a  very  filthy  description* 
They  worship  a  female  Deity,  and  in  March  sacrifice  a  cock  to  preserve 
them  from  eviL  They  hav^  no  marriage-ceremonies,  and  bury  their 
dead.  This  tribe  as  long  as  they  continue  in  Malabar,  will  be  useless 
to  others,  and  will  exercise  no  good  influence  in  the  country.  Dr, 
F.  Bucfianan,  proposed  that  they  should  be  removed  bodily  to  some 
place,  where  they  would  be  compelled  to  labour  for  their  subsis- 
tence. 

Amongst  the  Hindu  castes  of  ^lalabar,  it  cannot  be  denied  that 
marriage  to  a  certain  extent  does  exist,  as  the  eldest  son  of  every 
Brahman  goes  through  this  ceremony,  which  is  binding.  But  the 
marriage  tie  according  to  European  ideas  is  unknown,  polyandrism 
being  the  rule,  not  the  exception.  Perhaps  the  people's  ideas  are 
accustomed  to  this,  and  do  not  perceive  the  monstrosities  of  their 
proceedings,  for  were  one  half  of  the  extent  to  which  this  prevails, 
and  the  mode  in  which  it  is  conducted  detailed,  the  writer's  state- 
ments would  not  be  believed,  and  his  book  would  be  mifit  for  res- 
pectable persons  to  read. 

Sicknesses  are  usually  treated  by  exorcisms  and  charms,  for  the 
power  of  evil  spirits  is  admitted  by  all,  the  more  ancient  the  tribes 
are,  and  the  nearer  they  approach  to  the  Aborigines,  the  greater  seems 
their  fear  of  these  evil  spirits.  The  Kardahs  believe  that  they  are 
bewitched  by  the  Malabars,  and  vice  versa  ]  wliilst  the  Chogans  ex- 
tensively spread  over  the  land,  are  most  determined  devil-worshipperd, 
and  offer  sacrifices  to  demons,  to  keep  them  in  health ;  or  drive  away 
disease.  The  Hindus  also  offer  sacrifices  to  Kiili,  in  which  they  arc 
joined  by  the  Syrians,  and  some  of  the  Komo- Syrians. 

Burials  as  already  mentioned,  with  the  tribes  in  the  Cochin  State, 
are  effected  in  three  modes.  Some  bury  their  dead,  as  the  Aboriguies 
always  used  to  do,  this  custom  more  especially  prevails  amongst  the 
Kardahs,  on  the  highest  HiUs,  and  the  Mucuas  of  the  sea  slu)rc. 


•  MODE  OF  INHERITANCE.  335 

Others  burn  their  dead,  these  ore  the  true  Hindu  castes;  and  others 
again  employ  both  these  methods. 

Inheritance  descends  as  a  rule  in  Malabar  through  the  sister's  chil- 
dren, who  are  the  legitimate  representatives  of  the  family.  But  there 
are  some  exceptions  as  amongst  the  Brahmans,  and  a  few  other 
castes  already  alluded  to,  with  whom  it  descends  to  the  children  of 
the  parents. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


a^W^^^/^/N/k' 


JEWS. 


Census  of  Jews— Their  varioas  commaaities — Jews  town — Synagogue— Divi- 
sioD  into  two  classes — White  Jews — Costume — Cop^ier  plates — Transla- 
tions—Date of  its  grant— Blaok  Jews — War  between  Black  and  White 
Jews-^Circumctsion — Marriage — Death— Burial — Sabbath— Day  of  wail- 
ing— Feast  of  Tabernacles — Similarity  of  Jewish  and  Hindu  tabemaoles— 
Histoiy  of  Jews  of  Cochin — Early  settlement — First  rulers— Destruction  of 
Cranganore— Total  defeat  of  Jews  by  the  Moors— Migration  to  Cochin — 
Dutch— English. 

Scattered  about  in  various  parts  of  India,  are  small  families  of 
Jews,  some  interesting  communities  of  whom,  reside  in  Malabar,  and 
especially  in  the  Cochin  State.  Around  the  town  of  Cochin,  they  have 
several  settlements,  the  largest,  Jews  town,  situated  a  little  more  than 
one  mile  to  the  South  East^  contains  419  of  this  peculiar  race.*  At 
EmacoUum  to  the  East,  on  the  mainland,  353  reside  :  and  at  Chen- 
namungalum,  twenty-five  miles  inland,  65  more.  In  the  town  of 
Cochin,  there  are  also  a  few  Half-caste  and  black  Jews,  who  have 
removed  there,  for  the  purpose  of  more  easily  obtaining  employment, 
as  well  as  in  consequence  of  certain  privileges  being  denied  them 
elsewhere. 

Jews  town  may  be  reached,  either  by  water,  or  by  going  along  the 
Culvetty  and  MuttencherryBaasaars,  passing  a  Roman  Catholic  Church 
and  the  Rajah's  Palace,  the  wall  of  which  divides  his  residence^ 
from  the  Jewish  Synagogue.    It  has  been  asserted,  that  the  Jews 

*The  census  of  these  places,  was  taken  by  order  of  the  Dewan,  VmaUa 
Bow,  in  1857,  there  were  1,790  Jews  in  the  whole  of  the  Cochin  State.  The 
Bey.  OUwdiua  £uehaaMnf  in  his  enthusiastic  manner,  compated  the  Jews  <A 
Cochin,  at  16,000 ! 


JEWISH  HOUSES.  337 

came  here  from  Cranganore,  to  escape  from  Portuguese  tyranny : 
not  a  very  likely  migration,  were  they  thus  suffering,  for  it  is  hardly 
probable  they  would  leave  the  vicinity  of  the  smaller  station  of 
Oranganore,  to  come  into  the  Cochin  fort,  and  reside  there,  whilst 
they  were  erecting  a  town  for  themselves  hard  by  :  and  that  all 
tiiis  should  be  accomplished,  to  escape  from  the  Portuguese.  Had 
oppressions  caused  them  to  migrate,  they  would  have  removed 
inland,  or  even  to  EmacoUum,  or  Ghennamungalum,  or  to  some 
distance  from  their  oppressors  :  but  the  Jews  were  traders  of  note 
in  those  days,  and  their  presence  was  useful  to  the  Portuguese. 

Jews  town  is  about  |  of  a  mile  in  length,  and  is  situated  close  to 
the  banks  of  the  backwater,  commencing  from  the  southern  wall  of 
the  Rajah's  Palace,  and  terminating  at  a  stream  which  divides  it 
from  the  Arab  and  Moplah  sailors.  The  bazaar  is  situated  along 
the  southern  half  of  the  town. 

The  houses  are  of  the  same  description  as  those  in  Cochin,  being 
constructed  of  laterite,  mostly  two  storied  high,  having  tiled  pent 
roofs,  and  running  in  the  form  of  one  long  narrow  street  Various 
representations  may  be  seen  on  the  walls  of  the  houses,  either 
graven  on  the  stone,  or  formed  out  of  the  chunam  with  which 
they  are  covered.  They  consist  of  peacocks,  sometimes  two 
or  three,  being  on  one  house  :  double  headed  eagles  :  in  one 
instance,  two  cocks  %hting  :  in  another,  a  man  on  one  knee 
presenting  a  sword  with  his  right  hand  against  a  tiger,  which, 
is  rushing  upon  him :  a  deer  with  huge  antlers  is  on  one  house,  a 
non-descript  animal,  something  resembling  a  crocodile,  on  another. 
The  interior  of  these  houses,  are  of  exactly  the  same  description,  as 
the  usual  style  of  those  of  Portuguese  construction  within  the  fort 
of  Cochin,  from  which  they  were  no  doubt  copied ;  the  windows 
have  the  same  kind  of  seats,  and  shutters,  and  are  glazed  in  the 
same  manner,  whilst  the  walls  are  as  thick,  and  as  crooked,  and  the 
doors  as  strong,  as  those  in  Cochin.  In  the  door  posts,  of  eveiy  room 
the  Jews  according  to  the  Mosaic  command  insert  small  tubes  of  tin, 
or  bamboo,  in  which  are  portions  of  Deuteronomy,  and  the  name  of 
Jehovah,  written  upon  very  thin  leather,  or  vellum.  On  leaving  theur 
houses,  or  even  on  simply  going  from  room  to  room,  they  kiss  this 
tube,  bow  to  it  or  touch  it  with  their  fingers,  which  they  then  kiss. 

T   I 


338  SERVICE  IN   THE   SYNAGOGUE. 

There  are  two  chief  Bynagogaes,  one  at  the  northern  end  of  the 
town,  close  to  the  wall  of  the  Bajah's  palace,  and  only  used  by  the 
white  Jews.  Another  at  its  southern  extremity,  which  is  used  by  the 
black,  also  termed  slave  Jews.     There  is  a  third  smaller  one. 

The  chief  or  northern  Synagogue,  is  about  40  feet  long,  and  30 
wide,  and  by  no  means  a  fine  building.  Tawdry  teiss  chandeliers, 
hold  numerous  tumblers  of  oil  for  lights.  The  reading  desk,  is  in  the 
centre,  facing  the  Books  of  the  Law  to  the  west  where  they  are  kept 
in  a  cupboard  behind  a  curtain,  and  consist  of  five  copies  of  the  Pen- 
tateuch, most  beautifully  written  in  Hebrew  characters,  on  vellum. 
Having  no  altar,  they  have  no  sacrifices,  and  the  yearly  oblation  of 
a  cock,  said  to  take  place  in  Europe,  does  not  do  so  in  Codiin,  where 
no  bloody  sacrifices  are  made.  The  flooring  of  the  Synagogue,  is  of 
blue  and  white  China  tiles.  The  women's  gallery,  is  screened  from 
the  body  of  the  Church,  around  which  are  benches  for  the  men. 

On  passing  inside  the  gateway,  through  the  first  court  yard,  where 
four  ostrich  eggs  are  suspendeS,  the  porch  of  the  Synagogue  is  ar- 
rived at :  here  the  Jew  leaves  his  shoes,  before  he  enters  within  the 
house  of  prayer.  There  is  an  iron  safe,  for  the  reception  of  alms 
for  the  poor,  5xed  against  the  outer  wall  of  the  building. 

A  person  visiting  the  Synagogue  during  the  service,  cannot  draw  the 
conclusion^  that  he  is  surrounded  by  a  devotional  people :  as  children 
are  ruiming  about  all  the  time,  talking,  laughing,  and  playing  tricks 
upon  one  another.  The  service  commences  by  a  Rabbi,  who  with  liis 
head  covered  by  a  tallith,  or  veil,  thrown  over  his  turban,  chants  a 
prayer  from  the  reading  desk.  This  faces  the  West,  is  raised  twc^ 
steps  above  the  floor,  and  surrounded  by  a  nuling,  outside  which  are 
seats.  The  Rabbi  generally  covers  his  face  whilst  reading,  but  this  is 
not  done  in  the  feast  of  the  Tabernacles.  He  turns  towards  the  west^ 
whilst  the  congregation  continue  swayii^  their  bodies  incessantly 
backwards  and  forwards,  and  bowing  towards  the  Tab^nacle;  This  is 
interrupted,  by  their  suddenly  bursting  forth  with  an  electrifying 
response,  to  the  Rabbi.  Although  before  entering  the  Synagogue^ 
the  Jews  remove  their  shoes,  which  they  leave  in  the  outer  Courty 
(Exod.  iii.  5.  Josh.  v.  15.)  some  of  the  better  classes,  wear  stockings, 
which  they  retain.  When  inside  the  building,  they  advance  a  few 
steps  towards  the  Books  of  the  Law,  place  the  two  first  fingers  of 


THE   WHITE  JEWS.  339 

their  right  hands  on  their  lips,  inoline  their  bodies^  and  then  proceed 
to  their  seats. 

The  Jews  are  strictly  divisible  into  two  classes,  but  there  is  also 
an  intermediate  one.  The  two  former  are  the  white,  or  Jerusalem 
Jews,  whose  blood  has  never  been  mixed  with  that  of  the  surround- 
ing people  :  and  the  black  Jews,  who  are  pure  Natives,  500  of 
whom  are  said  to  have  been  purchased  by  the  first  Jewish  settlers^ 
and  the  present  race  are  believed  to  be  the  descendants  of  these 
slaves,  and  of  other  Natives  of  Malabar,  who  were  converted  to  the 
Jewish  faith.  These  last,  are  said  to  call  themselves  Beni  Israel. 
The  white  Jews  inhabit  the  sea  coast,  but  the  black  Jews*  generally 
live  more  in  the  interior  of  the  country.  Besides  these,  there  ia 
the  intermediate  race,  known  as  half-caste  Jews,  whose  denomina- 
tion sufficiently  denotes  their  origin. 

The  white  Jew  retains  the  peculiar  characteristics  of  his  race  ; 
kia  religion,  manners,  and  customs, 'are  unaltered  either  by  time,  or 
distance  :  and  if  his  contempt  of  the  Nazarenes  is  as  great  here  as 
in  Europe,  he  does  not  show  it  in  his  manner,  which  is  very  cour- 
teous :  he  shakes  hands  with  those  who  enter  his  house,  and  is  by 
no  means  shy,  or  ill  at  ease.  The  Jews  are  naturally  very  much 
annoyed,  if  persons  present  during  their  religious  services,  ridicule 
or  laugh  at  them,  and  in  consequence  it  is  said,  of  the  uncivil  beha- 
viour of  certain  saUors,  they  have  latterly  become  averse  to  stran- 
gers visiting  their  Synagogue,  and  endeavour  to  mislead,  respecting 
the  days  of  their  feasts. 

The  complexion  of  the  white  Jew,  is  fairer  than  that  of  most 
Eur(^)eans,  and  his  features  in  many  instances,  but  not  in  all,  bear 
the  true  Jewish  stamp.  He  is  usually  good  looking,  intelligent, 
and  agreeable.  Many  of  them  have  flaxen  hair,  and  light  blue  eyes, 
which  singularly  agrees  with  the  following  remark,  made  by  Miu 
Martineau,  "Here,"  (Hebron)  "at  Jerusalem,  and  elsewhere,  we 
''  saw  many  Jews  with  fair  complexions,  and  light  hair."  Time 
appears  to  improve  the  personal  appearance  of  the  Jew,  who  even  in 
old  age,  retains  his  handsome  features,  whilst  his  long  white  beard, 

*  It  is  curious  that  it  has  been  asserted,  and  still  is  repeated  again  and 
again  in  Europe,  that  these  black  Jews  are  a  distinct  race,  instead  of  Natives 
of  the  country,  converted  to  the  Jewish  f<uth. 


340  THE  JJBWESSES. 

gives  him  an  imposing  and  patriarchal  appearance.  It  is  curious  to 
visit  one  of  these  communities  of  an  evenings  and  to  watch  them  in 
a  Hindu  State,  in  their  long  flowing  robes,  wending  their  way  to  the 
Synagogue.  Their  waist-coats  are  buttoned  up  in  front,  and  the  robe 
is  on  Sundays  composed  of  materials,  of  whatever  hue  they  prefer,  and 
full  white  trowsers  complete  the  costume.  Their  heads  are  shaved  at 
an  early  age,  leaving  only  one  lock  in  front  and  above  both  ears,  they 
wear  a  scull  cap  on  ordinary  occasions,  but  occasionally  a  turban. 

The  Jewesses  do  not  like  being  seen  by  strangers,  or  walking  in 
the  streets.  They  are  seldom  visible,  excepting  at  weddings,  and 
great  festivals,  and  their  language  is  said  not  to  be  such,  as  is 
generally  approved  by  ears  polite.  They  have  fine  figures,  but  there 
are  but  few  pretty  faces  amongst  them.  The  attire  of  the  middle 
aged  women,  is  by  no  means  so  graceful  as  that  of  the  men,  as  they 
have  copied  the  jackets,  and  scanty  skirts,  or  cloths,  worn  by  the 
surrounding  Natives.  The  cloth  is  fastened  round  the  waist,  by.  a 
gold  or  silver  belt,  from  whence  a  bunch  of  gold  or  silver  keys,  are 
suspended.  They  are  usually  very  plainly  dressed,  but  for  grand 
occasions,  they  have  some  magnificent  costumes,  composed  of  cloth 
of  gold  and  silver,  but  these  they  seldom  wear,  after  the  first  few 
years  of  their  marriage  :  one  of  them  has  a  white  muslin  Malabar 
dress,  bordered  all  round  with  sovereigns,  and  a  stomacher  made  of 
little  gold  fish,  intermingled  with  jewels.  Sometimes  the  skirt  is  made 
of  silk,  but  more  commonly  of  printed  calico.  They  wear  a  square 
head  dress,  with  a  white  veil,  which  falls  over  their  shoulders,  as 
low  as  the  waist  The  necks  are  perfectly  loaded  with  chains  of 
coins,  mostly  Venetian  sequins,  and  other  curiously  fashioned  gold- 
en ornaments.  When  the  black  Jews,  commonly  called  by  the 
white  Jews,  "the  slaves,"*  became  more  opulent,  they  began  to 
wear  dresses  and  ornaments  of  coins,  and  necklaces,  like  the  white 
division.  This  gave  great  offence,  so  about  1860,  the  Bagdad  dress 
was  adopted  by  the  young  white  Jewesses.  Another  reason  assign- 
ed for  this  change  of  costume,  is  that  young  Jews  from  other  places 

*  The  Jews  of  Cochin,  do  not  appear  to  have  strictly  kept  to  the  Mosaical 
law,  of  manumitting  their  slaves^  after  a  certain  number  of  years  :  or  boring 
their  ears  against  the  door  post.  A  person  now  in  Cochin  who  was  a  slave,  but 
manumitted  himself,  states  that  his  fatiier,  grandfather  and  himself,  were  kept 
slayes,  whilst  he  is  not  the  only  instance  of  this  having  been  done. 


JEWI8U  COPPBB  PLATES.  341 

who  were  anaccuBtomed  to  the  ugly  Malabar  style  of  dress,  disliked 
it  extremely,  and  in  consequence  rarely  took  Brides  from  amongst 
their  country  women  in  Cochin.  The  more  elderly  married  women, 
not  caring  so  much  for  personal  appearance,  have  retained  the 
costume  to  which  they  are  accustomed. 

The  Bagdad  dress  consists  of  a  scanty  skirt,  of  rich  cloth,  satin, 
figured  bar^,  or  muslin,  made  in  one  piece,  from  the  neck  to  the 
ankles,  gathered  in  behind,  fastened  up  in  front,  and  open  from  the 
throat,  nearly  as  far  down  as  the  waist,  showing  a  white  handker- 
chief or  stomacher.  Their  hair  is  usually  very  untidy,  and  the  older 
women  appear  to  take  very  little  trouble  in  personal  adornment. 
Married  women  after  the  birth  of  their  second  child,  generally  leave 
off  their  jewels,  and  dress  plainly.  In  mourning,  they  wear  either 
white  clothing  edged  with  black,  and  white  or  black  ornaments : 
or  dresses  of  a  deep  blue  colour. 

•After  marriage,  they  always  cover  their  heads,  either  with  a  hand- 
kerchief, or  on  grand  occasions,  with  a  little  gold  coloured  cap,  with 
a  long  'golden  tasseL  In  the  Synagogue,  all  the  females  have  their 
heads  covered,  some  of  them  by  long  muslin  or  net  veils. 

As  age  creeps  on,  the  Jewess  rapidly  loses  her  good  looks,  and  at 
thirty  may  be  considered  quite  pass^e. 

The  white  Jews  possess  three  copper  plates,*  looking  as  if  they 
had  been  taken  from  a  ship's  side,  ^  by  ^  of  a  yard  in  size.  The 
outer  one  has  no  inscription.  The  translation  has  been  declared  by 
those  competent  to  judge,  to  be  identical  with  that  of  the  Syrian 
Plates.  Owerrwr  Moens  obtained  three  different  translations  of  these 
plates,  the  substance  of  the  three  being  the  same,  although  the  word- 
ing was  different  He  gives  the  following  as  the  most  correct  version. 

"With  the  help  of  God  who  formed  the  world,  and  establishes 
"  Kings,  and  whom  we  honor,  we,  Erawi,  Wanwara,  emperor  of 
"  Malabar,  in  the  thirty-sixth  year  of  our  lucky  reign,  and  in  the 
"  fort,  Moidiricotta,  (Cranganore,)  give  this  deed  of  rights,  to  the 

♦  The  JZctf.  0.  Buchanan,  states  that  the  original  plate  was  of  brass,  and 
engraved  on  both  sides.  He  had  facsimiles  made  from  it,  on  two  copper  plates, 
which  he  deposited  in  the  University  of  Cambridge.  The  carving  of  the  origi- 
nal, is  said  to  have  looked  very  old,  that  on  the  present  plates,  certainly  does 
not  do  so.  If  the  plate  at  Cambridge  is  of  brass,  and  engraved  on  both  sides, 
it  may  perhaps  be  concluded,  that  Dr.  Buchanan  returned  the  new  plates  to 
the  Jews,  and  kept  the  old  one. 


342  JEWISH  COPPSB  PLATBS. 

"  good  Joseph  Babaaa,  that  he  may  uae  the  five  colours^  spread  hia 
''  reUgion  amongst  the  fife  castes,  have  all  honour  offered  hun» 
'^  have  guns  fired,  be  allowed  to  ride  on  elephants  and  horses,  to 
^  proceed  in  state,  have  his  honours  proclaimed  before  him,  have 
'^  lights  used  by  day,  have  all  kinds  of  music ;  also  he  may  employ 
"  a  large  umbrella,  walk  on  white  doth  spread  on  the  road, 
<<  have  the  stick  play  played  before  him,  and  sit  under  a  stately 
"  canopy.  These  rights  give  we  to  Jos^h  Babaan,  and  to  72  Jewish 
^  householders,  with  the  government  over  their  nation,  who  are 
"  directed  to  obey  them,  and  their  heirs,  so  long  as  the  sun  shinea 
"  on  the  face  of  the  earth.  This  deed  is  given  in  the  presence  of  the 
"  Kings  of  Travancore,  Teckencoor,  Baddakencoor,  Culli  Quilon, 
''  Aringoot)  Samorin,  Paliat  Achen,  and  Colaatria  :  written  by  the 
^  Secretary  Calembi  Eelapoor,  in  the  year  3481,  of  the  Cali  Yuga." 

The  difference  in  the  other  two  translations,  was  as  follows : — 

1st — In  them  the  year  of  the  Cali  Yuga  is  not  given.  * 

2nd. — ^The  witnesses  in  the  2nd  translation  are : 

1st. — ^The  Chief  of  Wanaud,  named  Comaraten  Mataandoon. 

2nd. — ^The  chief  of  Wanaa-Odea,  named  Codie  Chericanden. 

3rd. — The  chief  of  Eraala,  named  Maana  Bepahunaaa. 

4th. — The  chief  of  Walonaddu,  named  Irawaren  Chaten. 

5th. — ^The  chief  of  Neddoowaloor,  named  Cody  Irawi 

6th. — ^Ab  also  the  chief  of  the  minor  princes  of  Coosapadi,  heir 
of  Moorkom  Chaten,  and  named  Kelokanden. 

Written  by  the  Secretary  named  Gunawende  Wanasen  Nayer 
Eisapa  Kelapa,  signed  by  the  emperor. 

In  the  3rd  translation,  the  differences  are, — 

1st — ^That  the  granter's  name  is  Erwi  Barmen. 

2nd. — ^The  witnesses  are, — 

1st  The  King  of  Travancore,  5th.  The  King  of  Falghautcherry 

2nd.      „      „  Berkencoor,  6th.     „       „  Colastria, 

3rd.      „      „  Samorin,  7th.    „      „  Corambanadu, 

4tL       „      „  Argot, 

Written  by  the  Secretary  Kellapen. 
Also  in  the  last  two  translations,  the  grant  is  made  only  to  Joseph 
Babaan,  whereas  according  to  the  1st  translation,  it  is  made  to  him 
and  the  72  families. 


BUCHANAN  COLUBOTB  JSW18H  RECORDS.  343 

Ifoem  makes  the  remark,  tlut  although  this  grant  was  made,  y^t 
the  soveieigntj  remained  with  the  sovereign  of  the  country,  and 
the  Jews  were  not  exempted  from  taxes,  kc^  their  chief  being  em- 
powered, to  take  notice,  only  of  trifling  dvil  cases. 

It  was  not  until  after  the  last  of  the  Permauls  had  ceased  to 
reign,  in  A.  D.  378,  that  the  various  Rajahs  enumerated  above, 
were  in  independent  possession  of  their  territories.  The  Jews  assert 
that  this  plate  was  granted  to  them  by  Cheraman  Permaul,  and  if 
the  tranalation  be  correct,  such  must  have  been  the  fact,  as  he  was 
the  only  Permaul  who  ruled  more  than  12  years.  The  text  of  the 
grant  states,  that  it  was  made  in  the  36th  year  ol  the  reign  of 
Cheraman  Permaul,  or  A.  D.  377,  but  the  date  on  which  the  plate 
was  engraved,  or  completed,  is  given  as  379,  the  witnesses  being 
the  various  Bajahs,  amongst  whom  the  extensive  territory  of  Che- 
raman Permaul  was  evidently  divided,  and  it  was  only  at  this 
period  of  division,  or  in  the  year  subsequent  to  the  death  of  this 
powerful  monarch,  that  when  settling  their  respective  claims,  A.  D. 
379,  they  could  ail  have  been  presoit  at  Cranganore.  It  may  therefore 
be  concluded  that  Cheraman  Permaul  conferred  the  rights,  A.  D.  377, 
and  that  all  these  chieftains  wereaware  oi  the  grant,  but  that  it  had  not 
been  committed  to  writing,  consequently  when  a  settlement  of  their 
respective  shares  had  been  effected,  they  all  agreed  to  the  rights  given 
by  Cheraman  Permaul  to  the  Jews,  and  these  were  then  engraved  on 
metal  plates^  and  thus  the  date  given,  viz.,  A.  D.  379,  may  be  accounted 
for. 

These  plates  therefore  become  another  link  in  the  chain  of  oollate- 
nd  evidence,  respecting  the  date  when  the  last  of  the  Permauls 
divided  his  kingdom,  whilst  he  is  known,  to  be  the  only  cme  of  them 
who  reigned  36  years. 

The  Eev.  Claudius  Buchanan^  collected  most  of  the  old,  and  valu- 
sble  M.S.  records,  from  the  black  Jews'  Synagogue.  The  manuscripts 
some  of  which  almost  every  collector  tries  to  obtain,  may  be  pro- 
eared  without  much  difficulty,  as  a  good  store  appear  to  be  usually 
kept^  ready  for  sale :  but  none  of  them  are  ancient,  whilst  the 
printed  books  are  mostly  from  Amsterdam,  and  according  to  the 
Flemish  ritual  When  the  Books  of  the  Law  ar»  too  much  worn  to 
^  of  service,  they  are  said  to  be  buried,  never  burnt,     Buchanan 


344  THE  SYNAGOOUE. 

states,  that  the  most  ancient  M.S«  that  he  obtained  from  the  black 
Jews,  was  a  copy  of  the  Pentateuch,  written  on  a  roll  of  37  goatskins, 
dyed  red,  48  feet  long,  and  22  inches  broad,  (a  Jewish  cubit,)  it  was 
incomplete,  as  Leviticus,  and  a  great  part  of  Deuteronomy  were  absent: 
its  original  length  must  have  been  about  ninety  feet.  The  deviations 
from  the  common  Hebrew  text,  printed  in  Europe,  were  very  unim- 
portant. The  half-caste  Jews,  may  belong  to  the  congregation  of 
the  white  Jews.  One  community  of  this  dass,  has  settled  in  the 
town  of  Cochin,  and  have  obtained  the  sanction  from  Bagdad,  which 
permits  one  of  their  number  to  slaughter  fowls  for  food,  and  to  per- 
form the  requisite  ceremonies.  They  separated  themselves  from  the 
remainder  of  their  community  in  Jew's  town,  about  15  years  since, 
partly  on  account  of  an  ill-feeling  at  that  time  prevalent,  in  conse- 
quence of  their  women  not  being  allowed  to  dress  themselves  in  the 
golden  chains,  and  ornaments,  worn  by  the  higher  classes.  In  the 
British  town,  they  can  now  do  as  they  please,  and  dress  in  any  way 
they  like,  but  should  they  return  to  Jews'  town,  these  privileges  would 
be  immediately,  and  forcibly,  taken  from  them. 

The  Synagogues  belonging  to  the  black  Jews,  have  nothing  re- 
markable about  them.*  These  people,  distinctly  show  their  native 
origin.  The  Jewish  caste  of  features  is  apparent,  in  those  of  rather 
a  light  complexion,  demonstrating  the  race  from  which  they  are 
sprung.  Some  of  the  darkest  coloured  of  these  Jews,  are  so 
like  the  Natives  of  Malabar,  as  at  once  to  convince  the  most  scep- 
tical observer,  that  they  must  have  originated  from  amongst 
the  surrounding  population.  Some  of  them  are  converts,  and  others 
the  descendants  of  slaves,  purchased  by  the  Jews,  in  the  time  of  the 
Portuguese,  and  Dutch,  and  converted  to  the  Jewish  faith.  They 
act  as  inferiors  to  the  white  Jews  at  some  feasts,  but  have  never 
paid  any  tribute  to  them,  still  being  an  inferior  race,  they  are  not  allow- 
ed to  sit  down  in  their  presence.  The  white  Jews  are  traders,  and 
merchants,  whilst  the  black  Jews  gain  their  livelihood,  by  practising 
various  handicrafts,  and  are  sawyers,  blacksmiths,  carpenters,  brick- 
layers,   book-binders,   tailors,    fishermen,  servants    to   the   white 

*  Although  the  Black  Jews  perform  their  own  religious  services,  should  a 
White  Babbi  enter  tlieir  Synagogue,  they  must  give  place,  and  allow  him  to 
carry  on  the  JServioe. 


lUTE  OF  CIRCUMCISIOM.  345 

Jews,  &C.9  they  travel  about  the  coontiy  for  these  purposes,  nearly 
as  far  as  Bombay :  three  quarters  of  them,  are  Yendors  of  household 
necessaries.  Daring  the  last  few  years,  a  manifest  improvement  has 
taken  place  in  their  circumstances. 

Many  years  ago,  the  black  Jews  claimed  equal  rank  with  the 
white  Jews,  and  demanded  the  same  privileges,  especially  ike  right 
of  inter-marrying  with  them ;  but  as  they  would  not  listen  to  any 
proposals  of  this  nature,  the  black  Jews  refused  to  recognise  their 
authority,  setting  the  dictates  of  the  head  man  at  defiance.  A  war 
ensued,  in  which  the  white  Jews  are  said  to  have  been  nearly  extir- 
pated, but  a  Native  prince  coming  to  their  assistance,  the  rebels  Were 
reduced  to  obedience,  and  since  then,  the  two  races  have  totally  sepa- 
rated "" 

The  rite  of  eircumcman  is  performed  on  the  eighth  day,  and  usu- 
ally takes  place  in  the  Synagogue,  at  the  same  time  the  child  also 
receives  lus  name.  When  old  enough,  he  is  sent  to  a  Priest,  to  be 
instructed  in  the  rudiments  of  religion,  and  as  much  secular  know- 
ledge, as  his  spiritual  teacher  is  able  to  impart  There  are  very  few 
of  either  sex,  who  are  unable  to  read,  and  write. 

When  a  child  attains  the  age  of  thirteen,  his  parents  are  no  longer 
considered  responsible  for  his  sins,  and  the  sabbath  after  he  has 
attained  that  age,  a  species  of  "  confinoation"  is  held  in  the  Syna- 
gogue, when  he  is  invested  with  the  phylacteries,  or  little  boxes 
which  eontaiu  inscriptions  on  parchment,  taken  from  the  law  :  they 
are  bound  around  his  head  and  left  arm,  during  his  devotions. 

Sometimes  as  early  as  sixteen,  or  seventeen  years  of  age,  the 
young  Jew  is  betrothed  to  a  Jewess,  several  years  younger  than 
himself  :  and  about  twelve  months  afterwards,  the  marriage  is  cele- 
brated with  great  pomp,  unless  it  occurs  whilst  the  parents  are  in 
mourning.  On  this  occasion,  if  the  family  is  wealthy,  a  grand 
feast  is  generally  held,  to  which  most  of  the  European  inhabitants 
of  Cochin  are  invited.  When  the  parents  of  the  Bride  are  wealthy, 
she  is  loaded  with  jewels,  which  are  a  portion  of  her  dowry,  but 
should  her  parents  be  poor,  they  must  not  be  taken  from  the  house, 
but  are  kept  for  the  use  of  the  younger  sisters.  Dr.  Buchanan  men- 
tions^ that  at  the  commencement  of  this  century,  the  women  at 

maniages^  **  were  covered  with  gold  and  silver  Dacca  and  Sorat 

V  1 


-> 


346  FEASTS   AKD   FAST9r 

^  muslins,  that  being  the  costome  on  snch  occasions^  from  time  int- 
"  memorial."  As  previously  mentioned, .  the  younger  females  have 
now  changed  this  dress. 

When  the  death  of  a  member  of  the  white  community  is  expect- 
ed, some  of  the  elders  of  the  Church  are  sent  for,  who  receive  the 
invalid's  confession,  and  directions  as  to  the  divi»on  oi  his  property, 
and  sometimes  as  to  his  own  obsequies,  which  take  place  about  three 
hours  after  death.  All  male  relatives  and  friends  usually  attend,  aa 
a  last  mark  of  respect  to  the  remnant  of  mortality.  His  nearest 
blood  relatives^  then  entreat  the  corpse  to  pardon  them  anything 
which  they  may  have  done  to  offond  him,  during  his  life  time. 

The  burial  ground,  which  is  demgnated  the  "  house  of  the  liviog,"  is 
to  the  west  of  the  town,  surrounded  by  a  dense  tope  of  cocoanut  trees^ 
and  in  this  cold  damp  spot,  the  dead  are  deposited,  usually  without 
eoffins,  in  graves  which  are  dug  north  and  south,  there  to  await,  the 
resurrection  mom. 

The  Jews  desire  sons,  nearly  as  much  as  do  the  surrounding 
Hindus^  as  th^  have  much  the  same  duties  to  carry  out^  which  can 
be  performed  by  no  female.  Twice  a  day  for  eleven  months  after  a 
flskther^s  death,  his  son  ought  to  pray  in  the  Synagogue.  The  anni- 
Tersary  is  alwa3rs  held  as  a  fast,  and  certain  ceremonies  must  then 
be  performed.  During  tha  whole  of  this  period,  a  lamp  is  kept 
lighted. 

The  Jewifh  Sabbath,  iitieix  feasts^  and  their  fastSy  commence  at  6 
p.  M.  on  the  evening  of  one  day,  and  are  computed  by  the  succeeding 
twenty^our  hours  :  the  same  mode  of  redkoning  is  emplojred,  as 
previously  given  for  the  Syrians,  (p^  259).  Before  their  Sabbath 
commences,  everything  in  the  form  of  work  for  the  succeeding  day 
must  be  completed,  food  is  prepared,  even  the  tables  laid,  whilst  all 
remain  ready  dressed,  for  the  Sabbath  when  they  *^  do  no  manner  of 
work.''  The  fires  in  every  house  are  extinguished,  even  smoking  is 
prohibited,  until  the  evening,  when  a  light  is  procured  from  the 
Synagogue^  where  one  is  always  kept  burning.  The  Sabbath  is 
considered  a  time  of  rejoicing,  prayers  are  said  at  stated  periods,  but 
the  remamder  of  tiie  day,  is  spent  in  visiting  one  another,  playing 
cards,  and  other  games. 

As  a  rule,  every  day  is  commenced  by  prayer,  both  at  homev 


FEAST  OF  TABEBKACLES.  S47 

^md  in  the  Sjmagogue,  repeated  about  three  in  the  eyeniDg ;  and 
agiun  at  sun  set 

On  one  day  in  the  year,  in  commemoration  of  the  destruction  of 
Jerusalem,  they  hold  a  very  strict  and  so)^mn  fast,  from  3-30  one 
day,  until  7  f.  m.  on  the  following.  They  clothe  themselves  in  deep 
mourning,  and  bewail  the  desolation  of  their  parent  city.  The  Jews 
in  their  Synagogues,  and  the  Jewesses  on  the  floors  of  their  houses^ 
all  appear  to  be  weeping  for  some  great  calamity,  and  mourning 
the  loss  of  some  dear  object.*  The  great  day  of  atonement  every  year, 
is  kept  very  strictly,  and  the  males  are  dressed  in  the  same  white 
flowing  robes,  that  will  after  death,  form  their  shrouds. 

The  Passover  ia  strictly  kept,  and  very  few  Europeans  have  had 
an  opportimity  of  observing  its  celebration.  Every  one  is  dressed  as 
for  a  journey,  the  kid  is  divided  in  accordance  with  the  Mosaic  order, 
and  is  eaten  in  haste,  but  the  blood  is  not  sprinkled  upon  the  door 
post  and  lintel. 

The /east  of  the  Tabernacles,  is  observed  with  more  pomp  and  cere- 
mony, than  any  of  the  others,  and  then  the  women  appear  in  public* 
Attached  to  every  house,  is  an  open  flat  roof  or  space,  on  which  some 
cadjan  leaves  are  raised,  so  as  to  form  a  sort  of  covering,  and  here  in 
the  open  air,  all  take  their  meals.  Cups  of  oil  are  kept  lighted  at  the 
doorways  of  every  house,  whilst  opposite  the  Synagogue  is  a  large 
stand,  filled  with  oil  lights.  On  the  last  and  great  day  of  the  feast^ 
the  congregation  assembles  in  the  Synagogue,  at  about  half-past  one, 
and  the  service  commences  at  two.  Persons  of  both  sexes  and 
every  age,  congregate  in  the  house  of  prayer,  which  is  decorated,  for 
the  occasion  :  square  pieces  of  coloured  tinsel  hang  from  the  ceiling 
of  the  porch,  whilst  within,  the  walls  are  hidden  from  view,  by 
cloths  of  various  colours,  some  of  which  are  spangled  with  silver. 
Around  the  reading  desk,  is  a  string  of  the  white  flowers,  of  the  Indian 
Jessamine.  The  five  books  of  the  law  are  seen  in  the  tabernacle,  in 
their  silver  cases,  each  being  surmounted  by  a  golden  crown,  the  two 


*The  obBenrer  acquainted  with  the  cause  of  this  great  mourning,  muit  on 
entering  the  Synagogue  of  the  black  Jews,  experience  a  mixed  feeling,  of  pain 
and  absurdity.  The  former  at  witnessing  the  mournful  aspect,  and  doleful 
lamentations  around  him;  and  the  latter  on  remembering,  that  they  are  a& 
Natives  of  India,  alike  igsorant  of  history,  or  geography. 


S48  PSAST  OF  TABIKNACLU. 

eztenuJ  of  which,  differ,  in  that  they  hftve  a  sort  of  turret  at  citfier 
extremity.  All  the  oil  lights,  which  are  in  braasen  vessds,  or  dse  in 
glasses  with  brass  supporters,  are  seen  alight,  every  one  la  in  h<^- 
day  attire.  The  flowing  robes  of  the  Jews  are  crimson,  plom  ookrar, 
Wonze,  amber,  orange,  green,  yellow,  or  even  shawl  patterns  :  whflst 
the  turbans  wound  around  the  white  skull  caps,  are  often  exceeding- 
ly handsome.  The  women  in  their  gallery,*  have  dresses  of  the 
same  bright  colours,  as  those  of  the  men,  also  dark  blue^  light  blue, 
primrose,  pink  spotted,  and  barege. 

A  little  after  two  o'clock,  all  the  male  congregation  advance  to- 
wards the  Books  of  the  Law,  the  three  centre  ones  are  taken  down 
from  their  position,  and  borne  towards  the  door,  in  the  midst  of 
diants  and  songs  of  praise  ;  at  every  step  members  of  the  congre- 
gation press  forward  to  salute  them.  Having  arrived  at  the  Court, 
they  are  carried  around  the  building,  commencing  from  the  northern 
side.  All  join  in  singing,  whilst  those  in  front,  and  around  the  books, 
commence  dancing  and  jumping  about  When  the  Jews  have  left  the 
building,  the  Jewesses  come  down  from  their  gallery,  and  Idas  the 
two  remaining  books.  In  the  meantime,  the  three  others  having  been 
carried  as  described,  three  times  around  the  building,  the  Synagogue 
is  again  entered,  and  the  two  remaining  volumes  are  taken  oat,  to 
join  in  the  last  round,  j     In  the  Synagogue  of  the  black  Jews,  rose 

*  Women  are  not  a  portion  of  the  congregation,  Uijsir  presence  being  merely 
tolerated  in  a  gallery,  which  is  hardly  considered  a  portion  of  the  sacred 
building.  It  is  said,  that  Jews  offer  up  daily  thanks,  that  they  were  n  >t  bom 
of  the  female  sex  I 

t  The  Bev,  /.  RoberU,  (Joamal  Royal  Asiatic  Society,)  observes  upon  the 
similarity  ot  this  feast,  to  that  obtaining  amongst  the  Hindus  when  they  take  their 
principal  Deities  out  in  procession,  in  their  tabernacles,  preceded  by  priests,  Ring- 
ers, musicians,  and  the  dancing  girls  of  the  Temple.  This  is  done  to  demon- 
strate from  which  god  they  considered  they  are  deriving  protection,  or  else  to 
honour  him,  in  hopes  that  he  will  dissipate  some  sickness,  or  avert  the  evil  eye. 
The  Hindu  tabernacle,  is  properly  speaking  borne  by  priests,  (although  it  is 
now  mostly  taken  on  wheels  forming  a  car)  whilst  that  of  the  Jews  is  directed 
to  be  carried  by  Levites :  or  should  none  such  be  present,  by  the  highest  in 
rank,  amongst  the  members  of   the  congregation. 

The  Jews,  Amoi  v.  26,  were  told,  that  **  ye  have  borne  the  tabemade  of  your 
'*  Moloch,  and  Chinn,  your  images,  the  star  of  your  god,  which  ye  made  to 
''yoorselves."    This  ChiaD,has  been  by  good  tnthorities,  suraused  to  mean 


FIRST  AEEIVAL  OV  JEWS  IK  MALABAR.  349 

water  ia  sprinkled  from  a  silver  bottle  over  the  books,  and  the  peo* 
pie,  but  with  the  white  Jews,  it  is  only  made  use  of  at  the  door/ 

This  peculiar  people,  this  nation  within  a  nation,  have  been  occa^ 
donally  persecuted  and  oppressed,  but  still  they  throve.  In  the  time  of 
the  Dutch  they  reached  the  highest  point  of  their  prosperity,  but  when 
the  British  took  Cochin,  they  gradually  but  surely  declined,  and  de- 
creased in  numbers,  power,  and  opulence.  During  the  last  few  years, 
they  have  again  been  more  prosperous,  their  trade  has  increased, 
they  have  become  more  wealthy,  and  altogether  a  decided  change  for 
the  better,  is  perceptible  amongst  them.  In  their  formerly  great 
and  remunerative  trade,  which  in  the  time  of  the  Dutch  they  al- 
most monopolized,  they  are  now  supplanted  by  Europeans,  Psunsees, 
Moplahs,  and  others.  The  women  now  principally  employ  themselves 
in  making  coarse  lace,  and  embroidering  caps,  which  meet  with  a 
ready  sale  in  Bombay,  amongst  the  Parsees. . 

Basnage  supposes  it  not  improbable,  that  the  first  Jews  who  arrived 
OQ  this  coast,  came  in  Solomon's  fleet.  Their  own  legends  affirm, 
that  about  A.  D.  68  after  the  destruction  of  the  second  temple,  about 
ODA  thousand  Jews  and  Jewesses  came  to  Malabar,  where  three  fourths 
of  them  settled  at  Cranganore,  and  the  remainder  in  other  places, 
and  that  in  the  year  A.  D.  37  Q,-)*  just  the  year  after  Cheraman 
Fermaurs  death,  the  Jews  at  Cranganore  received  a  copper  plate, 


Chiven,  or  Siva  of  the  Hindas,  the  idol  they  mostly  carry  in  procession  ;  whilst 
Moloch,  appears  to  be  Kali  or  Bliagavadi,  Siva's  wife  (see  page  283.)  The 
star  in  the  knee  of  Gemini,  is  teimed  Siva's  star,  and  is  painted  on  his  car. 

In  the  fragment  to  Calmet,  it  is  said.  *'  It  will  no  doubt  be  observed,  that 
"  the  Chian  of  Amoa,  is  a  term  used  many  ages  after  the  event  to  which  the 
"  prophet  refers,  which  are  thus  connected  with  the  history  of  Balaam,  Numbers 
*'  Ch.  XXII  and  the  term  in  Numbers,  is  not  Chiun,  but  Baal-peor."  Thus 
Amos  calls  Baal-peor  by  the  name  of  Chiven,  or  Siva,  which  "Israel  joined  him- 
self to." 

*  In  the  BomO'Syrian  church  at  Shallacooddee,  there  is  a  representation  over 
their  figure  of  St.  Qeorge,  said  to  have  been  of  Jemth  origin.  It  is  a  triangle 
inside  which  is  an  eye,  surrounded  by  a  halo,  or  Unity  in  Trinity.  The  Vicar 
stated  it  owed  its  origin  to  a  Jewish  legend,  that  Moses  on  Monnt  Sinai  waa 
only  permitted  to  see  one  of  the  Almighty's  eyes. 

t  This  is  the  date  given  in  the  Jewish  translation,  receiTed  from  the  Seirior 
Rabbi  at  Jewstown,  who  in  1861  had  charge  of  the  Jewish  plates.    The  moit 


350  FIRST  SBTTLSHXNT  IN  MALABAlt. 

giving  them  the  priTileges/as  already  tranakted  in  full,  and  accord^ 
ing  to  their  own  account,  they  had  a  head  man  of  their  tribea 
Surannm  Moplah. 

Van  Reede,  who  took  a  great  interest  in  this  people,  stated  in 
1695,  tliat  they  were  of  the  tribe  of  Manasseh,  a  portion  of  whom 
were  carried  away  by  Nebuchadnezzar,  to  the  eastern  extremity  of 
his  yast  empire,  from  whence  they  migrated  into  Malabar,  cairying 
with  them  the  sUver  trumpets,  made  use  of  in  the  time  of  the  Jubilee^ 
and  on  which  were  inscribed  the  ineffable  name.  The  number  of 
persons  composing  this  emigration,  has  been  variously  estimated,  at 
from  18,  to  80,000,  but  common  sense  precludes  the  possibility  of 
so  large  a  number  of  persons  as  that  last  mentioned,  arriving  at  the 
same  time.  Even  at  the  present  day,  notwithstanding  all  the 
modem  appliances  of  steam,  <kc.,  moving  such  an  enormous  army, 
would  be  a  fearful  undertaking.  However  this  may  have  been,  the 
Jews  increased  rapidly  in  Malabar,  and  in  course  of  time,  having  be  - 
come  wealthy,  they  were  able  according  to  some  accounts,  to  purchase 
Cranganore.  But  this  may  much  more  probably  be  understood  to 
mean,  that  they  purchased  the  right  of  living  tax  free,  being  under 
the  Qovemment  of  their  own  people,  and  tr3dng  and  punishing  their 

extraordinary  legends  concerning  this  people  are  extant,  and  for  the  verifica- 
tion of  many  of  them,  the  shade  of  Cheraraan  Permaul  is  invoked,  even  hundreds 
of  years  after  Le  had  paid  the  debt  of  nature,  A.  D.  878.  For  this  event 
various  authors  have  indulged  in  dates  of  their  own,  without  advancing  any 
ai^oment  whatever,  tending  to  prove  them  correct ;  for  instance.  Moms,  gives 
A.  D.  426.  Dr,  0.  Buchana$i,  490.  BUhop  MiddUton,  608.  Mr.  Lawion, 
750.  The  Rev.  T.  WhiUhouie,  825  1  Paoli,  the  ten^h  century  ;  and  the  /«c« 
themselves,  A.  I).  379,  mnking  a  triflinjj  difference  of  446  years,  between  the 
date  given  by  them,  and  that  by  Mr.  Whitehonse.  It  appears  that  the  origi- 
nal  date,  or  rather  that  given  on  the  copper  plates  by  the  translator,  is  one 
year  subsequent  to  Cheraman  Permaurs  death,  whereas  the  text  of  the  grant, 
states  it  to  have  been  made  in  the  d6th  year  of  his  reign,  or  the  year  before 
his  demise,  viz.,  'A.  D.  877.  If  the  translation  is  referred  to,  it  will  be  seen 
that  the  grant  wai  made  in  the  86th  year  of  his  reign,  but  written  in  A.  D.  379* 
The  Syrian  plates  are  identical  with  those  of  the  Jews,  which  has  given  rise  to 
the  idea,  that  both,  or  at  all  events  one  of  them,  must  be  spurious,  but  quite 
an  opposite  constmction  may  be  placed  on  this  similarity.  If  they  were  both 
granted  at  the  same  time,  and  conferred  the  same  privileges,  it  is  but  natural 
to  suppose,  that  similar  words  and  expressions  might  be  used,  whera  the 
witnesses  were  the  stme,  and  the  same  Secretary  drew  up  the  gi«nts. 


DJE8TBUCTI0N  OK  JEWS  AT  CBANGANOS£<  351 

own  race,  by  their  own  laws.  They  then  chose  two  brothers,  who  were 
members  of  a  family  which  had  long  been  esteemed,  for  wisdom, 
intelligence,  and  wealth :  and  elected  them  to  govern  their  small  com- 
monwealth, conjointly.  But  dissensions  are  said  to  have  arisen,  and 
at  length  one  of  the  brothers,  invited  the  other  to  a  feast,  and  took 
advantage  of  this  opportunity,  to  murder  him,  that  he  might  reign 
sapreme.  His  triumph  however  was  of  short  duration,  as  he  in 
turn,  was  slain  by  the  son  of  his  victim.  The  community  then  laps- 
ed into  democracy,  and  anarchy,  and  gradually  but  surely  declined 
in  importance,  wealth,  and  character. 

These  early  dates,  are  very  difficult  to  settle  definitely,  but  ac- 
cording to  Jewish  traditions,  about  1,000  years  after  their  arrival  at 
Oranganore,  dissensions  arose  amongst  them :  at  all  events  before  the 
arrival  of  the  Portuguese,  there  had  been  a  great  dispute  between 
the  white  Jews  and  the  black,  said  to  have  been  occasioned,  by  the 
latter  claiming  the  privileges  of  the  former,  and  demanding  the  right 
of  inter-marriage  wil^  them.  The  former  appealed  to  a  Native  Prince 
for  assistance,  (to  whom  they  were  probably  vassals,  very  possibly 
the  Paliat  Achen,  at  Chenotta,)  who  thoroughly  destroyed  the  settle- 
ment The  number  of  Jews  were  thus  considerably  decreased,  and 
although  since  that  period,  they  have  seen  many  vicissitudes,  they 
have  never  ei\joyed  the  same  power  and  opulence.  The  desolation 
of  Oranganore,  was  likened  to  a  miniature  destruction  of  Jerusalem, 
and  has  often  been  laid  to  the  account  of  the  Portuguese.  Zdrredien 
the  Mahomedan  historian,  states  that  in  1524,  the  Moors  engaged  in 
a  most  barbarous  war  against  the  Jews  at  Oranganore,  when  all  who 
could  be  captured,  were  massacred  without  mercy,  whilst  their  houses 
and  Synagogues  were  burnt.  In  this,  the  Portuguese  could  not  have 
been  concerned,  because  they  and  the  Moors  were  at  that  period  in 
a  deadly  feud,  and  Zeirredien  continues,  that  on  the  following  year, 
the  Moors  having  retired  to  Calicut,  joined  the  Samorin's  forces,  and 
assisted  him  to  destroy  the  Portuguese  factory  there,  killing  or 
driving  away  all  of  that  nation.  The  Portuguese  themselves  give 
an  account  of  this,  (p.  104),  but  assert,  that  they  drove  away  the 
Natives,  although  they  found  it  advisable  subsequently  to  evacuate 
and  blow  up  the  fort 

After  the  destruction  of  Oranganore,  prior  to  the  arrival  of  the 


352  JEWS   SEEK   PROTECTION   IN   PORTUGUESE     OOCHIK. 

Portuguese,  many  of  the  Jews  were  probably  carried  away  toChenotta^ 
or  Ckennamungaluniy  where  a  colony  of  them  still  exists.  There 
were  no  Jews  in  Cochin,  when  the  Portuguese  arrived  Uiere  in  1500, 
but  at  Cranganore  {there  were  a  few,  in  a  miserable  state  of 
destitution,  who  were  probably  a  remnant  of  the  former  community, 
who  had  either  returned,  or  escaped  from  servitude.  It  is  only 
natural,  that  they  should  after  this,  wish  to  quit  the  scene 
of  their  former  power,  and  grandeur,  which  had  now  passed 
away,  and  in  1565,  when  the  Samorin,  and  his  Moorish  Allies,  asmsted 
by  one  of  the  petty  Rajahs,  again  invaded  the  Cochin  State,  these 
people  were  probably  again  severely  treated,  for  the  Samorin's 
party  were  victorious,  and  the  Cochin  Rajah,  and  two  Princes,  were 
slain  in  battle  on  January  27th,  1565,*  whilst  the  succeeding  Rajah, 
met  with  the  same  fate,  fourteen  days  later.  Some  of  the  Portu- 
guese, were  no  doubt  present,  with  the  Cochin  party,  and  as  they 
were  worsted,  had  no  time  for  oppressing  the  Jews,  who  in  this  very 
year,  (probably  after  the  occurrence  of  the^  above  events,)  obtained 
refuge  in  Cochin,  during  the  time  they  were  building  Jews  town, 
under  the' walls  of^the  fort.  In  this' year  also,  the  Portuguese  were 
obliged  to  enlarge  and  strengthen  the  fortress,  at  Cranganore,!  evi- 
dently against  the  Samorin's  party.  All  that  appeara  to  be  now 
known,  is,  that  in  1565,  the  Jews  fled  from  Chranganore  to  Cochin, 
and  erected  their  present  settlement  of  Jews  town. 

A  want  of  space,  precludes  the  possibility  of  giving  the  numerous 
Jewish  legends,  which  vary  in  different  places,  and  may  be  said  to 
be  simply  their  own  surmises,  some  of  which  are  founded  on  actual 
occurrences  affecting  themselves,  and  others  on  those  concerning 
either  the  Syrians,  or  some  of  the  other  sects  around  them. 

On  the  capture  of  Cochin  by  the  Dutch  in  1663,  the  Jews  were 
much  depressed,  owing  to  the  punishment  which  had  been  inflicted 

•  Tfaifl  battle  was  celebrated  in  Malabar  ▼ene,.the  poem  ii  still  extant^  and 
enten  fully  into  the  details  of  the  defeat,  and  death,  of  the  Rajah  of  Godiin, 
and  the  two  Princes. 

f  From  the  above  it  woald  seeoi  probable,  that  the  statement  of  Jfr.  White' 
houte,  in  Historioal  NoncrBS  ot  Coohtn  **  That  in  1665  the  Jews  to  escape  the 
"persecutions  of  the  Portuguese,  left  Cranganore,  and  put  themselres  under 
the  proteetioa  of  tiiA  Cochia  Bigah,"  is  an  enrar» 


BBITISB   RELATIONS   WITH    J£WB.  353 

npoh  tbem  by  the  Portugaese,  for  having  assisted  the  Dutch,  in 
their  first  attack  upon  CochiiL  But  after  this  date  prosperity  again 
dawned  upon  them,  and  a  leading  member  of  the  community  had 
the  title  of  Modeliiir  conferred  upon  him,  whilst  one  rich  family, 
(Esekiel,)  acted  a  very  important  part,  in  contracting  their  treaties 
with  the  Samorin,  the  Travancore  or  Ram  Rajah,  and  others.  The 
better  class  of  Jews,  were  received  in  the  best  society  of  Cocliin, 
where  the  wealthier  possessed  houses.  In  1685,  an  immigration  of 
White  Jews  occurred  from  Amsterdam,  and  subsequently  others  joined 
them  from  Palestine,  Persia,  Bagdad,  Egypt,  England,  Poland,  Germany, 
especially  Frankfort,  and  Spain.* 

It  may  be  asked,  what  the  British  since  their  advent  to  Cochin 
hare  done  for  the  Jews  I  First  came  the  Rev.  0.  Buchanan,  who 
interested  himself  greatly,  both  in  the  people  and  their  records, 
many  of  which  last  he  obtained,  and  removed  to  Europe,  where  they 
are  still  regarded  with  wonder  and  interest  In  his  "  Christian  Re- 
searches,'' may  be  found  an  account  of  all  he  gleaned  respecting 
them«  At  the  Black  Jews'  Synagogue,  he  found  many  manuscripts 
written  on  parchments,  goat's  skin,  and  cotton  paper,  many  of  these  he 
purchased,  or  rather  procured,  notwithstanding  the  resistance  of 
the  greatest  part  of  the  Jews,  and  their  disinclination  to  part 
with  the  legends  of  their  forefathers.  But  he  managed  to 
escape  from  Jew's  town  with  his  prize,  and  by  the  aid  of  money, 
and  the  assistance  of  the  Magistrate,  it  was  finally  agreed,  that  he 
should  retain  many  of  them. 

*  Observers  have  remarked  upon  the  White  Jews,  having  existed  many 
centaries  in  the  Ck>chui  State,  and  have  argued,  that  this  affords  a  proof, 
that  European  blood,  unmixed  with  that  of  the  Native  racet,  can  be  continued 
ihroagh  many  generations.  Bat  it  is  nothing  of  the  sort,  it  is  the  best  test 
that  could  be  adduced  to  the  contrary,  (admitting  them  to  be  pure  Europeans, 
which  they  are  not)  The  pure  White  Jews  have  never  been  able  to  coatinua 
their  race  without  the  aid  of  immigrants  from  other  places,  and  before  tliis 
question  was  ever  mooted,  Chvemor  Moen's  remarked,  that  the  White  Jews 
were  continued,  owing  to  constant  admixture  with  new  blood.  So  it  is  now, 
none  of  upwards  of  three  generations,  bom  in  the  country,  of  pure  white 
blood  on  both  father's  and  mother's  side,  can  be  detected.  The  plains  of 
India  are  unsuited  for  permanent  colonisation  by  the  white  races,  if  we  are  to 
draw  conclusions  from  bygone  facts,  or  reason  by  analogy  with  what  is  daily 
perceptible  around. 

W  1 


iSi  KISaiONABIES  TO  THE  ^TBWS. 

liGBflionaries  have  been  s^t  to  the  Jews,  with  very  little  effeef^ 
Buchanan  states^  that  one  of  this  sect  translated  the  New  Testament^ 
m' order  to-  leftite  some  arguments  adduced  by  the  Syrians,  bat 
instead  of  that,  he  hinnelf  embraced  Christiamty.  It  has  sub- 
seqnenfly  become  a  belief,  that  aiEy  person  who  translates  the  whole 
of  that  portion  of  the  Scriptures,  will  inevitably  become  a  convert  to 
Christianity,  by  the  power  of  the  evil  spirit  Occasionally  they 
even  now  obtain  converts  to  their  faith  :  but  they  have  a  rule,  that 
no  woman  becoming  a  Jewess  can  marry  a  JeWy  althougb  •  male^ 
embracing  their  tenets  may  be  uzated  in  matrimony  to  a  Jewess. 
The  Jews  do  not  like  to  enter  into  any  religious  arguments  respecting 
our  Saviour,  and  if  questioned  as  to  the  meaning  of  certain  passaged 
in  Isaiah,  they  always  declare  that  they  refer,  to  the  good  king  Hosea,. 
and  if  pressed  furtheri  they  grow  sullen,  and  refuse  to  continue  the 
eonveraation* 


CHAPTER  IX, 

THE  MAHOMEDANS. 

9Ui€tt«du»  m  the  Cochin  State— Mahoaiod,  his  riia,  taaehiog,  iad  dMih— Tbe 
fonr  Caliphfr— Thclmaan— Sheeat— Soonees^-Biie  of  taHoos  tehoolt— Cra«i 
Bpreadi  to  India — Dirisioii  of  Indian  MahoroedaM— Hind*  litaa  boconn 
engrafted  on  new  creed — Caate  distioetiona  commence— Origin  of  Moplahs— 
P^necntions  of  Portagneie— Beebee  of  Cannanore— Hydar— Tippoo— Bngw 
liilfc—Prieata— Ritas— Feaata—Marriaites-Uolacky  days— Sedosioa  of  wo- 
inen— Dirty  raoe — Bariab— Fast  of  Mohomim— Bamsaa. 

The  Mahomedans  in  the  Cochin  State,  compriae  about  1  in 
90  of  the  entire  population,  but  thejr  appear  to  be  rapidly  increaa- 
ing  in  numbers.  They  are  distinctly  diviBible  into  two  portions, 
the  true  Mahomedatu  who  live  in  small  communitMy  and  exercise 
the  tenets  of  their  faith  as  in  other  portions  of  the  South  of  India: 
and  the  MoplakBy  who  though  also  Mahomedans,  are  to  a,greift  extent 
distinct  from  them,  and  farm  a  bigoted  and  intolerant  sect  of  their 
•cwn. 

A  summary  of  the  rise  of  Mahomedanism  is  neoessaiy,  in  order 
to  explain  as-shortly  as  possible^  the  origin  of  its  numerous  diTi- 
sions. 

Mahomedy  the  founder  of  this  religious  sect,  was  bom  mt  Mecca ; 
A«D.  569,  and  on  his  father's  death,  whilst  he  was  still  very  young, 
he  found  himself  the  head  of  a  small  Arab  fanuly,  one  of  tha 
branches  of  the  tribe  of  Koresh,  and  the  owner  of  one  «kv«  and  five 
camels.  His  mother  Amina,  is  said  to  have  been  a  Jewess,  con- 
Terted  to  Christianity,  by  the  Syrian  monk  Sergius.  His  Orand- 
father  took  care  of  the  orphan,  but  on  his  death,  fte^chacge  fell  to 
im  undo,  who  treated  him  as  one  of  his  own  children.    At  the  age 


356  AldB  OF  MAHOMBD. 

» 

of  thirteen,  he  accompanied  his  uncle  into  Syria|  and  at  the  fair  of 
Bosra,  is  thought  to  have  tnet  Felix,  or  Sergiua  Bahira,  who  la 
believed  subsequently,  to  have  assisted  him  in  the  composition  of 
the  Koran,  a  word  derived  from  Karaa  ''to  read,"  at  all  events, 
most  of  it  seems,  to  be  a  new  reading,  of  the  Jewish  and  Christiaa 
sacred  books,  then  current  in  the  East»  intermingled  with  the  tradi^ 
tions  and  fables  of  Arabia,  and  some  Persian  Mythology.  Many 
Mahomedans  assert,  that  the  Koran  was  in  ezistenoefrom  all  eternity, 
and  written  upon  tables,  which  were  kept  before  God :  that  these 
Mahomed  was  permitted  to  see  once  a  year  during  his  life,  and  in 
the  last  twelve  months  of  it,  twice.  Some  sects  however  deny  the 
authority  of  the  Koran  altogether. 

Mahomed  in  the  course  of  some  mercantile  transactions,  became 
the  agent  and  factor,  of  a  rich  widow,  named  Kadijah,  who  was  so 
pleased  with  his  appearance,  manners,  and  address,  that  she  gave 
him  her  hand  in  marriage,  when  he  was  25  years  of  age.  Thus  at 
one  step,  Mahomed  rose  to  the  first  rank  in  Mecca.  His  nation  at 
this  time,  worshipped  the  stars  of  Heaven,  and  many  gods  sub- 
ordinate to  one  supreme  Deity :  in  short,  neither  their  religion,  nor 
morals,  possessed  any  check,  and  all  acted  as  suited  their  conveni- 
ence, or  as  their  imagination  dictated. 

Some  Jewish  and  Christian  tribes,  having  settled  in  his  locality 
lie  is  thought  to  have  learnt  from  them,  that  there  was  a  purer  faith 
than  that  held  by  his  countrymen,  which  aroused  in  him  an  ardent 
desire,  to  introduce  a  better  creed  amongst  them. 

Then  he  remembered  the  teachings  of  Sergius,  and  if  he  did  not 
long  for  his  presence,  (which  it  is  said  he  obtained,)  still  he  wished  for 
the  words  of  his  Holy  Book :  and  his  cousin  Warka^ben-nauf  el,  is 
believed  to  have  procured  him  a  copy  of  the  Scriptures,  translated 
from  Hebrew  into  Arabia  Naturally  of  a  contemplative  mind,  he 
passed  one  month  in  every  year  on  Mount  Hira  in  solitude,  studjring 
the  mysteries  of  the  Jewish  and  Christian  faith.  He  found  the 
writings  of  both  enveloped  in  faUes,  and  Jewish  legends,  and  bis 
mind  shrank  from  adopting  eitb^  creed,  wherein  man,  unsatisfied 
with  the  teachings  of  infinite  wisdom,  had  superadded  the  composi- 
tions of  his  own  finite  ideas.  These  sditary  musings  led  to  great 
nervous  susceptibility,  his  dreams  took  the  form  of  realities,  until 


MABOMKD  PSRSBCtJTBD.  367 

his  reason,  unable  to  bear  the  stretch,  tottered  on  her  throne.  In* 
sanity  or  excitement  were  the  only  courses  now  left  open  to  hinii  he 
chose  the  latter,  and  his  reason  was  preserved. 

He  disclosed  to  his  wife,  that  the  Angel  Qabriel  had  appeared  to 
him,  and  given  him  a  divine  oommissiony  to  reform  the  religion  of 
his  countrymen :  and  like  a  dutiful  spouse,  she  at  once  declared  her 
belief  in  the  truth  of  his  mission.  In  his  fortieth  year,  he  left  the 
recesses  of  Mount  Hira,  and  seeking  the  busy  haunts  of  men,  an- 
nounced himself  as  the  Prophet  of  the  Most  High.  He  enunciated 
this  fact  at  a  large  feast,  when  he  publicly  expounded  his  creed, 
and  ridiculed  idolatry,  requesting  to  know,  what  advantage  could  be 
expected  from  trusting  in  images  of  wood  and  stone,  and  wound  up 
his  most  forcible  speteh,  by  exclaiming  that^  "  there  is  but  (me  Qod, 
'^  and  should  there  be  any  amongst  you,  who  wishes  to  be  my  Vicar, 
**  as  Aaron  was  to  Moses,  let  him  now  prodaim  himself."  His  ne- 
phew and  son-in-law  Ali,  at  once  accepted  the  post  This  occurred 
in  A.D.  609,  and  for  ten  years  Mahomed  endured  persecutionB  and  in* 
flultS)  bIPat  this  time  his  unde  and  protector  died.  Persecution  was 
then  redoubled,  fanned  by  the  2eal  of  bigots,  which  ended  as  such 
always  has  done,  by  giving  renown,  to  what  would  otherwise  soon 
have  quietly  disappeared,  in  the  legends  of  things  gone  by. 

The  Priests  of  his  tribe  Kor6sh,  perceiving  the  eminence  to  which 
Mahomed  was  attaining,  and  fearing  the  loss  which  might  accrue  to 
their  temple,  were  a  new  religion  to  gain  the  ascendancy,  as  they 
were  aware  that  it  would  cause  the  downfall  of  their  idolatrous  wor- 
ship, persecuted  him  greatly,  and  so  vehement  was  their  animosity 
after  his  uncle's  death,  that  he  was  compelled  to  leave  Mecca,  and 
take  refuge  in  Tayef,  three  days'  journey  distant.  But  the  people 
would  not  be  convinced  of  his  divine  mission,  and  after  a  time  he 
retomed  to  Mecca.  At  first  he  resided  there  quietly,  but  soon  com- 
menced enunciating  his  religion,  to  the  Pilgrims  who  resorted  thither. 

At  this  time^  many  persons  came  from  Yatreb,  who  listened  at- 
tentively to  the  new  doctrine,  for  circumstances  had  occurred,  which 
rendered  it  of  great  interest  to  them.  Their  city  had  been  inhabit- 
ed by  Jews  and  Arabs,  who  fought  for  supremacy,  and  the  first 
were  reduced  to  slavery :  in  this  degraded  condition,  the  Arabs 
frequently  heard  them  praying,  that  the  Messiah  would  come.  Now 


358  MAHOMED  BECOMES  A  PEBSSOUTOR. 

at  Mecca,  they  found  one  who  announced  himself  as  the  Prophet  of 
Crod,  they  enquired  whetiiar  he  was  the  Messiah,  of  whom  they 
had  heard,  and  on  his  replying  in  the  afllrmativ©,  they  became 
greatly  interested  in  his  doctrines. 

Mahomed  then  finding  that  his  disciples  were  augmenting,  and 
his  creed  taking  root,  changed  his  teaching,  which  up  to  this  time 
had  inculcated  maxims  of  peace,  and  submission  to  u^juries,  and 
insults,  for  tibe  sake  of  religion  :  and  now  declared,  that  peace  was 
good,  until  God  gave  them  opportunities  to  destroy  their  enemies. 
JDuring  this  stirring  time,  his  wife  and  most  of  his  ofiEspring  died, 
and  the  fiery  and  unquenchable  spirit  of  the  enthusiast,  had  uq 
check. 

The  diief  s  of  Mecca  attempted  his  destruction,  but  he  fled  to  Yatreb, 
A.D.  622,  where  he  was  received  with  enthusiasm  and  the  nama 
of  the  Town  was  forthwith  changed  to  Medinet-al-Ifabiy  or  the 
''City  of  the  Prophet,"  commonly  known  as  Medina.  This  is  the 
ffigira,  or  period  of  flight,  from  which  the  Mahomedan  era  is  com- 
puted. New  fonns  of  wosship  and  rituals  were  then  d^Htod,  and 
the  first  Mosque  raised.  Now  Mahomed's  mildness  changed  to  fax>- 
taty,  his  former  gentle  nature  to  that  of  the  tiger,  he  became  the 
head  of  a  warlike  sect,  and  the  leader  of  a  band  of  marauding  free* 
hooters,  who  were  the  terror  and  scourge  of  the  surrounding  country. 

At  first  no  doubt  Mahomed  was  sincere  in  his  pretensions,  but 
now  he  found  frauds  necessary,  to  srfpport  Ms  assertions,  and  sank 
from  a  religious  enthusiast,  to  an  eminent  impostor,  successftil  hypo** 
crite,  and  intolerant  bigot  First  he  only  declared  war  against  hia 
enemies,  now  he  included  in  that  category,  all  who  denied  the  truth 
of  his  sacred  mission.  His  nation  espoused  his  assertions,  they 
epread  his  doctrines  by  the  sword,  and  were  determined  to  conquer 
for  the  creed  which  they  beheved  to  have  emanated  from  God,  or  die 
fighting  in  His  cause. 

As  victories  crowned  his  anus,  and  his  empire  extended,  his  tolera- 
tion decreased,  and  his  love  of  blood  augmented.  At  last  the  time 
of  his  decease  drew  nigh,  and  he  directed  Ms  followers  to  be  very 
careful  on  three  points,  viz.  to  abolish  idolatry,  receive  any  proselytes, 
nnd  observe  prayers  at  stated  times :  and  then  after  having  cursed 
the  Jews,  he  directed  that  no  one  should  be  permitted  to  attend  him 


THE  roUB  CAUPBB,  359 

ia  lub  last  honrSy  but  his  f ayomite  wife  Ayesha.  He  died  on  June 
Ml,  A.  D.  6d2,  aged  6^  yeax»,  and  according  to  his  own  request, 
traa  buried  where  he  drew  his  last  iHreath.  No  son  continued  his 
Bame,  he  left  only  one  daughter  Fatima,  as  the  survivor  of  eight 
childrea  It  ia  curious  that  with  him  did  not  die  his  sect^  and  that 
along  with  him  did  not  perish  belief  in  his  doctrinea  Hi*  creed 
was  carried  by  f<Hrce  of  arms  towards  Europe,  and  when^checked  in 
that  direction^  found  new  diannels  to  the  Eastward. 

He  is  believed  to  have  nominated  his  nephew  and  son-in-law  Ali, 
liis  daughter  Fatima's  husband,  as  his  heir,  but  his  widow  Ayesha 
declared,  that  he  had  named  her  father,  Aboobukur.  Now  arose 
disputes^  an  ambition  to  mle  seized  his  later  submissive  duef tains, 
and  dissenaons  ensued  as  to  whether  his  temporal  po^er  was  heredi- 
tary, which  all  admitted  his  ^mitual  one  must  be,  Aboofntkur  was 
chosen  as  first  Caliph^  and  Was  succeeded  by  the  coarse  and  fiery 
Omar;  this  latter  designated  himself,  ^  Commander  of  the  faithful" 
After  reigning  eleven  yearsy  ^  conquering  36,000  dties,  towns,  and 
castles:  ^  destroying  4000  ChristiaDy  Magian,  and  Pagan  temj^es :  and 
*^  erecting  1,400  Mo6que8>''  he  was  assassinated  by  a  slaves.  On  his 
death  bed,  he  noDodnated  a  council  of  six,  to  meet  after  his  demise,  and 
decide  upon  his  successor.  At  the  end  of  three  days,  should  they  not 
have  agreed,  all  wa«  to  be  executed.  But  this  latter  part,  was  not 
found  necessary,  as  they  were  unanimous  in  choosing  OihrnaTu 

This  third  Caliph,  had  been  Mahomed's  Secretary,  and  one  of  his 
sons-in-law.  Although  above  eighty  years  of  i^  his  vigour  was 
great,  and  under  his  direction,  the  Modem  empire  extended  to  the 
confines  of  India.  He  revised  the  Koran :  during  his  reign,  how- 
ever luxuries  began  to  be  indulged  in,  new  sects  to  arise,  and  All's 
partisans  daily  acquired  more  power.  Othman  was  slain,  AJ),  661 
by  his  troops,  on  a  Riday,  whilst  he  was  fasting,  and  i^eadiag  the 
Koran.  Horror  and  consternation  were  universal,  and  during  the 
confusion  which  ensued,  A  KU  partisans  obtained  for  him  the  fourth 
Caliphite.  He  conunenced  by  deposing  all  Governors,  and  dkfvating 
Us  own  Mends  in  their  placet  his  enemies  then  asserted  that  he 
had  been  foremost  in  conspiring  against  his  predecessor,  and  one 
of  the  chiefs  whom  he  had  deposed,  Mowaveeah,  the  Qovemor  of 
Syria,  claimed  the  Caliphite.-   Three  fanatics  determined,  that  the 


360  THE  IMAM8. 

cause  of  the  Mahomedan  diTisions  was  the  existence  of  Ali^  Mowa- 
veeah,  and  his  friend  Amru,  so  they  detennined  to  assassinate  all  in 
one  day.  This  they  attempted,  but  were  only  successful  in  murdering 
Ally  and  thus  tenninated  the  reign  of  the  last  Caliph^  in  whom 
was  united,  both  the  temporal  sorereignty  or  Caliphite,  and  the 
Iman  or  spiritual  power.  The  first  from  this  period  fell  to  Mowa- 
veeah  and  his  successors,  the  latter  to  the  descendants  of  AIL 

Ha$sany  All's  eldest  son,  was  proclaimed  Caliph,  as  well  as  Imam,* 
but  Mowaveeah  compelled  him  to  resign  the  first  dignity,  A.  D. 
669,  and  nine  years  subsequent^,  he  was  poisoned  by  his  wife.  His 
brother  Haasein^  was  second  Imam,  and  when  Mowaveeah  died 
A.  D.  679,  and  was  succeeded  by  his  profligate  son  Yezid,  Hossdn 
attempted  to  obtain  the  Caliphite,  but  was  surrounded  by  Yerid's 
troops,  and  mortally  wounded.  He  staggered  to  hia  tent,  and 
lifted  up  his  infant  to  give  it  his  last  blessing,  when  an  arrow  pierc* 
ed  the  child's  breast,  and  its  life  blood  flowed  over  its  agonised 
father,  who  rushing  amongst  the  foe,  soon  fell  a  victim  to  their  fury. 
All  his  family,  excepting  his  son  All,  12  years  of  age,  and  two  sisters, 
perished  at  the  same  time,  but  his  muider  was  fearfully  avenged* 
The  anniversary  of  Hossein's  martyrdom,  is  kept  as  the  Mohomun, 
both  in  India  and  Persia. 

There  were  altogether  twelve  Imams,  although  some  Moslem  sects 
acknowledge  only  one,  others  seven,  whilst  it  is  considered,  there 
will  be  no  legitimate  Sovereign  upon  earth,  until  Mahomed  the  last 
Imam,  or  his  spirit,  re-appears. 

The  Mahomedans  are  separated  into  two  great  divisions,  the  SJieea^ 
of  whom  the  Persians  are  the  chief  representatives,  and  the  Soonees 
amongst  whom  the  Turks  form  the  largest  division.  Th^  are  in 
most  places  very  rancorous  against  one  another,  and  have  separate 
Mosques,  or  should  a  member  of  one  sect  attend  the^house  of  prayer 
of  the  other,  it  is  mosUy  to  cavil,  whilst  each  dooms  the  other  to 
eternal  condemnation  in  the  world  to  come. 

The  Sheea$  call  themselves  lovers  of  justice,  and  assert  that  All 
was  Mahomed's  lawful  successor,  and  therefore  the  three  other  Caliphs 

*  Some  sectR  aBsert,  that  the  spirit  of  one  Imam  was  transmigrated  into 
that  of  his  Buoceasor :  whilst  others  even  believed  them  to  be  incarnations  of 
the  Deity. 


DIVISION  OF  MAHOMSDAKS.  361 

wtxe  merely  usurpen.  They  pny  with  nndasped  handle  maam 
deeply  the  uaurtyrdom  of  Hoeaeiii,  cone  hiB  enemies,  aiui  doom  Ali's 
opponents  to  the  lowest  depths  of  condemnstion.  Some  of  them 
eonaider  Ali  eqnal  to  Mahomed,  and  that  the  authority  of  the  Koran 
hna  been  rendered  void  l^  tradition.  This  class  are  mostly  found 
amongst  the  PersianSy  form  a  laige  p<Htion  of  the  Tartars,  and  com- 
prise some  of  the  Indian  Princes. 

The  Sooneu,  follow  the  Sooout,  or  ''traditions,"  and  beUeve  in 
the  equally  divine  mission,  of  all  four  Caliphs.  Mahomed  thqr  call 
the  kst  of  the  Prophets,  and  Ali  the  first  of  the  Fakeers.  They 
speakhighly  of  Omar,  whose  assassination  the  Persian  Sheeas  cele- 
Inrate  as  a  festival,  andasswt  that  the  tiaditi<His  merely  explain  the 
Koran.  This  sect  is  mostly  represented  by  the  Turks,  Egyptians,  and 
Arabs.  They  dasp  their  hands  in  prayer,8have  the  middle  of  the  Mous- 
tache, observe  the  fast  of  the  Ramaan,  go  on  pilgrimages  to  Mecca, 
read  the  Koran,  assemble  for  public  prayer,  believe  in  the  resurrec- 
tion and  consider  it  unlawful  to  make  the  image  of  Hossem's  tomb, 
the  taboot,  at  the  Mohomun,  and  to  read  the  fanend  eulogy,  or  beat 
the  bnaat  at  that  time^  but  they  may  shed  tears.  They  ought  never 
to  take  intoxicating  drinks. 

Pndettmaium  is  firmly  believed  in.  It  is  alleged  that  as  soon 
as  the  body  is  laid  in  the  grave,  the  two  examiners  Monker  and 
Nakir,  enquire  into  the  works  of  the  deceased,  during  his  life  time. 
The  bridge  from  Earth  to  Heaven,  is  said  to  pass  over  the  centre  of 
Hell,  (a  burning  fieiy  fiimace,)  and  being  finer  than  a  hair,  and 
sharper  than  a  rasor,  the  good  souls  are  assisted  rapidly  across,  by 
guiding  and  protecting  spirits,  whilst  the  wicked  who  attempt  to 
fi^ow,  fall  down  into  the  abyss  below.  After  the  consummation  of  all 
things,  the  bridge  will  be  destroyed,  and  communication  cut  oil 
The  chief  punishment,  is  to  be  denied  the  sight  of  Qod ;  there  are 
eight  degrees  of  beatitude,  varying  according  to  the  proximity  to 
Him.  Hell  is  not  considered  eternal,  but  after  a  certain  period  of 
expiation,  the  cleansed  soul  arrives  at  Paradise. 

After  Mahomedanism  had  flourished  some  time,  disseminated  by 
soldiers,  and  enunciated  by  military  Chieftains,  men  b^gan  to  discover, 
that  something  more  was  necessary,  and  that  now  scholars  were  requir- 
ed who  were  deeply  versed  in  the  doctrines  of  the  new  religion,  irres- 

X  1 


362  'mahohedans  in  india.. 

pective  of  whether  they  were  or  were  not  skilled  in  martial  exercises;. 
Thus  after  it  had  existed  above  a  century,  a  school  ^pfas  formed  m 
Bagdad,  traditions  were  collected  and  examined,  and  a  class  of  re- 
ligious teachers  raised  u{k  Then;  arose  four  seots,  the  JTant/C^,  the 
originator  of  ii^ich  was  a  strict  partisan  ef  A]L  They  call  them* 
selves  the  "followers  of  reason."  The  ShaJUes.;:  the  Malecites  who 
accept  every  thing,  according  to  its  literal  meatiing;  and  the 
HanbaliteSf  who  consider  the  Koran  to  have  been  etevnai  Each 
of  these  sects  derives  its  name  frran  that  of  itft-oiiginator:  They  were 
established  by  four  Doctors  of  the  law,  who  flourished  at  variou» 
times,  and  are  highly  venerated,  whilst  it  has-been  dechired,  that  to> 
slay  a  Persiaa  Sheeah,  is  more  acceptabie  to  God,  than,  to  destrc^ 
seventy  Chiistiansi 

When  the  religion^  of  the  Crescent  had  existed  some  time  in  India^ 
the  Sheeas  and  the  Soonees>  began  to  lay  aside  their  animosities,  so^ 
Acbar  in  1556,  aimed  at  a:  new  religion,  embracing  Mahomedanism> 
Hinduism,  the  belief , of  the  followers,  of  Zoroaster^  the  creed  of  the 
Christians,  and  that  of  the  Jews.  It  fuled,  and  from  a  curioue 
circumstance,  viz.,  from  his  directing  its  adherents  to  leaveoff  wearing 
beards  1  Interference  in  their  faith  they  could  tolerate,  alteration  in 
their  ritual  they  would  permit,  but  cutting  of  their  beards  was  a  most 
intolerable  insult. 

The  divisions  of  Indian  Mussalmen  are  tbe  Syeds,  who  are^descend^ 
ed  from  Mahomed,  and  held  in.  the  highest  esteem.  They  may 
take  their  wives^  from*  either  of  the  other  divisions,  but  will  not 
allow  their  daughtas  to  intermarry  with  either  of  the  otiier  three^ 
and  are  exceedingly  jealous  respecting  their  gmealogy.  The. 
Sheika  who  may  be  sprung  from,  any  diass,  such  as  Hindus,  or  con* 
verts,  the  women  weac  petticoats  instead  of  the  flowing  trowsers. 
The  MoguUy  or  Fersiaas,  and  the  Fathan9^  who  consist  of  the  Rohil- 
las,  and  the  Af^ians.  Each  of  these  tribes  has  numesous  sub-divi* 
sions,  some  higher,  some  lower  than  the  other  i.  whilst  those  who 
perform  pilgrimages  to  Mecca,  are  called  Hadgees,.oE  if  their  fathep 
also  went  there,  the  term  is  repeated  twice  before  their  names. 
M^^ny  are  the  ship  loads  yearly  passing  Cochin,  proceeding  to,  ob 
returning  from  Mecca. 

Acbar  possessed  in  his  Seraglio,  the  beautiful  lady  Donna  Juliana 


CASTE  DIVISIONS.  363 

Diet*  who  had  been  captared by  a  Corsair,  on  her  voyage  to  Tercei- 
ra,  and  came  by  purchase  into  the  possession  of  the  Sultan  Selim. 
The  grand  Seignor,  sent  her  as  a  present  to  Acbar.  Having  won 
that  Emperor's  alfiBction,  she  applied  herself,  and  with  success,  to  pro- 
mote the  interests  of  her  country,  «nd  religion,  in  India.  She  it 
was  who  shook  his  belief  in  his  faith,  and  had  the  Romish  priests 
given  him  the  Bible  without  adding  legends  to  it,  probably  he  might 
have  embraced  the  Christians*  •creed.  As  it  was,  he  attempted  a 
religion  of  his  own  «empo8itioii,  and  from  that  day,  Mahomedans  have 
been  unable  to  assert,  that  their's  is  the  only  true  faith,  but  can  only 
call  it,  one  amongst  the  many. 

Thus  Hindu  rites  became  engrafted  into  the  Mahomedan  ritual, 
and  as  in  Chapter  VI  we  have  seen,  that  Syrian  Christians  have  not 
rejected  Hindu  feasts;  in  Chapter  VII,  how  Hmduism  in  India, 
became  altered,  and  amalgamated  with  the  religion  of  the  aborigines : 
and  in  Chapter  VIII,  how  identical  many  Jewish  and  Hindu  forms 
are:  so  now  we  may  perceive,  how  greatly  Mahomedanism  sank  from 
its  contact  with  Hindnism,  until  even  caste  formed  a  part  of  the 
Moslem's  creed.  Saints  and  Mart3nrs  were  received  into  its  Calendar, 
md  offerings  at  their  shrines  exceeded  those  made  at  the  Mosques, 
divisions  became  subdivided,  until  at  last  they  numbered  at  least 
72  sects,  differing  in  their  belief,  from  true  Islamism,  to  downright 
Atheism. 

CVtsfe  goes  by  Urth,  in  the  same  way  as  amongst  the  Hindus,  but 
it  does  not  compel  each  son,  to  f^low  the  exact  occupation  of  his 
father.  The  Fakeers  live  near  tombs,  where  they  meditate  and 
pray,  subsisting  on  voluntary  offerings.  Amongst  the  devotees 
some  deny  the  divine  mission  of  Mahomed,  and  others  the  sacred 
character  of  the  Koran,  or  even  the  existence  of  a  Qod. 

Imam  was  their  ancient  battle  cry,  the  exulting  shout  of  the 
^ctor,  and  the  defiant  cry  of  the  vanquished.  It  is  one  that  the 
conquered  have  often  heard  with  such  varying  feelings,  well  know- 
ing that  where  it  was  triumphant,  mercy  to  the  fallen  was  unknown. 
Imam  was  the  name  of  their  religious  creed,  their  old  faith,  but  in  India 
it  is  BOW  no  longer  heard,  calling  their  foUowers  to  arms,  or  encour- 

*  3Iajor  Jerris,  Memoirt  of  the  Konkun,  ISiO. 


364  XAflOlfBDAlIS  IN  MALABAR. 

aging  the  ehargbg  cftvtby,  for  aa  their  praotioeB  changed,  thejr 
altered  the  cheering  word  to  JDeen^  (religioua  practice,)  which  bow 
lugee  on  ^eir  seotarieay  to  victory,  or  deflsat. 

The  first  advent  <^  MahoaaedAmam  ta  India^  in  any  fcMNse,  occurred 
at  the  beginning  of  the  tenth  century  of  the  Chriattan  en,  when 
the  Saltan  Mahomed  of  Ghoanee,  invaded  Northern  India,  and  an- 
nexed territoiy,  from  the  Indus  to  the  Qanges.  Wave  after  wave 
of  the  followers  of  the  Crescent  then  appeared,  end  rolled  ovex 
Nortdiem  India,  from  whence  Aey swept  the  riches  of  thecountry. 
When  tiie  Mahomedans  first  conquered  dties  in  India,  all  males 
above  17  years  of  age  who  refused  to  embrace  their  fieuth,  were 
shiughtered,  whilst  those  beb w  tfiat  i^,  were  f ordUy  converted,  and 
apared,  as  were  also  the  women. 

Subsequently  they  consented  to  receive  tribute,  and  to  allow  the 
Native  sovereigns  to  retain  possession  of  their  dominions.  lii  later 
times,  the  PraBmans  were  again  permitted  to  erect  temples,  and 
3  per  cent  (tf  their  former  revenues,  were  continued  to  them.  After 
eighteen  Princes  of  the  Qhusnee  dynasty  had  rdgned  in  India,  they 
were  subverted  by  other  conquerors  of  the  same  creed  from  Khoraaan, 
who  made  Delhi  the  seat  of  their  power.  But  in  1206,  their  Sultan 
was  assassinated,  and  their  empire  divided:  and  83  years  subsequently, 
their  dynasty  terminated,  when  the  Afghans  became  the  dominant 
race. 

Timor,  a  Mogul  Tartar,  in  1398,  overthrew  the  Afghans,  but  did 
not  remain  permanently  in  India;  and  iu  1536,  Baber  the  Sultan  of 
Cabul,  erected  his  throne  at  Delhi,  and  founded  a  compact  empire; 
Shah  Jehan  commenced  his  reign,  in  1627,  and  under  him  the 
Moslems  reached  the  summit  of  their  Eastern  glory.  During  the 
reign  of  AuruQgaebe,  the  Mahrattas  under  Sevajee,  became  a  very 
powerful  body,  whilst  the  Afghans^  revolted,  and  established  a  separate 
kii^om,  and  the  Mogul  empire  subsequent  to  his  death,  showed 
symptoms  of  decay. 

Some  of  these  Muasalmen  spread  to  the  Western  Coast  of  India, 
and  their  descendants  now  form  the  division,  already  designated  as 
the  ''trae  Mahomedans  :"  but  the  larger  class  known  as  <'Moplahs," 
or  "  Jonnaga  Moplaha,"  wiQ  be  more  especially  dwelt  upon.  They 
were  a  sect  hated  by  the  Portuguese,  detested  by  the  Dutch,  and  in 


CHIBAMAN  PSEMAUL  TURNS  BUDDHIST.         365 

tii«ir  torn  very  inimical  to  the  Britialiy  by  whom  they  consider  that 
th^  have  been  slighted,  and  not  shown  that  f avooTy  they  believed 
themaelTes  entitled  ta  Althongh  still  as  a  class,  atype  of  vindictive* 
neasy  they  appear  to  be  improving,  and  are  at  present  kes  blood-thirsty 
than  they  formerly  wers,  and  the  sphoe  of  their  mercantile  transac- 
tioDB  is  increasing. 

Ttoiditionaiy  aocoonts  of  their  otiffn  eiist  in  abundance,  and  differ 
materially  from  one  another.  Some  of  them  are  said  to  have  settled 
on  the  Western  coast  in  the  seventh  century,  where  they  established 
themselves  under  Caliph  Valid,  and  were  believed  tobe  a  portion  <tf  the 
posterity  of  Haahem,  expelled  by  Mahomed  for  cowardice  in  his 
battles,  against  the  partLeans  of  Aba  JakeeL  In  the  seventh  eentory,  a 
Mahomedan  merchact  named  Malek  Medina,  accompanied  by  some 
Priests,  are  stated  by  Afoem,  to  have  settled  in»  or  near  Mangalora 
But  the  Mahomedaas  obtained  no  great  footing,  until  the  ninth  cen- 
tury of  the  COiristian  era. 

Many  legends  respecting  the  origin  of  the  Moplabs  may  be  found 
in  the  MackemU  M.  8.,  one  of  which,  stated  to  be  taken  from  a 
copy  of  the  Kerala  Ulpati,  observes  that  Buddhists,  (see  note  p.  44) 
came  to  Chersman  Permaors  (not  the  last  of  that  name,)  country, 
and  converted  the  monarch,  who  directed  the  Brahmans  to  f oUow 
the  tenets  of  that  sect  But  the  Brahmans  remonstrated,  and  pro- 
posed a  public  discussion  on  the  subject,  in  which  th^  contrived  to 
vanquish  their  opponents,  when  according  to  a  previous  agreement^ 
the  tongues  of  the  Buddhists  were  cut  out  The  m<march  was  then 
dethroned,  and  his  son,  (nephew))  installed  in  his  place,  and  an 
oath  taken,  by  which  they  bound  themselves,  never  to  allow  any 
persons,  not  of  the  orthodox  Hmdu  religion  to  obtain  public  sanction 
to  reside  in  the  country.  The  Mahomedans  did  not  arrive  until  after 
this  oath  had  become  obsolete,  but  even  when  it  was  in  force,  the 
Arabs  were  allowed  to  trade  along  the  coast. 

The  above  Ib  probably  founded  on  fact,  as  it  appears  likely 
that  one  of  these  Kings  did  turn  Buddhist,  and  was  dethroned 
By  degrees  both  Jains  and  Mahomedans  were  included  in  the  above 
term,  as  they  both  came  from  Arabia,  and  it  became  a  common  say- 
ing, that  Cheraman  Permaul  became  a  Buddhist,  and  went  away 
to  Mecca.    At  the  present  time,  no  Jains  trade  to  India,  and  their 


366  ORIGIN  OF  THE  MOPLAHS. 

only  remaining  representatives,  are  the  Mussalmen,  still  called 
Buddhists,  consequently  it  is  commonly  reported,  and  believed,  that 
Ckeraman  Permaul  became  a  Mahomedan.  But  as  he,  (the  last  of 
that  race  of  rulers,)  died  A.D.  378,  and  Mahomed  was  not  bom, 
untU  A.D.  569,  it  appears  impossible,  that  any  of  that  race,  could 
have  embraced  Islamism. 

A  rich  Mahomedan  came  from  Arabia,  A.D.  1489-90,  and  having 
ingratiated  himsdf  with  the  Samorin,  obtained  leave  to  build 
additional  mosques  in  the  country,  consequently  before  this  period, 
they  must  have  had  temples  in  Malabar. 

Many  towns  along  the  Malabar  coast,  have  a  large  proportion  of 
their,  inhabitants,  composed  of  Moplahs,  (termed  Lubbays  in  the 
South,  and  on  the  Madras  side.)  They  no  doubt  are  descended 
from  Arab  fathers,  who  traded  to  iMs  coast,  and  formed  fugitive 
alliances,  with  Teer  or  Chogan  women:  for  ideas  regarding  the 
marriage  tie,  are  rather  peculiar  in  Malabar,  (see  page  317.)  The 
children  never  appear  to  have  been  claimed  by  the  fathers,  in 
fact  the  very  word  Moplah,  is  said  to  have  been  derived,  from 
Mother,  2fa,  and  child,  pilla,  showing  to  whose  care,  the  oflPspring 
fell*  These  Mother's  Cliiidren,  now  known  as  "Moplahs,'*  could  not 
be  considered  Hindus,  neither  were  they  pure  Mahomedans,  by  whom 
those  with  a  "  bar  sinister,"  are  regarded  as  a  disgrace.  Thus  the 
Moplahs,  rejected  by  both  Hindus  and  Mahomedans,  formed  com- 
munities and  churches  of  their  own,  combining  the  superstitions  of 
the  former  race,  with  the  intolerance  of  the  latter :  looked  down 
uixm  and  despised  by  others,  they  became  morose  and  bigoted,  and 
as  their  wealth  and  importance  augmented,  so  did  their  jealousy 
against  all  interference  with  them.  The  ''old  Moplahs"  assert,  that 
being  of  Arabian  extraction,  they  consider  themselves  of  better  birth 
than  the  Tartar  races  of  Northern  India.  Their  written  characters  are 
pecxiliar  to  themselves,  and  very  different  from  the  present  Arabic : 

*  The  term  ftloplali,  is  nob  used  by  those  of  that  sect,  who  call  themselTes 
MuMalmen,  or  l^omedans.  Duncan  says,  that  a  Gazee  derived  the  name 
from  Ma,  "  fliother,"  and  pilla,  "  a  puppy  :**  as  a  term  of  reproach.  MaeLean 
conddered  that  the  word  came  from  Maha,  or  Mahai,  ''Mocha"  and  Pilla,  "a 
child,  and  therefore  translated  it,  "children,  or  Natives,  (perhaps  outcastes)  of 
Siahai,  or  Hocha."    Aaiatic  lietearchet,  Vol.  5,  Piige  28. 


BEEBEE  OF    CANNANORK.  367 

their  language  i&  likewise  such  as  is  not  found  elsewhere,  being  a 
combination  and  corruption  of  several  tongues. 

Befcve  the  arrival  of  Yasco  de  Qama,  the  Mojdahfi  had  increased 
the  trade  of  the  cities  on  the  Malabar  coast,  and  th^  people  were  in 
a  flourishing  condition  though  having  no  Emir  of  note,  they  sub- 
mitted to  Pagan  laws.  But  none  of  their  race  were  ever  executed, 
until  tliose  of  his  sect,  first  confinned  the  judgment* 

In  the  foregoing  pages,  it  has  been  shown  that  they  invariably 
filled  against  the  Europeans,  as  well  as  the  many  sources  of  irritation 
they  encountered.  In  the  last  chapter,  it  has  also  been  stated  that 
they  massacred  the  Jews,  a  people  accursed  by  Mahomed;  whilst 
they  persuaded  the  Samorin,  to  expel  the  Syrian  Christians  from 
his  territories,  which  was  tha  principal  reason  of  their  seeking  refuge 
in  tha  Cochin  aod  Travanoore  States. 

The  Mahomedan  author  Zeireddein,  writing  about  two  centuries 
and  a  half  since,  gave  his  version  of  the  manner  in  which  this  sect  was 
treated  by  the  Portuguese.     He  was  naturally  as  much  biassed 
against  the  latt^  people,  as  their  authors  were  against  the  Moplahs. 
He  says  tliat  because  the  Mussalmen  sinned  so,  Qod  sent  the  Por- 
tuguese to  punish  them,  by  oppression,  and  cruelty,  that  they  beat 
and  derided  them,  sunk  or  stranded  their  vessels,  spit  in  their  faces 
when  they  met,  prohibited  them  from  making  voyages  to  Mecca, 
plundered  their  property,  and  burnt  their  houses  and  Mosques. 
That  they  also  endeavoured  to  persuade  the  followers  of  the  crescent, 
to  embrace  the  cross,  and  offered  pecuniary  rewards  to  those  who 
would  accede.     Hacyees  and  others  were  put  to  cruel  deaths.  Ma- 
homed  was  publicly  seviled,  and  his  followers,  sold  as  slaves,  or 
else  led  about  loaded  with  irons,  and  large  ransoms  demanded  from» 
their  friends,  and  until  these  were  obtained,  they  were  confined  at 
night  time,  in  dark,  noisome,  and  hideous  dungeons :  beaten  with 
slippers,  tortured  by  fire,  and  had  the  most  severe  tasks  imposed 
u[>on  them.     The  Cochin  Hajah  he  observes,  refused  to  debar  tha 
Mahomedans  from  trafficking  in  liis  countiy,  when  reqjaested  to  do 
so,  by  the  Portuguese. 

The  Beebee  of  Gannanore,  may  be  considered  as  the  chief  of  the: 

*  ToIifut'Ul-Mujahidecn  translated  by  RawliiiAon. 


368  THX  MOPiuins  or  malabar. 

Moplahsy  she  purchased  ihat  fort  of  the  Dutch;  aad  ia  beUeved  to 
be  desceuded  from  a  young  Hmdu  lady,  who  fell  in  lore  with  a  Mop- 
lahf  and  married  him :  subaequently  when  they  became  poasesaed 
of  hindy  and  afterwards  of  a  f ort^  they  became  looked  up  to,  aa  tiie 
head  of  their  aect  Of  course  succession,  went  throng  the  female 
line.  Even  now,  the  Beebee  keeps  up  the  remembrance  of  her  Hindu 
relatives,  and  mourns  three  days,  when  a  death  amongst  them  occurs, 
sending  rice,  and  other  presents,  to  the  bereaved  ones. 

Hyder  when  he  took  possession  kA  the  Malabar  coast,  gave  the 
Ady  Rigah  of  Cannanore,  extensive  powers,  but  some  of  this  race, 
even  fought  against  the  Mahomedan  conquerors,  and  joined  their 
forces  in  the  field  to  those  of  the  Hindus.  In  1785,  a  powerfid 
Mophih,  of  Munjerry  in  Emaad,  north  of  Calicut,  rose  in  rebdlioD 
against  llppoo's  Qovemment,  and  was  with  great  difficulty  subdued. 
In  1789  even  the  Beebee  of  Cannanore^  requested  leave  to  enter  the 
English  Fort  of  Tdlicheny,  to  escape  Tippoo,  but  in  the  following 
year  they  arranged  matters,  and  again  became  firm  friends.  It  was 
the  Moplohs,  who  murdered  the  Chief  of  the  English  Factory  at 
Aigengo,  and  his  suite,  whilst  on  a  visit  to  the  Queen  of  AttingaL 
Whilst  in  the  ascendant,  they  despoiled  the  Hindus  their  former 
masters,  who  when  they  again  became  rulera,  ^  considered  it  no 
'^  crime,  to  put  a  Moplah  to  death.'' 

At  the  end  of  the  last  century,  when  Malabar  was  distracted  by 
wars,  and  desoLkted  both  by  those  who  called  themselves  its  friends, 
as  well  as  by  its  avowed  enemies,  the  Moplahs  were  divided  into  two 
distinct  classes,  those  residing  along  the  sea  coast^  who  were  traders 
or  large  farmers ;  and  those  inland,  called  ^  jungle  Moplahs,"  who 
lived  by  rapine,  murder,  and  kidnapping  children,  some  of  whom 
they  sold  as  slaves  to  the  supercargoes  of  vessels,  but  the  greater 
part  to  the  French  at  Mah6,  and  the  Dutch  in  Cochin.  The 
jungle  Moplahs  defied  Tippoo's  troops,  and  not  unfrequently  plun- 
dered his  inland  treasuries,  and  defeated  those  in  charge  of  his 
property.  When  they  took  any  spoil,  they  immediately  divided  it, 
and  dispersed.  Their  houses  were  Uke  small  fortresses,  surrounded 
by  strong  walls,  with  loop  holes  for  musquetry. 

A  sticcesdan  tax  was  levied  in  Malabar,  under  the  native  Princes 
on  the  estates  of  all  Moplahs  who  died  leaving  heirs,  and  varied 


MOPLAU   C0NYEET8.  369 

from  Ith  to  i^th  of  the  amount  bequeathed.  Tlie  origin  of  this 
impost,  is  lost  in  obscurity,  but  legends  assert  it  to  be,  coeval  with 
the  advent  of  the  Arabs  to  the  coasts  although  it  was  occasionally  held 
in  abeyance.  The  English  abolished  it  in  1792,  and  in  the  following 
year,  made  many  fruitless  attempts,  to  quiet  this  unruly  race. 

Moplahs  in  the  native  state,  receive  much  more  consideration 
firom  the  petty  and  village  OflB^dals,  than  do  the  native  Christians. 
They  are  never  kept  waiting  for  hours,  and  then  probably  directed, 
^  to  come  to-morrow,"  Every  Mahomedan  Moplah,  if  only  a  convert 
of  a  few  days'  standing,  will  be  received  with  civility,  and  if  kept 
waiting,  have  a  seat  given  him. 

During  the  Mahomedan  rule,  thousands  as  already  stated,  were 
forcibly  converted  to  this  faith  :  and  strange  to  say,  they  became  as 
bigoted  ftnd  intolerant  in  their  new  religion,  as  if  they  had  always 
belonged  to  that  sect.  They  or  their  descendants,  and  those  latterly 
converted  are  now  known,  as  the  "  new  Moplahs,"  in  contradistinc- 
tion to  the  old  races.  They  could  not  again  become  Hindus,  unless 
by  greatly  sinking  in  rank,  and  importance,  so  they  embraced  the 
new  sect,  and  spread  it  as  widely  as  they  were  able.  At  the  present 
time,  they  are  purchasing  young  children,  and  bringing  them  up  in 
their  faith,  and  thus  this  sect,  is  rapidly  increasing.  They  also 
convert  many  Christians,  though  they  themselves  are  apparently 
never  converted  to  any  other  faith.  Near  Calicut,  the  kite  Mr.  Conolly^ 
a  Collector,  (who  was  murdered  in  his  house  by  Moplahs,)  establish- 
ed a  colony  of  Niadia,  (see  page  333,)  and  gave  them  ground  to  culti- 
vate.  After  a  time.  Government  handed  the  experiment  over  to  the 
German  Mission,  who  sent  tkem  a  resident  schoolmaster,  and  thus 
succeeded  in  converting,  and  baptizing,  three  of  them.  The 
Moplahs  then  determined  on  proselytizing  this  set  of  people,  and 
suddenly  all  but  the  three,  who  had  been  baptized,  left  the  Mission 
village,  and  were  Teceived  into  the  Moplah  community,  where  they 
speedily  became  converts  to  Islam. 

The  small  communities  of  true  Mahomedans  in  the  Cochin  State, 
afe  Sheeas  and  Safis  ;  whilst  the  Moplahs,  are  Soonees,  and  Hana- 
fites,  still  they  agree  very  well.  They  increase  rapidly,  and  it  is  re- 
markable, what  a  much  finer  race  they  are,  than  their  Hindu 
brethren.    This  perhaps  is  due,  to  their  eating  meat,  (with  the  ex- 

y  1 


370  PRIBSTS  AND   CEREMONIES. 

eeption  of  pork,)  and  partly  probably,  to  their  indulging  in  spiritn- 
ous  liquors  in  private.  Their  countenances,  ahow  the  play  of  their 
minds^  more  tiian  do  thoee  of  MahomedaaB  elsewhere. 

The  Koran*  is  written  in  Arabic,  which  few  but  the  Priests 
understand,  it  is  held  in  great  reverence  by  some  sects,  and  never 
carried  lower  than  the  girdle.  In  education,  a  smattering  of  Arabic 
is  taught  in  their  schools. 

Their  e&w/  prie§ty  whose  office  is  hereditary,  is  called  a  Tungel, 
he  usually  resides  at  Ponany,  but  is  now  a  transported  felon,  for 
inciting  his  caste  to  iosnrreotion,  and  the  commission  of  murders. 

The  head  Priest  in  each  Mosque,  is  also  called  a  Tungel,  and  another 
an  Imam,  these  inferior  clergy,  are  suf^rted  by  their  congregations. 
They  are  jealous  of  any  one,  even  approadiing  their  mosques,  and 
are  so  unsociable,  that  they  will  not  assemble  in  any  tiumbers 
to  pray.  Their  prayers  should  be  recited  five  times  daily,  and  on 
Fridays,  should  be  repeated  at  the  muiegeed.  Boys  are  named 
about  the  seventh  day  after  birth,  when  their  heads  ought  also 
to  be  shaved.  They  may  be  circumcised  at  any  age,  but  generally 
are  so,  before  ten,  this  rite  is  not  essential  to  the  Mah<miedaii 
reli^on,  but  is  universal  in  India,  amongst  those  of  this  creed, 
Their  ears,  are  never  bored :  from  an  early  age  they  carry  a  sheathed 
knife,  as  the  terrible  Kydakathee,  or  Moplah  knife,  has  been  inter* 


*  It  has  been  already  shown,  (Chap.  Til)  hovr  the  Hindus  venerate  the 
Vedas,  and  what  car«  they  take,  to  prevent  their  even  being  seen  by  the  lower 
castes :  how  carefully  the  Jews  preaerve  their  Pentateuch,  and  the  honour  in 
which  they  hold  it  It  has  been  diacuBsed,  whether  the  Bible  ought  or  ought 
not  to  be  in  the  hands  of  all  indiscriminately.  The  Roman  Catholics  consider 
that  the  former  course  would  end  in  its  not  being  respected,  whilst  on  the 
other  hand  many  Protestants  think  it  wonkL  be  advisable  to  use  it  as  a  class 
book  in  the  schools.  It  may  well  be  remarked,  with  what  respect  the  Koran 
is  treated  by  the  SCahomedans.  In  a  public  diiicusaion  in  Mysore,  regarding 
the  respective  merits  of  the  Christian  and  Mahomedan  faith,  the  Misaionary 
produced  his  bible,  "but  a  difficulty  arose  about  the  Koran,  for  the  Jury  insist- 
^  ed  on  its  being  produced.  After  much  delay,  discussion,  and  anger  amongst 
"the  Muasalmen,  it  was  brought  carefuUy  folded  in  a  handkerchief^  and  a 
'*  chair  provided  for  its  reception,  ^  *  as  the  Jury  could  not  deface  tbes 
•*  books,  or  even  touch  them,  they  were  carefully  folded  up  in  a  handkerchief, 
"  and  the  mark  was  put  upon  the  knot,  so  that  it  could  not  be  opened,  but 
"  by  consent  of  the  Jury."-^MuUens'  Missions  in  <Sou<A  India,  1854. 


MABBlAtiKS.  371 

dieted,  by  order  of  Govenunent.  The  Musaalmen  wear  turbans 
but  the  Mophihs  do  not  do  9o,  they  have  aa  a  rule,  a  small  piece  of 
clotili  around  their  heads,  or  wear  Arab  caps.  Qirk  have  holes 
bored  in  their  ears,  as  a  mark  of  affiaction,  consequently  the  more 
they  are  bored,  the  greater  their  parent's  love  for  them  may  be  sup- 
posed to  be. 

In  their  feoitSy  their  marriages,  and  their  rejoicings,  the  forbid- 
den music  finds  a  place :  in  the  processions,  flags  are  carried,  whilst 
the  plantain  and  the  cocoanut,  the  lime  and  the  orange,  are  employed 
by  them,  in  the  same  manner  as  by  the  Hindus. 

It  is  essential  for  Moplahs  to  marry,  and  this  rite  is  considered  aa 
a  species  of  foretaste  of  their  paradise,  consequently  they  are 
particular,  about  the  feasts  and  ceremonies  connected  with  it 
Mahomed  advised  those  of  his  followera,  who  were  too  poor  to 
marry,  to  retire  from  the  world,  and  pass  their  days  in  devotion. 
The  bride's  family  seek  a  husband  for  her,  thus  a  father  sends 
some  persons  to  the  friends  of  a  youth,  whom  he  considers  suitable, 
and  the  bridegroom  requires  a  present^  in  return  for  manying  the 
daughter,  as  well  as  her  dowry.  The  Haaafites  sometimes  espouse 
brides  under  ten  years  of  age,  but  the  Safis  do  this  more  rarely. 
AJil  preliminaries  being  settled,  and  a  day  for  celebration  of  the 
betrothal  fixed,  the  bridegroom  attended  by  his  friends,  proceeds 
to  the  bride's  house,  where  her  father  meets  him,  and  sprinkles 
him  with  rose  water,  whilst  some  matrons  anxious  to  avert  the  evil 
eye,  advance  with  a  basin,  containing  water,  turmeric,  cusa  grass, 
and  other  seeds,  which  they  whirl  three  times  round  his  head. 
The  party  then  proceed  to  a  pandall,  under  which  they  sit  on 
carpets,  or  mats,  spread  on  the  ground.  Here  they  amuse  them- 
selves, by  chewing  betel,  and  some  elder  introduces  the  subject. 
Numerous  questions  are  asked  by  both  sides,  at  the  termination  of 
which,  betrothal  takes  place,  in  the  form  of  a  contract,  in  which  the 
amount  to  be  paid  is  stipulated.  Trays  containing  some  of  the 
money,  are  then  brought  in,  together  with  some  presents,  and  a  gold 
ring,  which  is  touched  successively  by  each  person  present  The 
Priest  then  places  the  ring  on  the  bridegroom's  finger,  and  the 
bride's  father  gives  the  contract  to  the  Casee,  to  file  amongst  the 
records  of  the  Temple.    Betel  is  then  distributed,  and  after  the 


372  FUNERALS. 

bride's  father  has  rubbed  sandal  wood  on  the  breasts  of  his  gnestd, 
they  withdraw. 

The  marriage  often  does  not  take  place  for  some  time ;  in  the  intef- 
mediate  period,  care  is  taken  to  choose  a  lucky  day,  whilst  in  the 
unlucky  months,  espousals  may  be  said  to  be  almost  prohibited* 
Also  ''on  the  third  day  of  the  new  moon,  as  Adam  was  then  ezpel- 
"led  from  Paradise:  on  the  fifth,  when  Jonah  was  swallowed  by  a 
**  whale :  on  the  thirteenth,  when  Abraham  was  thrown  into  the 
"  fire  :  on  the  sixteenth,  when  Joseph  was  lowered  into  a  well :  on 
''the  twenty-first,  when  Job  was  afflicted  with  diseases:  on  the 
"  twenty-fourth,  when  Zachariah  was  murdered :  on  the  twenty-fifth 
"  when  Mahomed  had  his  front  teeth  broken  by  a  sling/'  Marriages 
are  mostly  celebrated  in  January,  April,  August,  Octob^,  and  No- 
vember, excluding  all  the  days  having  bad  omens,  as  enumerated. 

It  is  needless  to  detail  the  whole  of  the  ceremony,  the  most  im- 
portant and  concluding  part  of  which  is,  when  the  Tnngel  goes  into 
the  inner  room  with  the  bridegroom,  unites  his  little  finger  to  that 
of  the  bride,  and  pronounces  a  benediction.  A  gold  chain,  or  a 
string,  sometimes  of  beads,  in  the  form  of  a  tali,  is  usually  htmg  around 
the  bride's  neck  at  some  convenient  time,  subsequent  to  the  ceremony. 

The  richer  and  some  of  the  stricter  Mahomedans,  rigidly  seclude 
their  women,  who  have  to  keep  their  faces  covered,  when  going  out, 
but  these  are  exceptional  cases.  The  Moplah  women,  are  usually 
allowed  to  go  about,  like  those  of  the  Hindus.  These  Moplahchees  are 
amongst  the  dirtiest  people  in  India,  wearing  their  clothes  until  they 
almost  rot  off  them :  even  in  chewing  betel,  they  have  the  objection- 
able practice,  of  sitting  outside  their  houses  and  spitting*  inwards 
through  the  door.  Their  filth  is  said  to  be  considered  a  sign,  that 
they  are  good  housewives.  Their  necks  are  often  covered  with 
strings  of  beads,  their  arms  with  bangles,  as  are  also  their  ankles, 
whilst  their  ears  are  weighed  down  with  ornaments. 

Their  burial  grovaid  is  in  Muttencherry.  After  death  the  feet  of 
the  corpse  are  tied  together,  as  are  also  the  hands,  and  the  face  is 

*  This  practice  ia  held  in  the  greatest  detestation  by  the  HinduR,  for  doing 
Buch  inside  the  hoose,  is  considered  the  height  of  filtbineas.  Hindus  (if  higli 
caste)  can  hardly  be  induced  to  touch  a  letter  closed  with  a  wafer,  ao  they 
believe  it  must  hare  been  touched  by  the  tongue. 


initied  totralrds  Itecica :  a  lamp  is  kept  lighted  at  the  head,  and 
thoB  it  remainfly  until  the  time  of  burial,  whilst  loud  lamentations 
are  made  by  the  women.  The  body  having  been  washed,  ia  dressed 
and  enveloped  in  a  long  shroud,  reaching  to  the  ankles,  and  is  then 
wound  round  by  a  sheet  i  whilst  males  have  on  their  usual  head- 
dress, the  true  Mahomedans  turbans,  the  Moplahs  their  caps,  or  a 
piece  of  cloth.  At  the  time  of  burial,  the  corpse  is  first  carried  to  the 
Moeqtte,  where  a  ptayer  is  recited  by  the  Priest,  and  then  it  is  taken 
to  the  place  of  sepulture.  It  iA  buried  with  its  face  dotmtmrdd,  and 
never  enclosed  in  a  coffin.  Sometimes  it  is  surrounded  by  planks^ 
bound  round  by  cords,  but  like  the  Jews,  never  secured  together  by  iron 
nails.  On  the  fortieth  day,  the  relations  go  to  the  tomb,  and  place 
a  white  cloth  over  it,  bum  incense,  and  offer  up  proyers.  The  rich» 
classes  entertain  the  poor,  on  each  anniversary.  Tombs  of  females, 
are  quite  plain :  but  those  of  males,  have  a  small  round  piece  of 
cfaunam  work  at  the  top.  In  most  of  their  burial  grounds,  are  seen 
the  custard  apple,  the  guava,  and  the  pomegranate,  trees. 

The  fast  of  the  MohorrutHy  is  kept  by  the  Safis,  who  are  Sheeas, 
but  not  by  the  Jonnaga  Moplahs,  who  are  Hanafites  and  Soonees : 
although  these  last,  do  not  object  to  join  in  the  procession,  should 
they  meet  it  by  accident  The  taboot  which  they  bear  down  to  tlie 
sea  beach,  consists  of  a  wooden  framework,  covered  with  cloth,  paper, 
and  tinsel,  and  is  rarely,  if  ever,  mounted  on  wheels.  Before  it  starts, 
the  Mahomedans  dance  around  a  fire,  shouting  the  names  of  the 
Imams,  and  that  of  Ali,  and  cursing  his  murderers,  as  well  as  the 
three  usurptts.  The  fast  has  more  the  appearance  of  a  feast,  and 
instead  of  a  time  of  mourning,  appears  to  be  held  as  one  of  r^oicing. 

The  Moplahs  are  strict  in  keeping  the  Eamzan,  when  they  strictly 
fast  for  30  days,  bewail  the  sins  of  the  preceding  year,  and  give  of 
their  substance  to  their  poorer  brethren. 


CHAPTER  X. 


PSOPIiE,  AND  THEIK  CUSTOMS. 
CensUA^  Bthnology—  IiM^iage— Diviaoos  of  time—  Birth  —  HoroBOope  — - 
Children — Marriagea —  Dealha— Offenoes — Laws— Ordeals —  Omena*-  Super* 
Blitiona— Etiquette— Marks  of  dlstiactlons — Letters — Poetry — Husio — Tbaa- 
tricals — K&utehes— Amuaemeiito—  Dress-'-Oniameota — UmbraUas-^-HooBea 
^Fumitura— -Hospitality— Food. 

The  inhabitants  of  the  Cochin  State,  in  the  year  1857,  numbered 
399,056  :  out  of  which,  133,037  were  engaged  in  agriculture.  The 
ChrutianB  of  all  denominations,  were  88,920  :  Makamedans  18,496  : 
Jettf  1,790 :  and  the  Hindus  229,950 :  of  these  last,  4,101  were 
Kamboories,  and  Imbran  Brahmans :  and  10,882  other  Brahmans, 
this  includes  5,810  Konkanies  :  422  were  Schatriyas  :  Tysias  not 
even  mentioned  :  and  the  remainder  Sudras,*  out  of  which  51,305 
were  soil  slaves.  Thus  giving  an  average,  of  352}  individuals,  to 
every  square  mile  of  territory. 

In  the  Town  of  Ck)chin,  and  the  British  territoiy,  the  population 
which  is  a  floating  one,  was  in  1861,  according  to  the  census,  1 1,449: 
of  these,  205  were  Europeans,  and  Eurasians  :  6,569  Native  Chris- 
tians :  3,455  Hindus  :  1,186  Mahomedans  :  and  84  Jews. 

Without  asserting  the  perfect  accuracy  of  these  figures,  it  will  be 
sufficient  to  observe,  that  they  were  taken  from  official  sources,  and 
are  consequently  a  nearer  approach  to  the  truth,  than  any  mere 
suppositions  are  likely  to  be.  Certainly  the  census  papers,  do  not 
place  the  number  of  the  population,  at  so  high  a  rate  as  is  generally 
believed  :  but  the  country  in  accordance  with  its  physical  aspect, 
must  be  thinly  populated.  A  large  portion  of  it  is  covered  with 
uninhabitable  forests  :  a  considerable  amount  with  water,  and 
marshes  :  and  much  with  inhospitable  scrubby  jungle,  or  stunted 
grass,  growing,  or  rather  existing,  on  a  laterite  bed.  These  localities) 
are  of  course  almost  destitute  of  human  beings. 

*  By  Sudras  in  meaut,  all  castes  uot  wearing  the  sacred  string,  including  out- 

ca^itea. 


ETHNOLOGY.  375 

An  examination  of  the  old  censiu  returns,  shows  a  marked  increase 
in  the  population.  That  of  the  I^aiive  State  in  1836*  was  taken  at 
288,176  which  in  21  years,  would  show  an  increase  of  110,880 
persons^  which  ia  simply  impossible  :  unless  accounted  for  by  exten- 
sive immigm^n.  The  reason  of  the  apparent  increase  is  probably, 
that  many  of  the  lower  castes,  which  may  have  been  formerly 
omitted,  now  find  a  place.  But  that  the  population  does  augment, 
much  more  rapidly  than  in  olden  times,  cannot  be  doubted  :  the 
frequent  and  sanguinaty  wars,  the  daUy  murders,  and  the  annual 
export  of  thousands  of  slaves,  are  all  things  of  the  past,  which  it  is  to 
be  hoped  will  in  future  be  unknown.  The  tranquil  pursuits  of  peace, 
have  superseded  those  of  warfare  :  and  at  the  present  time,  there 
are  probably  more  ploughs,  than  swords,  to  be  found  in  the  Ck)chin 
State. 

Among  such  a  very  varied  population,  it  would  be  difficult  as 
well  as  tedious,  to  give  a  detailed  account,  of  the  Ethnology  of  each 
separate  race,  with  the  manners  of  each  tribe,  and  the  limguage  of 
each  people.  A  general  summary  of  the  indigenous  Hindu  popuk- 
Uon,  will  only  tiieref ore  be  detailed,  with  whom  the  Native  Chris- 
tians, black  Jews,  and  Moplahs,  have  many  general  features  in 
common. 

The  following  figures,  give  the  average  height,  and  size  of  limbs, 
in  four  classes  of  the  people. 

Caste.       Age.    Height    Head.    Neck.    Chest.    Arm.    Thigh. 

Naiia. ....26-5       639        223      142      334      107      18*6 

Chogans. 34-6       641        214      132      327       10-1      18-8 

N.  Chri8tians..280       62-4       21-6      13-2      31*4       10-1      17-6 
MopUhs 357       63-5        204      139       323       104      18-0 

Average. 634        21-4      13*6      32-4       10-3      18-2 

Average  on  the  east 

coast.! 64-8       208       11-9       31-3         89     161 


•  Returns  of  LieutenantB  Connor,  and  Ward.     .V.  S.  S.  CJicial  Records. 

f  Short.—Madnu  Medical  Journalj  vol.  IV.  page  108,  1862.  Ethnology  of 
Chinglcputw 


376  PBMALE9. 

It  1^  be  seen  by  the  above,  that  although  the  Natives  of  the 
Eastern  Coast  at  Chingleput,  are  taller  than  those  of  Cochin,  the 
size  of  their  heads,  and  extremities,  are  considerably  smaller.  Much 
of  this  increased  muscularity,  is  probably  due  to  harder  work,  as, 
this  is  a  sea  port  town,  in  which  considerable  manual  labour  is 
required  from  some  Castes :  whilst  the  limbs  of  the  Chogans,  are  of 
course  rendered  very  muscular,  by  their  occupation,  which  consists 
mostly  in  climbing  Cocoanut  trees. 

It  is  difficult  to  say,  why  the  Chogan  should  be  taller  than  the 
Nair :  and  it  is  questionable,  whether  this  would  be'  the  case,  if  the 
examination  were  made,  of  the  inhabitants  of  a  considerable  tract  of 
country.  The  circumference  of  the  head  is  largest  amongst  the 
Nairs,  and  it  must  be  conceded,  that  they  are  as  a  race,  very  superior 
to  the  other  classes.  Even  on  the  eastern  coast,  it  is  perceived,  that 
the  circumference  of  the  Brahman's  head,  is  greater  than  in  any  of 
those  belonging  to  other  Hindu  castes. 

The  personal  appearance  of  the  people  of  this  coast,  is  as  varied 
as  in  Europe,  or  elsewhere.  Their  heads  are  well  formed,  and  the 
animal  developement  of  the  African,  is  rarely  seen  amongst  them. 
Their  shoulders  are  often  broad,  hands  small,  but  joints  rather 
large  :  feet  mostly  flattened,  and  1^  a  little  bowed.  They  reach  their 
prime,  about  their  thirtieth  year,  and  generally  weigh  from  seven  stone 
five,  to  seven  stone  ten.  Their  complexion  is  of  a  lighter  brown,  or  rather 
of  a  more  copper  coloured  tinge,  than  that  of  those  on  the  eastern 
coast :  and  the  higher  the  rank  and  station,  the  lighter  is  the  colour. 

They  are  able  to  carry  considerable  weights,  but  cannot  lift  them 
with  impunity,  although  they  are  well  adapted  for  traction,  and  pro- 
pulsion. 

The  women  differ  much  from  the  men  in  appearance.  The  Brah- 
manees  are  often  uncommonly  beautiful,  their  hair  being  ot  a  shining 
black,  and  their  eyes  either  of  the  same  colour,  or  of  a  dark  hazel. 
Their  dress  and  ornaments  have  been  ahready  described.  They  are 
exceedingly  cleanly,  (which  certainly  cannot  be  said  of  their  low 
caste  sisters,)  performing  their  ablutions  twice  a  day,  and  once  a  week 
anointing  their  bodies  with  Cocoanut  oil,  or  the  white  of  eggs.  There 
are  tanks  near  every  Pagoda,  in  which  the  higher  castes  can  bathe,  be- 
fore performing  their  devotions  ;  the  richer  classes  have  them,  also 


MA.LAYAUM   LANGCTAOE.  377 

inside  their  own  houses.  In  some  Pagodas,  these  tanks,  or  cisterns, 
are  of  granite,  and  of  beantifol  workmanship.  After  the  age  of  thirty, 
the  women  of  the  higher  castes,  arrive  at  the  downward  path  of  life. 
Cooly  women  are  broad  across  the  shoulders,  and  strongly  built  for 
work ;  loud  in  wrangling,  and  usually  possessed  of  inharmonious 
voices.  As  they  grow  old,  they  certainly  do  not  delight  the  eye  by 
their  beauty. 

The  people  of  Malabar  as  a  whole,  appear  to  enjoy  a  most  passive 
state  of  existence,  and  are  delighted  to  make  any  excuse  for  obtain- 
ing a  holiday.  No  matter  of  what  caste,  or  creed,  they  may  be,  indo- 
lence seems  to  constitute  the  acm6  of  their  happiness,  and  a  quiet  swing 
in  the  verandahs  of  their  houses,  or  a  lounge  under  a  tree  chewing 
betel,  is  much  preferred  by  them  to  any  active  pleasure,  which  entails 
exertion.  Their  meditations  do  not  disturb  their  tranquillity,  they 
reflect  not  on  the  past^  and  whilst  they  have  sufficient  for  to-day, 
they  are  indifferent  as  to  the  wants  of  to-morrow.  The  pay  of 
workmen,  and  coolies,  during  late  years,  has  risen  greatly,  and 
now  having  no  fear  of  the  heavy  exactions,  of  the  rapacious  Oo- 
venunents  of  former  days,  many  are  able  to  subsist  in  idleness  for 
a  week,  on  the  work  of  one  day.  In  promises  they  are  equally  pro- 
fuse, with  thdr  forgetfulness  in  performing  them.  Their  expressions 
are  florid,  and  often  interspersed  with  high  flown  similes.  They 
are  very  good-natured,  especially  the  Bomo-Syrians  :  but  very  inqui- 
sitive, although  suspicious  of  being  questioned  themselves,  and 
averse  to  giving  a  correct  reply  :  they  are  also  extremely  vindictive 
in  their  animosities.  The  Nairs  (more  especially,)  are  rather  lavish 
in  their  expenditure,  and  have  not  so  much  of  that  sordid  disposi- 
tion, frequently  found  in  Hindus  of  other  parts  of  India.  The  in- 
habitants of  Travancore,  and  Cochin,  are  celebrated  amongst  neigh- 
bouring tribes,  as  being  great  proficients  in  the  black  art,  and  even 
possessing  the  power  of  destroying  their  enemies. 

The  Malayalim  language  extends  from  Mangalore  to  Cape  Como- 
Tin,  and  is  one  of  the  Dravidian  family  group,  which  includes  ''  the 
Tamil,  Telugu,  Canarese,  Tulu,  Tuda,  Kota,  Gond,  and  Ku."  The 
roots  of  their  principal  words  are  either  identical  or  allied,  whilst 
the  idiom  in  all  has  the  same  peculiarities.  This  Dravidian  language, 
appears  to  have  been  that  of  the  dwellers  in  India,  before  the  advent 

z  1 


378  DIVISIONS   OF   TIME. 

ef  the  Hindus,  and  it  has  been  sunnised  that  it  originally  came  fromr 
central  Asia.  As  the  Hindus  bringing  the  Sanscrit  language  ex- 
tended from  the  North  West,  the  Dravidian  races  appear  to  have  been 
driven  Southwards,  or  partially  incorporated  amongst  those  of  the 
conquerors,  perhaps  forming  the  Sudras. 

As  the  Hindu  races  firmly  seized  upon  the  knd^  Sanscrit  words 
became  introduced  into  the  Dravidian  language  ;  thus  amongst  the 
Kardahs  of  the  Cochin  forests,  trades  and  occupations  have  Sanscrit 
designations,  but  the  language  ia  of  the  true  Dravidian  family.' 
Probably  until  the  Hindus  arrived  these  occupations  were  unknown^ 
and  that  whilst  communicating  a  knowledge  of  them  to  the  Dravidi- 
an races,  the  latter  retained  their  Sanscrit  nomenclature. 

If  the  usually  adopted  rule>  that  the  languages  of  people,  give  a 
clue  to  the  national  character  be  remembered,  that  of  Cochin,  would 
hardly  tend  to  raise  a  very  high  idea  of  the  inhabitants.  On  asking 
a  favour,  the  phrase  is,  "  ]fou  must  give"  " i^ou  had  better  give"  ov 
"  it  will  be  best  to  give."  If  the  petition  is  granted,  thanks  are 
considered  quite  superfluous,  indeed  there  is  no  word  in  which  to 
express  such :  thanks,  patriotLson,  and  some  others,  have  no  synonyms. 
The  same  may  be  observed  in  their  religious  ceremonies,  their 
prayers  are  long  and  frequently  repeated,  but  even  when  they 
believe  their  petitions  to  have  been  heard  and  favourably  received, 
thanks  are  exceedingly  rarely  offered  up.  Still  if  patriotism  does  not 
exist,  a  strong  affection  for  their  Native  land,  is  found  firmly 
rooted  amongst  the  Natives  of  these  parts:  they  can  rarely  be 
induced  to  leave  it  for  any  length  of  time,  and  should  they  do  so, 
they  rapidly  pine  away,  and  generally  before  long,  die  in  a  foreign 
land. 

Natives  of  other  parts  of  India,  when  wishing  delicately  to  insinuate 
that  a  person  is  not  telling  the  exact  truth,  often  say,  that  such  and 
such  a  statement,  ''  is  about  as  true,  as  the  word  of  a  Native  of 
Malabar.'' 

Time  is  reckoned  by  the  era  of  Farasu  Kama,  divided  into  cycles. 
For  astronomical  purposes,  they  use  the  Chaldsean  mode,  or  a  cycle 
of  sixty  years,  being  a  portion  as  they  believe,  of  a  period  of  24,000 
years,  which  ia  necessary  '^  before  the  whole  of  the  heavenly  host^ 
**  together  witk  tiie  fixed  stars  belonging  to  them,  can  perform  tkeir 


DIVISIONS   OP   DAYS.  37^ 

"^  revolution,  from  East  to  West.*^  The  year  is  365  days,  12'  30*, 
The  astronomical  new  year,  commences  in  April,  when  tlie  sun  en- 
ters under  the  sign  of  Aries  as  at  that  period  it  is  believed  the  world 
was  created.  At  this  time  a  great  festival  is  held,  offerings  are 
made,  and  some  Brahmans  amongst  other  ceremonies,  are  said  some- 
times to  strangle  a  ram,  consecrated  to  the  sun,  and  the  planets,  in 
€he  hope  of  inducing  the  genii,  to  give  them  good  fortune,  during 
the  ensuing  year. 

The  months  of  the  solar  year,  in  1862,  were  as  follows,  3fadum, 
« the  Ram,"  April  12th  till  May  12th  or  31  days.  Eddavuin,  "  the 
•«  Bull,"  till  June  12th  or  31  days.  Methunum,  "  the  Twins,"  till 
July  14th  or  32  days.  Cacadaum,  "  the  Crab"  tiU  August  14th  or 
31  days.  C%iw<7wm, "  the  lion,"  till  September  14th  or  31  days. 
Ci*nny,  "the  Virgin,"  till  October  16th  or  31  days.  Toolam,  "the 
Scales,"  till  November  14th  or  SO  days.  Vrecheecum,  "  the  Scorpion," 
till  December  13th  or  29  days.  Dhanoo,  "  the  Archer"  till  January 
11  th  or  29  days.  Magarcm,  "the  Goat,"  till  February  10th  or  20  days. 
Coombhum,  "the  water  bearer"  till  March  12th  or  30  days.  Menum, 
^'the  fishes"  till  April  13th  or  30  days.  The  civil  year  commences 
ynth  the  1st  of  Chingum,  or  about  the  middle  of  August. 

In  their  calculations,  the  days  of  the  new  and  full  moon,  are  not 
taken  into  account,'  but  they  reckon  those  of  the  increase  and 
•decrease;  thus  they  speak  of  the  first  day  after  the  new  moon.  A 
lunar  month  is  computed  from  the  new  moon  to  the  new  moon,  and 
appears  to  consist  of  27  days,  each  of  which  is  named  after  the 
constellation  in  which  the  moon  is  on  that  day.  To  adjust  the 
lunar  to  the  solar  year  additional  months  are  inserted.  The 
portion  of  a  month  from  new  to  full  moon,  is  called  the  "black 
moon  :"  fri»m  the  full  to  the  new,  the  "white  moon." 

Sunday y  Nyaraicha,  {Nayar,  the  sun.)   Monday^   Theengulaicha, 

4^Theengul,   the    moon.)     Tuesday y   Chowahaicha,   {Chowah^  Mars.) 

Wednesday y  Bhoodunnaicha.  {Bhoedunn,  Mercury.)  Thursday  Weeah- 

■saicha,  (Weeahshum,  Jupiter.)  Friday,  Welleyaicha,  {WelUyy  Venus.) 

JScUurday,  Sheneeaicha,  {Shenee,  Saturn.) 

The  twenty  four  hours  are  divided  into  sixty  Nazigas,  as  follows  ^ 

•  Paoli.    Page  848. 


380 


HOROSCOPES. 


eight  Nody,  one  Mathran :  four  Mathraa,  one  Ounnidun :  ten  Qnn* 
nidun,  one  ViruMigay  :  eix  VinaMigayy  one  Nmiga :  aizty  Nazigas,  aie 
one  day.  Thus  the  day  consistB  of  sixty  Malabar  hours,  each  contain' 
ing  twenty-four  minutes. 

During  the  last  ten  days  in  the  month  Carcadaum  (August)  high 
caste  Hindus,  will  neither  receive  nor  pay  away  money.  Should  it  be 
necessary  to  neceive  payment  for  a  debt,  they  depute  some  one  else 
to  undertake  the  office  for  them.  These  ten  days  are  considered 
very  unlucky.  They  also  have  no  money  tmnsaetions  on  their 
sabbath,  (Thursday):  but  Sunday  is  esteemed  a  most  propitious  day 
for  commencing  an  undertaking,  buying  land,  starting  upon  a 
journey,  or  beginning  to  build  a  house. 

When  a  child  is  expected,  the  friends  and  neighbours,  flock  to  the 
house,  and  crowd  the  rooms.  The  men  remaining  in  an  outer  apart- 
ment. Should  the  little  stranger  be  a  monstrosity  the  probability  is, 
that  some  poor  wretched  creature  will  be  accused  of  having 
bewitched  the  mother. 

The  directions  for  drawing  horoscopes  are  very  full,  and  there  are 
guides,  or  manuals  of  instruction,  to  the  table,  which  is  like  a  chess 
boaid,  with  sixteen  squares,  but  the  four  centre  ones,  are  not  em- 
ployed, thus  reducing  the  number  of  the  squares,  or  houses,  to  twelve* 


12 
Mercury, 
1  year. 

1 
Marsl^ 
months. 

2 

Jupiter  1 
month. 

3 

Venus  1 
month. 

11 

Saturn   1^ 

years. 

4 

Moon  24 

days. 

10 

Saturn  \\ 

years. 

5 
Sun  1 
month. 

9 

Mercury  1 
year. 

8 
Marsl^ 
months. 

^  7 
Jupiter  1 
month. 

6 

Venus  one 
month. 

Each  day  as  previously  mentioned,  consists  of  sixty  Nazigas,  of 


HOBOSCOPIC  XAJBLE.  381 

24  minutes  each.  The  sun  is  supposed  to  commence  at  the  division 
znarked  No.  1  or  on  the  1st  day  of  the  1st  month  of  the  Malabar 
year  and  daily  travels  through  every  compartment  of  the  horoscopic 
table.  In  No.  1  he  remains  4}  Naogas  :  hi  2, 4f  :  3, 5^  :  4t,  5  J :  5, 5^  : 
6  and  7,  5  :  8,5| :  9,5^:  10,5^  :  ll,4f  :  12,4^.  On  the  second  day 
the  sun  commences  ten  minutes  earlier,  from  the  house  No.  1 ;  on 
the  third  day,  twenty  minutes :  and  so  on,  every  day :  on  the  thir* 
tleth  day,  he  remains  at  home,  only  ten  minutes,  and  then  goes  on« 
The  moan  remains  2^  days  in  each  division  of  the  table,  and  com- 
mences  accordmg  to  the  star,  at  the  time  of  the  new  and  fall  moon. 
It  is  thus  27  days  going  round. 

Besides  the  Sun,  Moon,  and  the  Planets  named,  which  travel 
respectively  from  No.  1,  to  No.  12,  at  vajrious  rates  of  progression, 
marked  on  the  table,  there  are  two  other  very  wickedly  disposed 
reptiles,  who  have  an  influence,  on  the  good  or  bad  fortune,  of  the 
newly  bom  infant's  future  hfe.  They  are  called  the  black  snake, 
Jthagu,  and  the  red  snakie,  Khadu  ;  bad  as  the  first  is,  the  second  is 
much  worse.  As  might  be  anticipated,  they  travel  backwards,  from 
No.  12  to  No.  1,  and  they  loiter  one  and  a  half  years,  in  each  house. 
When  one  of  these  snakes  is  calling  at  No.  1  j  the  other  is  paying 
his  respeets  at  No.  7,  and  thus  when  Baghu  visits  No.  2,  Khadu 
has  progressed  to  No.  8. 

The  reputed  characters  of  the  tenants,  of  these  houses,  are  as 
follows :  the  sun  is  tolerably  good,  though  sometimes  bad.  Saturn 
and  the  two  snakes,  are  infamous,  and  Without  any  redeeming  quali- 
ties.  The  remainder,  are  all  reported  as  passably  good.  To  draw 
out  the  programme^  of  the  infant's  future  Hfe,  two  blank  tables 
are  constructed,  like  that  for  the  horoscope;  on  the  first,  the 
sun,  moon,  planets,  and  snakes,  are  placed  at  their  proper  posi- 
tion at  the  exact  moment  of  the  infant's  birth.  On  the  second, 
the  numbers  of  the  houses  of  the  child's  future  are  examined.  No.  1, 
is  the  birth  place,  and  from  whence  he  derives  his  education,  good 
looks,  and  fine  person.  No.  2,  if  the  omen  be  good  he  will  possess 
cattle,  a  weU  behaved  family,  and  will  also  become  rich,  and  a  scholar, 
every  comfort  in  fact  depends  upon  this  house :  if  a  bad  spirit  be  in  it, 
and  he  be  bom  in  that  bad  spirit's  abode,  he  will  have  good  fortune. 
No.  3,  bodily  strength  and  bravery.     No.  4,  his  mother's  house,  and 


382  HARRIAOES. 

if  his  own  compound  and  his  cattle  will  be  good.  No.  5,  the 
affection  of  his  children,  and  a  quiet  conscience.  No.  6,  if  he  is  to 
be  subject  to  robbery,  or  a  robber  himself.  Whether  he  shall  be 
healtbly>  or  the  reverse.  No.  7,  what  sort  of  wife  he  will  have.  No. 
8,  length  of  his  life,  and  time  of  his  death.  No.  9,  length  of  bis 
father's  days.  No.  10,  ceremonial  performances  of  parents.  No.  11, 
no  harm  occurs  in  this  house,  but  future  gains.  No.  12,  the  same 
as  No.  8  and  No.  6  combined. 

From  a  comparison  of  these  tables,  the  astrologer  predicts  the 
various  events,  which  will  befal  the  child.  These  are  frequently  stat- 
ed in  a  very  vague  manner,  as  for  instance,  *'  if  the  child  lives  over 
ihe  fifth  year,  it  will  live  until  it  is  ten,"  or  that,  ^  in  such  and 
such  a  year,  a  great  misfortune  will  happen  to  it.'' 

There  are  various  ceremonies  to  be  performed  at  an  infant's 
l^rth,  and  subsequently  numerous  others  at  betrothals,  marriages, 
and  funerals,  some  of  which  have  been  detailed  in  the  preceding 
diapters.  As  a  general  rule,  mamage  occurs  at  such  an  early  age, 
that  it  may  simply  be  called  betrothal.  Girls  below  the  twice  bom 
class  who  have  arrived  at  maturity,  without  having  a  husband  to 
claim  them  are  considered  as  to  a  certain  degree,  lying  under  a  curse, 
but  this  is  not  regarded  with  such  horror  here,  as  in  many  other 
parts  of  Hindustan:  for  the- females  of  most  classes,  indulge  in  poly- 
andrism,  which  is  sanctioned  both  by  law  and  custom.  Amongst 
the  Native  Christians,  and  Syrians,  morality  in  the  European  sense, 
is  much. more  observed,  and  the  marriage  tie  is  considered  binding. 
Still  the  Hindu  Custom,  of  a  girl  being  betrothed  at  an  early  age, 
obtains  amongst  them.  The  bride  remains  in  her  father's  house,  for 
two  or  three  years,  and  then  with  many  ceremonies  is  removed  to 
that  of  her  husband.  The  Verapoly  Mission,  is  now  eneigetically 
attempting  to  stop  these  early  marriages,  and  should  they  succeed, 
they  will  have  conferred  a  great  blessing  on  their  people :  but  unfor- 
tunately, their  failure  is  too  probable.  A  single  girl  of  the  lower  castes 
after  eighteen,  is  looked  upon  as  a  disgrace  to  her  &mily,  which  in- 
deed she  generally  is,  or  soon  becomes,  owing  to  the  ill-treatment, 
and  abusive  taunts,  she  constantly  receives. 

Wrede  states,  (Asiatic  Researches,  voL  7,  Page  367,)  that  when  the 
Portuguese,  arrived,  the  Syrians  lived  in  villages,  in  stone  houses,  and 


MOURNING.  383 

mostly  in  North  Malabar,  and  that  their  weddings,  were  celebrated 
with  great  pomp  and  ostentation.  They  maintained  the  piivileges 
given  them  by  the  Permauls,  viz.  "of  the  Bride  and  Bridegroom, 
<<  riding  on  elephants,  having  their  hair  ornamented  with  flowers 
**  of  gold,  of  different  musical  instruments  playing  before  them,  as  also 
**  of  flags  of  various  colours  being  carried  in  front  of  them.  They 
**  also  wore  swords  and  targets,  and  some  of  them  had  firelocks." 
The  girls  were  precluded  from  all  inheritance,  even  if  there  were  no 
sons  in  the  fEunily,  the  property  going  to  the  next  male  cousin,  or 
uncle  on  the  father's  side.  A  Syrian  law,  exactly  contrary  to  that 
of  Malabar. 

It  is  directed  in  the  Hindu  Code,  according  to  Colebrook,  that  a 
dying  man,  should  be  laid  on  a  bed  of  cusa  grass,  if  he  be  a  Sudra 
either  in  the  house,  or  out  of  it  indifferently,  but  if  of  any  higher 
caste  he  must  be  placed  in  the  open  air.  A  Brahman's  corpse  should 
be  carried  out  of  a  town  by  the  Western  gate,  a  Schatriya's  by  the 
Northern,  a  Vysian's  by  the  Eastern,  and  a  Sudra's  by  the  Southern. 

After  a  death  in  a  family  the  room  in  which  it  occurred  is  sup- 
posed to  be  haunted  by  the  spirit  of  the  departed,  and  amongst 
wealthy  families  is  generally  not  used  again,  until  that  generation 
has  passed  away ;  the  successor  occupying  another  set  of  apartments, 
at  all  events  for  the  first  twelve  months ;  the  principal  ceremonies  for 
the  happiness  of  his  soul,  are  performed  by  the  nearest  male  rela- 
tive  of  the  deceased. 

Amongst  the  Schatryas,  the  chief  mourner,  does  not  shave  for 
twelve  months  after  the  event  has  occurred,  whilst  amongst  others, 
as  for  instance  some  of  the  Putter  Brahmans,  they  keep  their  hair 
(with  the  exception  oi  the  cudumi,*)  and  even  their  eyebrows  shaved 
off  for  a  year.  When  the  Biy'ah  dies,  all  the  Natives  in  the  place 
must  leave  off  their  turbans  for  ten  days,  as  a  sign  of  mourning, 
and  fishermen  are  debarred  from  following  their  avocation  for  three 
days,  for  fear  they  might  capture  one  of  the  finny  tribes,  in  which 
the  soul  of  the  departed,  has  obtained  a  dwelling. 

*  On*  seeing  a  ChriBtian  child  wearing  a  Cudumi,  the  parents  were  asked  the 
reason :  they  replied  that  it  was  not  done  for  caste  purposes,  but  to  keep  the  head 
warm  and  protect  the  fontanelle.  Some  of  the  Natives  who  dress  as  EuraeiaDS, 
shave  the  back  of  the  head  and  wear  a  skull  cap. 


384  ,  IDEAS    OP   VERACITY. 

The  crime  of  infanticide  is  unnecessary  in  these  parts,  and  almost 
unknown.  The  domestic  lives  of  the  people,  appear  to  be  less  dis- 
turbed, by  quarrels  and  jealousies,  (because  they  have  no  one  to  be 
jealous  of,)  than  in  most  other  portions  of  India,  with  the  exception 
of  the  Brahmans,  who  are  very  suspicious  of  the  fidelity  of  their  wives. 

In  times  of  famine,  mothers  sometimes  dispose  of  their  children, 
frequently  with  the  hope  of  being  able  to  redeem  them  in  more  pros- 
perous times.  The  Hindu  Laws,  contain  a  provision  for  these  cases, 
directing,  that  whoever  should  during  a  famine,  have  sold  his  liberty 
for  food  may  in  better  times  regain  his  freedom  on  returning  the 
amount  he  had  received,  and  giving  two  head  of  cattle. 

Many  of  the  laws  and  maxims  of  the  Natives,  are  good,  were 
they  followed  out.  In  former  times  a  person  convicted  of  telling 
an  untruth,*  was  tortured,  or  very  severely  punished,  were  this  not 
obsolete,  the  courts  of  justice  would  have  sufficient  employment,  as 
veracity  is  a  virtue,  unfortunately  not  too  prevalent  amongst  the  Nar 
tives  of  the  low  country,  but  in  the  wilder  parts  they  are  more 
truthful.  It  appears  that  the  further  they  are  removed  from  cities, 
and  communication  with  the  external  world,  the  more  their  word,  may 
be  relied  on.  This  can  scarcely  be  wondered  at,  subject  as  they  have 
been  for  centuries,  to  tyrannical  rule,  where  the  law  of  the  most  power- 
ful, has  by  force  of  circumstances,  been  that  of  the  countiy,  and  each 
official  has  had,  (and  truth  must  admit  many  still  have,)  their  price; 
dissimulation  has  thus  become  necessary,  and  fraud  been  so  thorough- 
ly engrafted  into  the  Native  Character,  that  many  a  long  year  must 
elapse,  ere  it  can  be  eradicated. 

It  is  a  curious  anomaly,  that  this  race,  who  think  it  no  crime  to 
cheat  a  white  man,  but  on  the  contrary  rather  a  meritorious  action, 

*  ICr.  HuUer,  a  German  mBsionary,  mentions  appe&ling  to  a  Hindu's  conscienoe, 
with  respect  to  the  future  rewards  of  good  and  eviL  The  Hindu  answered  by 
a  story.  A  butcher  bought  a  oow,  whilst  taking  her  home,  she  broke  her  rope 
and  escaped.  Going  in  pursuit  he  met  a  veracious  Hindu,  who  informed  him 
which  road  the  cow  had  taken.  Proceeding  a  little  further  asking  a  men- 
dacious Hindu,  he  told  him  the  wrong  road,  consequently  the  cow  escaped. 
After  death,  the  one  who  by  telling  the  true  road,  whereby  the  butcher  was 
able  to  pursue  the  oow  with  the  intention  of  slaughtering  her  was  adjudged  to 
be  gnawed  by  worms  for  twenty  lifetimes.  He  who  by  telling  an  untniUihad 
saved  the  cow's  life  was  adjudged  to  be  bom  twenty  times  a  king. 


ORDEALfl.  SSt') 

and  would  pilfer  a^  labourers,  are  as  a  rule  to  be  trusted  as  coolies, 
With  valuable  property,  to  carry  long  distances  ;  very  rarely  does 
the  cooly,  ever  abscond  with  his  load,  although  he  may  leave  it  in 
some  safe  place,  if  from  sickness  or  other  cause,  he  is  unable  to 
proceed  with  it  And  the  same  applies  to  Bills  of  Exchange,  given 
by  Natives,  scarcely  one  of  which,  was  ever  known  to  be  dishonour- 
ed. There  is  a  strong  underlying  vein  of  honesty  in  the  Natives  of 
India,  which  is  much  to  b3  admired,  and  esteemed. 

But  at  the  present  time,  perjury  Lh  unfortunately  very  frequent, 
a  devil-worshipper  would  as  soon  swear  anything  falsely,  as  state  it 
80 ;  as  an  oath  is  neither  binding  on  him,  nor  on  the  Hindu  idolater, 
it  was  therefore  ordained,  that  in  trying  doubtful  cases,  ordeals 
should  be  permitted,  the  same  as  at  the  present  day,  in  some  Christian 
countries,  lota  are  drawn.  Natives  when  remonstrated  with  for  swear- 
ing untruths  on  the  Ollahs,  reply  that  they  are  obliged  to  do  so  or 
they  would  obtain  no  justice. 

In  some  of  the  greater  crimes  sucli  as  dacoity,  murder,  (especi- 
ally those  of  children  for  the  sake  of  obtaining  their  ornaments,) 
and  inceudiariam,  the  people  of  this  portion  of  India  have  evident- 
ly undergone  a  change  for  the  better,  as  they  are  less  frequent  here 
than  in  many  other  localities.  Suicide  is  also  very  rare.  The  curse 
of  the  country,  is  the  universal  love  of  law  suits,  in  which  men  do 
not  mind  ruining  themselves,  provided  their  opponents  are  involved 
in  the  same  catastrophe. 

The  following  are  some  of  the  Ordeals,  which  were  prevalent  in 
olden  times.  That  of  the  Crocodile,  is  said  to  have  been  tried  in  the 
Cochin  state  during  the  last  fifty  years.  Ordeals  very  clearly  demon- 
strate, the  superstitious  character  of  the  people  by  whom  they  are 
employed,  or  rather  their  belief  in  the  efficacy  of  a  direct,  and  person- 
al appeal  to  the  Deity,  for  his  decision  in  difficult  cases.  In  1759 
Akbar  forbade  this  method  of  trial  in  his  dominions,  greatly  to  the 
disgust  of  the  Brahmans.  Several  forms  of  ordeal  were  made  use  of, 
up  to  the  middle  of  the  last  century,  some  in  the  commencement  of 
this,  and  others  at  the  present  time,  still  obtain.  Only  the  most 
common  forms,  are  detailed  here.  In  all  uistances,  when  the  accused 
came  off  scathless,  the  accuser  was  fined. 

The  water  Ordeals,  were  of  several  descriptions,  that  of  theCroco- 

A  2 


386  WATER  ORDEALS. 

dile  being  the  most  terrible,  near  Palliport,  the  Backwater  is  very  full 
of  these  creatures,  but  formerly  it  used  to  swarm  with  them.  The 
prisoner  was  first  taken  to  a  small  temple  in  the  vicinity  of  the 
place,  where  he  took  the  most  solemn  oaths,  as  to  the  justice  of 
his  cause,  and  called  upon  the  gods,  not  only  to  permit,  but  to 
direct  the  Crocodiles  to  eat  him,  were  he  not  telling  the  exact  truth. 
This  ceremony  over,  he  was  obliged  to  wade  across  the  water,  which 
was  eight  hundred  paces  wide,  and  then  return  to  the  place  he 
started  from.  Multitudes  awaited  the  result,  and  if  the  Crocodiles 
were  lazy,  or  not  hungry,  and  the  man  escaped  b^g  devoured,  his 
safe  return  was  hailed  as  a  certain  proof  of  his  innocence  ;  and  the 
contrary,  if  he  fell  a  victim  to  the  jaws  of  these  ravenous  monsters. 

Another  water  ordeal,  consisted  in  the  accused  standing  up  to  his 
waist  in  water.  A  Brahman  holding  a  stout  stick  in  his  hand,  being 
stationed  near  him.  A  sepoy  on  the  shore  then  shot  three  arrows 
from  his  bow,  when  a  man  was  sent  to  bring  back  the  arrow  which 
had  gone  the  farthest;  as  soon  as  he  had  picked  it  up,  another  per- 
son was  despatched  for  the  middle  arrow,  and  when  brought,  another 
for  the  nearest ;  as  soon  as  this  last  was  picked  up,  the  accused 
grasped  the  Brahman's  foot,  or  the  end  of  his  staff,  and  dived  under 
water.  If  he  raised  his  head,  or  body,  above  the  water,  before  the 
arrows  were  brought  back,  to  the  Sepoy,  it  was  considered  a  clear 
proof  of  his  guilt. 

.  A  mode  still  employed,  sometimes  even  in  the  houses  of  Euro- 
peans, and  giving  rise  to  much  unnecessary  misery,  is  often  thought- 
lessly practised  When  an  article  has  been  stolen,  and  there  is  no 
clue  as  to  the  robber,  a  person  writes  the  name  of  every  one  in  the 
house,  enclosing  each  piece  of  paper  in  a  ball  of  wax  and  other  ma- 
terials. These  balls  are  then  tossed  into  water,  and  that  bearing  the 
name  of  the  guilty  individual,  is  said  always  to  float  on  the  surface, 
Natives  believe  implicitly,  in  the  truth  of  this  trial 

Another  common  mode  in  criminal  cases,  was  for  the  accused  to 
take  three  draughts  of  water,  in  which  some  Hindu  Deity  had  been 
washed  for  the  purpose  :  if  he  remained  quite  well,  for  fourteen 
days,  he  was  considered  innocent,  but  if  any  sickness  *or  internal 
pain  occurred,  he  was  proved  guilty. 

In  some  places,  in  civil  cases,  both  Plaintiff  and  Defendant,  or 


OBD£AL  BY  THE  BALANCE.  387 

their  AdvocateSj  tried  who  could  remain  longest  under  water,  hold- 
ing on  by  some  stakes^  which  were  placed  for  that  purpose,  in  sanc- 
tified spots.  Whoever  remained  the  longest,  was  considered  in  the 
right  The  last  case  ended,  in  both  the  Advocates  being  drowned, 
and  as  both  could  not  have  been  wrong,  this  method  fell  into  dis- 
repute. 

Firt  ordealiy  or  by  heated  substances,  were  those  most  commonly 
employed ;  in  cases  where  the  person  was  accused  of  a  capital  crime, 
they  were  as  follows.  Some  days  before  the  trial,  the  prisoner's 
right  arm  and  hand  were  enveloped  in  wax  cloth,  and  sealed 
up.  When  the  day  of  the  trial  came,  a  cauldron  was  filled 
with  cocoanut  oil,  and  a  fire  placed  beneath ;  a  rupee,  or  some 
bright  substance  being  inside,  as  the  fire  gradually  heated  the 
oil,  the  accused  and  accusers  stood  round,  and  the  Brahman  invoked 
the  Deities,  to  show  by  the  result,  the  guilt  or  innocence  of  the  accused. 
When  the  oil  boiled,  the  latter  having  first  invoked  the  fire  to  declare 
the  truth  of  his  statements,  by  its  effects  on  his  arm,  thrust  it  into 
the  cauldron,  and  drew. up  the  rupee.  The  arm  was  immediately 
swathed  up  in  bandages,  and  sealed  with  the  judge's  seal,  the  man 
was  then  removed  to  prison.  At  the  end  of  fourteen  days,  the  seal  was 
publicly  removed,  and  the  arm  inspected,  when  if  no  scars  were  per- 
ceptible, he  was  held  guiltless,  and  acquitted.  It  was  supposed 
that  if  highly  paid,  the  Brahman  contrived  to  rub  some  substances 
f)n  the  arm  to  prevent  any  scalding  taking  place.  But  no  doubt  in 
many  cases,  the  immediate  and  total  exclusion  of  the  atmospheric 
air,  from  the  surface,  would  tend  to  heal  the  arm,  without  leaving 
any,  or  at  all  events,  only  a  very  slight  scar. 

Another  method  consisted,  in  holding  a  red  hot  piece  of  iron.  The 
accused  stretched  out  his  hand,  and  seven  leaves  of  the  Peepul  tree 
were  placed  upon  his  palm,  and  above  them  the  red  hot  iron,  and 
he  had  to  walk  backwards  and  forwards  thus,  for  a  certain  length 
of  time.  Sometimes  molten  lead  was  poured  over  the  palm  of  one 
hand,  or  at  others  the  accused  walked  over  a  fire,  made  by  burning 
Peepul  wood. 

Another  ordeal,  was  that  of  tke  balance.  The  accused  and  a 
Pundit^asted  24  hours.  The  first  then  bathed  in  sacred  water, 
and  the  second  having  presented  oblations  to  the  Deity,  the  prisoner 


388  WlTCHCRAFl*. 

was  weighed.  The  Pundit  now  prostrated  hiixiself  before  the  SLcalesif 
and  having  written  the  accusation  on  a  piece  of  paper,  fastened  it  to 
the  man's  forehead.  He  was  then  after  six  minutes  had  elapsed, 
re-weighed,  and  if  his  weight  had  decreased,  he  was  considered 
guiltless,  if  it  had  increased,  guilty  :  and  if  the  same,  he  had  to  be 
weighed  again.  Should  the  balance  break,  it  was  never  doubted, 
but  that  the  weight  of  the  guilt  of  the  accused,  had  caused 
it  to  do  so. 

Ordeals  by  poison,  were  of  two  kinds  ;  in  the  first,  the  Pundits  per- 
formed their  oblations,  and  then  having  mixed  three  barley  corns 
of  a  poisonous  root,  or  of  white  arsenic,  in  thirty-two  times  its 
weight  of  ghee,  the  accused  was  obliged  to  eat  it  from  a  Brahman's 
hand.  If  it  had  no  injurious  effect,  he  was  declared  innocenti 
otherwise  as  certainly  guilty.  The  second  consisted  in  placing  a 
cobra,  in  a  deep  earthen  chatty,  into  which  was  thrown  some  coin, 
or  other  small  substance  :  if  he  could  take  this  out,  without  being 
injured,  he  was  proved  to  be  innocent  of  the  crime,  imputed  to  him. 
Another  Ordeal  consisted,  in  giving  a  number  of  persons  suspected 
of  theft,  some  rice  to  chew,  and  it  was  believed,  that  from  the  mouth 
of  the  guilty  one,  the  grain  would  come  out  dry.  Fear  of  detection, 
often  caused  this  trial  to  prove  correct 

Another  was  more  especially,  consecrated  to  the  God  of  Justice. 
An  image  was  made  of  silver,  and  another  of  iron  or  clay,  they  were 
then  thrown  into  a  jar  of  water,  if  the  accused  brought  out  the  silver 
one,  he  was  adjudged  innocent. 

Each  of  the  different  castes,  are  said  to  have  had  appropriate 
ordeals.  The  Brahmans  by  the  balance,  the  Schatriyas  by  fire,  the 
Vysias  by  water,  and  the  Sudras  by  poison  :  but  this  had  in  very 
early  days  fallen  into  disuse  in  Malabar,  and  only  those  below  the 
rank  of  Nairs,  were  usually  subject  to  ordeal  trials. 

The  lower  classes  of  Natives,  thoroughly  believe  in  the  possibility 
of  the  transmigration  of  evil  spirits  by  witchcraft,  into  persons*  bodies. 
It  is  thought  that  evil  spirits  can  be  placed  in  charge  of  fields  and 
gardens,  and  if  a  person  should  steal  any  of  the  produce  and  eat  it, 
he  would  be  afflicted  with  most  terrible  internal  pains^  which  can 
•be  only  removed  by  the  sorcerer,  or  the  person  from  whom  he  stole 
the  fruit.     It  is  also  believed,  that  a  sorcerer  can  produce  such 


SVIL  OMENS.  380 

intense  pain  in  the  thiefs  body,  that  he  will  be  glad  to  make  an 
immediate  confedsion,  in  hopes  of  getting  cured. 

It  is  also  believed  that  a  sorcerer  besides  afflicting  a  person  with 
disease,  can  remove  them  altogether  from  the  world.  If  a  true 
account  of  the  murders,  which  a  belief  in  sorcery  has  occasioned  in 
the  form  of  revenge  could  be  obtained,  a  most  horrible  revelation  of 
atrocities,  which  have  occurred  in  the  Cochin  .State,  would  no  doubt 
be  brought  to  light. 

The  Native  Christians,  and  Hindus,  have  many  charms  against 
the  evil  eye,  amongst  them  jewels,  and  tiger  s  claws,  set  in  silver, 
with  which  they  load  their  children.  The  Mahomedans  also  sus- 
pend charms  from  the  ceiling  for  the  same  purpose.  Whilst,  the 
Jews  put  figures  on  their  houses.  Women  were  not  allowed  to  under- 
go the  trial  by  water,  or  poison,  but  were  not  exempted  from  the 
other  forms  of  ordeal.  There  was  rather  a  curious  one  employed  in 
Trichoor  not  many  years  ago,  a  husband  su8i)icious  of  his  wife's  con- 
duct^ had  her  sewn  up  in  a  sack,  and  carried  to  an  upper  window,  and 
thrown  out :  her  guilt  was  judged  of,  according  to  the  ii\juries  she 
received. 

Amongst  a  people  given  to  trials  by  ordeal,  sacrifices  to  evil  spirits 
in  eveiy  form,  and  who  firmly  believe  that  ghosts  and  hobgoblins 
are  everywhere  around  them :  amongst  a  race  many  of  whom  even 
worship  the  first  animal  they  meet  in  the  morning,  a  tree,  or  a  block 
of  wood,  auguries  are  of  course  regarded  as  most  important,  and 
many  a  great  undertaking  is  postponed,  solely  because  some  antici- 
pated good  omen,  is  not  forthcoming.  No  one  would  tliink  of  con- 
tinuing a  walkf  should  a- black  cat  hapi)en  to  run  across  the  road  soon 
after  he  started.  If  a  Namboorie  setting  out  on  a  journey  meet 
another  Namboorie  he  invariably  retuniB  home,  and  if  possible  post- 
pones his  journey,  but  if  this  is  impracticable  he  remains  at  his  house 
half  an  hour  and  then  makes  a  fresh  start,  meeting  a  jackall  or  two 
Namboories  are  good  omens.  If  a  lizard  chiri)  upon  the  wall  the 
conversation  b  at  once  changed.  In  some  parts  of  India  no  answer 
is  returned  by  the  father  to  a  proposal  of  marriage  for  his  daughter 
until  the  lizard  has  made  itself  heard,  and  the  position  of  the  sound, 
its  loudness,  and  other  equally  important  differences,  determine  the 
tenor  of  the  reply.  Thursday  is  an  inauspicious  day.  Hawkers  cou^jider 


390  »T!Q0BW«. 

it  very  unlucky  should  they  not  sell  any  article  at  the  first  housd 
they  visit  in  a  day,  and  wotdd  rather  dispose  of  something  at  a  loss, 
than  part  with  nothing. 

The  Syrians  are  as  superstitious  in  their  way,  ad  the  Sindus. 
One  of  their  most  extraordinary  ceremonies,  consists  in  poking  out 
the  eye  of  Judas  Iscariot  On  good  Friday,  a  cake  on  which  is  a 
representation  of  an  eye,  is  placed  in  the  midst  of  the  family  circle- 
Each  person  is  armed  with  a  knife,  and  in  succession  makes  a  dig 
at  the  eye  :  after  this  is  satisfactorily  destroyed,  the  cake  is  cut  up, 
and  distributed. 

One  sect  were  said  not  long  since,  once  a  year,  to  have  had  their 
sins  written  out  on  a  piece  of  paper,  by  a  Catanar,  aiid  then  placed 
inside  a  loaded  bamboo  gttn,  and  dischai^d  in  the  midst  of  a  great 
feast :  the  uproar  thus  effectually  dissipating,  and  destroying,  their 
year's  accumulation  of  misdemeanours.  It  is  not  unusual  to  per- 
ceive the  skuU  of  an  animal,  raised  on  a  stick  in  a  Christian's  paddy 
field  to  avert  the  evil  eye,  in  the  same  way  as  in  those  of  the  sur- 
rounding Hindus;  and  very  many  of  their  superstitious  rites,  are 
identical. 

Of  course  atmospheric  disturbances  are  viewed  with  great  awe, 
an  eclipse  is  believed  by  the  vulgar  to  be  one  of  their  two  bad 
spirits,  swallowing  the  sun  or  moon.  A  comet,  is  supposed  to 
foretel  disasters^  a  dear  season,  or  a  frightful  sickness  :  and  light* 
ning  with  its  attendant  thunder,  is  believed  to  be  the  gods  waging 
war  in  Heaven,  or  elsewhere,  whilst  the  Mahomedans  assert,  the 
shootings  stars  to  be  missiles,  discharged  by  angejLB,  at  evil  spirits, 
who  are  listening  to  what  is  going  on  in  Heaven. 

Etiquette  is  a  subject  deserving  of  a  few  remarks,  those  in  power 
have  at  various  times  attempted  to  break  through  its  regulations, 
but  unsuccessfully.  He  who  disr^rds  its  observances,  is  liable  to 
be  disrespectfully  treated  in  public,  and  laughed  at  in  private.  Al- 
though to  many  Europeans,  it  may  appear  absurd  to  insist 
upon  Natives,  from  a  Prince  to  a  Cooly,  removing  their  shoes  when 
entering  an  European  house,*  still  all  who  understand  the  Native 
character,  must  admit  its  necessity  ;  they  themselves  originated  the 

*  In  some  places,  Shroffs,  have  been  excepted  from  this  rule. 


DISTAKCISS  B£tWXBK  CASTAS.  391 

custom,  in  the  same  maimer  as  Europeans,  have  the  removal  of  the 
hat  as  a  sign  of  respect. 

There  is  first  the  etiquette  of  caste,  which  has  of  late^  years  been 
broken  through  to  a  great  extent,  up  to  the  last  sixty  years,  low 
caste  Natives,  and  all  Europeans,  were  compelled  to  keep  to  the 
road  along  the  sea  beach,  those  inland  being  reserved  for  the  Nairs, 
and  those  of  superior  castes,  for  none  of  these  classes  approached 
the  sea,  excepting  at  certain  seasons  of  the  year  when  it  was  neces- 
sary for  them  to  do  so,  to  perform  certain  ceremonies  of  purifica' 
tion. 

On  certain  ceremonies,  the  town  gates  were  closed  for  several 
consecutive  days,  and  none  of  the  inferior  classes  Were  allowed  to 
enter.  Only  a  few  years  since,  the  Dewan  of  Travancore  at  the  in- 
stigation of  the  Brahmans,  forbade  Native  Christians,  the  use  of 
some  of  the  public  roads,  but  the  Court  of  Directors  qf  the  East 
India  Company,  advised  the  withdrawal  of  the  prohibition,  and  it 
was  consequently  withdrawn.  Missionaries  were  permitted  to  carry 
large  umbrellas,  which  secured  for  them  the  use  of  the  prohibited 
roads,  provided  they  kept  clear  of  the  Pagodas. 

The  rules  respecting  the  distances,  which  were  always  maintain- 
ed between  persons  of  the  various  castes,  and  subdivisions  of  such, 
do  not  appear  to  have  been  distinctly  laid  down,  but  formerly  they 
were  enforced  by  custom  much  in  the  following  manner.  A  Nair 
was  allowed  to  approach,  but  not  to  touch  a  Brahman  :  a  Chogan 
remained  21  addi,  or  feet  from  him  :  and  a  PuUien  above  twice 
that  distance :  a  Pariah,  Oolahdur,  or  Niadi,  64  addi.  A- Chogan 
dared  not  approach  within  twelve  paces  of  a  Nair,  if  he  did  so  in 
olden  times,  the  latter  was  considered  justified  in  cutting  him  down. 
A  slave  could  not  go  nearer  to  a  Nair,  than  he  could  to  a  Brah- 
man, whilst  he  might  not  touch  a  Chogan. 

The  result  of  all  this  now  is,  that  there  exists  overweening  arro- 
gance on  the  side  of  the  higher  castes,  and  cringing  servility  on  that 
of  the  lower.  From  continually  calling  out  from  a  distance,  to  be 
heard  by  persons  of  the  higher  orders,  the  majority  of  the  natives 
have  no  idea  of  modulating  their  voices,  but  shout  as  if  they  were 
speaking  to  a  deaf  person.  It  is  very  amusing  to  see  the  Eajah^s 
Sepoys,  armed  and  dressed  like  those  in  the  British  service,  and 


392  NATIVES   ADDftrSStKG  ONE   ANOTHER. 

going  out  in  charge  of  convicts ;  as  being  Nairs,  they  cannot  ap- 
proach their  prisoners,  for  fear  of  pollution,  and  consequently  keep 
a  long  way,  either  in  their  front,  or  in  their  rear. 

Persons  of  the  high  test  rank,  such  as  the  Rajali,  have  obeisance 
made  to  them  by  Sudras,  in  the  following  manner.  The  palms  of  the 
hands  are  first  brought  together,  and  then  usually  raised  to  the 
forehead,  or  should  it  be  intended  to  be  particularly  respectful,  they 
are  elevated  above  the  head  :  but  if  only  slightly  so,  the  thumbs  stop 
about  the  tip  of  the  nose.  The  hands  are  then  lowered  to  a  level 
with  the  chest,  from  which  a  space  of  about  six  inches  divides  them  : 
and  then  rapidly  folded  across  the  breasts,  which  expresses  a  hope 
that  the  good  pleasure  of  the  great  ^^erson,  will  fall  upon  his  servant. 
The  number  of  times  this  ceremony  is  repeated,  depend  upon  the 
rank  of  the  person  addressed,  who  in  return  joins  his  hands  and  holds 
them  as  if  in  the  act  of  receiving  something,  thus  showing  that  he 
accepts  the  salutation.  Even  the  highest  native  will  not  sit  down, 
in  the  presence  of  his  mother,  until  she  has  granted  him  permission 
to  do  so :  for  great  respect  and  attention,  is  always  sh^ym  to  elders, 
and  instructors. 

A  low  caste  man,  respectfully  addressing  a  superior,  places  his  left 
hmid  on  his  breast,  and  his  right  over  his  mouth,  and  whilst  speak^ 
ing,  continues  to  hold  it  only  a  short  distance  in  front  of  it,  for  fear 
his  breath  may  pollute  the  air,  he  is  generally  frightened,  and  anxious 
to  get  away. 

Natives  of  the  same  rank,  address  each  other  as  "  Brother."  A 
Brahman  is  called  by  inferiors  IHroo-mancMu,  or  "man  of  a  holydisposi* 
tion."  A  Nair  is  addressed  as  Tamharan^  or  Lord.  When  CtiUing  each 
other,  the  natives  hiss,  if  within  a  short  distance,  or  beckon  with  the 
hand  if  far  off :  the  \ycXm  being  turned  downwards,  and  moved  in 
the  opposite  direction,  to  that  employed  by  Europeans.  In  walking 
along  the  roads,  the  wife  is  always  a  few  paces  behind  her  husband. 
Natives  are  very  much  afraid  of  going  out  after  dark,  if  compelled 
to  do  so,  they  shout  as  loud  as  they  can,  or  sing  to  show  their 
courage,  and  frighten  off  evil  spirits. 

A  late  Surwaddy  Cariacar,  who  had  been  useful  to  the  British,  in 
the  time  of  Colonel  Macaulay,  received  a  pension  of  two  hundred 
rupees  montlily  as  well  as  the  privilege  of  entering  the  Huzzoor 


PROVRRB^.  393 

Cutcherry  with  hia  shoes  on,  and  the  high  honour  of  being  allowed 
to  chew  betel  there.  Many  a  time  in  the  middle  of  business,  were  a 
pair  of  wooden  soled  .ilioes,  heard  ^stumping  up  the  stairs,  and  many 
a  look  of  disgust,  did  the  Iliudas  cast  upon  the  ground,  after  these 
unwelcome  visits. 

The  Brahmaos  are  regarded  by  the  Hindus,  with  greater  deference 
thitu  any  other  caste;  in  fact  superstition  has  placed  the  priestly 
class,  in  most  religions,  foremost  in  the  social  rank.     Next  no  doubt, 
are  those  from  whom  temporal  honours  are  derived,  and  in  a  gradu- 
ated scale,  corresponding  with  their  rank,  pay,  and  official  position, 
Li  difference  shown  to  all.     Without  any  official  post,  the  next  persons 
looked  up  to,  are  eitlier  those  whose  money  commands  them  respect, 
or  whose  treatment  of  the  natives,  obtains  it  from  their  good  will. 
There  are  numerous  proverbs,  a  few  of  which  are  as  follows. 
'*  Should  one  swallow  a  live  coal,  it  turns  into  charcoal."     Thus  ' 
should  a  man  be  accused  of  having  done  a  rash  deed  for  the  good  of 
a  friend,  he  replies  as  above ;  implying,  he  is  resolved  to  suffer  a 
Uttle,  for  what  he  has  done. 

''  Of  what  use  is  study,  uidess  to  learn  knowledge  which  is  true 
"  wisdom." 

"  Why  do  we  live  in  Towns,  instead  of  forests,  unless  our  object 
^'  be,  to  enjoy  friendship,  do  good  to  others,  and  receive  the  wanderer, 
"  and  the  stranger." 

'^  He  who  revenges  an  injury,  ei\joys  his  triumph  for  a  day,  but 
"  the  man  who  forgives  one,  has  a  life-long  satisfaction." 

"  It  is  a  foolish  deed,  to  bum  your, house  for  the  purpose  of  de- 
"  stroying  the  rats." 

**  Politeness  to  a  rude  man,  is  as  lines  drawn  upon  a  stream 
"  of  water." 

"  Modesty  is  becoming  to  every  one,  but  is  a  particular  ornament 
'^  to  the  rich  and  learned." 

A  person  writing  to  a  superior,  sits  down  with  his  face  to  the 
rLsmg  sun,  and  commences  his  letter,  on  a  piece  of  a  palmyra  leaf, 
termed  an  ^*allah"  Firdt,  for  good  luck,  he  praises  the  gods,  and 
having  cut  off  this  scrap,  begins  with  many  high  flown  compliments, 
and  an  euuincration  of  all  the  titles,  which  he  can  conceive  the  per- 
son he  addresses,  to  have  any  claim  to.     When  the  Kujah  sends  a 

E  2 


S94  RAJAa's  BODr  oitakd. 

letter  by  a  messenger  it  is  his  dhty  to  place  it  in  the  hands  of  the 
person  to  whom  it  is  addressed,  and  not  to  enti-ust  it  to  any  third 
party.  Wafers  are  never  en^p^oyed  as  saliva  causes  pollution. 

In  giving  a  letter  to  a  Native  of  superior  caste,  it  must  not  be 
handed^  as  that  would  cause  contamination  :  but  it  must  be  thrown, 
the  short  transit  through  the  air,  breaking  the  line  of  contact  to  the 
superior.  A  letter  is  received  with  an  amount  of  respect,  varying 
in  accordance  with  the  relative  rank  of  the  recipient,  to  that  of  the 
writer.  It  is  considered  a  great  compliment  to  an  European  when 
the  Rigah  sends  him  some  dishes  prepared  in  the  Native  fashion, 
and  etiquette  i-equires  him  to  taste  a  litde  of  almost  all;  but  as  they 
often  number  as  many  as  thirty,  and  are  of  the  most  varied  descrip- 
tion, he  is  frequently  none  the  better  for  the  honour  done  him. 

Natives  as  a  rule,  on  New  Year's  day,  wait  upon  those  under  whom 
'  they  are  serving,  and  dressed  in  their  best  clothesy  usually  bring  the 
children,  a  couple  of  limes,*  some  sweetmeats^  or  flowers ;  the  Baker 
sends  a  cake,  and  the  other  p^ty  tn^es-peot^,  ^^  ^^  oring  some  tri- 
vial offering.  Limes  are  on  all  occasions,  indispensable  for  this  pur- 
pose. It  is  also  usual  for  the  under  servants,  to  make  a  present  of 
sweetmeats  to  the  bufler,  and  head  Ayah,  on  the  first  of  the  Malabar 
year. 

The  Rajah  of  Cochin,  has  the  power  to  confer  titles  on  his  people, 
when  he  is  presented  with  a  nuzzer  it  is  genendly  tied  up  in  a  square 
piece  of  silk,  of  a  red  and  yellow  colour.  As  sUk  is  one  of  those 
subtftances,  which  does  not  convey  poUotion  by  touch. 

The  Rajah's  personal  guard  of  honor  cany  Pikes,  bound  around 
that  portion,  where  the  steel  joins  the  handle,  with  a  tuft  of  white 
feathery  substance.  Silver  sticks  are  in  attendance  on  him  and 
l)ersons  to  fan  him  both  with  a  yah's  (or  Thibet  cow's)  tail,  and  with 
a  fan  surrounded  by  peacock's  feathers. 

*  The  presentation  of  a  lime,  has  not  with  Europeans  the  signific'ition  it  had 
amongst  the  native  in  times  gone  bye :  it  was  in  fact)  the  genteel  way  of  giving 
a  bribe,  ike  gift  being  inside  the  lime.  Bribeiy  was  so  common,  that  at  last  no 
inferior  ever  came  to  ask  a  favour  of  his  Native  superier,  without  presenting 
lum  with  a  lime,  this  custom  in  Ceylon  was  so  usual,  that  in  time,  Btnne  t 
states,  they  had  a  proverb,  "fir$t  look  at  the  linuif  and  then  open  the  mouth/' 
Rajahs  give  visitors  as  marks  of  civility  a  shaddock,  bat  in  vain  may  he  look  for 
aught  but  fruit  within. 


LlTERATirBB.  395 

Tottng  persons  may  not  sit  in  tke  presence  of  their  elders,  or 
inferiors  in  that  of  their  superiors,  until  permission  to  do  so  has 
been  received.  This  deference  to  seniors,  forms  part  of  their 
education.  The  Tillage  school,  consists  of  an  assembly  of  half  dressed 
children,  placed  in  rows,  in  an  open  room,  in  the  verandah  of  a 
house,  an  open  shed,  or  even  under  a  tred;  They  are  taught  to  trace 
letters  on  the  sand,  and  ore  educated  according  to  their  station  in 
life  and  the  future  occupation  intended  for  them.  After  leaving  this 
elementary  school,  they  enter  another,  where  they  commence  learn- 
ing to  write  on  palm  leaves  with  an  iron  style,  these  leaves  have  a  hole 
at  one  end,  and  are  strung  together  like  a  book,  between  two  boards. 
When  the  teacher  enters  this  school,  the  pupils  all  prostrate  them- 
selves on  the  ground,  and  never  speak  until  they  have  received  per- 
mission to  do  so.  When  they  can  write,  they  proceed  to  learn  ac- 
counts, and  then  other  sciences,  and  branches  of  education  :  such  as 
poetiy,  botany,  medicine,  law,  logic  and  fencing :  the  art  of  playing 
at  ball,  chess,  tennis,  and  especially  silenc&  This  last  difficult  art, 
is  taught  at  Trichoor,  to  youtlis  destined  for  the  Brahmanical  pro- 
fession, who  must  remain  inside  the  temple,  for  ten  years,  without 
speaking.  Geography  is  not  taught,  as  they  do  not  wish  to  under- 
Htand  anything  of  other  countries,  and  Anatomy  and  Surgery  are  un- 
known, as  they  must  not  either  touch  dead  bodies  or  shed  blood. ' 

Nearly  all  the  females,  amongst  the  higher  classes,  especially  the 
Nairamahs,  learn  to  read  and  write,  but  they  are  not  taught  either 
needlework,  or  dancing,  the  former  being  considered  a  menial  em- 
ployment only  fitted  for  tailora,  and  the  latter  a  sign  of  a  decidedly 
base  character. 

The  literature  is  not  abundant  The  Kerula  Ulpati  a  species  of 
legendary  history  dS.  MaUbar  appears  to  be  the  only  original  Mala* 
yolim  work,  but  there  are  several  versions  of  it.  Their  other  writings, 
are  free  translations  from  the  Sanscrit,  such  as  the  Edm^yana  or 
the  hijaPtory  of  Rama  and  Seeta,  the  Baghavada  or  the  history  of 
the  incarnations  of  Elrishna,  ifec,  girls  above  the  Nair  caste,  are  never 
permitted  to  go  out,  except  under  the  protection  of  their  mothers, 
or  aunts.  Boys  in  their  ninth  year,  are  initiated  into  their 
father's  caste. 

Poetry  such  as  it  is,  is  much  admired  by  the  Natives,  and.  even 


396  DRAMATIC   PERFOBMANCES. 

the  boatmen,  time  the  stroke  of  their  oars  to  extemporary  verses 
which  are  not  invariably  of  the  most  reputable  description, 
and  consequently,  will  not  bear  translating.  They  have 
songs  in  honour  of  their  gods,  of  great  persons,  and  of  noble 
deeds. 

In  olden  times,  only  thrde  kinds  of  poets  were  permitted,  the 
historical  who  chanted  history  as  they  .imderstood  it,  the  genea- 
logical who  praised  the  ancestors  of  great  persons  and  traced  back 
their  descent  from  the  gods,  and  thirdly  those  who  sang  the  praises 
of  the  king,  wishing  liim  and  his  family  long  lives,  happiness  and 
prosperous  reigns. 

The  various  kinds  of  voices,  are  said  to  be  six,  each  bearing  a 
curious  name,  as  the  peacock  voice,  the  elephant  voice,  the  ox  voice, 
the  sheep's  voice,  the  bird's  voice,  and  the  horse's  voice.  Their  instru- 
ments for  warlike  music,  or  for  celebrating  the  deeds  of  Bacchus, 
are  the  large  drum,  the  small  drum,  two  clarionets,  a  kettle  drum 
beaten  with  two  pieces  of  iron,  two  copper  or  Imrass  basins,  and  a 
pair  of  cow's  horns.  Those  for  pastoral  tunes,  are  the  guitar,  the 
spinet,  the  flute,  and  a  species  of  lyre. 

Dramas  in  celebration  of  the  Pagan  gods  have  been  copied  by  the 
Syrians  in  former  times,  and  for  many  years  have  been  inveighed 
against  by  Romish  Priests  unsuccessfully.  Roman  Catholic  theatri- 
cals are  enacted  during  the  last  few  weeks  before  lent,  when  they 
become  the  rage,  and  a  species  of  carnival  is  held,  and  old  and  young 
of  both  sexes,  meet  every  night  at  about  nine  o'clock  in  the  evening,  to 
witness  these  performances,  which  generally  continue  until  nearly  day- 
break. The  theatre  is  on  some  open  piece  of  ground,  and  in  front 
of  it  are  some  temporary  booths  for  the  accommodation  of  the  better 
classes,  the  }X)orer  being  in  the  open  air.  The  stage  is  about  six 
feet  from  the  ground,  and  thatched  with  matting.  The  overture, 
and  dose  of  every  scene,  is  enlivened  by  the  most  discordant  music. 
The  plays  are  generally  selections  from  the  sacred  writings  of  the  Por- 
tuguese, and  arc  said  to  portray  passages  in  the  lives  of  some  of 
their  saints.  The  costumes  are  varied,  and  grotescjue.  £m|>crors 
and  Princes  hop  about  like  mountebanks,  whilst  Queens  and  Prin- 
cesses look  like  so  many  attempted  representations  of  monkeys. 
The  parts  are  sung  with  numerous  choruses,  in  which  there  is  no 


CHEftR.  397 

pretence  of  keeping  time.  As  literaiy  productions,  tboy  arc  below 
farces,  and  as  representations  they  may  be  taken  as  caricatures, 
whilst  the  language  is  bad,  and  the  acting  worse.  When  all  are 
wearied,  the  finale  represents  the  punishment  of  vice,  and  the  reward 
of  virtue. 

Nautches  are  also  popular  amusements  amongst  Natives,  and  consist 
in  women  of  a  light  character;  dancing  in  a  listless  maimer,  to  a  mono- 
tonous tuuQ,  which  they  sometimes  accompany  with  their  voices.  The 
room  is  generally  strongly  impregnated  with  otta  of  roses,  flowers,  and 
Tarious  other  kinds  of  perfumes.  It  is  a  mystery,  how  European 
ladies  can  allow  themselves,  even  to  be  asked  to  such  eutertaiuments^ 
but  it  is  still  more  suqmsing,  how  they  can  ever  frequent  them : 
the  taste  i»  evidently  a  bad  one,  although  Natives  consider  an  Euro- 
pean ball  room  much  worse. 

The  amusements  of  the  Various  races  of  Hindus,  are  mnch  mixed  up 
with  thehr  religious  customs.  Manly  exercises  are  not  much  in 
vogue,  those  of  a  sedentary  character  being  substituted.  Games  of 
cards,  made  of  oUahs,  are  employed  for  gambling  purposes :  and  lines 
are  formed  in  the  sand,  for  pla)dng  a  species  of  draughts.  Chess 
occupies  a  good  deal  of  time,  in  the  life  of  the  Namboorie  Brahman  ; 
and  is  played  in  the  following  manner,  "  The  ground  is  smoothed 
**  aad  checquered  with  chunara,  and  tlie  pieces  cut  out  of  plantain 
"  stalks,  the  Queen  and  BislK)p  alone  iliflfer  in  their  moves,  and 
**  value,  from  ours.  The  queen  or  "  Wazeer*'  moves  diagonally  back- 
^  wards,  and  forwards,  on  one  square,  taking  like  a  pawn.  The 
**  Bishop  clears  over  everything  within  its  range,  but  taking,  and 
**  checking,  only  on  the  second  square,  diagonally.  The  castle  is 
**  thus  the  only  piece,  wliich  can  move,  aikl  take  from  one  end  of  the 
"  board,  to  the  other."* 

Johnson  writing  in  1611  of  the  Nairs,  who  were  then  trained  to 
arms,  snys,  "  at  seven  years  of  age  they  were  put  to  school,  to  learn 
**  the  use  of  their  weapons,  and  to  make  them  nimble  and  active : 
"  their  sinews  and  joints  were  stret^^hcd  by  skilful  persons,  and 
*'  anointed  witli  gingclly  oil,  by  which  tliey  became  so  light  and 
**  nimble,  thnt  tliey  could  wmd  and  turn  their  bodies,  as  if  they  had 

♦  Colonel  Weliih'»  ''AltUlanj  Jieminiteences"  vol.  2,  page  86. 


398  MODE  OF  DRESS. 

*^  no  boneSy  casting  them  backwards,  forewards,  higb  and  low,  to  the 
'^  astonishment  of  the  beholders.  Their  contmual  delight  was  in 
*^  their  wea>pons,  persuading  themselves  that  no  nation  went  beyond 
"  them,  in  skill  and  dexterity."  This  description,  certainly  does  not 
tally  with  the  mild  and  delicate  looking  Nair,  of  the  present  day.  At 
the  end  of  the  last  century,  Forbes  mentions,  that  in  the  festival  of 
the  new  moon,  in  September,  the  Nairs  drawn  up  in  two  divisions, 
held  a  tournament,  in  which  it  was  considered  a  great  honour  to  be 
killed.  Persons  who  were  so,  were  said  to  have  sacrificed  their  lives 
for  glory.     At  the  present  time,  a  more  peaceful  festival  is*celebrated. 

The  dress  of  the  Natives,  varies  according  to  their  religion, 
caste,  and  sex.  That  of  the  Arab,  is  the  same  as  is  worn  in 
his  Native  country.  The  White  Jew  wears  the  long  flowing  gar- 
ments of  his  race:  but  the  black  Jew.  clothes  himself  more 
like  the  Hindu  from  whom  he  is  sprung.  The  various  races 
of  Christians^  are  distinguished  by  the.  men  not  wearing  turbans,  or 
caste-marks  and  by  the  women  having  jackets  instead  of  the  usual 
cloth.  The  dress  of  the  Hindus,  does  not  differ  very  materially, 
except  with  reference  to  the  absence  of  turbans,  from  that  of  those 
iu  other  parts  of  India.  The  Mussalman  Moplalis,  are  much  tiie 
same  as  those  elsewhere.  The  POtrtuguese,  or  Topescara,  or  people 
who  wear  hats,  and  trowsers,  were  always  considered  a  distinct  race, 
although  there  is  no  iiecessity  for  their  having  any  European  blood 
in  their  veins.  The  Moondoocars,  or  |)eople  with  white  clothing, 
may  be  either  Christian  fishermen  (MueuasJ,  cloth  dyeys,  (Para- 
vers)  or  others,  who  were  first  under  Portuguese  protection,  and 
subsequently  under  that  of  the  Dutch. 

Clothing  is  amongst  children,  almost  totally  disregarded,  however 
some  mothers,  who  are  very  particular  tie  a  string  round  their 
waists,  and  in  rare  instances  they  may  be  seen  with  a  small  scrap 
of  cloth,  a  piece  of  a  plantain  leaf,  or  the  representation  of  a  fig 
leaf  in  silver,  worn  as  Adam  and  Eve,  are  supposed  to  have  adorned 
themselves. 

As  they  grow  older,  a  slight  advance  is  made  in  the  clothing  depart- 
ment, but  still  there  is  never  any  superfluity  of  drapery,  and  the 
religious  mendicants  are  extremely  indecent,  as  they  seem  to  con- 
sider, caste  marks  made  with  a  prex)aration  of  sandal  wood,  as  almost 


AUOITKT  OF  DBE80.  399 

saffident  clothing.  Native  sailors,  also  are  certainly  not  dressed  in 
a  manner  admitting  their  entrance  into  European  places  of  resort. 
The  turban  perceived  on  Hindus,  in  large  towns,  is  said  to  have 
been  an  imitation  of  that  of  the  Mahomedans.  Wherever  the  Hindu  is 
most  conservative  of  the  customs  of  his  ancestors,  there  the  turban 
will  not  be  found,  neither  will  it  amongst  the  pre-Hindu  tribes.  In 
the  Cochin  state,  where  the^  Mahomedans  have  never  been  stationary 
conquerors,  the  turban  is  not  a  common  head  dress  :  whilst  inland, 
it  IB  almost,  and  amongst  the  Hill  tribes,  quite  unknown.  Conse- 
quently wearing  no  turban,  is  not  an  insult  in  the  Hindus  of 
Cochin,  as  it  would  be  amongst  the  Mahomedans.  Besides  the 
turban,  another  article  of  dress,  has  in  many  places,  been  borrowed 
from  the  Mussalmen,  viz.,  the  long  white  jacket,  or  rather  coat, 
worn  by  Hindu,  and  other  servants,  who  tie  it  on  the  left  side,  hi 
contradistinction  to  the  Mahomedans,  who  fasten  it  on  the  right. 

The  Arabs  certainly,  have  rather  an  unprepossessing  appearance, 
many  of  them  visit  the  Port,  during  tlie  shipping  season,  and  some 
remain  through  the  Monsoon.  As  a  rule,  they  are  strongly  built 
men,  and  wear  long  beards  :  their  clothing  usually  consists  of  an 
exceedingly  dirty  shirt,  and  trowsers,  or  rather  drawers  which  were 
at  some  long  antecedent  date,  of  white  cotton.  They  may  bo  found 
smoking  pipes,  in  the  bazaar,  and  drinking  the  juice  of  the 
forbidden  tree,  some  however  appear  to  take  their  sherbet,  and  in 
several  shops,  coffee  may  be  seen,  provided  expressly  for  them. 

In  India,  the  ^lanchester  merchant  would  find  but  a  poor  mart 
fur  his  manufactures,  in  comparison  with  the  number  of  the  popu- 
lation :  a  piece  of  cotton  cloth,  twisted  around  a  man's  waist,  and 
descending  to  the  knees,  (about  1  yard,  by  2  feet,)  is  sufficient  for 
his  daily  wants,  and  perhaps  another  piece  of  the  same  size  as  a 
turban.  At  night  time,  they,  serve  as  cbverings,  when  he  curls  him- 
self up  in  a  comer,  stretches  himself  on  the  floor,  or  lies  down  on  his 
cot,  or  mat,  in  the  verandah  to  sleep.  The  higher  castes,  wear  fine 
transparent  white  mu«lin  cloths,  and  the  richer,  of  even  some  of  the 
lower  classes,  use  fine  white  cottoa  The  Christians  have  a  common 
pocket  handkerchief,  or  a  piece  of  "muslin  over  their  shoulders,  and 
on  grand  occasions,  or  when  they  go  out  of  doors,  put  it  on  their  heads. 

The  dress  of  the  Kajah,  when  at  home,  is  of  the  same  elegaQt 


4Q0  VISITS   OF   STATE. 

simplicity,  as  that  of  his  people,*  b^ing  a  thin  muslin  clotli, 
from  the  waist  to  the  knees,  a  magnificent  necklace  of  pearls, 
with  a  diamond  clasp,  no  turban,  but  caste  marks.  When  re- 
ceiving strangers,  he  has  on  a  most  beautiful  head  dress  of  pre- 
cious stones,  and  a  long  white  muslin  dress,  edged  with  gold. 
On  Durbar  days,  he  is  likewise  dressed  in  white  muslin,  with 
gold  lace,  and  a  turban  adorned  with  jewels :  around  hia  right 
arm  (sometimes  also  on  both)  is  a  bangle  of  splendid  diamonds, 
which  are  cut  flat,  and  very  thin,  according  to  the  Native  fashion. 
His  fingers  are  adorned  with  beautiful  jewels,  and  on  his  second 
toe,  is  a  gt)ld  ring.  On  each  side  of  him,  stand  two  Peons,  one 
fanning  him  with  the  tail  of  the  yah,  the  other  with  a  white  fim, 
surrounded  by  peacock's  feathers.  Next  to  him  is  seated  the 
Resident,  and  the  Princes  either  on  his  left  hand,  or  below  the 
Kesident  on  the  right.  The  Dewan  or  Prime  Minister  stands  behind 
him,  and  many  turbanless  Brahmans  in  their  single  cloths,  either 
behind,  or  on  one  side  of  him. 

If  the  Eajah  receives  the  visit  of  another  Prince,  at  Muttencherry 
the  following  is  the  etiquette.  The  Rajah  generally  passes  the 
preceding  night  at  the  palace,  which  is  about  one  hundred  paces 
from  the  water's  edge,  the  whole  distance  from  which,  is  covered  in 
by  a  long  pandall.  On  each  side,  along  the  entire  length,  are  plan- 
tain trees  in  splendid  bearing,  tied  to  each  of  the  pillars,  that  sup- 
port the  pandall.  The  Rajah^s  body-guard  of  Sepoys,  are  drawn  up 
in  two  lines,  the  guard  of  honour  armed  with  pikes,  surmounted  by 
white  ostrich  plumes,  are  in  waiting.  A  drummer,  a  few  fifers 
and  fiddlers,  are  ready  to  strike  up,  and  two  small  six  pounders,  are 
loaded  at  the  water*8  edge. 

When  the  boat  of  honour  is  approaching,  the  EUioh  Rajaii,  or  first 
Prince,  attended  by  the  Dewan,  the  officials,  and  others,  proceed  to 
the  landing  place,  to  receive  the  strangers.     After  they  are  landed, 

•  Natives  cannot  uuderdtand,  why  Europeaos  clothe  themselves  to  such  an 
extent  in  India.  A  Namboorie  viisiting  at  tho  house  of  an  European  gentle- 
man, after  meditating  for  some  little  time  suddenly  pointed  to  a  wino 
bottle, which  had  on  a  worked  cover,  and  exclaimed,  "well  you  arc  a  curious  race 
**  of  people,  not  only  do  you  clothe  yourselves  from  yoxu*  head  to  your  feet, 
"'  p\it  cloths  np('U  your  wooden  t^'vbles,  but  alio  petticoats  on  your  bottles  " 


KATiVS  CLOTBIMO.  <0l 

fbey  wttlk  hand  and  iiand  towards  tlia  Palace,  praeaded  by  muaic^ 
and  daadng  giila,  who  strew  the  groond  with  handsf nl  of  parched 
rioe.  At  the  top  of  the  Palace  steps  stands  the  lUijahy  who  shakes 
his  visitor's  hand,  and  leads  him  into  the  room  of  state,  which  is 
a  long  apartment  of  Portuguese  architectnre  having  a  deeply  carved 
tailing  and  small  windows.  The  musnud  or  silver  throne,  is  placed 
under  a  canopy  of  crimscm  velvety  at  the  West  end  of  the  room. 

At  a  rec^tion,  as  soon  as  a  letter  from  the  QoTemor  or  any  other 
great  personage  hsa  been  read,  the  guns  fire,  the  troops  givea  volley, 
and  ihe  Bsjoh.  after  having  been  introdaced  to  any  strangers  piesent^ 
rises,  as  do  all  the  assembled  guests.  Two  gold  trays  are  then 
brought  fcHTward,  one  covered  with  necklaces  of  Jasmine,  the  other  with 
bouquets  of  the  same  species  of  fkiwers,  arranged  on  artificial  stalks. 
The  Rajah  then  places  one  of  these  necklaces  around  the  Resident's 
neck,  a  chain  around  each  arm,  and  then  presents  him  with  a 
bouquet,  which  he  sprinkles  with  otta  of  roses.  The  Elliah  Rigah 
does  the  same  to  all  the  remaining  guests,  after  which  the 
B^ah  takes  the  Resident's  arm,  and  hands  him  to  the  door,  standing 
there  to  shake  every  body  by  the  hand  on  Jeaving,  and  address  an 
appropriate  word  to  each. 

Hindu  women  addressing  superiors,  uncover  as  low  as  the  girdle,  aa 
a  mark  of  respect :  Christian  women,  on  going  to  church,  put  a  white 
scarf  over  their  heads,  in  accordance  with  the  injunction  that  they 
should  not  go  with  their  heads  uncovered.  On  ordinaiy  occasions, 
ihiay  wear  only  a  white  close  fitting  jacket  The  termination  of  the 
under  cloth  is  generally  finished  off  in  a  plaited  fan  shape,  commonly 
known  as  a  ^  Cochin  taiL"  The  females  of  Quilon,  usually  fasten  their 
dotbs  in  front,  and  are  consequently  destitute  of  caudal  appendages. 

Many  Cochin  girls  before  marriage,  dress  like  Tamil  women,  but 
subsequently  change  to  the  plainer  Malayalim  costume. 

One  division  of  Brahmanee  women,  (page  305)  wear  a  piece  of 
fine  cotton  doth,  about  5  yards  long,  by  one  and  a  half  wide,  fasten* 
ed  round  the  wai&t^  without  the  assistance  of  pins.  A  piece  of 
muslin,  is  thrown  over  the  upper  part  of  the  body,  passing  under 
the  right  arm,  and  over  the  left  shoulder. 

The  Nairamah,  wears  a  loose  separate  upper  cloth,  thrown  oyer 
the  shoulder. 

0  2 


i02  OEKAIIENTS. 

The  Mticna  women,  have  a  coarse  upper  clo<^  which  covers  up  to 
the  arm  pits,  but  does  not  go  above  the  shoulders,  or  hide  the  arms*- 
The  Shanar  women  in  Travonoore,  have  since  July  26th  1859,  been 
permitted  to  wear  either  the  same  jadcet  as  the  Christians,  or  dress 
in  any  other  manner  th^  like,  so  long  as  they  do  not  imitate  the 
costume  of  the  females  of  the  higher  classes,  which  all  those  of  a 
lower  caste  are  strictly  prohibited  from  copying. 

TheTopeecara  orPotugueseclass  of  women,  who  are  in  many  in- 
stances, descended  from  the  converted  slaves  of  the  Portuguese  and 
Dutch,  have  a  costume  of  their  own,  viz.— a  long  loose  jacket  made 
either  of  white  or  coloured  material,  and  reaching  as  low  as  the  knees, 
the  lower  cloth  is  generally  a  coloured  one.  In  the  Eurasian  dass,  the 
poorer  |)er8ons  have  scanty  skirts,  without  petticoats.  Some  of  them 
wear  beautiful  lace  veils  out  of  doors,  instead  of  bonnets ;  the  advance 
in  style  is  gradual,  according  to  means  and  position,  and  many  aro 
seen  in  the  gayest  European  fashions. 

Men  who  go  about  begging,  sometimes  use  a  cocoanut  shell 
split  in  its  long  axis,  as  a  head  dress,  as  it  serves  two  purposes, 
to  protect  the  head  fn^  the  sun,  and  also  as  a  box  to  hold  out 
for  the  reception  of  alms.  The  boatmen  have  large  wide  shaped 
hats,  very  like  umbrellas,  made  of  palm  leaves,  the  same  as  are 
worn,  higher  up  the  coast. 

Ornaments  are  much  more  profusely  employed  in  eastern  countries 
than  in  Europe.  The  ears  undergo  great  punishments,  and  in  some 
cases  when  a  woman  wears  a  Tamil  dress,  the  comer  of  the  nose,  is 
also  perforated  by  the  Barber.  Bings  adorn  the  fingers  and  toes,  the 
fore  arms  are  covered  with  bangles,  as  are  also  the  1^,  whilst 
necklaces  of  gold  coins,  are  often  seen,  where  those  of  Rome  and 
Venice,  are  placed  next  to  those  of  Egypt,  and  the  English  St.  Qeoige 
and  the  dragon  jostles  its  Australian  relative.  The  materials  ol 
which  ordinary  native  ornaments  are  manufactured,  are  of  the  most 
varied  description.  Ringsof  copper,iron,andlead,andbanglesof  punt* 
ed  glass  and  wood,  are  made  in  imitation  of  more  valuable  metals, 
and  precious  stones.  Necklaces  are  often  composed  of  strings  of 
beads,  the  threaded  seeds  of  trees,  or  those  turned  from  its  roots^ 
some  are  scented,  others  not  so. 

Almost  every  Natiye,  carries  in  his  waist  cloth  a  small  silver,  tim 


DOWERLBSfl  CHRISTIAN  QIRLS.  '403 

DT  brass,  box  fastiened  with  many  complicated  screws  and  tnma, 
aad  in  this  he  deposits  his  poothens  and  other  small  valuables. 
The  areca  or  betel  nut  with  chmiam,  spice,  and  betel  leaf  are 
usually  also  secured  in  a  small  silver  box  suspended  by  a  chains 
JSven  the  Naim,  according  to  Herbert^  about  1627,  although  they 
usually  went  about  armed,  would  not  abate  one  jot  ol  the  eommon 
ornament  of  these  oriental  parts,  which  was  to  beautify,  or  rather 
load  their  arms  and  necks  with  silvtt  bracelets,  ropes  of  pearls,  and 
other  onaments :  in  passing  Uirougb  crowds,  they  struck  their 
sword  upon  their  targets,  and  called  out,  both  to  make  known  their 
dignity,  and  also  quickly  to  obtain  a  clear  passage. 

The  Malabars  do  not  wear  nose  rings,  which  is  a  peculiarity,  as 
the  Tamils  consider  it  a  great  ornament,  however  they  make  up  for 
this  deficiency,  by  loading  their  ears  r  well  might  an  ancient  travel- 
ler, have  spoken  with  astonishment  of  the  bored  ears  of  the  inhabit- 
ants  of  Malabar.  When  children  are  a  year  old,  or  even  less,  their 
ears  are  pierced,  and  a  smaU  quill  inserted  in  the  lobe  :  as  the 
irritation  subsides,  a  bit  of  lead  is  substituted,  and  subsequently,  when 
this  has  enlarged  the  hole^  a  piece  of  plaptaiir  leaf  is  rolled  up,  and 
put  in  :  this  is  gradually  increased  in  size,  until  the  entire  lobe  is 
expanded  into  a  circular  hole,  capable  of  containing  a  largo 
round  plug  of  wood,  the  circumference  of  which  is  often  as  great 
as  the  top  of  a  wineglass :  sometimes  the  flesh  is  torn  away,  but  by 
care  the  part  is  healed.  The  appearance  of  the  two  black  wooden 
ear  rings,  with  circular  flattened  tops  in  front  of  each  ear^  certainly 
does  not  enhance  a  woman's  beauty.  Thb  enormous  orifice  is  made 
to  enable  it  cm  her  wedding  day,  to  contain  a  gold  ornament  of  about 
the  sixe  <^  a  hen's  egg,  or  even  of  a  turkey's :  sometimes  a  number 
of  smaller  ornamentSi  of  a  crescent  shape,  are  fieistened  in.  These  are 
never  worn  before  marriage,  and  are  afterwards  taken,  out,  and  rarely 
re-inserted.  In  some  instances  however  they  are  retained,  until  the 
birth  of  the  first  child.  The  Mahomedan  Moplah  girls,  have  a 
succession  of  holes  pierced,  in  each  of  which  a  ring  is  fastened,  drag- 
ging down  the  ear  by  their  weight,  whilst  the  other  fashion,  expands 
it  from  the  centre.  There  is  little  to  choose  between  the  two  modes> 
as  both  occasion  tumours,  and  other  diseases. 

All  dowerless  Boman  Catholic,  and  Bomo-Syrian  girls,  in  oLden 


404  VMBBMLLVL 

times,  were  portioned  by  the  eongregations  to  which  thej  belonged: 
the  amount  being  raised  by  fines  firom  the  richer  members.  AH  ieiMle 
orphans,  belonging  to  each  oongn^tion,  had  their  names  registered, 
and  the  Church  Overseers,  were  oUiged  to  pioTida  them  with  Imh- 
bands.  On  the  wedding  day,  thegold  ear  rings  are  not  the  onlj 
ornaments  put  ois  f  or  the  first  and  ^pnhMy  for  the  )ast  time,  «s  a 
head  dress  is  also  worn,  made  of  pasteboard,  and  wound  ronnd  with 
chains  of  gold,  silver,  or.  precious  stones,  to  whidi  snudlsr  < 
ace  also  often  attached,  the  wei^t  ci  the  whole  bdng  4 

Hindu  women,  after  the  bhrth  of  their  first  ehild,  inTariably 
remove  the  bangles  from  their  arms  and  occasi<»nlly  their  odier 
ornaments  aka  Native  Christiana,  sometimes  follow  this  cnstom 
but  it  is  not  the  mle. 

The  women  have  hair  oCtbe  deepest  Mack,  whidi  reaches  down 
as  low  as  the  waist,  they  are  very  proud  of  it,  and  keep  it  profuse^ 
oiled.  It  is  coarse  in  texture,  and  differs  from  that  ci  the  Afkiean* 
They  are  fond  of  £ilse  tresses,  and  nearly  aU,  even  those  of  tiio 
poorer  classes^  wear  them. 

Cutting  oS  the  hair»  or  shaving  the  head,  is  coosiderod  a  great 
disgrace.  On  festivals^  or  grand  occasions^  it  is  adorned  with 
flowersy  or  silver  ornaments^ 

Umbrellas*  were  formerly  only  carried  over  the  great  and  neble  s 
but  all  this  is  dianged  under  British  supremacy,  altkou^  a  remnant 
of  the  old  idea,  of  the  distinction  of  carrying  it,  still  rettiains,  and  ie 
enforced  by  law  in  the  native  statei  The  Btgah  on  ceremonud  oooa- 
sions,  has  a  crimson  one,  with  sUver  mountu^  carried  over  hdm,  and 
a  similar  one  shades  the  Hindu  gods,  from  ^e  rain  or  sunshine,  when 
taken  out  of  the  Pagodas.  At  Christian  weddii^  the  ]Mde  and 
Bridegroom,  also  eadi  have  one  canned  over  them;  it  is  always  a 
mark  of  honour.  The  siae  of  the  umbrella,  was  formerly  in  propor* 
tion  to  the  rank  of  the  person,  over  whom  it  was  earned.  CoawtoB 
umbrellas  are  usoaUy  made  of  the  dried  ledf  of  the  Talipot  palm  which 

is  occasionally  tarred^ 

*  Cop«  mentioDfl,  that  when  he  wa»  in  Caneia  about  1714,  no  nMiWMper« 
scdtted  torideotthonei^mulai,<x>elephanta^butTfOopen,  or  Ofilceirs  of  State^ 
although  EaropeanB,  were  allowed  to  ride  on  oxen  or  buffaloes.  Neither  might 
vmbrellas  be  carried  over  them  by  aerrante,  but  if  the  sun  or  rain  oSenoed 
tiMm,  they  mi^t  carry  them  themselves*  Page  Wk 


KATtTS  aotr90.  40ft 

NatiT^  houses  are  of  most  varied  descriptions.  That  of  tho 
KaJ«h  is  termed  a  Oolgam*  from  Col  <'  a  neej^'  and  *"  agam*'  **  m 
house."  It  also  means  a  distinct  branch,  or  house,  of  any  of  the 
r^gai  Hindu  dynasties  of  Malabar.  In  building  for  those  of  the 
hif^ber  castes^  great  care  is  neeessary,  as  a  piece  of  wood,  clothing 
or  drapery  -will  convey  pollution,  from  the  lower  to  the  higher 
castea  :  aswiUaljso  coir  matting  should  it  contain  even  one  thread  of 
cotton  upon  it  ahhough  it  isof  itself  unpollntaUe^  a  piece  of  new 
cloth  may  be  tiurown  to  a  high  caste  person,  who  can  look  at  it  and 
toss  it  back  without  having  been  defiled,  but  should  it  be  old  it 
eausaa  pollution.  Floors  must  be  made  of  ohunam,  stone,  or  earth, 
which  are  non-conductors,  and  not  of  planks :  and  for  the  same 
reason  no  carpets  or  mats  can  be  spread.  The  cheequered  black  and 
white  chnnam  floors,  are  therefore  usually  Seen,  in  the  houses  of  the 
higher  castes.  Natives  prefer  houses  situated  in  the  centre  of  large 
compounds,  many  of  those  belonging  to  the  nobOity  are  two  stories 
hi^,  before  the  lowest  of  these  there  is  a  verandah,  in  which 
vifliton  are  received :  when  the  reception  room  is  not  in  a  separate 
building.  In  the  upper  story,  the  ftonily  sleep,  study,  or  transact 
bttsiAess. 

When  the  Portuguese  arrived,  few  Natives  were  allowed  to  lire  im 
aaythmg  but  tiiatched  huts,  with  mud  or  bamboo  leaf  walls.  Tra- 
ders sudi  as  the  Moplahs^  were  allows  to  build  stonewalls  around 
their  compounds,  aatd  even  stone  storehouses,  in  consequence  of  the 
risks  thqr  were  otiierwise  exposed  to.  Princes  and  Priests  had 
stone  houses^  and  Pagodas  were  allowed  the  privily  of  tiled  roofs. 
Whole  villages  could  thus  eaaly  be  burnt  down,  if  the  inhabitants 
refused  to  pay  their  tazes^  or  their  evacuation  were  necessary. 

The  miserable  huts  of  the  Churmure,  are  dotted  along  the  raised 
banksof  paddy  fields,  and  those  of  the  Niadis  may  occasionally  be 
ssm  perched  like  baskets,  or  birds' nests,  up  in  jungle  trees,  into  which 
they  erewl  at  night  time.  The  situation  of  the  generality  of  houses, 
maybesaid  tobe  damp,  either  from  the  places  in  which  they  are  built,. 

*  Wherever  the  Bftjali  bss  a  Colgumt  the  FlBUat  Aohen  poMMSied  an  lUum. 
Bistriot  courts  go  by  the  name  of  "the  gate  of  the  palace/*  therefore  should 
tbe  Rajah  be  hearing  any  case  in  (be  courts,  he  is  '<  sitting  in -the  gate  of 
^«  palace;' 


406  FEA3TINO  THB  POOB. 

or  in  consequence  of  the  number  of  trees  surrounding  tliftm.  Their 
appearance  is  pretty,  and  no  doubt  the  vegetation,  breaks  the  force  of 
many  of  the  prevailing  winds,  but  still  sickness  is  very  rife. 

The  domiciles  of  the  Brahmans,  and  Nairs,  are  as  a  rule  deanly^ 
as  are  those  of  the  Syrians,  and  Bomo-Syrlans,  but  those  of  the  lower 
castes,  and  of  the  Roman  Catholics,  can  lay  no  daim  to  deanliness, 
whilst  those  of  the  Mussahnen  Moplahs  are  dirty  in  the  extreme,  as 
they  live  amongst  filth  and  vermin,  and  their  compounds  if  they 
have  any,  are  the  receptacles  of  the  house  sweepings*  The  women 
of  this  class,  pride  themselves  in  excelling  their  ndghbours  inlilth,. 
as  they  labour  under  the  impression,  that  ^  a  filthy  garment  is< 
^'  a  sign  of  a  thrifty  housewife !'' 

A  veiy  small  amount  of  f umitore  is  necessary  for  these  houses,  no 
table  is  required,  as  Natives  sit  on  the  floor,  and  the  lower  orders 
rarely  employ  bedsteads,  but  sleep  on  the  ground :  the  better  classes^ 
use  common  coir  roped  cots,  which  with  a  few  chairs  also,^  and  some 
brass  cooking  pots,  complete  the  establishment  The  wealthy  appear 
to  have  a  preference  for  European  furniture,  especially  easy  chairs, 
mirrors,  and  lamps.  Plates,  and  dishes  are  unknown,  the  plantain 
leaf  being  a  substitute  for  both,  whilst  a  small  cocoanut  shell,  with 
a  wooden  handle,  answers  the  purpose  of  a  ladle,  or  a  spoon. 

A  brass  or  iron  lamp  suspended  by  a  chain,  is  usually  seen  in  the 
centre  of  their  rooms,  this  can  be  elevated,  or  let  down  as  required* 
There  is  always  a  large  stone,  or  wooden  mortar,  for  pounding 
unshelled  lice.  Numerous  prints,  and  pictures,  or  rather  caricatures, 
adorn  the  waUs,  as  the  Native  idea  of  drawing,  is  very  primitive^ 
and  the  needy  portrait  painter,  the  photographer,  or  the  dauber  in 
colours,  find  an  easy  prey  in  Native  Princes. 

It  is  considered  a  good  deed,  to  give  large  feasts  to  the  poor,,  and 
at  Tripoonterah,  the  Bajah  of  Cochin,  on  many  occasions,  yearly  feeds' 
some  hundreds  of  persons.  This  is  the  more  acceptable,  from  the 
fact  that  the  rice  is  generally  boiled  by  Brahmans.  On  recovering 
from  an  illness,  it  is  sometimes  Customary  to  give  a  large  feast  which 
elevates  the  convalescent  in  the  eyes  of  those  around.  No  Malabar 
rivers  are  venerated,  although  some  ceremonies  are  performed  at  the 
Alwaye,  Shallacoodee,  and  some  other  streams.  Those  who  construct 
tanks,  and  reservoirs  of  water^  will  it  is  believed  be  rewarded  i^  a  future 


FEEDIKC   HOUSES   FOB  BRADBIAKa  107 

state ;  it  is  therefore  the  ambition  of  the  people  of  Malabar  to  have  a 
tank,  a  well,  or  a  choultrie  named  after  them.  Hospitality  is  much 
laaded,  bnt  of  conrse  is  confined  to  persons  of  the  same  caste. 

The  usual  mode  of  travelling,  is  by  the  Moncheel  or  Palanquin^ 
carried  by  bearers,  each  of  whom  receives  4  pie  a  mile,  by  bollock 
or  baffidoe  carts,  which  are  paid  at  the  rate  of  one  anna  nine  pie  a 
mile,  and  by  boats  of  every  description,  from  the  comfortable  cabin 
to  the  little  snake  boat,  which  can  go  up  very  shallow  streams. 

Letters  in  theRajah's  territory,  are  conveyedbyUngU,  free  of  chaise, 
as  are  also  small  parcels.  Before  the  inland  roads  were  open  to  Eu- 
ropeans, the  post  office  runners  were  permitted  the  use  of  them. 

The  food  of  the  people,  is  as  varied  as  their  castes  and  creeds,  the 
Brahmans  of  the  country,  (the  Namboories,)  are  a  very  bigoted  sect, 
who  disdaining  to  touch  animal  food,  or  rather  perhaps  having  a  re- 
ligious  aversion  to  it,  eat  their  vegetables  alone,  and  grow  fat  on  their 
milk  and  ghee.  The  amount  of  sugar*  they  consume,  is  only  limited 
by  their  means  of  procuring  it.  The  criterion  by  which  one  Native 
judges  of  the  wealth  and  respectability  of  another,  is  bis  size,  a 
stout  man  is  therefore  held  in  much  greater  esteem,  than  a  thin 
ona  There  are  certain  feeding  houses,  Ootooparas,  already  alluded 
to,  in  the  topographical  chapter  of  this  work,  where  this  pampered 
Brahmanical  class  are  gratuitously  fed,  the  cost  being  defrayed  by 
the  taxes  of  the  country,  thus  they  can  always  be  supplied  with  a 
meaL 

As  every  Native,  no  matter  what  his  property  may  be,  wotdd 
rather  be  fed  at  Qovemment  expense,  than  at  his  own,  there  is  no* 
dearth  of  applicants  at  these  houses.  The  cost  of  this,  is  reckoned 
in  the  official  records,  amongst  that  for  public  works,  of  which  this 
good  ^idorh,  absorbs  a  very  large  portion. 

The  Schatriyas,  are  as  particular  about  their  food  as  the  Brahmans, 

*The  late  Rajak  of  Travaneore,  had  a  private  muHeum,  in  which  **  boDboni,'* 
and  *<  jujubes,"  held  a  coiMpicuous  phvoe.  One  day  an  advertiBement  in  a  Ma* 
dras  newvpaper  oaught  his  eye,  announcing  the  arrival  of  a  conaignment  of 
'*  Japom.**  Concluding  that  they  alio  must  be  something  nice  to  eat^  he  order- 
ed a  number  by  poet.  In  due  time  they  arrived,  and  great  surprise  "was  mani- 
fested when  the  contents  were  discovered  to  be  steel  crinolines.  Their  use  was 
unkoowDi  but  they  were  placed  in  the  museum  ] 


408  iisiii4. 

who  will  eat  in  the  same  room  with  them,  if  the  food  be  perfectly 
distinct)  and  separate.  The  number  of  curries,  made  for  each  meal, 
is  enormous.    The  Vysias  are  too  few  to  require  notice. 

The  Nairs,  are  not  particular  as  to  their  food.  If  asked,  they 
declare  that  they  never  touch,  either  beef,  pork,  or  axdent  spirits, 
but  respecting  the  last^  this  is  by  no  means  the  fact  Some  there 
are,  who  wishing  for  a  favourable  transmigration,  are  as  particular 
as  any  Brahman,  but  their  caste  does  not  exact  this.  Many  are 
notorious  drinkers  of  ardent  s^Hrits,  in  excessive  quantities,  and  one 
of  tbe  favourite  repasts  of  the  lower  division  of  Nairs^  is  a  fine  pig. 
Respecting  the  diet  of  the  people,  volumes  might  be  written,  and 
much  still  remain  untold. 

A  Native  generally  commences  the  day,  by  having  about  a  quar- 
ter or  half  a  pound  of  pounded  brown  rice,  boiled  in  a  pint  of  water, 
to  which  some  sugar  is  added,  and  if  he  can  afford  it,  a  Uttle  butter- 
milk. From  this  time,  he  rarely  takes  anything,  with  the  exertion 
of  smoking  tobacco,  opium,  or  bhang,  until  elieven  or  twelve  o'clock, 
when  he  expects  his  wife  to  have  prepared  his  breakfast  Some 
classes  however  continue  without  food,  until  three  or  four  in  the  af- 
ternoon. This  meal  consists  of  a  pint,  or  more,  of  brown  rice,  care- 
fully boiled,  and  thus  augmented  to  about  twice  the  first  amount 
Should  he  reside  near  the  sea  ooast^  it  is  made  more  palatable,  by 
the  addition  of  some  fish,  fried  in  oocoanut  oil,  or  curried  The 
Native  Portuguese,  invariably  add  coimtry  vinegar,  whilst  some  <^ 
them,  eat  white  rice,  instead  of  brown,  as  do  also  the  Tamils,  or  most 
of  them. 

The  wife  having  prepared  the  food,  and  placed  it  on  plantain  leaves, 
the  husband  (who  if  a  Brahman  may  not  eat  off  anything  else,  al- 
though tin  vessels  may  be  used  for  cooking,)  having  previously  bath- 
ed, and  if  a  Brahman,  exchanged  his  cloth  for  a  silk  handkerchief^ 
seats  himself  on  his  mat,  with  his  feet  crossed  under  him,  and  com* 
mences  hid  meaL  No  Hindu  woman  can  eat  in  the  presence  of,  or 
at  the  same  time  as  her  lord  and  master,  excepting  on  the  day  of 
her  marriage,  (as  described  page  304)  such  being  considered,  as 
both  inde^nt,  and  disrespectful  If  they  can  afford  it,  some  soup 
made  of  vegetables,  herbs,  fruits,  pepper,  and  other  pungent  articles 
is  placed  in  a  vessel;  with  which  they  moisten  the  rice,  from,  time  to 


ABTtOLKS  KUnorXD  AS  JPOOD.  409 

time.  Battemilky  ghee,  and  herbs  Ihat  have  been  fried  in  oil,  or 
curried,  are  also  eaten.  The  man  nayer  tonches  his  food  with  his 
left  hand,  such  being  considered  impure.  The  rioe  ready  for  con* 
sumption^  Ib  heaped  up  into  a  mound,  with  a  depression  on  the  top^ 
in  the  centre  of  which  i»  an  amalgamation  of  various  other  articles  ; 
he  then  opens  his  mouth,  and  throws  the  food  into  it^  in  the  form 
of  little  balls,  and  when  thirsty,  pours  hot  water,  or  ginger  water, 
into  the  same  receptacle,  without  letting  it  touch  lus  lips.  Some- 
times he  has  a  dessert,  of  betel  or  tobacco  leaves.  Having  finished 
lus  meal,  he  goes  outside  the  door,  where  water  ia  poured  from  a 
brass  vessel,  over  his  hands,  after  which  he  retires  to  a  tank,  to  per- 
form lus  ablutions,  attended  by  his  wife,  and  family. 

Natives  of  the  highest  classes,  are  sometimes  very  much  pleased 
at  being  invited  to  the  dinner  table  of  Europeans.  The  host  is 
expected  to  hand  in  the  illustrious  stranger  on  his  arm,  as  if  he 
were  a  lady,  but  questions  are  frequently  asked  respecting  the 
iogredi^ts  of  the  various  dishes,  to  which  it  ia  necessary  to  give 
guarded  replies,  thus  beef  is  never  mentioned,  and  is  usually  called 
ham,  whilst  of  course  egga  must  not  be  admitted,  to  form  any 
part  of  a  pudding.  During  the  entertainment,  they  appear  to  feel, 
much  as  a  visitor  to  the  Zoological  gardois,  when  seeing  the  lions 
and  tigers  fed,  and  they  would  be  equally  likely,  to  join  in  the 
repast. 

There  are  many  articles,  fit  for  human  food,  procurable  in 
almost  every  locality,  and  the  Native  is  a  much  greater  adept  at 
discovering  them  in  his  own  country,  than  the  European.  The 
Poonac,  or  oil  cake  the  refuse  of  the  cocoanut  after  the  oil  has  been 
expressed,  is  usually  given  to  cattie  and  poultry,  but  still  the  poorer 
dasaes  eat  it :  a  great  luxury  is  the  pounded  seeds  of  the  Bamboo, 
mixed  with  equal  quantities  of  honey,  placed  in  a  hollow  Bamboo, 
then  surrounded  with  clay,  and  baked  Yams  of  many  varieties, 
flourish  all  over  the  country :  arrowroot  is  found  wild  in  nume- 
rous places,  and  vetches  and  pulses,  may  be  seen  growing  both  on  the 
dry  land,  and  in  the  paddy  fields.  A  flour  is  prepared  from  the 
seeds  of  the  Lotus,  Talipot  Palm,  and  other  plants.  The  fruit  of 
the  Jack,  the  apple  of  the  Cashew  nut^  the  various  productions  of 
the  numerous  fruit  trees,  give  some  of  the  greatest  delicacies  of  the 

D  2 


110  MOLLUSCS   USED  AS  FOOD. 

oountty.  The  roots  of  the  sweet  potatoe,  and  other  plants,  are  eaten: 
vegetables  are  raised  for  the  table,  and  the  leaves  of  many  trees  are 
used  for  seasoning,  whilst  the  Areca,  the  betel,  and  tobacco,  are  in 
constant  request. 

But  animal  food  also  is  abundantly  supplied  ;  all  marshy  places, 
and  paddy  fields,  contain  quantities  of  Ampullarioe,  Unionaceoe, 
and  Paludinoe,  which  are  all  employed  as  human  nutriment  Dur- 
ing the  rains,  when  out-door  work  is  almost  impossible,  when 
the  land  is  a  swamp,  and  the  atmosphere  saturated  with  mois- 
ture, animal  life  abounds,  and  the  component  parts  of  a  repast, 
may  be  found  almost  everywhere.  Dried  fish  ought  to  have  been 
saved,  as  food  during  this  time,  but  the  people  are  too  improvident 
to  provide  for  the  future,  and  the  salt  tax  is  very  oppressive.  No 
fresh  sea  fish  can  be  obtained,  as  the  water  is  too  rough,  to  admit  of 
deep  sea  fishing.  The  same  may  be  said,  of  the  mouths  of  the  large 
rivers.  But  fish  may  be  found  in  every  lamall  stream,  whilst  the 
climbing  Perch,  the  Yerrarl,  and  others,  come  forth  from  the  over- 
crowded ponds,  and  find  their  way  into  wet  ditches,  and  irrigated 
paddy  fields,  but  as  the  ghauts  are  approached,  the  character  of 
these  fish  alter,  until  they  become  actually  unwholesome. 

The  laws  of  caste,  also  prevail  regarding  food.  The  Churmura, 
and  even  sometimes  the  Chogans,  will  collect  and  eat  the  marsh 
snails,  (Paludince)  which  become  abimdant  inland,  as  the  Afupul- 
larvae  decrease.  The  large  Potamides,  {ierehralii  teUicopiufn,)  are  also 
abundant  near  the  mouths  of  estuaries,  and  in  paddy  fields  along  the 
coast.  But  these  crawling  molluscs,  are  considered  only  fit  food  for 
slaves,  and  are  consequently  not  eaten  by  those*  of  any  higher  c|8te, 
who  only  collect  and  eat  those,  which  do  not  crawl,  and  are  not  so 
common,  as  the  fresh  water  mussel,  Unionidct  and  some  of  the 
Cardiadce, 

Mutton  also  during  the  South  West  monsoon  is  unprocurable, 
excepting  by  the  wealthier  classes.  Cows  are  of  course  not  killed,  in 
the  Native  state,  although  if  they  die,  slaves  are  allowed  to  eat  them. 
Pigs  are  considered  luxuries  by  Native  Christians,  and  Nairs,  whilst 
even  the  Mussalmen  Moplahs,  are  known  to  eat  them  under  the 
name  of  MiUton,  The  lower  castes,  are  fond  of  eating  squirrels, 
porcupines,  large  lizards  called  iguanas,  flying  foxes,  deer,  all  birds 


THE  DIET  OF   THE   KATIVEJt.  411 

excepting  reptonal  ones,  (and  even  some  of  these,)  mioe^  and  frogs. 
Some  casted  delight  in  the  flesh  of  the  crocodile,  and  will  even  eat 
a  tiger  if  they  can  get  him.  The  dog  is  usually  spared,  but  not  so 
his  enemy  the  cat,  of  which  the  tank  diggers  are  so  fond,  that  at 
Trichoor,  no  tabby  is  safe,  and  even  in  Cochin,  they  are  not  unfre- 
quently  killed,  and  their  livers  eaten  as  a  remedy  for  asthma. 
Amongst  the  Nicomars,  the  Bridegroom  on  his  marriage,  invariably 
kills  and  eats  a  cat,  in  which  he  is  assisted  by  the  Bride.  The  Bridal 
feast  of  the  tank  diggers,  consists  of  a  fox. 

When  the  South-West  monsoon  closes,  the  ground  dries  up,  the 
fisheries  re-open,  and  food  of  all  descriptions  is  abundant :  the  North 
East  monsoon,  scarcely  decreases  the  fishing,  and  there  is  then  plen- 
ty of  work. 

The  Hindus  and  Native  Christians^  drink  with  their  food,  large 
quantities  of  hot  water,  or  ganger  water.  Much  opium  is  consumed, 
but  less  bhang  than  in  other  parts  of  India.  The  consumption  of 
arrack,  and  toddy  is  very  great^  and  French  brandy  finds  an  enor- 
mous sale. 

The  Native  of  India,  has  been  generally  held  up  as  a  model  of 
sobriety,  and  good  health,  from  abstemious  living :  whatever  he  may 
be  elsewhere,  he  certainly  is  not  this  in  Cochin.  Drunkenness  is  a 
prevalent  vice,  amongst  all  excepting  the  twice  bom  classes  :  he  is  a 
martyr  to  dyspepsia^  immoderate  in  his  eating,  gorging  himself  at 
his  meals,  and  takes  strong  condiments  to  assist  his  appetita  He 
is  also  an  habitual  consumer  of  narcotics,  (Brahmans,  and  Slaves  ex- 
cepted,) so  it  is  not  surprising,  that  he  is  a  great  sufferer  from  vis- 
ceral affections,  and  short  lived. 


CHAPTER  XI. 


CLIMATE  AND  DISEASES. 

Climate — Temperature — Monsoons — Rain  fall — Land  winds — Sea  breexe— 
HaU  storms — OffensiYe  emanations  from  the  sea— -Natiye  ideas  of  disease— Cochin 
Dispensary— Fevers— Natives  able  to  produce  it  themselves — Native  Practi- 
tioners — Small  pox  and  vaccination — Consumption — Cholera — Feasts  to  avert 
Epidemics — Cuiioos  remedies — ^Rheumatism— Elephant  leg— Lepro^  and 
Leper  house — Fits  considered  to  be  the  effects  of  evil  spirits — At  Births 
Astrologers  consulted— Witbhcrafb — ^Enchantments — Hill  deity — ^Novel  mode 
of  curing  all  diseases. 

Thx  dixnate  of  Malabar,  ia  moister  and  more  saltry,  than  that 
whick  prerailB  on  the  Ooromandel  coast,  and  it  consequently  has  a 
yery  Viifferent  effisct  on  the  health.  The  seasons  of  the  year  are 
divisible,  into  the  hot,  wet,  and  cold  mcmths.  Hie  thennometer 
rarely  rises  abore  92^  in  the  shade,  at  any  period  In  the  commence- 
ment of  March,  the  hot  weather  b^g^,  and  the  oppressiveneBs  of 
the  atmosphere  increases,  and  then  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  of 
Ck>chin  who  are  able  to  do  so,  nsoallj  proceed  to  Alwaye^  where 
they  can  enjoy  the  luxury  of  river  bathing.  During  this  month,  the 
mean  temperature  (in  the  shade,).is  about  80"*,  and  it  rardij  falls 
below  68^  or  69^  In  April  it  may  be  estimated  at  an  average' 
of  2^  higher  than  it  was  in  March.  During  the  first  part  of 
May,  the  temperature  keeps  up  to  the  average  of  April,  but 
during  the  latter  part  of  the  month,  the  heat  is  diminished,  by 
frequent  showers.  In  June  the  wet  season  commences,  and  a 
sudden  fall  in  the  temperature  occurs.  As  the  South  West  monsoon 
breaks,  about  the  first  of  the  month,  rarely  later  than  the  fifteenth, 
vast  masses  of  clouds  appear  in  the  horizon,  to  the  S.  S.  W.,  whilst 
towards  evening,  the  sky  becomes  lowering,  accompanied  by  vivid 


THE  RAINT  8BA80N.  413 

flaahes  of  lightning,  and  loud  peab  of  thunder.  The  thermometer 
about  this  time  sinks  down  to  77^  and  the  usual  monthly  averages, 
may  be  considered  as  follows,  during  July,  August,  September, 
October,  and  November,  76^  In  December,  the  temperature  decreases 
to  about  75%  and  remains  about  the  same  in  January.  In  February 
it  rises  about  4"",  and  in  March  about  1^  more. 

The  word  Mojuoon,  appears  to  be  derived  from  the  Persian  term 
"  Monsum,"  a  season,  and  is  now  generally  applied  to  the  rainy 
months.  The  South  Went  Jfomoon^  is  that  most  severely  felt  on  the 
Malabar  coast  In  Cochin  the  average  yearly  fall  of  rain,  is  about 
108  inches,  although  sometimes  it  reaches  120,  or  even  more. 
Between  70  and  80  inches,  are  sometimes  gauged  in  the  South  West 
Monsoon.  The  amount  which  falls  at  night  time,  exceeds  that 
during  the  day.  This  Monsoon  ceases  about  the  middle  of  August, 
but  the  weather  remains  unsettled,  until  September,  and  even  then 
the  sea  is  still  rough. 

During  this  period,  vegetation  springs  up  very  rapidly,  and  nature 
appears  renewed.  The  intervals  between  the  showers,  are  very  op- 
pressiye.  Owing  to  the  porous  nature  of  the  soil,  water  rarely  con- 
tinues long  on  the  ground,  but  is  soon  absorbed.  Even  in  the  fall 
height  of  the  Monsocm,  there  are  usually  a  few  hours  daily  without 
rain,  and  about  twenty  days  after  the  first  burst,  there  is  sometimes 
a  cessation  for  a  fortnight 

Whilst  the  rains  continue,  the  resident  suffers  great  loss,  in  all 
property  liable  to  spoil  from  the  effects  of  mcAstore.  Steel  and  Iron 
rust,  dotbing  especially  woollen  articles  become  damp,  mildew,  spot, 
or  are  destroyed  by  the  fish  insects,  moths,  cockroaches,  or  crickets : 
colours  also  fade^  silks  spot^  gloves  become  rotten,  the  bindings  of 
books  lose  their  colour  and  strength,  and  furniture  its  polish,  whilst 
if  fastened  together  by  gloe,  it  &lls  to  pieces.  Even  writing  paper 
beowies  damp,  if  glaied  greasy,  and  unpleasant  to  write  on.  Col- 
ketions  of  Zooloogioal  specimens,  are  almost  destroyed,  the  Butterflies 
by  small  insects,  and  mildew:  Birds,  by  the  moth;  and  fidi,  espe- 
cially those  of  the  salt  water  specieB  become  very  damp^  as  if  they 
had  again  just  arnved  from  their  native  element  In  fact  during 
this  season,  there  are  very  few  things,  that  escape  iiguiy  of  some 
kind. 


414  THB  LAND  WINDS. 

Beasoning  by  analogy  with  other  places,  it  might  be  expected 
that  at  this  tune^  the  whole  country  would  swarm  with  animal  life^ 
but  this  is  not  the  case.  The  birds  retire  to  some  drier  locaUty,  and 
the  insects  are  not  more  numerous.  The  raina  are  too  heavy,  and 
the  moisture  too  great,  for  animal  life  to  thrive,  small  creatures  are 
destroyed,  and  the  larger  unable  to  obtain  food,  migrate  to  more 
genial  climes. 

The  North  East  Monsoon,  or  as  it  is  sometimes  called,  the  Madras 
Monsoon,  is  very  slightly  perceptible  in  Cochin,  it  occurs  in  Octo- 
ber, and  lasts  partly  into  November :  the  fall  of  rain  is  not  great. 
Coughs  and  colds,  with  feverish  attacks,  are  at  this  season  very 
prevalent. 

The  cold  season,  if  it  can  be  so  designated,  commences  about  the 
beginning  of  November,  at  the  termination  of  the  North  £ast 
Monsoon. 

The  average  rain  fall,  excluding  unusual  years,  has  been  as  fol- 
lows, January  Of,  February  OJ,  March  3f,  April  7^,  May  10^,  (in 
1859,^50  inches  fell  during  this  month,)  June  29|,  July  lOJ,  August 
lOJ,  September  7J,  October  14J,  November  4,  and  December  1| 
inches. 

The  perceptible  heat  of  the  atmosphere,  does  not  depend  entirely  on 
that  registered  by  the  thermometer,  for  the  movements  of  the  air,  also 
sensibly  affect  the  feeling ;  the  heat  at  night  time,  all  the  year 
round,  is  not  in  a  ratio  corresponding  with  what  occurs  during  the 
day.  Generally  in  October,  or  at  the  latest  in  November,  the  low 
lands  around  the  bases  of  the  ghauts,  and  for  some  distance  from 
them,  commence  to  be  covered  with  dew,  and  fogs  hang  about  the 
wooded  hills.  All  low  country  people,  are  at  this  time  obliged  to 
leave  the  Jungles,  fever  increases  in  intensity,  and  sleeping  in  the 
woods,  wotdd  almost  certainly  be  followed  by  an  attack  of  Jungle 
fever.  This  dangerous  time  continues  until  February,  or  the  end  of 
March,  but  cases  contracted  in  December,  and  January,  are  most 
dreaded,  for  the  type  is  then  of  a  stiienic  character.* 

The  land  mnds,  or  those  from  the  North  East  or  East,  are  exceed- 
ingly variable,  for  whilst  in  October  they  may  be  severe  further  North, 

*  These  observations  have  been  made,  amongst  the  Kodachayree  Hilla,  and 
Jungles » 


THS  BEA  BBKBZK.  41$ 

'  f(viii0t4uice  atTrichoor, — they  are  bat  slightly  felt  inCochiiiy 
"where  they  generally  commence  in  November,  and  reach  their  mazi- 
nram  strength,  about  the  middle  of  December,  or  the  commence- 
mieat  of  Jannary.  They  are  very  irregolar  in  their  continuance : 
generally  in  the  town  of  Cochin,  setting  in  about  7  p.  m.,  and  usually 
last  12  hours,  but  it  is  by  no  means  rare,  for  them  not  to  cease,  till 
11  or  12  o'clock  in  the  next  day.  Immediately  the  land  wind 
stops,  the  sea  breeze  usually  commences,  occasionally  the  force  of 
the  former,  decreases  towards  the  full  of  the  moon.  This  deleterious 
wind,  is  the  heated  air  from  Mysore  and  the  higher  table  lands, 
conjoined  with  that  from  the  Coimbatore  district,  which  rushes 
throiigh  the  Paulghaut  pass,  towards  the  sea;  in  its  course  it 
travels  over  a  jungly  and  highly  feverish  country,  and  is  con- 
sequently very  unhealthy.  The  land  winds  were  in  1862,  perceptible 
in  the  month  of  May  in  Cochin,  but  they  generally  cease  in 
February. 

The  strength  and  continuance  of  these  winds,  are  proportionate  to 
the  severity  of  the  Monsoons.  If  the  fall  of  rain  has  been  very  great, 
saturating  the  Malabar  side  of  the  ghauts,  filling  the  tanks,  and 
flooding  the  swamps,  the  evaporation  during  the  succeeding  months 
becomes  great  The  air  is  thus  partially  cooled,  and  the  rush  of  the 
heated  air  from  inland,  displacing  this  which  is  cooler,  causes  the  wind 
from  the  land  towards  the  sea,  to  become  impetuous,  but  it  reaches 
different  places  along  the  coast,  at  different  hours,  depending 
greatly  on  their  distance  from  the  ghauts.  At  Trichoor  between 
the  Paulghaut  gap  and  the  sea,  the  land  winds  are  excessive,  and 
blow  continuously  day  and  night,  with  great  violence.  The  travel- 
lers' bangalow  at  Eurriapudnam,  placed  upon  a  high  spot  of  ground, 
is  remarkably  free  from  these  winds.  From  about  the  middle  of 
August,  until  October,  or  even  later,  strong  breezes  set  in  from 
the  N.  K  W.,  or  North  West  and  are  unhealthy,  but  perhaps  not 
so  much  so,  as  the  land   winds  just  described. 

The  9ea  breeze  continues  irregularly  throughout  the  year.  Before 
the  South  West  Monsoon  sets  in,  strong  winds  come  gradually  round 
from  the  North,  to  the  West  :  and  at  last  to'  the  South  West 
increasing  in  severity,  whilst  the  noise  overhead,  is  a  sure  criterion, 
that  the  Monsoon    is  setting  in :  it  comes  with  a  rushing  sound. 


416  OFFENSIVE  EFFLUYIJE  FBOH  THE  WATEB. 

flomethiog  like  a  flock  of  wild  ducks  passing.  In  the  oommeacemeat  of 
March,  strong  cold  sea  breezes^generally  occor^  rendering  the  sea  rough : 
should  persons  remain  in  them  whilst  perspiring,  f erer  is  frequently 
the  result ;  during  April  and  May,  thunder  and  lightning  become 
severe,  the  flashes  being  very  vivid,  whilst  the  daps  appear  close  : 
sometimes  the  shipping  in  the  roads  are  struck,  trees  are  frequently 
knocked  down,  and  some  fatal  accidents  to  coolies  working  out  of 
doors  usually  take  place,  especially  to  those  preparing,  the  paddy 
grounds,  for  the  Monsoon  crop.  As  the  downpour  becomes  more 
decided,  the  thunder  and  lightning  gradually  disappear,  and  cease 
by  the  middle  of  June.  In  the  North  East  Monsoon,  there  is  usu- 
ally a  return  of  this  electrical  disturbance. 

Hail  storms  are  of  very  rare  occurrence :  one  occurred  in  Cochin  in 
May  1 862,  and  was  looked  upon  by  the  Natives,  with  extreme  wonder. 
At  various  periods  in  the  year,  very  offentive  efiuvim  arise  from 
the  sea,  the  backwater,  and  the  banks  of  the  Alwaye  river.  These 
exhalations  from  the  sea,  during  the  last  three  years,  have  been 
especially  apparent,  on  June  14th  and  15th,  1861 :  July  22nd,  23rd 
and  24th,  1860 :  and  August  8th,  1862.  Whilst  in  ''  November,  and 
'^  December,  1836,  the  state  of  the  sea  at  this  station,  (Calicut,)  and 
*'  Tellicherry,  was  very  unwholesome,  it  sent  forth  a  strong  stench  of 
*'  putrifying  matter,and  deposited  a  black  mud  on  the  sand.  For  many 
"  yards  from  the  shore,  the  water  was  covered  by  dead  fish,  and  on  the 
''  beach  they  were  lying  in  large  heaps :  the  effluviss  arising  from  which 
'^  extended  over  the  station,  and  almost  every  person  was  more  or 
^'  less  ailing, — fevers,  headaches,  and  nausea^  were  the  graieral  com- 
''  plaints."*  In  this  last  instance,  the  state  of  the  sea,  cotdd  not  be 
owing  to  the  admixture  of  fresh  with  salt  water,  as  such  was  not 
then  occurring,  whilst  the  state  of  the  sea  appears  to  have  caused 
the  destruction  of  the  fish.  In  Cochin  when  emanations  arise  from 
the  sea,  they  also  do  so  from  the  backwater,  showing  from  whence 
the  odour  is  derived.  Still  it  seems  as  if  the  smell  is  augmented, 
when  the  unsaYoury  water  from  the  backwater,  reaches  the  sea,  and 
many  of  the  finny  tribe,  and  sea  snakes,  are  often  perceived  at  this 
time  lying  dead  on  the  shore. 

*  Medical  Topography  of  tlie  Madras  Prtsidmcy^    Malabar,    and  Canara, 
page  84. 


CHA^RMS   USED  TO   CURB  DISKABBS.  417 

Offensive  emanations  from  the  backwater,  and  river,  are  by  no 
means  confined  to  the  Monsoon  months.  One  cause  is,  that  immense 
nmnbers  of  coooanut  shells  are  buried  in  the  mud,  within  tidal 
influence, — ^in  order  to  separate  the  fibres,  and  thus  form  coir.  When 
these  deposits  are  opened,  the  effluvia  is  most  horrible,  and  the 
^  river  is  polluted  for  many  miles.  Another  cause  is  the  water  which 
has  been  retained  in  paddy  fields,  in  which  vegetable  matter  is 
allowed  to  putrify  for  manure  ;  and  when  let  out  into  the 
river,  or  overflowed,  it  renders  the  river  water  very  offensive.  Thus  it 
is,  that  when  the  Monsoon  rains  cause  the  rivers  to  overflow  their 
banks,  all  decayed  matter  is  carried  towards  the  sea,  which  is  thus 
rendered  semi-putrid.  The  cause  of  this  effluvia  in  the  sea,  during 
the  hot  months,  is  difficult  to  determine.  Benett^  considered  that 
in  Ceylon,  it  arose  from  the  presence  of  vast  numbers  of  the  Arum 
foetidum. 

Cochin  though  called  healthy  by  its  inhabitants,  is  much  dreaded 
on  account  of  its  numerous  diseases,  as  a  place  of  residence,  by  the 
Natives  of  other  parts  of  India.  The  mortality  is  about  one  person 
yearly  in  every  twenty-four  inhabitants,  or  excluding  epidemics,  such 
as  Cholera  and  Small  Pox  ;  one  in  thirty-three  individuals.  Natives 
are  not  generally  speaking  long  lived,  whilst  their  mode  of  stuffing 
themselves  at  meals,  drinking  large  quantities  of  intoxicating  or  hot 
fluids,  and  eating  opium,  renders  them  martyrs  to  dyspepsia. 

All  diseases  are  considered  to  be  more  or  less  due  to  demoniacal 
influence,  and  consequently  a  belief  in  the  efficacy  of  spells,  is  deeply 
rooted.  Charms  as  a  rule,  are  more  relied  on  than  drugs,  and  a  piece 
of  peacock's  feather  tied  round  an  arm  or  leg,  than  the  appliances 
of  a  Medical  Practitioner.  The  Brahman,  the  Priest,  and  the  Exor- 
cist, rank  about  equal :  and  the  decapitation  of  a  cock,  as  a  sacrifice 
to  the  goddess  Kali,  is  believed  incomparably  superior  to  vaccination, 
as  a  preservative  against  Small  Pox.  The  presentation  of  an 
umbrella  to  a  Brahman,  it  is  believed  will  protect  the  donor  from 
the  injurious  effects  of  the  sun :  giving  him  shoes  will  prevent  his 
feet  being  blistered  on  a  journey :  whilst  presenting  him  with  some 
aromatic  spices,  will  preserve  him  all  his  days,  from  offensive  smells, 

*  Ceylon,  and  its  oapabiUties. 
E  2 


41&  OBIOIN  or  THX  OOCHIH  DffiPKNSART. 

,  and  foul  ezhaktioiiB :  conaeqnently,  the  benefits  of  a  sanitaty  com- 
miflsioii  are  not  much  eateemed,  by  pious  Hindus. 

The  Enzopean  Snigeon,  is  thoroughly  trusted  in  all  cases  requir- 
ing surgical  operations,  most  accidents,  and  in  some  few  species  of 
disease :  but  in  the  common  complaints  of  the  country,  the  Natiyea 
prefer  their  own  nostrums,  and  die  under  the  treatment  of  those  of 
their  own  caste. 

Since  May  7th,  1817,  the  British  haye  maintained  a  Civil  Surgeon 
at  Cochin,  for  the  purpose  of  attending  Qovemment  Servants,  and 
the  Prisonerainthe  Jail,  as  well  as  to  afford  aid  to  the  poorer  classes 
-mho  may  apply  for  it 

At  the  present  time,  the  duties  of  Medical  Officers,  are  strictly 
confined  to  Medical  affiiirs,  but  the  Dutch  employed  a  variety  of 
persons,  but  few  of  whom  had  been  educated  in  Europe,  and  whose 
chief  occupation  appears  to  have  consisted,  in  tasting  cinnamon,  and 
applying  themselves  to  other  mercantile  occupations  :  whilst  it  does 
not  appear  that  inside  Cochin,  that  nation  ever  had  Hospitals,  avail- 
able to  the  sick  native  community,  who  were  not  servants  of  the 
Company. 

On  June  23rd,  1847,  the  inhabitants  of  Cochin  addressed  a 
Memorial  to  the  Mar^pUs  of  -TweeddaU^  Governor  of  Madras 
drawing  his  attention  to  the  miserable  objects  of  disease,  which 
might  be  seen  in  every  street^  to  the  general  poverty  of  the  inhabit- 
ants, and  the  absence  of  medical  aid  within  an  Hospital,  and  pray- 
ing for  the  establishment  of  a  Qovemment  Dispensary. 

Many  a  family  as  the  Memoralists  observed,  were  dependent  for 
the  means  of  support  on  the  labour  of  a  father,  or  brother,  who 
when  falling  sick,  if  properly  treated,  might  soon  be  restored  to 
health,  instead  of  probably  succumbing  to  disease.  Owing  to  the 
absence  of  Medi(»l  assistance,  mortality  amongst  able  bodied 
labourers  had  become  very  great^  and  numerous  f amili^  were  thus 
left  burdens  on  the  community,  whilst  the  Friend-in-Need  Society, 
which  was  only  established  in  1845,  for  the  relief  of  the  necessitous 
poor,  could  not  afford  to  feed  all  pauper  sick,  whilst  under  treat- 
ment 

On  July  23rd,  1850,  a  public  meeting  was  held,  and  another 
Mesnorial  addressed  on  the  same  subject,  to  Sir  H.  PoUin^er,  then 


CUMATB  OF  COCHIN.  419 

Governor  of  Madras.  In  the  intennediAte  time,  the  Biyah  of 
Oochin,  sensible  of  the  benefits  to  be  derived  from  a  Dispensaiy, 
established  one  for  bis  own  subjects,  at  EmacoUmni  and  placed  it 
under  the  supervision  of  the  Gvil  Surgeon  of  Cochin. 

A  favourable  answer  was  returned  to  this  second  petition,  and 
the  erection  of  a  Dispensary  finally  sanctioned.  The  inhabitants  of 
the  town,  subscribed  1768  Rupees,  and  Qovemment  contributed  the 
remainder:  the  total  cost  of  the  building,  being  4,517^  Rupees.  In 
the  interim,  a  house  was  rented,  and  employed  as  a  Dbpensary, 
beii^  opened  for  the  reception  of  patients,  on  December  Htb,  1850. 
The  new  building  was  situated  in  a  central  locality,  easily  accessible 
from  every  part  of  the  town,  and  the  sick  were  removed  there,  in 
the  end  of  January  1853. 

Patients  rapidly  increased,  severe  accidents  and  cases  of  diseaso 
were  brought  from  many  inland  places,  and  still  continue  to  be  so. 
The  expense  of  maintaining  pampers,  gradually  augmented  as  years 
rolled  on,  until  at  last  the  number  of  those  who  dieted  themselves 
as  In-Patients,  was  much  less  than  those  fed  by  Qovemment  aa 
paupers.  In  1861  it  was  therefore  decided,  that  for  the  future, 
Cbvemment  would  provide  Medical  attendance,  Suropeaa  drugs, 
and  Hospital  servants,  and  in  addition  Rupees  50  a  month,  towards 
dieting  paupers,  finding  lights  for  the  building,  and  country  medi- 
cines, leaving  the  inhabitants  to  subscribe  the  remainder. 

Besides  the  Cochin  Dispensary,  a  Lazaretto  for  incurable  lepers 
is  maintained  by  the  British  Government  at  Palliport  There  isy 
likewise  a  staff  of  Vaccinators,  spread  throughout  the  country.  The 
whole  of  these  establishments,  are  under  the  immediate  control,  of 
the  Civil  l^urgeon  of  Cochin. 

The  climate  of  Cochin  is  very  enervating,  and  may  be  described 
as  a  dilatory  one^  inducing  persons  of  all  classes,  to  defer  until  to- 
morrow, what  should  be  done  to-day.  The  nervous  system  becomes 
greatiy  depressed,  and  it  takes  long,  to  rally  from  the  eflfects  of  a 
severe  illness.  It  is  curious,  that  sun  stroke  is  almost  unknown. 
Both  Natives  and  Europeans  are  constantiy  troubled  with  nervous 
twitchings,  even  when  asleep  at  night  time,  in  various  muscles,  to  an 
extent  rarely  observed  ebewhere.  The  lower  animals  also  do  not  escape 
nervous  affections,  thus  startings,j9ara^ywa^rfton«,   (f)    frequentiy 


420     PREVALENT   FOKM8   OF  FKYnt  IN   DIFrSBBNT   MONTHS. 

affede  dogs  and  eats,  iHiilst  hones  go  weak  in  the  loins,  whidi  has 
been  attributed  either  to  their  eating  the  Lathynu  $ativtu  or  analo- 
gous vetches  or  else  to  their  being  exposed  to  a  draught  of  cold 
wind  when  freely  perspiring.  Person's  teeth  become  extremely  brittle 
and  are  very  apt  to  break  when  brought  in  contact  with  any  hard 
substance. 

The  Monsoon  rains  when  heavy  are  productive  of  irritation  of  the 
intestines,  consequentiy  diarrhea  and  dysentery  are  then  very  ^xt- 
valent* 

When  epidemics  of  cholera  or  Small  Pox  are  severe,  evil  spirits 
are  believed  to  be  roaming  about  after  dark,  throng  the  towns,  vil- 
lages and  highways,  consequentiy  as  soon  as  it  begins  to  get  dusk, 
all  doors  are  securely  fiutened,  to  prevent  their  entrance.  This  super- 
stitious belief,  is  appaientiy  prevalent,  amongst  all  deeds  and  castes. 
Malarious  fevers,  {Puney^  Mai.)  in  the  form  of  dumb  ogwu^  are 
amongst  the  most  common  diseases  in  Cochin,  and  are  rather  fatal 
in  their  eflfocts,  especially  if  contracted  in  the  jungles.  It  is  curious 
to  observe^  that  the  further  south  a  locality  is  on  the  Western 
Ck>ast,  the  less  firequeutare  the  attacks  of  this  disease. 

During  the  dry  cold  months  of  the  year,  namely  December, 
January,  and  February,  the  number  of  attacks  is  below  the  average, 
but  the  mortality  exceeds  it  The  virulence  of  the  malaria,  how- 
ever decreases  in  the  three  succeeding  hot  months.  With  the  man- 
goe  showers  in  March,  the  jungles  and  some  other  localities,  become 
fiBverish,  whilst  in  the  plains,  fevers  become  very  severe,  until  the 
Monsoon  has  well  set  in,  when  they  b^gin  to  decrease.  Difierent 
localities  in  the  Jungles,  apparentiy  suffer  from  fever  at  slightly  dif • 
ferent  times,  whilst  the  most  sickly  period  in  the  hilly  ranges,  is 
not  the  same  as  that  in  the  plains.  In  August  the  unhealthy  North 
West  long  shore  winds,  are  frequentiy  perceived,  and  cause  fevers, 
colds,  and  dysenteries. 

*  For  a  detailed  account  of  the  diBoaaeB  of  Cochia,  which  is  uoauited  to  these 
pages,  the  reader  is  referred,  to  the  Bfadrat  Journal  of  MMcal  Science,  Vols. 
1,  2,  and  3.  Out  of  upward«  of  90,000  adnunious,  into  the  Coohia  Civil  Disp^- 
aary,  in  fire  years,  ending  1861,  they  were  as  follows :  malarious  fevers  9*7  : 
eruptive  fevers  3  5  :  lung  affections  5*5 :  liver  0*8  :  intestines  28*8  :  brain  1*2  : 
cholera  01  :  dropsies  2'3:  rheumatism  6*8:  lock  hospital  4*4:  abscesses  and 
ulcers  101 :  wounds  10*4 :  eye  2*4 :  skin  M :  other  diseases  8*4. 


MODE   OF   PAYIKO   NATIVE  DOCTORS.  421 

Every  change  of  temperature  is^feltby  a  feveriah  subject,  such- 
as  thunder  in  the  air,  a  storm  of  wind  or  rain,  which  increases  the 
number  of  attacks,  whether  on  the  hills,  in  the  jungles,  or  in  the 

In  October  should  the  land  winds  have  set  in,  the  frequency  of 
cases  of  fever  combined  with  cou^  and  colds  becomes  very  great. 
A  gentleman  who  has  a  plantation  in  the  Cochin  State,  has  observed, 
that  every  cooly  standing  in  a  tank  of  an  evening,  for  the  purpose  of 
drawing  water,  for  the  young  coffee  plants,  invariably  has  an  attack  of 
fever  by  the  next  morning.  Drinking  the  water  of  the  wells,  or 
rivers,  has  also  the  effect  of  producing  fever :  so  tlie  natives  in  those 
jungles  always  drink  boiled  water,  mixed  with  green  ginger. 

Natives  are  able  to  j^oduce  a  paroxysm  of  fever,  when  such  may 
be  deemed  necessary.  For  this  purpose  after  having  bathed  in 
cold  water  early  in  the  morning,  they  eat  a  large  quantity  of  cold 
rice,  and  buttermilk,  followed  by  tilie  fruit  of  the  Narga,  Cal^ptran- 
thes  CaryophyUifoliay  Swarta.  When  the  sun  rises,  they  lie  down 
in  its  rays,  and  fever  almost  invariably  ensues.  Persona  who  ace 
not  in  the  habit  of  bathing  in  warm  water,  and  anointing  themselves, 
frequently  get  fever  from  doing  so,  and  it  has  been  observed,  that 
should  those  unaccustomed  to  bathe  in  a  river,  such  for  instance  as 
that  at  Shallaeoodee,  do  so  whOst  the  water  is  muddy,  from  the 
washing  of  the  ghauts,  owing  to  heavy  rain;  fever  almost  invariably 
occurs.  But  Natives  who  usually  bathe  several  times  daily  in  the 
river,  do  not  find  that  the  changes  in  the  purity  of  the  water  affects 
their  health. 

In  some  Europeans,  attacks  here  as  elsewhere,  may  be  induced 
by  sitting  luider  a  punkah,  eating  some  kinds  of  fruit,  especially 
plantains,  or  even  drinking  large  quantities  of  milk.  The  effects 
of  the  cold  sea  breezes,  and  the  laud  winds,  have  already  been  alluded 
to,  as  occasioning  this  disease. 

The  Native  Practitioners  are  very  ignorant^  consequently  they 
are  badly  poidi  which  prevents  a  better  class  of  persons,  from 
studying  medicioe.  Faoli  meatums,  that  in  his  time^  (before  1790) 
the  people  "  were  accustomed,  never  to  pay  the  physician,  until  they 
<*  were  completely  freed  from  their  diseases ''  and  that  *'  when  a  Ma- 
''  labar  Physician  fiuled  of  acuie^  the  patient  gave  him  a  certain  pre- 


422  SMAJX  POX. 

'<  sent,  accordii^  to  the  tnmble  he  had  had."  Rjeasomng  by  analc^ 
with  the  present  time,  the  unfortunate  Medical  Practitioner^  must 
haye  been  badly  paid  indeed.  If  no  cure  ensued,  it  seems  to  have 
been  the  rule  to  give  no  pay.  YT^ilst  it  is  proverbial,  that  persons 
when  sick,  are  profuse  in  promises,  whkh  when  well,  Uiey  are  slack 
in  performing. 

Some  Native  Practitioners  at  the  presei^  time,  receive  so  much 
a  day,  whilst  attrading,  and  a  reward  which  h$a  been  agreed  upon 
before  hand,  when  the  person  has  recovered.  la  the  jungles,  where 
any  cooly  can  practise.  Natives  agree  to  give  him  a  certain  sum,  if 
he  can  cure  them. 

The  Hindu  and  Mahomedan  treatises  upon  Mediciue>  are  volu- 
minous, and  their  ideas  of  many  diseases,  very  absurd :  they  have  a 
few  good  simples  in  use,  but  very  many  of  the  valuable  drugs  grow- 
ing around  them,  they  are  quite  unacquainted  witL  There  ace 
several  Herbalists'  stalls  in  the  Muttencherry  Bazaar,  and  they  are 
curious  to  e3camine,  whilst  some  useful  drugs  may  be  procured  at 
them.  But  the  purchaser  should  not  trust  the  seller,  as  to  the  pro- 
perties of  the  drugs,  as  in  that  case,  he  runs  a  great  risk  of  being 
poisoned :  whilst  owing  to  the  careless  manner  in  which  they  are 
dried,  and  preserved,  no  two  samples  are  of  the  same  strength. 

The  Native  remedy  for  fevers,  consists  of  a  compound  of  numer- 
ous herbs,  which  should  be  collected  fresh,  but  as  this  often  takes 
from  five  to  forty  days,  the  grass  is  sometimes  growing  high  above 
the  patient's  grave,  before  the  prescribed  drugs  have  been  collected, 
from  the  various  i^d  distant  localities  in  which  they  are  alone 
supposed  to  grow.  The  fame  of  quinine  is  now  spread  throughout 
the  country,  but  arsmic  appears  to- be  quite  as  benefidaL 

Small  Pox  is  greatly  dreaded.  The  yearly  sacrifice  to  Kali,  to 
avert  its  onslaught,  has  been  alluded  to ;  when  the  disease  breaks 
out,  the  avenging  deity  is  supposed  to  be  sowing  the  seeds  fiar  and 
wide,  and  each  pustule  is  considered  as  the  germination  of  a  single 
one.  Then  relatives  forsake  their  smitten  rdation,  the  husbuid 
flees  in  terror  from  his  wife ;  the  mother  fi^m  her  child^  and  no  ties 
of  consanguinity  are  for  the  time  regarded. 

In  the  interior  of  the  country,  rdations  sometimes  fix  a  hollow 
bamboo  through  the  roof  of  the  hut^  and  twice  a  day  poor  rice 


VACCINATION.  42^ 

down  it,  for  the  sick  person's  use:  otherwise  if  tbey  can  afford  it^  or 
the  neighbonrs  are  generous  enough  to  subscribe,  a  nurse  who  has 
had  the  disease  is  procured  In  this  case,  a  cock  is  first  sacrificed 
to  Kali,  and  the  blood  occasionally  rubbed  over  the  patient's  body ; 
a  branch  of  neem,  Atadiraehia  Indica^  the  symbol  of  purification, 
is  hung  over  the  bed :  or  leaves  of  this  tree,  sacred  to  the  Qoddess 
of  small-pox,  are  thrown  over  the  patient. 

This  disease  is  most  severe,  during  the  first  three  months  of  the 
year.  The  mortalily  amongst  natives  protected  by  vaccination,  is 
about  six  per  cent;  but  amongst  the  unprotected,  as  high  as  forty* 
six  per  cent  Exclusive  of  the  direct  mortality  caused  by  small-pox 
in  unvacdnated  persons,  many  have  their  constitutions  so  shaken, 
that  they  subsequently  fall  victims  to  consumptions,  dysenteries, 
dropsies,  or  other  diseases. 

Should  Hindus  die  of  small-pox,  they  are  believed  to  be  accursed, 
but  it  is  not  the  Hindu  alone  who  succumbing  to  the  dire  effects  of 
this  disease,  receives  no  funeral  rites.  There  is  a  prevalent  belief, 
that  individuals  may  be  attacked  by  seven  different  species  of  erup- 
tive fevers,  but  as  there  is  no  discrimination  between  each,  it  is  a 
common  saying,  that  persons  may  have  small-pox  seven  times. 

Taccinatian  is  most  inert^  in  the  hot  dry  months.  This  operation, 
cannot  be  said  to  be  a  success  in  India.  The  Hindu  will  rail  at  the 
folly  of  his  neighbours,  not  submitting  to  it^  and  when  pressed,  will 
promise  his  family  shall  undergo  the  operation,  at  an  early  date. 
But  it  ends  in  the  promise^  for  the  performance  is  but  rarely  per- 
mitted. ' 

Some  are  apathetic,  but  not  actively  hostile:  others  submit 
through  fear,  but  immediately  subsequently  rub  warm  woodashes 
over  the  place,  to  prevent  its  being  effectual  A  notion  at  one  time 
prevailed,  that  the  indelible  mark  of  vaccination,  was  pbiced  on  per- 
son's arms,  in  order  that  at  some  future  date,  when  the  individual 
was  grown  up,  he  mi^t  be  distinguished,  to  send  as  a  slave  to  the 
Mauritius,  or  some  island  beyond  the  sea:  or  else  that  he  might  be 
known,  for  the  purposes  of  taxation. 

Certain  causes  must  always  be  at  work,  to  counteract  the  spread  of 
vaccination.  High  caste  Hindus,  wish  for  vaccinators  of  their  own 
grade,  and  that  the  lymph  should  be  only  taken  from  a  person  of 


424  CHOLBKA. 

the  same  caste.  Then  again  a  high  caste  vaccinator,  will  not  toach 
a  low  caste  man,  much  less  vaccinate  him :  consequently  as  the  ma- 
jority of  the  Natives  are  of  low  castes,  the  vaccinators  are  usually 
taken  firom  the  same  class.  Compulsory  vacdnation  cannot  be  em- 
pfoyed,  because  such  would  enable  the  low  caste  man,  to  threaten 
those  of  a  higher  caste  than  himself  with  pollution,  and  either 
bribery  or  force  would  naturally  be  the  result. 

The  very  small  pay  which  the  Vaccinators  receive,  and  the  many 
obstructions  they  experience  in  carrying  out  theu*  duty,  render  them 
idle  and  discontented. 

Some  years  since,  a  Magistrate  on  a  tour  of  duty  in  Malabar, 
made  some  enquiries  of  an  acting  Native  Vaccinator,  respecting  the 
amount  of  work  he  was  doing ;  the  answers  not  being  quite  satisfac- 
tory, he  was  asked  how  he  procured  his  lymph.  The  man  with  a 
profound  salaam  at  once  replied, ''  I  use,  your  excellency,  the  white 
''  juice  of  a  tree,  which  grows  in  the  neighbouring  jungles." 

Consumption  (G^iayun,  MaL)  Is  by  no  means  rare,  and  the  best 
remedy  is  considered  to  be  the  blood  of  the  Hanuman  monkey, 
semnopithecm  entellua.  As  much  should  be  drank  as  the  patient  can 
swallow,  and  subsequently  he  must  run  a  mile,  to  assist  digestion. 
The  flesh  of  this  animal,  is  also  prescribed  for  persons  with  this 
disease,  whilst  that  of  the  flying  fox,  Pteropus  Edwardi^  is  recom- 
mended in  all  cases  of  cough,  (Choafnmiy  Mai.) 

Cholera  is  designated  the  Nurruppoo  denum,  MaL  or  jumping  and 
catehing  disease,  as  the  bad  spirit  is  thought  to  spring  out  at  times 
at  the  person  attacked.  This  disease  is  also  attributed  to  the  influ- 
ence of  the  land  winds,  and  to  eating  unhealthy  fish.  It  is  popularly 
believed  to  hare  been  sent  to  India,  as  a  curse  by  the  goddess  Kali, 
because  a  British  force,  in  1817,  looted  a  Pagoda  dedicated  to  her. 

It  is  much  less  common  on  the  Western  coast,  than  in  many 
other  parts  of  India,  and  this  immunity  appears  to  be  due,  to  the 
sandy  formation  of  the  country.  The  locality  where  there  is  least 
alluvial  deposit  mixed  with  the  sand  is  that  most  free  from  outbreaks 
of  cholera,  but  should  case®  occur,  they  are  of  a  very  fatal  lype. 
This  portion  of  India,  was  formerly  regarded  as  the  birth  place  of 
cholera.  Eating  the  flesh  of  the  foul-feeding  swine,  and  drinking 
anack,  may  possibly  conduce  to  its  origin. 


roisoNOUs  Fisir.  425 

Daring  an  epidemic  of  this  disease,  the  Hindus  hold  fasts^  sacred 
to  Kali  ;  and  the  Native  Christians,  [Ronum  Catholics,  and  Syrians,] 
to  St  Sebastian,  to  implore  them  to  grant,  or  obtain,  a  cessation  of 
the  plague. 

The  liver  is  not  frequently  affected,  and  the  popular  belief  that  in< 
fiammation  of  that  organ  is  due  to  excess  in  drinking  spirituous  liquors, 
appears  to  be  a  fallacy  here  at  least ;  drunkenness  being  exceedingly 
common,  and  attacks  of  liver  equally  rare.  Still  cases  of  abscess  of 
that  organ  are  occasionally  perceived,  and  are  commonly  attributed 
to  witchcraft,  the  evil  spirit  being  supposed  to  have  devoured  the 
affected  part.  Bilious  persons  are  recommended  to  eat  the  flesh  of 
the  black  crow,  corvut  culndncUuSj  and  also  that  of  the  grey  headed 
pne,  corvus  splendeTU. 

Although  acute  madness  is  not  very  frequent,  idiotcy  is  by  no 
means  unusual. 

Dropsies  {Neeroo^  Mai)  may  be  said  to  be  the  most  prevalent 
cause  of  death,  but  then  it  must  be  remembered,  that  most  fatal 
cases  in  Natives  of  India,  if  of  long  duration,  terminate  in  dropsy. 
It  is  curious  to  observe,  that  this  disease  decreases  gradually  up  the 
Western  Coast ;  whilst  on  the  Eastern,  exactly  the  reverse  obtains, 
the  most  Northern  stations  of  the  Madras  side  of  the  Presidency, 
being  the  most  effected  by  it 

Accidents  very  frequently  occur,  and  arise  from  various  causes. 
Sometimes  a  crocodile  seizes  a  person  in  the  backwater,  at  others 
Pishennen  are  wounded  by  Sharks,  Rays,  or  by  Saw-fishes.  Carpen- 
ters and  coolies  are  often  seriously  injured  when  working  amongst 
the  shipping,  or  in  the  Merchants'  yards  either  by  heavy  blocks  of 
wood  falling  on  them,  or  other  causes. 

In  most  places  there  are  Natives  who  are  able  to  reduce  dislocar 
tions  of  almost  any  joint,  and  by  rubbing  and  other  means,  they 
prevent  the  patieat  from  suffering  much  pain.  Severe  wounds  are 
also  sometimes  caused  by  the  spines  in  the  fins,  of  two  species  of  fish, 
one  a  BagruSy  and  the  other  a  SUurus,  which  are  found  in  thg 
varioms  tanks  and  swamps. 

In  the  moonsoon  time,  toddy  drawers  frequently  fall  from  cocoar 
put  trees,  and  receive  severe  and  often  fatal  injuries.  The  leaves  aro 
of  course  at  this  period  very  slippery  from  the  rain,  and  few  and  insuf ^ 

F  3 


426  SLEFHANTIASId. 

ficicnt  precautions  are  taken  to  guard  against  tlieoccarrence  of  accidents. 

A  few  years  since,  the  Natives  of  Malabar  were  stated  to  be  mach 
averse  to  undergoing  surgictil  operations,  that  objection  no  longer 
exists,  but  on  the  contrary  there  is  probably  no  part  of  India,  in 
which  Natives  are  more  willing  to  submit  to  the  knife,  than  in 
i;k)chin,  where  they  understand,  and  folly  appreciate  the  benefits  of 
chloroforuL  Ofierations  also  succeed  better  amongst  Natives  in 
Cochin,  than  amongst  Europeans  in  Europe. 

Eye  diseases  are  not  so  frequent,  as  in  the  hot  sandy  plains. 
Night  blindness  is  a  very  common  affection  :  colour  blindness  is 
treated  by  eating  goafs  liver. 

Skin  affecdoiM  are  very  prevalent,  one  commonly  known  by  a  de- 
signation gained  from  its  frequency  in  the  northern  portion  of  the 
British  Isles,  is  here  called  ''  the  Malabar :"  the  Moon  is  believed  to 
exercise  some  influence  in  this  complaint  Persons  should  be  care- 
ful in  using  ointments^  or  oily  substances  to  the  skin,  as  they  are 
li!\ble  to  be  attacked  by  sniall  ants,  who  not  satisfied  with  merely 
the  appliances,  also  bite  the  subjacent  cuticle, 

EheumatisM  is  not  nearly  so  common,  in  the  nK)i3t  damp  climate 
of  the  Western  Coast,  as  on  the  Eastern,  which  is  much  hotter  and 
drier.  The  variations  in  the  seasoi>s,  do  not  appejir  materially  to 
affect  the  numbers  suffering  from  this  disease.  The  Native  doctors 
usually  give  preparations  of  merciny  internally,  with  mercurial 
baths,  and  marsh  mallow  fomentations  externally.  A  house  remedy 
is,  either  sleeping  on  the  skin  of  a  goat,  tanned  with  the  hair  on  :  or 
the  application  of  a  fl^h  Jackall  skin,  to  the  affected  part. 

There  are  two  species  of  discolouration  of  the  skin,  the  tawny,  and 
the  black :  the  first  is  regarded  as  a  pleasing  variety  in  the  com- 
I>lexion,  or  a  species  of  beauty  spot :  but  the  second  is  dreaded,  as 
it  is  supposed  to  foretel  disaster. 

The  great  disease  of  Cochin,  is  Elepharvtiasis  (Mundookarl,  Mai.) 
often  denominated  Cochin  leg.  As  many  as  5  per  cent,  of  the  entire 
Native,  and  Eurasian  population,  appear  to  be  aflfected  by  it :  and 
many  more,  suffer  from  it  in  a  masked  form.  Males  and  females 
are  about  equally  attacked,  and  children  as  young  as  four  years  of 
age,  though  it  is  unusual  before  15  or  I G.  It  is  regarded  as  a 
family  disgrace,  and  much  dreaded. 


PSRSOKS  WHO  ABS  ATTACKED  BY  COCHIN  LEG.  427 

The  Natives  assert^  that  should  the  roots  of  the  screw  pine,  extend 
themselves  into  a  tank  of  drinking  water,  it  becontes  poisoned,  and 
all  who  use  it  are  speedily  affected  with  Elephantiasis :  this  idea  is 
strongly  impressed  upon  their  minds,  by  the  fact,  that  the  root-stock 
is  always  thickened,  and  in  appearance  resembles  a  Cochin  leg. 

Another  theory  is  common  on  the  Eastern  coast,  viz.,  that  St. 
Thonms  the  Apostle,  whilst  at  prayer  near  Madras,  was  accideutly 
killed  by  a  low  caste  man,  who  was  shooting  at  a  peacock :  as  a 
retribution,  his  leg  swelled  up,  until  it  became  nearly  as  thick  as  his 
body,  and  his  descendants  have  all  been  a£9icted  with  Elephantiasis. 

This  disease  though  it  may  attack  any  part  of  the  body,  is  most 
commonly  seen  in  the  lower  extremities,  which  become  by  degrees, 
rounded,  shapeless  masses,  hard  and  unyielding  to  pressure.  The 
limb  may  remam  in  this  state  for  years,  and  the  health  may  or  may 
not  suffer,  according  to  circumstances^  and  though  it  may  be  as 
large  round  as  the  person's  waist,  it  still  continues  useful  for  pro- 
gression, unless  there  be  excessive  pain.  Each  increase  in  size,  is 
ushered  in  by  fever,  and  generally  great  lysan. 

Should  ihe  disease  be  of  recent  occurrence,  the  swelling  may 
suddenly  disappear  from  one  part^  and  show  itself  in  another;  thus 
leaving  the  1^  in  a  few  hours  it  may  be  found  in  the  arm,  and 
vice  versft. 

The  range  in  which  Elephantiasis  is  endemic,  may  be  geographi- 
cally mapped  out,  it  extends  along  the  coast,  but  not  farther  than 
ten  miles  inland,  decreasing  rapidly  in  severity,  as  the  distance  from 
the  sea  becomes  greater.  Natives  and  Eurasians  from  other  poi'ts 
of  India,  where  this  disease  does  not  exist,  after  a  time  become 
amenable  to  its  influence. 

Persona  of  all  occupations,  and  castes,  whether  strictly  vegeta- 
rians, partakers  of  mixed  diet,  or  mostly  consumers  of  fish,  are 
indiscriminately  attacked.  The  indigenous  Black  and  the  White 
Jew,  the  Indo-European,  and  the  Native,  appear  equally  liable  to  it, 
and  although  the  poverty  stricken  classes  are  the  most  frequent 
sufferers,  the  richer  do  not  escape.  It  may  be  partially  hereditary, 
but  often  affects  a  person  in  whom  no  such  taint  could  exist.  Some- 
times it  may  show  itself  after  the  receipt  of  an  injury,  or  again  with- 
out any  such  exciting  cause.    It  appears  due  to  som?  deleterious  i)ro- 


425  PALLIPORT   LAZAnETTO. 

perty  in  the  drinking  water,  and  therefore  in  the  time  of  the  Portu- 
guese, Europeans  commenced  supplying  themselves  with  that  neces- 
Baiy  commodity,  from  the  Alwaye  river,  and  this  plan  has  always 
been  continued,  up  to  the  present  tinie. 

Persons  who  are  attacked  with  Elephaxltiasis,  often,  quite  lose  the 
disease,  by  going  on  a  seit  voyage,  or  1-emoving  beyond  the  local 
influence  of  the  complaint :  but  on  their  return  to  the  infected  loca- 
lity, it  usually  reappears.  Others  again  find  great  benefit,  id  abstain- 
ing from  toddy,  and  bhang,  for  which  they  substitute  opium. 

The  removal  of  an  affected  limb,  rarely  eradicates  the  disease, 
which  usually  returns  at  sonle  subsequent  date. 

Goitre  is  sometime  seen  in  Cochin.  This  affe(5tion  so  alarmed 
Shah  Jehan,  and  his  suite  in  Beilgal,  that  it  not  only  prevented  his 
settling  in  Padshah  Mahal,  whidh  he  had  previously  decided  on  doings 
but  its  frightful  appearance,  scared  himself  and  his  court,  into 
precipitate  flight.  What  Would  he  have  said,  to  an  elephant  leg,  or 
to  limbs  larger  round  than  the  waist  ? 

Leprosy  is  closely  allied  to  Elephantiasis,  and  very  prevalent.  A 
liazaretto  exists  at  Palliport,  a  few  miles  from  Cochin,  in  which 
lepers  are  received.  Over  the  door  way  of  this  building,  is  a  stone, 
bearing  the  fdlloi^ing  inscription,  Lazarus  huss,  A.  D.  1728,  which 
date  being  in  the  time  of  the  Dutch  rule,  at  first  gtvea  the  impres- 
sion that  they  Were  the  founders  of  this  benevolent  institution. 
But  on  furthet  inquiry,  it  appears  probable,  that  they  only  restored 
it,  and  that  the  Portuguese  originally  established  it  as  a  Syrian  Col- 
lege in  1587.  It  is  a  tiled  stone  building,  situated  on  a  strip  of 
land,  facing  dUe  east^  towards  the  badkWater,  and  having  the  sea 
about  half  a  mile  to  its  rear. 

inside  the  entiancc  to  the  Lazaretto,  is  a  yard  29  feet  Wide,  from 
tiround  which  the  wards  have  been  removed,  to  prolnote  free  circu- 
lation of  air.  Into  this  front  yard,  two  others  open  at  right  angles, 
cither  being  flanked  at  the  Northern  and  Southern  aspect^  by  a  lofty 
range  of  eight  roomS^  each  twelve  feet  four  inches  square,  and  occu- 
pied by  two  lepers.  The  Northerti  yard  is  inhabited  by  the  women, 
and  the  Southern  by  the  men.  One  ward  in  the  women's  yard,  id 
Employed  as  a  Roman  Catholic  Chapel,  in  which  the  lepers  them- 
selves officiate ;  the  walls  present  a  curious  appearance;  being  om^l* 


LtePEOSY.  129 

incntcd  with  pictures  of  railway  carriages,  and  similar  productions. 
This  institution,  appears  in  the  time  of  the  Dutch,  to  have  been 
under  the  direction,  of  four  Church  Deacons,  and  collections  were 
made  in  the  Church  every  Sunday,  for  the  maintenance  of  the  lepers. 
At  the  commencement  of  each  year,  the  Commandant  and  Senior 
Surgeon,  visited  every  house  in  the  town,  to  ascertain  whether  any 
of  the  slaves  were  afflicted  with  this  loathsome  malady,  and  if  so, 
had  tliem  immediately  transferred  to  the  Lazaretto.  It  is  probable 
that  each  person  who  placed  any  one  belonging  to  him  in  this 
Hospital,  was  obliged  to  pay  for  his  maintenance,  as  the  Dutch 
Government  did  not  subscribe  to  its  support 

At  the  present  time,  the  lepers  receive  from  the  British  Govern- 
ment, one  and  a  half  annas  a  day,  (two  pence  farthing,)  with  which 
they  find  themselves  food,  and  fuel  Gothes  and  bedding,  are  also 
supplied  to  them. 

No  Europeans  in  Cochin,  appear  of  late  years  to  have  suffered 
from  leprosy,  but.  East  Indians  occasionally  fall  victims  to  it, 
although  it  more  particularly  affects  the  Native  community. 

The  leper  as  long  as  he  can  procure  money,  is  not  expelled  from 
the  society  of  his  fellow  creatures,  who  live  in  the  same  house, 
partake  of  the  same  food,  and  even  intermarry  with  him.  But  as 
soon  as  money  fails,  he  is  driven  forth  to  subsist  on  charity,  until 
death  mercifully  relieves  his  sufferings. 

In  the  Levitical  law,  the  leper  was  directed  to  bathe  in  the  run- 
ning stream ;  which  the  Hindus  consider  much  more  efficacious, 
than  a  tank,  or  standing  water.  In  olden  times,  in  Bengal  at  least, 
the  leper  used  to  be  immolated  on  the  Suttee,  buried  alive,  or  drown- 
ed in  the  Ganges. 

The  colour  of  the  skin  in  leprosy,  is  generally  speaking  darker 
than  that  in  a  healthy  native.  It  is  only  when  ulceration  has  de- 
stroyed it,  that  the  scars  are  of  a  white  colour.  Tlie  nature  of  this 
disease,  renders  the  unfortunate  sufferers,  extremely  obstinate  and 
morose,  they  drink  spirits,  eat  opium,  smoke  gangah,  in  fact  do  any- 
thing, to  wean  themselves  even  for  a  short  time,  from  a  recollec- 
tion of  the  past,  a  view  of  the  present,  or  a  thought  of  the  miserable 
earthly  future  before  them,  as  they  all  believe  the  disease  incurablci. 
Leprosy  is  frerpiently  hereditarj^,  sometimes  missing  one  genera- 


430  *  ULCEES. 

tion,  and  attacking  the  succeeding :  it  may  commence  at  any  age^ 
from  the  infant  in  arms,  to  old  persona  on  the  brink  of  the  grave. 
A  fish  diet  seems  to  have  some  influence  in  its  production. 

It  is  remarkable,  that  in  Norway,  leprosy  augmented  as  the  fisheries 
increased  in  extent ;  that  in  Sweden,  and  the  Faroe  Isles,  it  disap- 
peared when  the  fish  left,  and  the  fisheries  were  discontinued  :  and 
that  precisely  at  the  time  of  the  arrival  of  the  fish  on  the  Bergen 
coast,  leprosy  commenced  amongst  the  people. 

One  form  of  this  disease,  attacks  locally  the  smaller  joints,  as  the 
fingers  and  toes,  which  ulcerate,  and  gradually  drop  off,  until  the 
poor  leper,  crawls  about  on  the  stumps  of  his  hands  and  feet.  Oc- 
casionally he  also  loses  his  eyesight,  and  is  almost  covered  with 
ulcers :  in  these  cases^  when  death  terminates  the  sufferings  of  these 
miserable  beings,  it  must  be  regarded  more  as  a  cause  for  congratU' 
lation,  than  either  pity  or  regret 

The  other  form  is  even  more  repulsive,  as  the  face  and  body  are 
covered  with  tubercles.  The  Shastras  which  so  strictly  enforce  the 
necessity  of  burning  the  dead,  make  an  exception  as  far  as  lepers 
are  concerned,  and  direct  their  corpses  to  be  thrown  into  a  forest^  or 
river,  "  like  a  log  of  wood,"  without  any  funeral  rites,  or  ceremonies* 

A  curious  disease,  not  unknown  in  other  parts  of  India,  is  found 
in  Cochin;  namely,  burning  in  the  hands,  and  feet  There  are  two 
forms  of  this  affection,  the  moist  variety,  when  the  extremities  are 
in  a  constant  state  of  p^:spiration;  and  the  dry  when  they  crack, 
and  are  never  humid.  Should  fever  be  of  constant  occurrence^ 
death  frequentiy  ensues ;  this  is  a  most  dangerous,  and  insidious 
affection. 

Ulcers  are  very  prevalent,  though  perhaps  not  so  common  as  in 
some  inland  stations.  The  scars  which  remain,  are  usually  white, 
and  deficient  in  sensation,  apparentiy  from  a  leprous  taint  It  is 
commonly  believed  by  the  natives,  that  should  a  wall  lizard,  gecko, 
be  divided  down  the  centre,  and  bound  to  a  person's  body,  in  twelve 
hours  it  will  have  produced  an  ulcer,  with  every  appearance  of  hav- 
ing existed  for  a  montL  The  earth-worm,  ItUus,  certainly  causes 
great  irritation,  if  trodden  on,  and  occasionally  obstinate  ulcers  are 
produced  thereby.  The  favourite  native  application  to  these  com- 
plaints arc  spider's  webs^  whilst  dirt  and  other  irritating  substances^ 


GUINEA   WORM$.  431 

are  kept  from  the  sore,  by  tying  over  it  leaves  of  the  Portia  tree. 
Should  there  be  much  discharge  without  pain,  they  often  wash  the 
part  twice  a  day,  with  an  infusion  made  by  soaking  the  leaves  of 
the  Tamarind,  in  hot  water.  It  is  believed  that  a  harmless  snake^ 
{Ch§ra,  MaL)  is  attracted  by  the  smell  of  foul  ulcers. 

In  Hooping  Cough,  which  is  frequently  epidemic,  the  flesh  of  the 
crocodile  is  given,  or  pieces  of  its  bones  are  tied  round  the  patient's 
neck,  and  considered  a  very  efficacious  charm,  m  driving  it  away. 

Scrophula  is  not  uncommon,  amongst  the  more  drunken  and  dis- 
eased classes,  but  some  very  respectable  Eurasians,  also  suffer  from  it« 

Hysterical  fits  frequently  affect  Eurasians  of  both  sexes.  Natives 
labour  under  the  idea,  that  persons  in  this  state,  are  possessed  by 
an  evU  spirit,  which  requires  immediate  exorcism  :  if  this  has  no 
effect,  a  cudgel  is  brought  into  action,  and  the  malignant  spirit  ia 
exorcised  by  club  law. 

Curvatures  of  the  spine,  are  often  perceived.  In  one  instance, 
the  patient,  a  woman,  asserted  her  belief,  that  it  was  caused  in 
herself,  by  demoniacal  influence.  She  was  then  thirty  years  of  age, 
and  stated  that  when  about  eleven  years  old,  she  was  walking  alone 
in  a  narrow  lane  after  dark,  when  the  Demon  came  behind  her,  and 
fitmck  her  a  violent  blow  on  the  back,  thus  occasioning  the  curve, 
which  had  continued  from  that  time :  and  that  even  then,  unless  she 
propiliated  it  by  occasional  offerings,  she  experienced  simiUr  attacks. 

Guinea  worm  is  very  rarely  seen  in  Cochin,  and  then  only  in 
persons  who  during  some  period  in  the  previous  twelve  months 
have  been  in  Madras,  Coimbatore,  or  other  places,  where  it  ia 
endemic.  The  laterite  soU  of  Cochin,  appears  to  be  exempt  from 
this  entozoan,  as  it  is  never  found  in  any  one  who  has  resided 
there  for  more  than  a  year.  It  has  been  frequently  asserted,  and 
Btill  maintained  by  many,  that  guinea  worms,  and  the  fiery 
serpents,  which  were  so  destructive  to  the  Israelites,  in  the  vicinity 
of  the  Red  Sea,  are  identical 

Intestinal  entozoa,  are  exceedingly  common,  and  one  species  ia 
very  easily  cured,  by  santonine.  It  has  lately  been  recommended,  to 
employ  a  fungus,  as  a  vermicide,  but  it  is  scarcely  a  remedy  adapt- 
ed to  Hindus,  as  Yama  now  the  Judge  of  the  departed,  has  declared, 
that  "  those  who  eat  mushrooms,  whether  springing  from  the  ground, 


43*  HYDROPHOBIA. 

^  or  growing  on  a  tree,  equal  in  guilt  the  slayers  of  Bralnnans^  and 
**  the  most  despicable  of  all  deadly  sinners."* 

Cancer  of  the  mouth,  and  Hps,  is  very  common,  and  incorrectly 
attributed  to  chewing  chunam,  and  smoking  tobacco.  It  is  a  carious 
coincidence  between  Native  and  European  ideas,  that  this  is  often 
thought  to  be  caused  in  Europe,  by  smoking  clay  pipes. 

Tetanus  or  lock  jaw,  may  occur  at  any  season  of  the  year,  either 
from  the  effects  of  severe  injuries,  or  simply  from  slight  ones,  and 
is  generally  fatal.  But  there  is  a  severe  chronic  type  of  this  dis- 
tressing malady,  which  occurs  during  the  months  of  October,  Novem^ 
ber,  and  December,  and  is  usually  curable. 

Hydrophobia  sometimes  occurs.  Whenever  there  is  a  suspicion 
of  a  mad  dog  being  at  large,  a  reward  is  offered  for  the  dead  bodies 
of  any  stray  animals  of  the  canine  tribe :  large  numbers  are  then 
killed,  and  all  who  wish  to  preserve  their  favourites,  must  tie  them 
up,  until  the  order  for  this  general  massacre,  is  cancelled. 

When  a  child  is  bom,  an  Astrologer  is  usually  seated  in  the  next 
room,  in  readiness  to  draw  out  its  horoscope :  this  is  a  yery  difficult 
process ;  if  it  is  desired  very  exact,  the  situation  of  the  stars  at  the  mo- 
ment of  the  infant's  birth,  must  be  ascertained'  Natives  have  the  most 
implicit  belief  in  the  fulfilment  of  all  predictions  in  their  horoscopes, 
and  the  confident  anticipation  of  death  at  a  certain  date,  frequently 
produces  such  injurious  effects  on  their  health,  as  indirectly  to  cause  it. 

Should  a  child  be  bom  in  any  unnatural  form,  it  is  supposed  to 
be  the  incamation  of  an  evil  spirit,  or  eke  of  some  deceased  enemy, 
and  it  is  immediately  destroyed. 

Should  a  woman  suffer  from  convulsions  after  the  birth  of  a  child, 
a  fowl  is  divided  in  half  down  the  centre,  and  a  portion  bound  on 
each  side  of  the  patient's  head. 

When  native  married  women,  do  not  become  in  the  state  which 
it  is  generally  expected  they  should  be,  some  very  extraordinaiy 
remedies  are  employed,  for  the  purpose  of  effecting  a  change.  A 
mole  cricket,  [gryllotalpus,]  is  caught,  and  she  n^ust  then  swallow 
it  whole,  and  if  possible  alive ;  this  is  difficult,  as  its  appearance  is 
most  repulsive,  and  if  it  does  not  go  down  the  throat  at  once,  it 


*  Sir  W.  Jones,  vol.  5,  page  160, 


WIXCHCBAPT.  433 

eaiises  great  pain.  At  all  events,  she  most  neither  bite  it,  nor  kill 
it,  some  other  person  liaving  performed  this  kind  office,  she  bolts  it 
whole,  head  foremost,  and  the  effect  is  said  to  be  marvellous  ! 

PoUoning  appears  to  be  most  commonly  affected  by  Datura,  but 
it  is  more  frequently  the  result  of  accident,  than  of  design.  It  is  a 
very  common  practice,  to  rub  the  inside  of  chatties  with  datura 
juice,  for  the  purpose  of  causing  effervescence  in  the  arrack,  with 
which  they  are  subsequently  filled :  tliis  increases  the  intoxicating 
effects  of  the  spirit,  and  also  unfortunately,  is  too  often  the  cause 
of  accidental  poisonings. 

Personal  deformities  are  very  frequently  perceived,  especially  in 
families  in  whom  there  is  a  leprous  taint. 

Natives  are  usually  very  impatient  to  recover  from  attacks  of  sick- 
ness, and  expect  the  European  Medical  Officer,  to  cure  an  illness  of 
months^  or  even  years  duration,  in  the  course  of  a  few  days  :  if  not 
well  in  a  week,  or  even  less,  they  frequently  get  extremely  indig- 
nant, and  maintain  that  inferior  drugs  are  being  administered  to  them. 

Few  and  simple  are  the  Native  preservatives  against  disease.  Tho 
Portia  tree  is  planted  roimd  their  houses,  to  prevent  malaria  from 
penetrating  to  their  dwellings.  Hindus  very  rarely  sleep  for  any 
length  of  time,  with  their  heads  to  the  North,  or  West ;  the  East  in 
tlieir  favourite  direction,  but  they  do  not  object  to  the  South.  This 
custom  \b  stated  to  have  originated,  in  one  of  the  eighteen  Puranas. 

Witclicraft  is  occasionally  combined  with  medicine,  by  Native 
Practitioners.  One  man  of  the  Teer  caste,  now  living  in  the  Cochin 
State,  is  believed  to  have  a  hundred  spirits  under  his  control,  whom 
he  lets  out  by  the  year,  for  one  rupee,  one  anna,  [two  shillings,  and 
one  penny  half  penny.]  The  Wizard  must  be  first  informed  for 
what  purpose  the  spirit  is  required,  and  after  he  has  made  the  ne^ 
cessary  arrangements  for  parting  with  him,  prayers  are  then  said  to 
the  spirit,  and  a  feast,  in  his  honour  must  be  held  when  arrack, 
toddy,  eggs,  salt  fish  curry,  fruits,  cocoanuts,  rice  pounded  and  raw, 
flowers,  oil,  ghee,  betel,  burnt  chunam,  sliarks  and  other  flesh,  fowls, 
incense,  dec.,  must  be  offered  up  to  it,  each  article  being  separately 
placed  on  a  plantain  leaf,  and  individually  worsliipped.  Then  another 
prayer  ensues,  and  the  figure  of  the  person  to  be  bewitched,  is  made 
out  of  mud,  the  name  being  written  upon  it,  with  both  the  words  and 

a  2 


434  SWALLOWING  DISSA8ES  AS  A  BEMEDY. 

letters  placed  backwards,  a  number  of  carious  ceremonies  succeed,  be- 
fore the  spirit  is  permitted  to  take  its  departure,  witb  its  new  master. 

There  are  eight  species  of  enchantment,  said  to  cause  death,  to 
drive  persons  from  houses,  to  produce  love,  and  so  on. 

Europeans  if  in  good  health,  can  go  out  at  any  time  during  the 
day,  if  their  heads,  temples,  and  the  backs  of  their  necks,  are  well 
protected  from  the  sun :  but  if  fatigued,  or  feeling  unwell,  they 
should  not  expose  themselyes  to  its  rays.  Sleeping  in  the  land 
wind,  or  cold  sea  breeze,  is  yery  dangerous,  and  even  the  soft  mild 
sea  breeze  may  injuriously  affect  a  feverish  subject.  The  effects  of 
the  climate  are  very  depressing,  and  tea-totalism  is  injudicious. 

If  compelled  to  travel  through  the  jungles  in  the  malarious 
months,  Europeans  should  only  drink  water  which  has  been  boiled,* 
and  it  is  preferable  to  add  a  little  spirit  to  it  He  should  bathe  in 
warm  water,  and  take  one  or  two  drops  of  Fowler's  solution  of 
arsenic,  and  two  grains  of  quinine,  in  a  cup  of  coffee,  every 
morning.  Sleeping  under  musquitoe  curtains  at  night  time,  assists 
in  keeping  out  the  malaria. 

The  Hindu  Deity  of  one  of  the  hill  coffee  plantations,  is  said  to 
be  luppen.  There  is  an  altar  raised  there  to  him,  consisting  of  a 
quantity  of  stones,  and  an  iron  trident  The  Hindus  state,  that  if 
^  this  Deity  be  not  propitiated  by  offerings,  they  will  be  inevitably 
destroyed  by  him,  if  they  remain  in  the  place  more  than  two 
days.  In  one  instance,  a  Native  timber  cutter  from  Chittoor,  refused 
liim  the  customary  offering,  and  the  very  next  day,  whilst  engaged 
in  felling  a  tree,  by  some  mischance  it  went  in  the  wrong  direction, 
and  literally  smashed  the  poor  man  to  death.  This  so  frightened 
the  coolies,  that  now  none  venture  to  remain  there  a  day  after  his 
arrival  from  the  plains,  without  presenting  a  cocoanut,  from  which 
they  have  drank  the  milk,  in  front  of  luppen's  shrine. 

Another  sect  when  ill,  not  many  years  since,  almost  invariably 
went  to  their  Priests,  who  wrote  down  their  diseases  on  a  piece  of 
paper,  with  a  supplication  for  their  speedy  removal  This  paper 
was  then  burnt  and  the  ashes  mixed  in  water,  and  drank  by  the  pa- 
tient.   The  efficacy  of  this  treatment,  was  believed  to  be  marvellous. 


•  Natives  frequently  poieon  wellH,  by  throwing  in  leaves  of  the  milk  hedge. 


CHAPTER  Xtt 

MAMMALS. 

Monkeys— Bats — Tigen — Legends  respecting  them — Cheetahs ;  curious  me- 
thod of  destruction  of  one  of  them— Jackolls-  Wild  Dogs,  their  mode  of  hunt- 
ing— ^The  Mongoose— Enoounter  between  two  Bears — Orsnge  species  of  Pbr- 
ou|Mne — ^The  Qour  or  Bison — ^The  Malabar  Ibex — ^Massacre  of  Europeans  in  oou- 
aequence  of  their  killing  a  Cow — Elephants. 

No  portion  of  the  Continent  of  India^  is  more  replete  with  animal 
Mfe,  or  haa  a  more  diversified  vegetation,  than  the  Western  Cbast^ 
eepedaUy  in  the  Southern  part  of  it  The  more  dense  and  lofty 
jungles,  which  cover  tlie  gfaants,  are  dangerous,  owing  to  the  numer- 
ous tigers,  cheetahs,  elephants,  and  bears,  by  which  they  are  infest* 
ed  :  whilst  in  the  open  country^  the  dismal  howl  of  the  Jaokall,  may 
be  everywhere  heanL 

Amongst  the  Mammalia,  and  the  Monkey  tribe,  several  species 
are  found,  residing  on  the  well  wooded  ghauts,  but  few,  if  any,  are 
located  near  the  sea  shore.  They  are  divided  into  communities^ 
each  having  its  own  domain,  which  is  rarely  invaded  by  those  of 
other  species  :  or  should  such  occur,  a  battle  for  territorial  sovereign-. 
ty«ensues.  The  predominant  tribe  of  Monkeys,  are  of  the  long  tailed, 
SemnopUheeidas  f amily» 

These  animals  are  exceedingly  mischievous,  and  are-  believed  by 
the  Natives,  [in  common  with  the  ignorant  of  some  other  countries  J 
to  be  capable  of  speech,  but  not  exercising  that  power,  in  dread  of 
being  con^Ued  to  work.  It  is  said  that  in  Ceylon,  natives  fre- 
quently revenge  themselves  on  their  enemies,  by  sprinkling  rice  over 
the  roofs  of  their  houses,  thereby  attracting  the  Monkeys,  who  in 
their  ^orts  to  obtain  the  grains,  pull  off  the  tUes. 

One  of  the  commonest  species,  which  is  by  no  means  averse  to 
take  up  its  quarters  near  the  public  road,  is  the  ffunaman  or  Long 


436  MONKEYS. 

Jaw  Moiikey,  Semnopithecus  entelliiSy  Duff.  Tliis  is  considered  by 
the  natives,  as  tbe  representative  of  Rama*s  ^loiikey  allies.  They 
are  very  common  at  the  base  of  the  ghauts^  where  large  vegetation 
exists. 

The  Hunaman  Monkey  is  of  considerable  size,  but  slender  make, 
its  colour  is  ashy  grey,  lightest  underneath,  the  hands  and  feet  of 
a  deep  brown  colour,  £U[id  the  tail  of  great  length.  When  young  it 
is  very  gentle,  but  with  advancing  age,  it  becomes  sullen,  and  vin- 
dictive :  whilst  its  mischievous  propensities  increase.  Communities 
of  these  Monkeys,  are  generally  about  a  score  in  number ;  in  the 
early  morning,  some  of  them  may  often  be  seen  on  the  tops  of  the 
highest  trees,  either  sunning  then^selves,  jumping  or  swinging  from 
bough  to  bough :  whilst  othera  act  as  sentinels^  and  warn  their  com- 
panions of  the  approach  of  strangers. 

On  the  arrival  of  an  intruder,  the  Monkeys  either  remain  perfect- 
ly still,  or  else  rapidly  make  off  gesticulating,  and  uttering  cries 
of  warning,  to  their  more  distant  friends.  The  mother  may  be 
seen  fleeing  with  one,  or  more  rarely  two,  little  ones  clinging  round 
her  neck  :  and  sometimes,  the  old  male,  will  even  turn  at  bay,  and 
attack  the  intruder.  When  Monkeys  perceive  a  tiger,  they  generally 
follow  him  for  some  little  distance,  jumping  from  tree  to  tree,  and 
making  a  peculiar  warning  noise. 

In  cocoanut  plantations,  amongst  plantain  tuBes,  and  in  cultivated 
rice  grounds,  they  commit  great  devastations.  Their  food  in  the 
jungles,  consists  of  roots  and  fruits,  especially  those  of  the  various 
species  of  wild  fig  trees,  more  particularly  the  Fieus  exceUa,  and 
the  F.  religioBa, 

This  species  of  Mookey,  is  believed  by  devofut  Hindus,  never  to 
die  a  natural  death,*  whilst  should  a  house  be  inadvertently  con- 
structed, over  the  bones  of  one  of  them,  the  domicile  is  doomed  to 
certain  destruction,  and  ita  inmates  to  nusfortunes. 

In  some  parts  of  India>  and  occasionally  also  in  the  Cochin  State, 
children  delight  in  playing  tricks  with  Monkeys,  a  common  one  being, 
to  obtain  an  innocuous  snake,  and  rolling  it  iip  with  some  rice,  in  a 

"*  It  L<i  a  common  Hindu  eaylng;  that  he  who  lias  Boen  a  straight  cocoanut 
tree,  a  dead  Monkey,  the  nest  of  a  paddy  bird,  or  the  depth  of  a  woman's 
cleccitful  heart,  &c.  will  live  for  ever. 


TAME  MOKKETS.  437 

plantain  leaf,  to  tie  it  up  securely  into  a  small  parcel^  and  then  throw 
it  to  an  old  Monkey,  who  deliberately  unties  the  string,  and  opens  it, 
when  to  his  horror  out  comes  a  snake.  He  immediately  seizes  it 
by  the  neck,  and  rushing  off  to  the  nearest  stone,  grinds  its  head 
to  pieces,  maliciously  grinning,  and  grimacing  all  the  time  at  his 
victim.  When  satisfied  that  it  can  no  longer  do  any  injury,  he 
either  throws  the  body  away,  or  gives  it  to  his  young  to  play  with. 

A  favourite  cage  monkey,  is  the  Malabar  Wanderoo,  Silenus 
venter,  Linn.  (Chingala,  MaL)  which  is  smaller  than  the  last  named 
species,  and  of  a  black  colour  with  white  whiskers.  It  is  rather  a 
wary  creature,  and  consequently  not  so  frequently  seen,  as  the 
Hunaman :  it  is  also  found  in  a  higher  range,  and  in  steep,  and 
almost  inaccessible  fastnesses.  Its  tail  is  short,  and  terminates  in  a 
tuft,  which  has  gained  it  the  designation  of  the  Lion-tailed,  or  pig- 
tailed  Monkey.  Natives  consider  it  very  lucky,  to  look  one  of  these 
ereatures  in  the  face  the  first  thing  in  the  morning,  and  they  are 
often  kept  tame  for  this  reason.  A  peep  at  the  physiognomy  of 
the  large  black  Monkey  (Kurring  korungoo,  MaL)  does  not  appear  to 
be  so  efficacious.  In  Trichoor  the  common  brown  Monkey,  Macacm 
radiatus,  Oeo£  (Kurungao,  Mai.)  is  the  only  one  found,  it  is  also  ex- 
tensively spread  along  the  base  of  the  ghauts.  It  appears  to  be 
the  favourite  species  for  taming  amongst  both  Europeans  and  the 
N&tive  Sailors  who  frequent  the  coast  But  when  fully  grown,  it 
becomes  very  vindictive,  and  is  by  no  means  a  desirable  pet  for  chil- 
dren. 

Should  several  young  Monkeys  of  ibis  species  be  domesticated 
together,  the  elder  appear  to  take  great  care  of  the  younger  ones. 
In  1859,  three  young  Monkeys  were  taken  on  board  a  ship  in  the 
Cochin  river,  and  when  the  evening  approached,  the  two  eldest  ascend- 
ed into  the  main  top,  to  pass  the  night.  The  smallest  being  unable 
to  climb  up,  or  perhaps  too  frightened  to  make  the  attempt,  re- 
mained below  crying  in  great  distress.  The  largest  of  the  two  elder 
monkeys  then  descended,  and  carried  the  little  fellow  in  his  arms, 
up  to  their  sleeping  place. 

The  next  evening,  the  same  scene  was  in  part  renewed,  but  this 
time  both  the  larger  Monkeys  descended,  on  hearing  the  little  one 
cry,  and  one  taking  it  by  the  hand,  dragged  it  up  the  rigging. 


iZ9  DEPOBTATION   Of   M05KEYS. 

whilst  the  other  beat  it  from  behind    Subaequeutly  there  was  no 
more  trouble. 

Monkeys  thongh  worshipped  in  the  form  of  Honaman,  who  is 
believed  to  be  still  wandering  in  the  ghauts,  are  sometimes  eaten 
by  the  lower  classes,  if  other  persons  kill  them.  Beaters  will  even 
not  unfrequently  propose,  that  Sportsmen  returning  from  shooting, 
should  kill  them  some  monkeys,  but  such  a  cruel  proposition  is 
rarely  acceded  to.  If  a  young  one  is  killed,  the  grief  of  the  parents 
is  most  distressing  to  witness,  sometimes  they  even  follow  the 
Sportsman,  holding  up  their  dead  infant  as  if  imploring  that  its 
life  might  be  returned  If  a  mother  has  been  shot,  the  young  fre- 
quently remain  by  her  side,  apparently  ignorant  of  the  loss  they 
have  sustained 

When  a  Monkey  is  wounded,  its  comrades  advance,  and  each  peer 
into  the  wound,  inserting  their  fingers,  and  trying  to  drag  it  open, 
apparently  out  of  mere  curiosity.  An  ii]jured  Monkey  is  a  most 
painful  sight,  and  most  persons,  who  have  not  some  object  in  effect- 
ing the  destruction  of  these  mischievous  animals,  carefully  avdd 
hurting  them. 

Many  Natives,  who  would  be  glad  to  rid  their  neighbourhood  of 
a  troublesome  Monkey,  and  should  an  opportunity  occur  of  asking 
an  European  to  shoot  him^  would  not  hesitate  to  do  so,  nevertheless 
raise  a  great  clamour,  if  the  creature  is  killed  without  their 'consent. 
Distinct  Monkey  oommunities,  are  very  tenacious  in  keeping  within 
xertain  localities,  and  not  permitting  the  intrusion  of  strangers  : 
thus  in  Bangalore,  the  Pettah,  and  the  Fort,  are  merely  separated  by 
a  road,  but  in  each  there  is  a  distinct  family  of  monkeys,  although 
the  species  is  identical :  a  few  plantains  thrown  down  between  the 
rival  states,  occasion  a  most  determined  battle,  and  great  commotion. 

Some  years  since,  a  complaint  was  made  to  a  Collector,  of  the 
depredations  committed  by  the  Monkeys,  in  a  certain  locality :  after 
a  long  consultation  as  to  the  f easabUity  of  such  a  proceeding,  it  was 
settled  that  they  must  be  deported,  by  being  carried  across  a  broad 
river,  and  thus  forced  to  locate  themselves  on  the  other  side :  but  as 
may  be  imagined,  this  was  rather  a  difficult  undertaking.  At 
length  it  was  effected,  in  the  following  manner:  numerous  chatties 
oi  boiled  rice  were  placed  in  their  haunts,  the  mouth  of  each  chatty 


FLTDTO   FOXES.  489 

being  made  bo  small,  that  although  a  Monke7*s  open  hand  might  ho 
inserted,- it  could  not  when  closed  be  withdrawn.  These  creatures 
never  let  go  any  food  which  they  have  once  obtained  hold  of,  so, ' 
when  they  had  clutched  the  rice,  as  they  were  unable  to  withdraw 
their  closed  hands,  they  were  caught  by  the  chatties,  and  some 
hundreds  of  them  were  thus  taken  and  transported. 

The  Loris,  or  slow  paced  Lemur,  Stenops  Fardigradus,  Linn.,  is 
found  in  the  dense  jungles  of  the  ghauts,  but  is  rare  even  there. 

Bats  are  seen  in  large  numbers,  from  those  which  measure  several 
feet  in  expanse,  to  those  of  only  a  few  inches.  Of  an  evening  they 
flit  about  in  aU  directions,  and  during  the  day  reside  in  old  build- 
ings, unused  rooms,  under  the  eaves  of  houses,  in  old  caves,  pas« 
sages,  and  hollow  trees.  They  are  frequently  attracted  into  rooms 
by  lights. 

The  Flying  Fox,  Pteropiu  JSdvfarsii,  QeoEy  (Barvaloo,  Mai.)  is  a 
large  species  of  Roussette,  or  bat  with  a  dog  like  head.  These  crea< 
tures  measure  four  feet,  or  even  more,  in  the  expanse  of  their  wings,  and 
may  be  seen  in  large  flocks  of  an  evening,  wending  their  way  towards 
their  feeding  ground.  In  their  diet  they  are  exclusively  frugivorous, 
and  they  do  very,  great  injury  to  Cocoanut  plantations,  and  Mangoe 
gardens.  Their  habits  are  very  intemp3rate,  and  they  often  pass  the 
night,  drinking  the  toddy  from  the  chatties  in  the  cocoanut  trees, 
which  results,  either  in  their  returning  home  in  the  early  morning, 
in  a  state  of  extreme  and  riotous  intoxication,  or  in  being  found 
the  next  day,  at  the  foot  of  the  trees,  sleeping  off  the  effects  of 
their  midnight  debauch.  The  wild  almond,  Urminalia  eatappa, 
when  in  fruity  is  one  of  their  favourite  resorts  at  night  time,  they 
sometimes  carry  off  the  almonds  into  the  verandahs  of  houses,  where 
they  extract  the  kernels,  and  in  so  doing  frighten  nervous  people 
into  the  belief,  that  robbera  are  endeavouring  to  effect  an  entrance. 
They  are  also  very  partial  to  wild  flgs. 

It  is  anything  but  pleasant,  to  reside  near  a  plantation  or  fields 
which  at  night  time  is  guarded  from  the  depredations  of  these 
animals,  as  persons  are  kept  shouting  continuously,  and  throwing 
stones,  or  cross  sticks,  by '  means  of  strings,  to  immense  distances, 
which  make  a  disagreeable  rushing  noise.  As  this  uproar  is  com- 
jncuced  at  sunset,  and  kept  up  uuinterruptedly  until  day-break;  any 


440  trt6£lis. 

unfortunate  European  in  the  vicinity,  finds  his  nigUt*s  rest  sadly 
disturbed.  Clappers  in  trees,  or  lights  suspended  from  a  bough, 
will  sometimes  keep  these  bats  away. 

It  is  curious  to  sea  innumerable  flying  foxes  asleep,  hanging  in 
long  rows,  by  their  hind  daws,  to  the  leafless  boughs  of  trees. 

One  little  species  of  bat,  (Nurrackilloo^  A£al.)  is  inferior  in  point  of 
size,  to  many  butterflies,  and  moths. 

Both  the  large  Flying  Fox,  and  the  smaller  species  of  the  bat 
family,  are  eaten  by  the  lower  classes  of  natives,  as  well  as  by  the 
so  called  Portuguese,  and  they  are  also  employed  medicinally. 

The  Tiger,  FelU  tigris,  Linn.,  {Goudouah,  MaL)  generally  called 
the  Royal  Tiger,  in  contradistinction  to  the  Cheetah,  which  is  usu> 
ally  denominated  the  Tiger :  is  by  no  means  a  rare  animal,  but  those 
which  indulge  in  human  food,  are  scarce.  At  times  when  irritated 
they  attack  persons,  and  occasion  much  loss  amongst  domesticated 
cattle.  A  reward  of  from  ten  to  twelve  Rupees,  is  ptdd  for  the  skin  of 
each  tiger*  They  are  generally  shot  at  night  time  by  Sportsmen, 
who  conceal  themselves  in  trees,  and  watch  for  them,  either  at  some 
tank,  or  near  a  dead  animal* 

Natives  assert  that  a  new  lobe  grows  on  to  the  liver  of  a  Tiger 
every  year  it  lives,  and  therefore  by  an  examination  of  that  oi^n, 
the  animaFs  age  can  be  accurately  ascertained. 

Man  'eating  tigers,  are  said  to  be  very  often  without  fiair,  or  in 
other  words  mangy,  after  they  have  killed  their  firat  victim,  they 
are  believed  to  be  quite  safe  from  all  attacks,  as  the  spirit  of  the 
murdered  person  rides  upon  their  forehead,  and  guides  them  from 
every  danger.  If  a  tiger  swallows  any  clothing  it  frequently  causes 
his  destruction  :  and  this  is  perhaps  the  reason,  why  he  prefers  the 
Native  in  his  undress,  to  the  well  clothed  European. 

Evil  spirits  are  supposed  to  have  the  power  at  times,  of  changing 

♦  The  Dewan  of  Cochin,  has  kindly  furnished  the  following  return,  of  ani- 
mals, for  the  destruction  of  which  rewards  have  been  disbursed  by  the  Cochin 
Sircar  during  the  last  five  yev«,  viz.,  10  Tigers,  67  Cheetahs,  and  6  Crooodilea, 
at  a  total  cost  of  Rupees  4084.  The  skins  of  the  first  two  mentioned  animals, 
are  forwarded  to  the  Cutcherry  at  Emacollum,-  but  owing  t4>  the  difficulty  in 
obtaining  the  rewanU,  and  the  deductions  for  expenses,  very  many  no  doubt 
are  shot  without  their  skins  being  brought  forward,  and  are  therefore  not  in- 
cluded in  the  accounts. 


SLSPHANTS.  441 

men  into  tigers,  such  being  subsequently  dbtingnished,  by  having 
no  tails. 

The  claws,  and  even  the  teeth  of  the  tiger,  are  used  as  charms 
against  witchcraft,  and  the  evil  eye.  They  may  frequently  be  seen 
set  in  silver,  and  worn  round  the  necks  of  children.  Tigers'  whiskers, 
have  abo  the  same  efficacy,  against  demoniacal  influence.  The  flesh 
is  eaten  as  medicine,  and  a  favourite  remedy  for  deafness,  is  the 
skin  of  this  animal  burnt  with  gingelly  oil,  and  dropped  into  the 
ear. 

The  Cheetah  or  Panther,  Felis  pardus,  linn.  (Pouli,  MaL) 
sometimes  called  a  Leopard,  is  both  a  very  common,  and  a  very 
dangerous  animal.  At  night  time  it  prowls  around  houses,  carrying 
off  goats,  dogs,  and  even  smaller  game.  If  veiy  hungry  however,  he 
is  not  contented  with  this  uncertain  means  of  obtaining  food,  but 
penetrates  into  villages,  and  carries  off  animals,  and  even  children. 
There  is  a  black  variety,  Fdit  melat,  Peroc  {Kurrin^  potUi,  Mai.) 
which  is  not  nearly  so  numerous,  one  of  them  may  sometimes  be 
found  in  a  den  of  three  or  four  young  cubs.  There  is  also  another 
dark  coloured  one,  intermediate  between  the  other  two,  but  they 
are  all  of  the  same  species.  The  black  one  is  said  to  be  both  the 
most  timid,  and  the  most  dangerous. 

In  the  Cochin  Jungles  in  1859,  during  the  working  season,  a 
Cheetah  took  up  his  abode,  inside  a  small  hut,  used  as  a  store  house 
for  the  workmen's  rice.  The  Natives  were  in  a  great  state  of 
alarm,  and  numerous  expedients  tolnake  him  decamp  were  ineffectu- 
ally tried,  until  at  last  it  was  suggested,  to  obtain  the  assistance 
of  some  Elephants,  and  after  they  had  thrown  down  the  hut,  to 
endeavour  to  kill  the  animal  with  the  only  weapons  they  could 
muster,  viz.  spears,  hatchets,  and  carpenter's  tools. 

Several  Elephants  were  therefore  collected  from  the  various 
working  parties,  and  one  rather  young  animal  charged  the  hut,  and 
knocked  it  down,  when  out  sprang  the  Cheetah.  But  an  old 
Elephant  rushed  at  him,  and  before  he  had  time  to  rally  from  the 
shock,  impaled  him  on  his  tusk,  causing  instantaneous  death. 

The  best  Cheetah  skins,  are  nicely  tanned,  and  employed  by  the 
Brahmans  as  mats,  on  which  they  pray.  The  infeHor  ones  are  used 
as  bags  for  the  Post  Office  runners,  the  belts  of  Peons,  &c, 

H  2 


442  THB  HYBNA. 

The  Native  Cheetah  trap,  is  a  large  cage,  divided  into  two  rooms  : 
in  one  of  these  a  live  dog,  or  goat  is  placed,  which  at  night  time  at- 
tracts the  Cheetah,  who  enters  by  the  open  door  of  the  empty  divi- 
sion, which  is  so  contrived,  that  it  immediately  falls,  and  encloses 
him.  Shooting  them  by  ambuscade  at  night  time,  is  the  most  com- 
mon mode  of  destroying  them. 

The  Toddy  cat,  Viverra  Indica,  Qeoff.  {MurrupiUti,  Mai.)  is  very 
common  in  this  part  of'  India,  and  commits  great  depredations 
amongst  the  fruit  trees,  pulling  down  the  cocoa,  and  destroying  co- 
coanuts.  Thorny  briars,  are  consequently  placed  around  the  trunk 
of  all  fruit  trees,  to  prevent  the  ascent  of  these  animals. 

They  inhabit  houses^  pursue  the  rats  and  mice,  destroy  the  poul- 
try and  their  e^s^  and  make  such  a  disturbance  at  night  time,  that 
they  are  far  from  being  welcome  guests.  They  are  so  cunnings  that 
the  Natives  assert,  that  they  disappear,  immediately  an  order  is  given 
to  ro-roof  a  house,  where  they  may  have  taken  up  their  abode^  They 
have  however  the  credit  of  killing  snakes. 

One  day  whilst  passing  up  the  backwater,  a  tame  cat,*  was  seen 
out  on  a  travelling  excursion.  The  monsoon  had  set  in,  and  the 
paddy  fields  were  small  ponds :  on  reaching  one  of  these,  pussy  pad- 
dled along,  untQ  she  arrived  at  a  deep  drain,  when  without  any  hesi- 
tation she  plunged  in,  swam  across  and  pursued  her  original  course. 

TheHyenA,  Hi/cena  StriatayZammAB  not  rare,  and  descends  into  the 
plains :  whilst  the  Jackall,  Canis  auretie,  Linn.  (Cumken  also  Nurreey 
MaL)  by  his  unearthly  bowlings,  disturbs  the  quiet  of  the  night :  the 
noise  of  these  animals  has  been  likened  to  many  things.  An  old 
saying  is  that  one  Jackall  calls  out,  "  Here's  the  body  of  a  dead 


*  The  Egyptians  held  cats  in  such  great  estimation,  that  when  one  died  in 
the  house,  the  owner  of  it  shaved  his  eyebrows,  and  mourned  as  if  for  a  child. 
The  body  was  embalmed,  and  taken  to  a  particular  city  for  interment,  where 
it  may  be  said,  there  was  many  a  cat-a-wall-in.  Killing  a  cat  was  considered  a 
heinous  offence,  and  was  punished  by  a  fine,  the  amount  of  which  depended 
on  the  Priest's  verdict.  Even  in  Wales  we  are  told,  that  in  olden  limes,  a 
Prince  included  a  law  for  the  preservation  of  cats,  amongst  the  code  by  which 
he  regulated  his  kingdom.  A  kitten  before  she  could  see,  was  estimated  at 
tlie  value  of  a  calf,  after  her  first  capture  her  price  was  doubled,  and  a  re« 
gular  mouser  was  valued  at  four  calves.  However  in  those  primitive  times,  a 
calf  might  bo  purchasad  for  a  penny. 


THB  MOKQOOSE.  448 

Hindu/'  when  the  eager  cry  arises  from  all  quarters,  '<  where  ?  where  1 
where  1"  followed  by  theresponse,  "  Here  !  here  !  here  !"* 

The  'Wilddog,Cu(mp7imcevus,  Hodg.  {Chennaiy  MaL)  is  sometimes 
seen  in  the  higher  regions,  hunting  in  small  packs.  When  there 
we  a  number  of  them,  they  are  asserted  occasionally  to  kill  wild 
boars,  or  even  tigers.  Dr,  Francis  Buchanan,  mentions  that  these 
animals,  are  said  to  surprise  a  tiger  by  springing  out  suddenly  and 
fastening  on  his  neck,  and  so  killing  him.  Having  twice  had  an 
opportunity  of  seeing  pocks  of  wild  dogs  hunting,  once  in  the  early 
morning,  and  once  in  the  evening,  a  remark  on  the  subject  may  be 
deemed  interesting.  On  each  occasion,  they  were  five  in  number, 
their  size  just  between  a  jackall  and  a  wolf,  the  tail  of  a  rusty 
colour  above,  and  greyish  yeUow  below.  In  hunting  one  appeared 
to  take  the  lead,  casting  about  for  the  trail,  whilst  the  others  were 
all  together.  The  noise  made  by  them,  has  been  well  described  as 
a  barking  whistle.  The  pack  sometimes  advances  on  its  game, 
from  different  quarters,  but  this  b  not  always  the  case. 

Wild  dog9  when  hunting  do  not  appear  to  be  such  very  timid  crea- 
tures as  they  are  firequently  represented.  They  are  said  to  kill  Sambur, 
and  other  species  of  Deer,  Tigers,  wild  Hogs,  Hyenas,  Jackalls,  Bears, 
Porcupines,  and  Quails, 

The  Fox,  Vulpes  Indicut,  (Hodgs.)  is  very  common  in  some  places, 
occasionally  they  have  horns  on  their  foreheads.  It  is  said,  that 
the  fortunate  possessor  of  one  of  these,  will  be  able  to  cheat  and 
swindle  with  impunity,  they  are  consequently  in  great  request^  and 
spurious  ones  are  not  unfrequently  disposed  of. 

Amongst  the  genus  Herpettes,  the  Mongoose,  H.  Grwua,  Geoff. 
{Keerree,  MaL)  is  found  in  almost  every  dump  of  thick  bushes,  and 
is  very  useful,  in  clearing  the  ground  of  snakes  and  rats  :  but  unfor- 
tunately it  sometimes  also  attacks  poultry,  and  in  one  night  may 
destroy  a  large  amount,  as  it  merely  sucks  the  blood  of  its  victims. 
In  the  higher  ranges,  the  larger  and  much  more  beautiful  chestnut 
coloured  Mongoose,  //.  Elliottii,  is  still  more  destructive. 

*  A  MtBsionary  in  Tinnevelly  iuforms  us,  that  Jackalls  catoU  ci*aba,  by  putting 
their  own  tails  into  the  crabs'*  holes,  and  when  they  feel  a  bite,  drawing  that 
appendage  quickly  up.  The  Cochin  JackaUs,  do  not  appear  to  have  suoli  a 
sporting  turn  of  mind,  as  their  Tinnevelly  relatives,  at  least,  they  are  uut 
reputed,  to  go  fishing  with  their  tails,  in  crabs'  retreats  ! 


444  RATS. 

The  gall  bladder  of  the  Mongoose,  combined  with  that  of  the 
peacock  is  one  of  the  numerous  Native  antidotes  used  for  snake 
bites. 

The  Water  Dog,  Lvlra  Nair^  Cut.  {Neemai,  Mai.)  is  found  in 
the  Backwater,  but  is  not  very  numerous.  In  some  localities  the 
skins  are  collected,  and  they  are  said  to  be  employed  in  the  mann- 
fiEu^ture  of  hats. 

The  large  Bear,  Ursiform  Sloth,  Melurtus  lybicm^  Mey«r,  {Pumix 
currotidee,  MaL)  is  very  common,  and  if  interfered  with,  extremely 
dangerous,  it  is  much  dreaded  by  the  Natives.  When  in  confine- 
ment, it  will  eat  animal  substances,  but  such  do  not  eLppeat  to  be  its 
natural  food.  In  the  Jungles,  it  has  been  observed  to  be  very  fond 
of  honey,  white  ants,  common  ants,  beetles,  and  the  sweet  fruit  of 
trees,  especially  the  pods  of  the  Ccuna  Fistula. 

Some  friends  when  out  shooting,  procured  the  skins  of  two  fine 
bears,  in  the  following  manner.  Perceiving  a  Cheetah,  and  a  bear, 
coming  down  the  slope,  of  a  hill  at  the  same  time,  both  were  simulta- 
neously fired  at.  The  Cheetah  escaped,  but  the  bear  being  desperately 
wounded,  turned  back  into  the  neighbouring  jungles,  from  whence 
loud  growls  were  heard.  The  party  having  re-loaded,  advanced, 
when  two  bears  were  seen  fighting  fdriously,  and  both  were  thus 
killed.  It  appeared  probable,  that  the  wounded  bear,  not  seeing 
from  whence  lus  injury  emanated,  and  knowing  that  his  companion 
was  behind,  imagined  that  he  had  attacked  him,  and  had  therefore 
returned  to  avenge  himself. 

These  bears  are  frequently  trained  by  Jugglers,  to  dance  and  play 
various  tricks. 

The  Porpoise,  PlcUaniOa  Gangetiea,  Gray,  {Cuddapunni,  MaL) 
is  exceedingly  common,  about  the  mouth  of  the  Cochin  river,  as  well 
as  in  the  backwatei:.  The  Dugong,  Halicore  Dugung^  Cuv.  is  very 
frequently  seen  along  the  coast,  and  the  skulls  of  both  species,  are 
often  found,  especially  near  the  Narrikal  mud  bank. 

A  small  species  of  rat,  Miu  providem^  Elliott,  which  is  of  a  brown- 
ish colour,  lives  in  burrows,  in  which  it  stores  up  grain.  The  tank 
diggers,  Corravers,  eat  this  animal,  and  plunder  its  supply  of  grain. 
They  also  eat  another  species  of  rat,  Mua  Languiotus,  Elliott,  which 
at  times  commits  great  hshroc,  amongst  the  corn  fields.     There  are 


THB    HARE.  445 

sflfveral  other  spedes  of  rate,  and  mice,  which  infest  the  fields,  the 
ghaatSy  and  the  houses ;  in  the  last  the  squeak  of  the  Mask  rat, 
{Gunddif  MaL)  is  heard  with  great  aversion.  It  is  a  curious  &ct 
that  this  little  animal  by  simply  running  over  beer  or  wine  bottles 
which  are  corked  and  sealed,  imparts  such  a  disagreeable  flavour  to 
the  liquor  as  to  render  it  unfit  for  consumption.  Even  dogs  and 
cato,  have  apparently  a  great  dislike  to  touching  one  of  these  rats. 

The  Brown  Rat,  Mtu  Decumanut,  Pallas,  is  the  most  common 
species  in  Cochin,  but  the  large  Bandicoot,  Mu$  Bandicota,  is  by  no 
means  rare,  undermining  the  walls  of  houses,  and  committing  exten- 
sive depredations.  In  the  Monsoon  time,  when  the  burrows  are 
filled  with  water,  they  take  up  their  abode  in  houses,  and  are  a 
great  nuisance.  One  ni^t  a  number  of  them  got  on  board  a  ship 
which  was  lying  attached  to  a  wharf  in  Cochin,  and  before  morning, 
they  had  entirely  destroyed  a  complete  set  of  new  sails. 

Cato  will  veiy  rarely  attack  this  large  species  of  Indian  rat,  ex- 
cepting  when  they  are  quite  young. 

The  little  striped  squirrel,  Seiurtu  PatmaruMf  Linn.  {Unnun, 
Mai.)  is  never  found  in  the  town  of  Cochin,  and  is  not  very  common 
in  the  surrounding  country.  It  is  a  very  pretty  little  creature,  and 
a  great  fiftvonrite  as  a  pet»  but  unfortunately  it  is  exceedingly  des- 
tructive, and  bites  very  severely. 

The  Jungle  Squirrel,  Seiurtu  MaximuB,  Schrel.  {Mcdaunnun^ 
MaL)  is  a  very  handsome  animal,  and  a  favourite  pet  Although 
generally  very  sociable,  ito  sharp  pointed  teeth,  render  it  a  formid- 
able antagonist,  when  irate,  and  it  is  therefore  not  well  adapted,  as 
a  playmate  for  children.  It  is  apt  to  be  rather  spiteful  if  aroused 
from  ito  sleep,  as  once  having  curled  ito  beautiful  tail  around  ito 
body,  it  does  not  like  to  be  disturbed  from  ito  slumbers.  The 
centre  of  ito  back  is  a  chestnut  colour,  and  the  remainder  of  a  deep 
black.  The  skin  is  useful  for  some  purposes,  thus  sportsmen  who 
use  a  flint  and  steel  gun,  prefer  it  to  any  other,  for  a  covering  over 
the  pan.  Several  other  species,  including  the  S.  ElphinsUmii^  Sykes, 
and  the  S.  Macrourugf  Forst,  are  also  found. 

Two  species  of  Flying  Squirrel,  Pteromys,  are  also  seen,  but  the 
grey  variety  is  the  most  common. 

The  Hare,  Lqms  NtgricollU,  Fr.  Cuv,  {MoUloUy  MaL)  is  very 


446  THK   OBANOB  PORCUPINE. 

numerouB  in  some  place&  In  cases  of  Scrofula,  natives  often 
drink  the  blood  of  this  animal,  and  regard  it  as  a  very  efficacious 
remedy.  The  Rabbit  does  not  thrive  in  confinement,  and  here  as  in 
other  parts  of  India,  it  is  unknown  in  a  wild  state.  The  little 
Quinea  Pig,  is  kept  domesticated. 

Two  species  of  Porcupines,  (Mcullun  Punni,  Mai)  are  found,  vis., 
the  common  black  and  white,  HpHrix  Leucurus,  Sykes,  and  a  smal- 
ler but  much  handsomer  speoies,  at  present  apparently  undescribed 
which  is  Orange  and  Black,  both  are  equally  destructive  in  gardens. 

Having  kept  both  spedes,  at  different  times  for  some  months  in 
the  house,  a  short  sketch  of  their  respective  characters,  may  not  be 
uninteresting. 

In  1855,  having  obtained  a  common  ToTcapmefBystrixLeucurw, 
at  Mercara  in  Coorg,  it  was  kept  domesticated  for  eleven  months, 
when  it  met  with  an  accidental  death.  At  first  it  was  very  shy, 
but  as  it  grew  older,  it  became  tame,  excepting  to  strangers,  and 
appeared  regularly  at  the  breakfast  and  dinner  table  with  the  dogs. 
At  first  all  lived  amicably  together :  but  as  the  Porcupine's  strength 
increased,  it  became  more  exacting,  so  if  not  fed  quickly,  would 
jump  up  and  put  its  paws  on  the  chair,  scratching  until  attended  to. 
As  this  was  not  permitted,  he  soon  learnt  to  sit  up  like  the  dogs, 
and  beg  quietly  until  his  turn  came.  Sometimes  when  hungry,  on 
seeing  one  of  the  dogs  served  first,  it  became  very  indignant,  and 
with  all  its  quills  erect,  rushed  at'  its  canine  companions  and  drove 
them  all  out  of  the  room.  It  had  an  intense  aversion  to  water,  and 
if  some  were  thrown  over  him  would  immediately  run  away.  It 
usually  allowed  itself  to  be  led  out  by  a  chain  with  the  dogs,  but 
sometimes  strayed  away  in  the  compound,  when  the  dogs  were 
turned  out  in  pursuit,  and  always  found  it  again.  It  was  a  de- 
structive, and  rather  unsavoury  pet,  and  very  fond  of  gnawing  tables, 
chairs,  drc.     Its  diet  was  omnivorous. 

The  Orange  Porcupine,  Hygtrix  MalaharicaSy  is  found  in  the 
Western  Qhants,  in  certain  localities  mostly  near  Trichoor,  and  ge- 
nerally in  subterraneous  abodes,  in  the  laterite  rocks.  In  size  it  is 
smaller  than  the  H,  Letieurus,  and  the  epicurean  Native  prizes  its 
flesh  more  highly.  To  obtain  a  specimen  alive,  it  must  be  smoked 
out  of  its  den,  where  its  presence  may  be  detected,  by  its  offensive 


THE  SCALY  AST  BATKB.  447 

aroma,  which  ia  considerably  worse  thaa  that  of  tlie  common 
variety.  A  pit-fall  is  dug  in  front  of  one  hole,  while  brushwood  is 
heaped  up  and  set  fire  to  at  the  mouths  of  all  other  entrances ;  but 
they  endure  smoldng  and  starvation  for  an  extraordinary  length  of 
time,  before  they  will  venture  out,  the  usual  period  being  about 
three  days ;  on  one  occasion,  a  very  fine  one,  driven  to  desperation, 
rushed  from  his  hole,  and  falling  into  the  pit-fall,  was  impaled  on 
the  quills  of  two  others,  who  had  been  previously  precipitated 
down« 

At  no  period  of  their  lives,  ia  the  orange  colour  absent  from  all 
their  quills,  but  certainly  it  becomes  much  less,  when  they  are  in 
ill  health,  or  in  confinement.  In  some  specimens,  the  qmlls  in  those 
places  where  they  are  white,  in  the  common  variety  are  of  a  deep 
reddish  orange.     After  death,  the  colour  fades  considerably. 

Having  obtained  a  pair  which  were  half-grown,  they  were  placed 
in  a  wooden  cage,  which  at  night  time  was  taken  inside  a  room  for 
security,  but  in  a  few  hours,  they  had  gnawed  their  way  out,  and 
regained  their  liberty.  The  house  was  then  aroused  to  endeavour 
to  catch  them  again,  as  it  was  feared  they  would  make  their  escape 
from  the  room,  by  gnawing  through  the  Venetians.  This  was  a  diffi- 
cult undertaking,  and  one  in  which  the  natives  declined  assisting 
as  they  believe  the  wound  mad^  by  a  porcupine's  quill,  to  be  very 
venomous,  and  often  &taL  Having  seized  the  female  by  the  top- 
knot,  she  struggled  so  desperately,  that  she  actnaUy  escaped,  leaving 
her  scalp  and  attached  crest  behind.  They  were  however  at  length 
captured,  and  a  barred  wooden  cage  subsequently  constructed,  in 
which  the  wood  was  covered  with  tin,  but  notwithstanding  these 
precautions  one  night  the  male  managed  to  escape,  and  could  not  be 
recaptured.  The  gnawing  propensities  of  the  remaining  animal 
occasioned  constant  trouble,  until  the  plan  of  cutting  its  teeth,  once  a 
month,  was  adopted,  which  was  effectual  for  the  time. 

Although  it  allowed  cats,  and  dogs,  to  steel  its  rice,  it  became  ex- 
tremely indignant  one  day,  when  a  little  tame  Mongoose  looked  into 
its  cage,  both  parties  prepared  for  war,  and  had  not  assistance  been 
at  hand,  the  poor  Mongoose  would  soon  have  come  to  an  untimely  end. 
The  Mania,  or  Scaly  ant-eat^r,  M.  Pmtadactyla^  Linn.,  is  found  in 
the  Ghauts,  where  it  performs  essential  service^  in  destroying  the 


H8  THB  GOITB. 

White  Ants' nests.  It  is  very  difficult  to  keep  it  in  a  box  as  it  inserts 
its  long  nose  nndw  the  lid,  and  forces  its  way  oat  in  spite  of  enor- 
mous pressure. 

The  Qour,  So8  Cavijrons,  Hodg.  {Karioo  Poai^ioo,  Mai.)  is  very 
abundant  in  the  jangles,  along  the  whole  range  of  the  ghauts, 
where  it  is  generally  known  as  the  ^son.  The  male  stands  as 
much  as  6  feet  1  inch  at  the  shoulder.  Its  hump  is  very  small, 
and  the  body  of  a  dark  colour,  with  white  legs,  and  its  eyes  are  of 
a  curious  light  blue.  It  is  a  timid  animal,  and  when  alarmed  rashes 
madly  away  through  the  bushes,  never  turning  to  bay,  unless  either 
desperately  wounded,  or  having  no  other  means  of  escapa  The 
Natives  are  greatly  alarmed  when  it  thus  tarns,  as  they  assert,  that  it 
will  root  up  a  stone  from  the  ground,  and  diBchai^  it  with  a  snort, 
with  fatal  effect  at  its  adversary.  In  Ramghur,  the  Natives  never 
attack  it,  as  they  believe  it  to  be  so  vincUotive,  that  should  it  pur- 
sue them,  and  they  take  refuge  in  a  tree^  it  will  watch  ar  ound  the 
base,  until  they  fall  down  from  the  effects  of  starvation,  or  exhaus- 
tion, when  it  immediately  destroys  them.  It  is  very  fond  of  young 
bamboo  shoots.  It  has  been  suggested  that  this  animal  might 
advantageously  be  introduced  into  Europe,  but  it  appears  to  have 
been  overlooked,  that  although  it  is  large,  it  grows  very  slowly. 
Whilst  in  the  low  country,  at  Salem,  and  in  their  haunts  on  the 
iShevaroys,  attempts  to  domesticate  them  have  proved  unsuccessful. 
Some  few  calves  have  lived  up  to  three  years  of  age,  but  none  are 
recorded  as  having  survived  that  period.* 

Its  skin  is  employed  for  covering  shields,  and  also  for  the  soles  of 
shoes.  Its  horns  take  a  very  beautiful  polish,  they  should  first  be 
filed  and  scraped^  untU  quite  smooth,  and  then  rubbed  with  the 
leaves  of  the  Ficiu  aspera:  subsequently  being  polished  by  strong 
friction,  with  a  soft  leather,  or  cloth  covered  with  charcoal  and 
e,  or  oil 


*  Mr.  Elliot,  in  the  Madras  Quarterly  Journal,  gives  the  size  of  one  measur- 
ed by  him  most  aoouistely.  Height  at  shoulder  784 :  at  ramp  65 :  length  £rom 
nose  to  insertion  of  tail  1144 :  of  tail  34:  of  dorsal  ridge,  including  hump  40 : 
height  of  the  same  44 :  girth  behind  fore  legs  96 :  breadth  of  forehead  154 : 
between  points  of  horn  25:  circumference  of  neck  52 :  skin  of  neck,  shoulder 
and  thighs  about  2  inches  thick. 


8HBEP.    •  449 

Domesticated  cattle  do  not  thrive  in  this  portion  of  India ;  the 
cows  are  small  and  few  in  number,  oxen  are  used  for  ploughing, 
and  as  beasts  of  draught  and  burden,  as  are  also  the  countiy  ponies. 
The  reason  of  this  deficiency  in  cattle  appears  to  be  due  to  two 
causes,  first  to  the  difficulty  in  procuring  pasturage,  and  secondly  to 
the  heavy  monsoons,  which  are  so  destructive  to  the  health  and  life 
of  krge  ruminant  animals.*  The  idols  and  great  people  are  fanned 
with  the  tail  of  the  Thibet  cow,  Bos  grmens. 

The  Malabar  Ibex,  Capra —  i  may  be  identical  with  the  Neil- 
gherry  species,  although  in  some  respects  it  appears  to  differ.  The 
lengtii  of  the  male  is  about  5  feet  4  inches,  from  the  base  of  the 
horns  to  the  tip  of  the  nose,  which  last  is  aquiline,  the  horns  are 
14j^  inches  m  length,  and  b\  apart  at  the  tips.  The  general  colour  is  a 
greyish  brown,  with  a  greyish  ash  coloured  saddle  across  the  loins ;  it 
is  also  grey  at  the  sides  and  base  of  the  neck,  and  has  a  black  streak 
from  the  occiput  to  the  tail,  the  legs  are  black  with  a  spot  of  white 
on  the  forelegs,  an  inch  above  each  knee.  The  skui,  is  of  the  same 
thickness  in  every  part  of  the  body.  It  is  good  eating,  but  inhabits 
rocks  and  other  ahnost  inaccessible  places,  with  the  exception  of 
MaHatur,  where,  as  ahready  mentioned,  it  is,  curious  to  say,  perfectly 
tame.  Sometimes  it  may  be  seen  almost  as  shaggy  as  the  CasJi- 
mere  goats,  with  hair  almost  touching  the  ground. 

Sheep  (Ardou,  Mai.)  may  be  said  to  be  unknown  in  Cochin,  but 
are  brought  into  the  country  from  Palghaut,  and  are  long  legged, 
ugly,  red,  brown,  and  black  creatures.t  Although  very  thin,  the 
mutton  is  usually  pretty  good,  but  small  goats  thrive  much  better, 
and  are  more  numerous  in  the  interior  of  the  country.  When 
brought  into  the  town,  they  multiply  rapidly,  but  do  not  give  much 


♦  lu  the  memoira  of  the  Mitiionary  Wtiibreeht,  it  is  stated  that  Hiiulus 
believe  coal,  to  be  the  remains  of  honefl,  of  which  as  maiiy  as  5,0  }0  were  fre- 
queutly  sacrificeil  to  the  gocU,  by  tiieir  kingi  la  ancient  times.  The  tar  in 
the  cual  is  supposed  to  tfrise  Irom  the  ghee,  poured  ou  the  sacrificial  fire. 

f  Kriiihna  was  an  especial  favourite  with  the  Shepherdejisesi  of  whom  he 
had  a  large  number  under  his  protection.  On  hearing  of  hid  death,  they  are 
believed  to  have  drowned  themselves  in  the  pool  at  DwMka ;  in  commemora- 
tion of  which,  the  caste  marks  of  the  Vishnuitei  ought  to  be  mode  of  the 
mud  from  that  pond. 

I  2 


450  (XSW8. 

inilk,  and  this  is  said  never  to  be  used  for  butter,  it  is  certainiy 
injurious  to  some  young  children,  even  causing  dysentery. 

The  Bull  cut  in  granite^  is  a  well  known  emblem  of  one  of  the  Hindu 
Deitiesw  It  is  related  that  the  Cotti^ram  Brahmans,  requiring 
money,  represented  to  the  I>ewan  that  their  idol  had  a  severe  boil 
on  its  thigh,  and  forwarded  an  estimate  of  the  amount  of  money, 
that  would  be  required  to-  purchase  druga  The  money  was  sent 
them,  with,  at  the  some  time^  an  intimation,  that  it  teau  expected  the 
animal  would  be  ])ermanently  cured. 

The  reason  why  oows  are  olijects  of  veneration  to  Hindus  is  a 
very  difficult  question,  bat  it  appears  more  than  probable  that  it 
first  arose,  from  a  l^;islative  enactment,  to  prevent  their  being  tor- 
tured, as  in  some  parts  of  Africa  they  .  are  to  this  day,  by  having 
portions  of  flesh  cut  off  them  for  steaks  when  alive.  Perhaps  fail- 
ing in  legislation,  priestly  assistance  was  called  in,  and  the  auinuJ 
made  sacred.  The  worshippers  of  Siva  sometimes  abstain  from 
working  their  cattle  on  Monday,  as  that  day  is  sacred  to  tlie  bull. 
Amongst  the  ancient  Jewish  laws,  the  ox  was  declared  dean,  and 
frequently  used  for  sacrificial  purposes.  Also  am<N^  the  Egyp* 
tians  it  was  venetated,  and  had  divine  honours  paid  to  it.  Possibly 
it  was  in  imitation  of  these  last  that  Aaron  made  the  gokien  calf. 

Ignorance  of  the  troubles  likdy  to  arise  from  killing  this  sacred 
animal,  was  productive  of  many  injurious  occurrences  to  the  con- 
cerns of  the  early  settlements  of  the  HonoraUe  Eust  India  Company. 
An  English  Captain  of  a  vessel  on  one  occa^on  presented  a  Bull  dog, 
to  the  Commandant  of  a  small  factory,  containing  about  18  persons  at 
Batacola  near  Onore.  However  the  animal  almost  immediately  on  its 
arrival,  unfortunately  perceiving  a  cow,  fastened  upon  it  and  could  not 
be  taken  off,2until  it  had  killed  it.  The  Huidus  believing  the  dog 
to  have  been  instigated. by  Hie  Europeans,  rose,  and  massacred  all 
of  them.  Natives  imagine  that  milch  cows  will  never  give  milk 
unless  they  see  their  calves,  therefore  when  these  last  die,  they 
often  stuff  them  with  straw,  and  bring  them  forward,  whilst  the 
mother  is  being  milked.  Large  herds  of  cattle  are  constantly  al- 
lowed to  roam  into  the  forests  in  search  of  food,  and  one  would 
imagine,  that  they  would  be  apt  to  stray  away,  and  become  wild. 
But  this  is  not  the  case,  as  they  dare  not  remain  there  during  the. 


THE  SPOITH)   DSEB.  451 

titglit>  for  fear  of  wild  beatts,  but  invariably  either  return  to  tLe 
plains^  or  congregate  together  in  open  npaoesy  where  should  they 
lie  down,  they  are  very  careful  that  their  horns  diaU  form  a  circle 
externally,  in  readiuesa  to  meet  an  enemy. 

The  descendant  of  the  Zebu,  or  Indian  Ox,  is  aakL  to  lose  the 
hump,  on  being  crossed  with  other  cattle^  and  is  considered  to  be  the 
originator,  of  the  Eurcpean  stock. 

Buffaloes,  Bubalus  bufeUis^  Blum.,  appear  to  thrive  pretty  well, 
and  are  kept  priiicipally  for  their  milk,  from  which  a  kind  of  cream 
cheese  is  made;  to  Europeans  these  animals  always  appear  to  be  in 
a  half  savage  state.  They  are  sometimes  employed  in  ploughing,  iu 
deep  wet  soils,  and  may  occasionally  be  seen  in  carts.  During  the 
day,- they  delist  in  remaining  in  the  water,  with  only  their  noaes 
above  the  snrfiftoe.  They  thrive  in  many  moist  pbces,  fatal  to  the 
Indian  Oac 

Donkeys  are  not  used  in  the  town  of  Cochm  as  beasts  of  burden, 
but  they  are  so  in  Trichoor.  In  olden  times,  these  animals  were 
employed  for  |Mimshing  women,  who  had  committed  certain  offences  i 
after  their  heads  had  been  shaved,  they  were  compelled  to  ride 
through  the  Baiaar,  wilh  their  fiacesto  the  animal's  tail,  probably  it 
was  found  necessary  subsequently,  to  destroy  the  poor  creatures,  for 
fear  they  should  be  overworiced.*  Riding  upon  an  Ass,  was  in  the 
time  of  the  Jewish  Judges,  considered  a  great  mark  of  distinction. 
Solomon  was  tke  irat  to  introduce  the  korse,  in  the  place  of  the 
more  patient  Ass. 

The  Sambur,  Ittua  eqninoy  (7»v.,  grows  to  a  hirge  siae,  and  though 
not  esteemed  good  eating  by  Europeansi  its  hons  are  fine,  and  its 
marrow  bones  are  an  Indian  deliowrf. 

The  spotted  Deer,  Axis  maeuUtta^  Otay.  (PnUwMUj  MaL)  is  very 
numerous,  and  its  horns  form  an  article  of.  export  The  animal  in 
sometimes  killed  to  procure  them,  but  at  the  time  of  shedding,  they 
are  collected  in  large  numbers  in  the  jungles.  The  young  horns  are 
rough,  but  the  older  ones  are  much  smoollber,  as  the  animals  before 

•  The  authoress  of  "Delhi** .says,  Nativea  believe  that  "If  you  pass  between 
two  donkie3,  you  will  loee  your  religion,  but  if  you  touch  them  both,  you  will 
get  it  back  again,  and  keep  it" !  if  so  easily  lost^  it  might  be  added,  "  as  long 
418  you  hold  on  by  the  animals'  tails.". 


492  SLCPHJUTTB. 

shedding,  finding  them  irritable,  are  in  the  habit  of  nibbing  them 
constanUy  against  the  troea,  Ita  fleah  ib  very  good  eatings  aad 
when  young,  it  makes  a  pretty  and  interesting  pet,  but  as  it  gets 
older,  it  generally  becomes  veiy  vidooa 

Dogs  of  eveiy  nonien<daturey  and  of  many  nondescript  varieties, 
exist  in  large  numbers,  and  occasionally  produce  Hydrophobia  iii 
the  inhabitants.  Amongst  European  dogs,  the  Bull  dog  appears  to 
thrive  the  best^  and  the  Spanids  and  Lf^  dogs  the  worst,  if  their 
livers  are  affected,  and  the  skin  turns  yellow,  there  is  probably 
notliing  which  can  preserve  tbeir  livesw 

The  Elephant,  Elepltas  Indica,  lion.  (AhnOy  MaL)  is  by  no 
means  rare  in  the  thicker  juggles,  and  at  times  causes  great  devasta- 
tions  in  the  paddy  fields^  in  plantationa  of  sugar  cane,  and  in  palm 
gardens,  they  also  beat  down  the  betel  palm  toobtmn  the  cabbage  tm 
the  top.  As  their  tusks  if  wild,  are  the  property  of  the  Native  State^ 
there  is  little  inducement  to  kill  them.  Wlien  encountered  in  num- 
bers, they  geneniUy  ruD  away,  but  a  single  one,  who  has  been  de- 
serted by  the  herd,  is  eoEtremely  dangerotuk  The  Elephant  was  an 
emblem  of  the  Rajahs  of  Mysoie^  before  Hyder'&  time,  and  may 
still  be  frequently  seen  en  their  ccnns* 

When  Elephants  fix  their  quarters  near  cultivated  lands,  and 
carry  their  d^redatioB»  into  plantatiims,  and  i)addy  Mds,  the  in- 
habitants endeavour  to  frighten  them  away,  by  lighting  large  iires 
at  night  time,  beating  tomtoms,  sounding  horns,  and  making  vari- 
ous other  discordant  noises.  They  ravage  the  low  lands,  mostly 
in  the  rainy  seasonu 

Elephants  are  uanaily  captured  in  pitfidls,  which  are  covered  over 
with  green  bou^^  of  trees,  but  this  method  occasionally  destroys 
their  efficiency.  When  captured  they  alarm  the  forest  with  their  out- 
cries, they  are  geneniily  left  there  seveial  daysy  when  two  or  more  tame 
elephants  are  employed,  in  dragging  them  ont  of  their  prison  by  ropes 
and  chains,  snbeeqoently  they  also  assist  in  tandng  them.  When  pro^ 
periy  broken  in^  they  are  eni^yed  by  the  Native  Oovemment,  to 
drag  timber  down  firom  the  Hills,  and  they  are  abo  let  out  for  Rupees 
€  a  day.  They  are  very  clever  in  piling  logs,  and  assist  with  great 
decorum  at  the  various  Hindu  Getemonies,.soiQe  of  them  being  entirely 
set  apart  for  this  purpose;. 


TAMB  KtEPHANTS.  458 

Elephalit^  occasionally  at  certain  times  become  very  excitable) 
and  unmanageable.  In  1861,  a  magnificent  animal  which  was  a 
great  favourite  of  the  Rajah's,  killed  its  keeper,  and  escaped  in  this 
mad  condition.  But  instead  of  betaking  itself  to  the  jungles,  it  haunted 
Tillages  and  inhabited  places,  causing  great  loss  of  life,  and  much 
destruction  of  property.  No  one  dared  destroy  it,  as  the  Rajah  was 
most  anxious  to  have  it  taken  alive.  At  last  it  chased  a  coW,  wliich 
took  refuge  in  a  neighbouring  Pagoda,  into  which  the  Elephant  fol« 
lowed,  and  to  the  great  horror  of  all  pious  Hindus,  killed  the  sacred 
animal  within  its  walls.  A  large  sum  was  subsequently  |)aid  for 
inirifying  the  temple. 

'  The  numerous  tales  recorded,  proving  the  wonderful  sagacity  of 
this  animal,  would  fill  volumes,  but  it  is  rarely  that  they  have 
proved  themselves  good  detective  police.  An  instance  however  oc- 
curred at  NagereoU,  a  few  years  since.  An  Elephant  was  sent  there 
for  the  purpose  of  piling  timber  by  the  Dewan,  who  recpested  the 
wife  of  a  Missionary  residing  there,  to  be  good  enough  to  see  the 
animal  fed,  and  thus  prevent  its  keeper  from  abstracting  its  food. 
It  was  therefore  brought  to  the  house  daily  for  this  purpose,  and  at 
first  all  went  on  correctly :  but  after  a  time  it  was  suspected  that 
the  amount  of  rice  was  getting  smaller,  and  smaller,  so  one  day  the 
keeper  was  remonstrated  with,  and  of  course  protested  against  the 
imputation  of  having  taken  it,  adding  in  true  Native  phraseology, 
"  Madam,  do  you  think  I  could  rob  my  own  cliildf'  The  Elephant 
looked  on  most  sagaciously,  and  at  this  stage  of  the  proceeding;), 
quietly  threw  his  trunk  around  his  keeper,  and  untied  his  bulky 
wabt  clothy  when  the  missmg  rice  fell  to  the  ground. 

It  is  said  that  in  some  parts  of  India,  when  a  Rajah  or  a  great 
man  wishes  to  rain  a  friend,  he  presents  him  with  an  Elephant, 
which  of  course  he  cannot  subsequently  part  with,  but  whose  keep 
is  so  expensive,  that  unless  very  wealthy,  his  owner  soon  finds  liim- 
self  reduced  to  poverty.  In  Cochui,  such  would  have  quite  the  con- 
trary effect)  the  hire  of  one  of  these  animals  being  Rs.  6  a  day,  tlie 
person  who  uses  him  also  paying  all  expenses.  They  commence 
work  at  about  19  years  of  age,  and  are  at  their  prime,  until  thirty. 
A  good  Elephant  costs  about  Rs.  1,100,  but  a  very  fine  one  has  been 
known  to  fetch  as  much  as  Ifi.  2,300.    It  is  many  years  since  any 


454  PIGS. 

of  these  animals  captured  by  the  Sircar  authorities,  have  been  train- 
ed for  work.  Large  numbers  die  of  actual  starvation,  in  conse* 
quence  of  the  attendants  neglecting  to  feed  them.  Sambur  and 
Bison  frequently  fall  into  the  Slephant  traps,  but  should  a  Tiger  be 
caught,  information  must  be  immediately  sent  to  the  Ki^ah,  when 
if  he  does  not  require  it,  it  is  shot 

The  Wild  Hog,  Sas  tcrofa^  Liiln*  (Variety)  grows  to  a  large  size  in 
the  jungles.  The  finest  hog  hunting  in  Malabar,  was  formerly  at 
Chetw}'e.     Tlie  fiesh  is  very  whoksome. 

Pigs  (Pmni,  MaL)  api)ear  to  be  very  great  favorites,*  ^d  ^re 
kept  by  many  of  the  Native  Christians,  and  others,  as  well  as  by  the 
loAvest  castes  of  Hindus.  They  may  be  seen  running  around  the 
houses,  and  are  by  no  means  clean  feeders,  whilst  the  fish  that  they 
are  frequently  allowed  to  eat,  renders  their  flesli  very  unwholesome. 
In  the  neighbourhood  of  an  oil  mill,  they  generally  get  fed  on 
Poonac,  or  the  refuse  of  the  oocoanut,  which  is  very  fattening.  Figs 
are  killed  for  almost  all  wedding  feasts  amongst  Native  Christians, 
and  even  Mahomedans  are  not  ttnfreqnently  found,  who  eat  this 
unclean  beast,  under  the  denomination  of  MiUtdit^ 


*  The  occupation  of  SwinekercL  is  Htvted  by  HerodotUd,  to  have  been  deem- 
ed most  vile  an()  contemptible,  and  the  Kgj'ptians  refused  persons  who  follow- 
ed this  occupation,  admission  into  their  temples,  Whilst  they  were  spurneti 
«ren  by  the  very  dregs  of  the  populatiofi. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


BIRDS. 

Tribes  of  birds  found  in  different  times  of  the  year — Period  of  nidification  — 
iiegend  conoeming  the  nest  of  the  Brahmanee  kite — Origin  of  the  Owl  beiu^ 
termed  the  *'  cue  legged  carpenter^ — Bulbul  drawing  off  attention  from  its  nest 
— Destruction  of  young  Larks  by  ants — Nest  of  the  Tailor  bird — nest  of  the 
bottle  nested  sparrow — Mynah  acting  as  a  house  dog — Impudent  Crowij,  origin 
of  then*  being  considered  accursed  by  the  Hindus — Sun  bird,  and  its  nest — 
Water  fowl. 

Thk  birds  of  India,  form  a  most  elegftnt  and  charming  division  of 
its  zoology,  and  have  their  representatives  in  almost  every  tree,  on 
the  sandy  plaina,  the  muddy  marshes^  ou  the  sea,  and  in  the  back- 
water \  some  being  nocturnal,  others  diunial  in  their  habits. 

The  same  tribes  of  birds  as  a  rule,  range  for  their  food,  and  find 
their  homes,  from  the  most  northern  to  the  most  southern  portions 
of  the  continent,  but  tiie  time  of  year  in  which  they  prefer  a  resi- 
dence in  one  place  to  that  of  another,  dilBBrs.'  The  towns  are  full  of 
Crows,  Corvus  tfplendtn^  whose  audacity  makes  one  wish  them  less 
common,  but  the  chirp  of  the  house  Sparrow,  FoMser  IndicuSy  is  sel- 
dom heard  in  tfie  Cochin  state.  The  banks  of  the  backwater 
are  dotted  with  groups  of  Herons,  and  flocks  of  Terns. 

During  the  prevalence  of  the  S.  W.  Monsoon,  there  is  a  remarka- 
ble paucity  of  birds,  even  the  waders  forsake  the  coast,  the  Herons  and 
Egrets  are  rarely  observable,  and  paddy  birds  are  scarce,  whilst  Terns, 
Gulls,  and  Ring  Dotterels  are  entirely  absent,  and  do  not  return  mitil 
November  or  December.  The  common  Sandpiper  disappears,  but 
the  green  one  is  occasionally  seen.  The  Snii)e  also  retreats,  but  the 
Brahmanee  kite  becomes  more  numerous,  although  the  common  Kite 
is  rarely  preceived  In  the  depths  of  the  Jungles  of  the  western 
ghauts  the  stillness  appears  to  be  only  broken  by  Monkeys,  and 
Squirrels,  still  an  occasional  Woodpecker,  Nuthatch^  or  Hornbill,  may 
be  heardy  or  perceived. 


456  COMMON  KITE, 

Nidifioation  appears  to  take  place  at  any  period  between  October 
and  June  whilst  some  birds  such  as  Crows,  seem  to  be  building  nests, 
or  rearing  young,  all  the  year  round.  Birds  are  in  their  most  elegant 
plumage  either  in  the  months  of  October,  November,  or  in  March  and 
April. 

Amongst  the  order  of  birds  of  prey,  RaptoreSy  and  the  family  of 
Vultures,  is  the  large  and  certainly  most  disgusting  species,  the 
Indian  Vulture,  Gyps  Indicus,  Scop,  which  though  less  frequently 
perceived  within  the  limits  of  the  town  of  Cochin,  than  further 
inland,  still  is  not  rare.  Uuburied  bodies,  are  a  feast  for  these 
carrion  birds,  whose  odour  owing  to  the  nature  of  their  food,  renders 
them  objects  to  be  avoided,  but  they  are  of  great  benefit  to  mankind, 
in  fleeing  the  air  from  putrid  animal  substanceSi  which  should  mark 
them  out  as  worthy  of  preservation. 

These  large  sad  coloured  birds,  may  often  be  approached  when 
gorged  with  food,  as  then  they  sit  upon  the  naked  branches  of  trees 
with  their  wings  half  opened,  or  stand  upon  the  ground  too  lazy  to 
move. 

It  is  curious  that  the  JEigyptian  Vulture,  Neophron  percnopUrui^ 
Sav.,  so  common  and  widely  distributed  in  India,  does  not  appear  to 
visit  the  town  of  Cochin,  though  an  occasional  pair  may  be  perceived 
further  inland  :  their  white  colour,  and  large  size,  rendering  them  con- 
spicuous objects. 

Amongst  the  falcons,  is  the  common  Kestril,  Tinntinetdus  alau- 
dariusy  Briss.,  which  devours  lizards,  young  birds,  and  insects.  The 
natives  sometimes  keep  it  domesticated.  The  el^^t  Peregrine  fal- 
con, FaUo  peregrinm^  Gmel.,  occasionally  comes  to  Cochin,  but  mere- 
ly as  a  passer  by,  during  his  sojourn  he  visits  the  dovecotes,  canying 
away  pigeons,  and  sometimes  condescends  to  capture  small  chickens. 
The  Sultan  falcon,  Falco  peregrinaiory  Sund.,  is  also  seen  at  intervals, 
and  botli  species  appear  fond  of  parroquets. 

The  mast  common  Kite  is  the  pariah,  Milvus  Oovinda,  Sykes, 
which  is  present  all  the  year  round,  but  least  common  in  the  South 
West  monsoon.  It  is  useful  in  removing  the  remains  of  animal  sub- 
stances horn  the  drains,  and  around  the  cook  rooms :  it  is  also  fond  of 
reptiles,  and  may  even  be  seen  catching  winged  ants,  whilst  flying. 
When  it  is  wished  to  capture  it,  a  piece  of  meat  is  placed  in  the 


OWLS.  457 

centre  of  a  thin  cnmblie,  (Xative  blanket,)  and  when  it  dashes  down 
on  the  bait,  its  claws  become  fixed  in  the  camblie,  and  it  is  unable 
to  rise.  Another  plan  is,  to  put  some  raw  flesh  on  the  ground,  with 
uumeroas  horsehair  springes  around,  in  which  it  is  caught  when 
swooping  down. 

Tlte  Marsh  Harrier,  Cifctu  mmginomt  is  of  rery  common  occur- 
ence, and  may  frequently  be  seen  sitting  by  the  side  of  marshy  places, 
apparently  watching  for  frogs. 

The  Sparrow  Hawk,  Aecipiter  nisiiSy  Linn.  (Paranda,  Mai.)  is  oc- 
casionally seen.  Amongst  the  Eagles,  is  the  very  handsome  Brahmanee 
kite,  or  Pondicherry  Eagle,  ffaliast»r  Indm^  Bodd,  (Kristnagatomy^ 
Mai.)  sacred  to  Vishnu.  It  is  also  called  Si?a's  or  the  Washerman's 
Kite,  and  is  an  object  of  veneration,  both  to  Hindus  and  Mahomedans : 
the  great  day  for  its  worship  amongst  tlie  foitner  being  Saturday. 
Its  gall  bladder  and  contents,  are  frequent^  mixed  with  otlier  ingre- 
dients, and  used  as  an  antidote  to  poison,  as  it  is  alleged,  that  this 
bird  is  at  enmity  with  all  venom,  especially  that  of  the  cobra. 

Tliis  species  of  Eagle,  is  most  commonly  engaged  in  hovering  over 
shoali  of  small  finh,  now  and  then  darting  down,  and  usually  re- 
ascending  with  one  or  more  in  its  talons :  or  else  it  may  be  seen, 
sitting  at  the  top  of  a  fishing  stake,  with  its  white  chest  and  neck 
glancing  in  tlie  sun :  it  is  found  all  the  year  round. 

There  is  a  common  legend,  that  should  the  nest  of  a  Brahmanee 
Kite  be  found,  one  of  the  young  shoiUd  be  attached  to  it  by  a  string ; 
and  as  the  squab  becomes  strong,  it  breaks  away,  generally  leaving 
a  iK)rtion  of  the  line  attached  to  ike  nest  This  nest  which  is 
formed  ofr  sticks  should  then  be  thrown  into  a  running  stream,  when 
if  any  of  the  sticks  that  compose  it,  float  «ffain9t  the  turrent.,  they 
will  on  being  applied  to  any  fetliers,  cause  them  immediately  to  fly 
into  a  thoasaud  fragments. 

The  Owls  are  extensively  distributed,  from  the  large  species.  Bubo 
orUntalis,  Horsf,  {Moonah^  Mai.)  in  the  neighbourhood  of  the  ghauts, 
where  its  moaning  cry  disturbs,  the  midnight  soUtnde,  to  a  diminu- 
tive species,  wiiich  issues  forth  of  an  evening,  or  may  even  be  seen 
in  the  day  time,  when  it  is  worried  by  Crows,  and  other  birds. 

The  Owl  which  is  an  emblem  of  wisdom  in  EuPoi)e,  and  the 
Goose  that  of  stupidity,  completely  change  their  respective  |)laces  in 

&  2 


458  LEGENDS  BB6PECTIN0  OWLS. 

the  East :  tlie  former  becoming  a  symbol  of  stupidity,  the  latter  thal^ 
of  wisdom. 

Tlie  Owl's  inharmonious  voice,  heard  at  night«time,  ha^  in  al> 
parts  of  the  world,  and  in  all  ages  of  time,  been  considered  ominous 
of  evil,  and  consequently  much  dreaded.  In  Cochin  it  is  generally 
believed  that  their  hootings  betoken  an  impendiDg  calamity,  or  even 
the  death  of  some  individual  near  to  whose  abode  they  ai'e  uttering 
their  lonesome  cry :  so  the  dwellers  in  the  neighbouring  houses,  at 
once  turn  out,  and  drive  them  away. 

In  some  places,  the  Owl  goes  by  the  name  of  the  '^  one  legged 
carpenter,"  in  commemoration  of  the  following  legend.  One  even- 
ing a  carpenter  who  had  been  working  all  day  in  the  Jungles,  was 
proceeding  howewards^  when  he  discovered  that  he  had  left  his  axe 
behind,  and  therefore  returned  to  fetch  it  But  whilst  searching  for 
it,  he  mifortunately  came  acrosd  a  concourse  of  .demons,  feasting  on 
a  human  x^orpse.  At  first  the  evil  spirits  were  scared,  but  subse- 
quently they  surrounded  him,  and  demanded  why  he  had  dared  to 
invade  their  domains  1  He  replied^  that  he  cmly  came  in  search  of 
bis  axe ;  but  his  captors  having  ccmsulted  together,  announced  to 
him  that  he  must  die,  and  that  they  would  then  eat  liis  body.  The 
prisoner  however  protested  against  this^  dedaring  that  he  had  had 
no  intention  of  playing  the  spy  upon  them,  and  in  fact  would  much 
rather  not  have  seen  them  at  all,  but  as  it  was,  that  he  would  swear 
by  all  that  was  holy,  never  to  divulge  what  he  had  seen  or  heard,  if 
they  would  release  him. 

The  demons  then  consulted  again,  and  at  last  agreed,  that  he 
might  return  home,  but  that  should  his  tongue  ever  play  Mm  false, 
the  original  sentence  was  to  be  executed.  The  carpenter  then  ran 
off  to  his  house,  delighted  at  his  escape  ;  but  his  wife  who  had  been 
kept  waiting,  enquired  why  he  had  been  so  long  absent,  and  the 
reason  of  his  down  cast  looks  1  "Do  not  ask  me,*'  he  replied,  "  for 
I  must  not  telL"  On  being  further  pressed,  he  assured  her  that  he 
believed  an  answer  would  cost  him  his  life.  Bat  woman's  curiosity 
was  now  fully  aroused,  and  she  suggested  that  he  might  be  mistaken, 
and  promised  that  if  he  would  only  tell  her,  she  would  keep  hb 
secret  inviolate.  At  last  he  consented  to  confide  in  her,  and  com- 
menced giving  an  account  of  his  adventures ;  but  when  he  came 


TBB  KINGFISHEB3.  459 

to  flpeak  of  the  demons,  an  awful  sound  was  heard  overhead,  and  the  - 
carpenter  taking  the  form  of  an  Owl,  uttered  an  unearthly  screech, 
and  flew  towards  the  window :  but  his  wife  aeiced  him  by  one  leg, 
which  came  off  iu  her  hands,  and  away  he  flew  across  a  river.  It  is 
still  thought  a  very  bad  omen,  to  hear  his  screech  across  water,  for 
siich  is  believed  to  fortell  some  dire  calamity. 

It  is  said  that  whilst  ihe  white  Owl,  Strix  Jawanica,  Horsf.,  utter* 
Us  harsh  shrill  cry,  '*  drops  of  blood  are  forced  from  its  bill,  and 
^  should  any  of  these  fall  upon  the  backs  of  cattle,  they  become 
weak  in  the  loins."  The.small  Owl,  b  called  Natihu^  Mai 
^  Amcmgst  the  second  order  of  perchers,  one  which  first  strikes  the 
eye,  is  the  Bee-eater,  Koalee  kilUe,  MaL  the  larger  variety  of  which, 
Merop9  hadiu$j  Qmel.,  gives  place  about  the  month  of  March,  to  the 
smaller  green  species,  Merops  viridU,  lina.,  whilst  both  forsake 
Cochin  during  the  South  West  Monsoon.  Their  habits  are  the  same, 
they  are  usually  perceived  in  small  flocks,  and  sitting  either  on  a 
branch  of  a  tree,  or  the  wire  of  the  Electric  Telegraph,  they  dart 
npon  any  passing  insect,  sfter  cafituring  which,  they  return  to  their 
original  seat:  in  the  hot  months  they  may  be  seen  hawking  for 
insects,  in  much  the  same  way  as  the  Swallows. 

Swallows  are  by  no  means  uncommon,  particularly  the  Panayan, 
but  the  Daurian  is  not  rare.  At  the  commencement  of  the  South 
West  Mjusoon,  the  Sand  Martin  Swallow,  C^jfU  ripariay  Linn.,  is  the 
most  frequently  perceived  species  of  this  family,  still  the  Panayan, 
appears  never  to  be  entirely  absent 

>  The  Qoatsttckers,  are  very  common,  noiselessly  flitting  up  from  a 
path,  or  sandy  place,  in  the  dusk  of  the  evening,  or  if  disturbed  dur* 
ing  the  day  time,  flying  up,  but  almost  immediately  seeking  shelter 
under  a  neighbomring  shrub,  they  are  known  to  every  one.  The 
most  common  species,  CaprimulfHi  AiiatieHS,  Lath.,  lays  its  two 
purplish  veined  eggs,  upon  a  lighter  coloured  ground,  1^  x  ^  inches, 
under  a  bush,  wiUiout  any  nest 
!•>  The  Kingfishers,  Baleytmidce,  (Meen  koaikee  or  Poumdn,  Mai.) 
are  extremely  numerous.  Persons  arrive  annually  from  the  Coroman- 
del  Coast,  to  snare  them  for  their  phunage,  which  is  said  to  be  ex- 
ported to  China.  The  Indian  species,  ff,  ftMciUy  Bodd,  is  seen  in 
pairs,  often  at  a  distance  from  water,  and  sometimes  perched  upon 


460  THE  FLYCATCHEHSr. 

trees,  or  even  houses.  It  laya  its  round  white  eggs,  ^  >^  ^  inches, 
in  holes  in  banka^  and  remains  during  the  whole  year.  The  most 
common  spedes^  is  the  beautiful  little  Indian  Kingfii^er,  Alcedo 
Ben^aliensU,  Gmd.,  a  diminutive  repraaentatiTeof  the  European  one. 
^metimes  on  a  stone,  a  bonk,  a  piece  oi  vopsii^t  stick,  or  bough  of 
a  tree  overhanging  a  stxtsam,  this  little  speck  of  emerald  green,  may 
be  seen,  then  suddeniy  shooting  through  the  air,  it  is  perceived 
dashing  upon  a  passing  fish.  It  is  a  very  tame  bird,  and  easy  to 
approach. 

The  most  oommon  of  the  large  Kingfiflhaiy  inland,  is  the  black  and 
white  one,  Ceryle  rudUy  lina,  tiiey  are  generally  seen  in  pairs,  mostly 
dose  to  the  watsar,  but  often  hovering  above  their  prey  and  then 
suddenly  dartuig  down  upon  it.  It  is  scud,  that  tiiis  spedes  if  once 
foiled,  never  makes  a  second  attempt,  until  it  has  settled  a^^nin. 

It  lays  its  white  eggs  about  October,  in  hc^es  in  a  bank,  without 
any  nest,  they  are  ^  X  s  inches.  It  generally  returns  to  the  same 
place,  year  after  year. 

^  Bes^ides  the  foregoing  spedes,  the  rare  and  beautiful  black  headed 
Kingfisher,  U,  afyricapilluty  GmeL,  is  sometimes  seen ;  and  the  strong 
as  well  as  handsome  Gurial  ICingfisher,  H,  leticocepfuUiis,  Qmel.,  is 
found  near  the  ^^ute^  it  is  very  wary,  and  its  fli^t  greatly  resembles 
that  of  the  A,  BengiMenmB, 

^  Amongst  the  family  of  Flycatchers^  vast  in  extent,  and  elegant  in 
form,  the  Sultana  Bulbul,  or  Paradise  Flycatcher,  Tchkrta  Paradisif 
holds  a  promin^it  place.  Though  most  firequent  at  the  foot  of  the 
giiauts^  or  al<H^  tlie  margin  oi  the  inland  rivers^  it  is  widely  distri- 
buted, and  is  even  occasionally  seen  inside  the  town  of  Cochin. 

The  male  and  young  birds,  are  of  a  deep  cfaesnut  brown,  with 
greenish  black  crested  heads,  but  their  most  prominent  feature,'  is 
two  long  central  tail  feathers,  from  two  to  three  times  the  length,  of 
any  of  the  others.  Darting  amongst  the  trees  after  its  insect  prey, 
it  is  an  object  to  arrest  the  attention  of  the  most  incurious  {vaaer 
by,  but  in  beauty  of  colour,  it  is  surpassed  by  the  females,  which  in 
thdr  second  yiear,  become  of  a  pure  milk  white  colour,  having  black 
markipgs  on  some  of  the  feathers,  and  the  same  green  black  crested 
heads,  as  the  males. 

Three  species  of  Flycatchers,  having  more  or  less  crimson  about 


THB  BXnXUL.      •  461 

them,  (Perlcrocotidtx)  are  spread  tLru\igh  the  jungles,  but  are  no 
where  common. 
^       Amongst  the  Shrike  family,  Laniadce,  especially  in  the  sub- fa- 
i^ily,  J>ierurinaj  some  well  known  species  exist ;  first  the  comm(»n 
Kingcrow  of  India,  />.  baliea$9ia9^  Vieill  (Kaka  tumhratteCj  Mai.) 
also  called  the  Cutwal,  because  it  is  a  terror  to  the  insolent  Crows, 
the  adversary  of  the  Kites,,  and  the  tormentor  of  the  Owls.     When 
it  is  very  damorous,  it  is  said  to  be  a  certain  indication  of  rain. 
It  remains  throughout  the  year. 
^      The  wary  long  tailed  Shrike,  D.retifer,  Lan.,  the  outer  feathers  of 
which  terminate  on  each  side  fri  the  tail  in  a  long  liair,  with  ap- 
parently a  round  ball  at  tiie  end,  is  seen  at  the  base  of  the  ghauts, 
or  even  as  far  as  Shallacoodie.     They  are  favorite  cage   birds,  and 
able  to  imitate  the  songs  of  any  others  they  may  hear,  which  hns 
obtained  for  them  the  name,  of  II mar  dmtan^  or  tlic  bird  of  a 
thousand  songs.    They  become  very  tame  when  in  confinement. 
p(      The  family  of  Thrushes,  MeruUdce,  though  far  inferior  as  song- 
sters, to  those  in  Europe,  still  possesses  some,  who  have  sweet  toned 
voices :  whilst  the  beauty  of  their  plumage,  is  unsur[)a.^:»ed,  by  that 
of  any  other  birds. 

The  Bengal  Pitta,  or  the  nine  coloured  bird  is  a  most  elegantly  blend- 
ed combination  of  the  brightest  colours,  far  different  in  appearance 
from  its  relative,  the  plain  Grey  Thrush,  Malacocircus  yriseu^y  Gniel., 
which  is  very  common,  and  seen  in  small  families,  hopping  about 
around  the  roots  of  trees,  and  bushes.  Its  nest  consists  of  fibres, 
very  plainly  woven  together  and  generally  contains  four  deep  blue  eggs^ 
r,  ^  j3  inches  in  sim. 
^  The  common  Bulbul,  Pyenoaatut  pycfcewy  Hodgs.,  is  by  no  means 
rare  :  when  two  males  of  this  species  are  phiced  together  in  a  cage, 
they  engage  in  a  most  vehement  contest.  It  sings  very,  sweetly,  and 
also  imitates  the  notes  of  other  birds.  One  morning  one  of  them 
was  seen  tumbling  out  of  a  tree  as  if  wounded,  and  then  fluttering 
along  the  ground,  as  if  its  back  were  broken :  seeing  it  look  much 
distressed,  and  having  followed  it  a  few  yards,  surprise  was  great  at 
perceiving  it  suddenly  fly  up  into  a  mangoe  tree,  and  utter  a  short 
triumphant  song. 
The  next  morning  at  the  same  spot,  a  similar  scene  was  enacted 


462  THE  INDIAN  BOBIN. 

conjointly  both  by  the  male  and  female  birds.  On  instituting  a  search, 
thsir  nest  containing  four  young  ones,  was  detected  in  a  Rangoon 
creeper,  QuUqiialU  Indica,  which  encircled  a  verandah  pillar. 

^  The  yellow  Mangoe  birds,  (Magnakli,  MaL)  or  orioles,  are  exceed- 
ingly common,  the  most  frequently  perceived  species,  being  the  black 
naped  one,  Onolanm  melanocephalus,^  Linn.,  but  the  common  Indian 
golden  Oriole,  0.  kundoo^  Sykes,  is  by  no  means  rare.  Their  deep 
golden  plumage  renders  them  easily  perceptible,  as  they  usually 
resort  to  trees  with  dark  coloured  leaves  such  as  the  mangoe,  and 
jack  fruit 

Another  species  of  this  family,  known  as  the  Fairy  blue  bird, 
Irefia  priella,  Latk,  well  deserves  its  name ;  its  shape  is  most  ele- 
gant, and  the  male  is  superbly  marked,  with  a  black  chesty  and 
most  lovely  blue  back.  Its  sweet  song  might  well  entitle  it  to  the 
honor  of  being  a  cage  bird^  but  it  does  not  appear  ever  to  be  kept 
in  confinement 

iV  Larks  are  not  plentiful,  but  are  no  where  rare.  In  October  1861, 
a  pair  of  these  birds,  Alaiula  Malaharicay  Soop.,  were  seen  flying 
about  in  a  very  excited  state,  and  apparently  in  great  distress.  On 
carefully  examining  the  surface  of  the  ground,  their  nest  was  dis- 
covered, in  which  only  one  little  one  remained,  who  was  writhing  in 
agony,  from  the  bites  of  numerous  dark  coloured  ants,  Formica 
timida,  Jerd.,  who  swarmed  all  over  it,  and  were  eating  it  alive. 
The  parents  unable  to  rescue  their  offspring,  were  thus  compelled 
to  see  them  devoured  piecemeal  Ants  no  doubt  besides  clearing 
away  dead  animals,  and  used  up  vegetable  productions,  prevent  too 
great  an  increase,  in  other  races  of  the  animal  kingdom.  This 
species  of  Lark  delivers  its  song  like  the  English  Sky  Lark  whilst 
soaring  in  the  air  but  it  is  inferior  in  melody. 

.  ^  The  Indian  Bobin,  Copsychui  «auZarw,  Linn.,  {Boomi  koollekiy  MaL) 
is  a  very  common,  and  well  known  bird ;  it  may  be  seen  hopping  about 
under  the  low  bushes,  and  occasionally  jerking  up  its  tail,  and 
warbling  a  short  song.  Its  colour  is  much  the  same  aa  that  of  the 
Magpie,  [black  an<l  white,]  otherwise  it  might  easily  be  mistaken  for 
its  English  namesake.  It  is  often  kept  tame,  on  account  of  its 
sweet  though  very  short  song ;  two  of  these  birds  can  however  rarely 
be  caged  together,  on  account  of  their  pugnacious  habits. 


THE  WEAVEfi  BIRD.  463 

1^  The  Tailor  bird,  Oiihotomutlongicanda,  Ginel.,  which  is  often  found 
ill  the  gardens  of  Cochin,  makes  its  nest  by  sewing  leaves  together, 
sometimes  a  living  to  a  dead  one  but  generally  joining  those  which 
are  green  and  thus  forming  the  external  case,  which  effectually 
screens  the  nest  from  observation,  the  inside  is  mostly  lined  with  horse 
hair.  The  bird  itself,  appears  to  spin  the  thread  he  requires  for  this 
purpose.  It  is  a  curious  little  creature,  and  may  be  seen  creeping 
about  in  bushes,  and  thick  trees,  just  before,  and  during  nesting  time : 
the  male  occasionally  flies  up  into  a  tree,  and  utters  a  few  short  but 
sweet  notes,  it  appears  to  forsake  Cochin  only  during  the  very  wet 
and  stormy  weather,  of  the  S.  W.  Monsoon. 

The  Pied  Wagtail,  AfotacUla  Madraspatana,  Brisa,  is  very 
similar  to  its  European  relative,  frequenting  streams  in  the  same 
manner,  but  the  single  white  stripe  above  the  eye,  and  side  of  head, 
sufficiently  distinguishes  it.  It  mns  about  for  short  distances, 
jerking  its  tail  and  catching  flies,  and  insects:  it  arrives  about  October, 
and  remains  until  May.  The  Qrey  species,  J/,  sulpkurea,  Bechst,  is 
that  most  frequently  seen ;  between  October  and  February,  it  visits  the 
small  patches  of  gMa.  inside  the  town.  At  the  end  of  the  year 
when  the  ground  becomes  parched,  it  retires. 

The  House  Sparrow,  Pusser  Indicus,  Jardine,  which  elsewhere  so 
impertinently  intrudes  into  houses,  is  almost  unknown  in  Cochiui 
as  is  also  the  Mountiun  Sparrow,  Passer  montanmj  Linn.,  wliich  is 
so  common  in  Burmah,  All  birds  appear  to  give  way  to  the  Crows. 
Proceeding  up  the  coast,  the  House  Sparrow  first  comes  into  anything 
like  notoriety,  at  Tellicheny,  although  occasional  specimens  may  be 
seen  at  Calicut.  Further  north  at  Cannanore,  they  do  not  appear 
to  be  so  plentiful  as  at  Tellicherry.  A  yellow  necked,  or  Jungle 
Sparrow,  Grfntnoris  flavicolliB,  Franklin,  is  occasionally  seen,  four  or 
five  are  gensrally  together,  but  their  visits  are  few  and  far  between. 

In  some  places,  more  especially  along  the  banks  of  the  Backwater, 
are  seen  the  hanging  nests  of  what  is  commonly  known  as  the  Bottle 
nested  sparrow,  or  Weaver  bird,  Ploceus  Bat/a,  BlytL,  {Olamari,  Mai.) 
Tkey  appear  like  long  necked  bottles,  made  of  grass,  haying  the 
smaller  end  upwards.  The  little  architects,  commence  building  from 
above,  ana  gradually  extend  their  domicile,  to  the  size  reqtiired,  it  is 
divided  into  two  compartments,  by  an  open  partition,  thus  the  bot- 


4G4  BOSS    C0L0T7n£D  PA8T0E. 

torn  part  has  two  0|)eiiings,  one  of  which  is  filled  np  from  the  inside, 
by  the  ucst  with  it?  white  eggs ;  the  other  being  the  door,  into  tlie 
antechamber,  which  leads  through  the  partition  wall,  into  the  place 
where  the  eggs  are.  These  birds  put  two  fireflies  on  the  walls  of 
their  house^  sticking  them  on  with  mttd,  and  making  use  of  them  as 
lights  during  the  dark  hours  of  the  night 

The  jungle  Mynah,  Eulahes  religiosa,  Linn.,  (Jtalachittray^  Mai.) 
is  a  very  favourite  cage  bird,  but  unless  caught  when  very  yonng,  is 
wUd  and  untractable,  and  not  nearly  so  amuaing  as  the  common 
Mynah,  (Chittray,  Mai.  )  which  is  easily  taught  to  talk,  imitate  the 
mewing  of  cats,  and  in  fact  is  preferable  to  the  European  Starling, 
although  it  is  not  considered  necessary  to  slit  its  tongue  to  conduce 
to  its  garrulous  propensities. 

Its  eggs  are  larger  than  those  of  the  Brahmanee  Mynah,  being 
1  X  R  inches  in  size,  and  are  of  a  blue  colour.  When  it  talks  well, 
it  obtains  the  name  of  Chittray  killee,  ^lal.  or  Mynah  Parrot :  one 
of  these  small  birds,  was  kept  loose  in  a  gentleman's  house,  and 
guarded  the  door  like  a  watch  dog.  Some  classes  of  persons  he 
allowed  to  enter,  but  others  he  had  apparent!^  a  great  aversion  to, 
and  would  sometimes  fly  at  a  Native's  uncovered  feet,  and  hold  on 
like  a  bull  dog,  even  until  he  drew  blood.  Should  the  person 
thus  attacked,  lift  it  up  to  put  it  in  its  cage,  it  would  cry  out, 
"  go  away,  go  away,"  and  as  soon  as  its  enemy  had  leffc,  it  utter- 
ed its  note  of  triumph,  spread  out  its  tail,  erected  its  crest,  and 
chuckled  with  delight 

The  elegant  little  Brahmanee  Mynah,  Temenuchns  Pagodarum, 
GmeL  ( Vella  Kahrah^  Mai.)  or  Pagoda  Starling,  with  its  black  crest, 
and  brown  body,  is  by  no  means  uncommon.  Though  it  has  a  very 
sweet  fehort  song,  it  does  not  seem  to  be  a  favourite  cage  bird.  Its 
eggs  are  of  a  ligiit  blue,  ^  X  ~  inches,  and  are  mostly  found  in  June. 
The  White  headed  3klynah,  f.  Blythiiy  Jerd.,  inliabits  the  lofty 
forests,  and  has  a  very  melodious  note. 

The  pretty  Kose  coloured  Pastor,  or  Cholum  bird,  Pastor  roseus^ 
Linn.,  arrives  in  large  flocks  in  the  Cochin  territory,  about  the  end 
of  January,  or  the  beginning  of  February,  but  they  do  not  remain 
hmg,  as  at  the  conimeucement  of  March,  only  a  few  stragglers  are  to 
be  seen.    The  name  Cholum,  is  derived  from  its  being  so  very  de- 


C&0W9.  465 

structive  in  fields  of  that  grain,  Andropogon  sorghum,  watchers  are 
obliged  to  be  constantly  kept,  to  frighten  them  away.  These  birds 
roost  in  enormous  flocks,  often  in  bamboo  trees,  and  so  closely  pack- 
ed, that  dozens  may  be  killed  at  a  shot :  they  are  very  fat  and  good 
eating. 
^  The  family  of  the  Crows,  brings  itself  more  into  notice,  than  any 
other.  The  Indian  Carrion  Crow,  Corvus  cidminatus,  Sykes,  {Undun 
Kaka,  Mai.)  is  the  species  miost  frequently  seen  in  the  country,  but 
excepting  during  the  South  West  Monsoon  it  almost  forsakes  the  town : 
its  eggs  are  bluish,  with  darker  spots,  1  4  ^  S  inches.  The  com- 
mon Grey  Headed  Crow,  Corvus  splendens,  Vieill.  {iCaka,  MaL) 
is  very  numerous,  and  troublesome.  If  windows  are  left  open  un- 
watched  for  a  few  minutes,  a  Crow  is  almost  sure  to  walk  in,  to  see  if 
there  is  anything  he  can  find  to  eat :  not  satisfied  with  this,  he  carries 
off  any  small  articles  which  may  be  lying  about,  and  destroys  flowers 
in  vases,  as  if  for  pure  mischief.  Even  the  presence  of  persoi^  sitting 
at  the  table,  will  not  always  deter  these  impudent  birds,  from  dart- 
ing down,  and  seizing  anything  they  can  carry  off.  They  appear  to  be 
mating  nearly  all  the  year  round*  The  eggs  are  blotched  all  over 
with  bluish  brown,  on  a  blue  ground,  1  is  X  i^  inches  in  size.  An 
instance  occurred  near  Cochin,  in  which  a  little  boy  was  eating  a 
piece  of  bread  and  butter,  when  a  large  Crow  darted  down  to  take  it 
from  his  hand,  but  the  little  fellow  held  it  tightly,  when  the  Crow 
determined  on  getting  it»  wounded  him  severely  with  his  strong  biU' 
on  the  handf 

Crows  are  very  wary;  the  sight  of  apeUet  bow,  will  scare  them 

•  A  writer  in  the  Caletdta  Review,  mentioiis  a  ''  curioiiB  fa^  of  two  Crows' 
"  neeto  being  found,  entirely  and  very  neatly  conBtnicted,  of  the  wires  used 
*«  for  fautening  down,  the  corks  of  soda  water  bottles,** 

t  lAenUnOfit  Bwrgeee  mentions  the  following  anecdote,  which  weU  illustrates 
the  manners  of  these  birds.  "  Some  Crows  had  been  sitting  near  a  young  dog, 
**  watching  hhn  whilst  engaged  with  a  bone.  Having  apparently  concerted  the 
**  plan,  one  of  them  alighted,  stepped  up,  and  took  a  peck  at  the  dog's  tail;  the 
<'  dog  irritated,  made  a  snap  at  the  bully  ;  on  which  a  comrade  who  appears 
"  to  have  been  ready,  made  a  dash  and  went  off  with  the  priae.'*  A  Cochin 
dog  before    turning  round  to  snap  at  a  Crow  puts  his  paw  on  the  bone  he  in 

eating. 

L  2 


466  SALIVATING  CROWS. 

away.  K  one  is  killed,  the  others  make  a  most  uproarious  noise. 
They  are  very  destructive  in  gardens,  especially  amongst  creepers. 

The  black  plumage  of  the  Crow,  Corvus  culminattis,  has  rendered 
him  an  object  of  aversion,  to  many  classes  of  persons,  even  the 
Hindu  Puranas,  give  the  following  legend,  as  one  of  the  reasons  of 
its  being  an  accursed  bird. 

Chanacya,*  caused  eight  royal  brothers  to  be  murdered,  but  sub- 
sequently when  his  conscience  smote  him,  he  applied  to  the  Brah- 
mans,  and  requested  to  know  how  he  could  atone  for  his  sins,  which 
they  informed  him  was  impossible.  Subsequently  as  the  gods  and 
holy  men  were  assembled  in  Iudra*s  presence,  they  were  conversing 
on  this  subject,  and  one  of  the  sages  enquired  of  the  god,  what 
mode  of  expiation  was  necessary.  Indra  replied,  that  certain  severe 
religious  austerities,  and  expiatory  ceremonies  must  be  employed, 
after  which  Chanacya  should  sail  in  a  boat  with  white  sails,  when 
if  they  ttimed  black,  it  would  be  a  sure  sign  of  the  remission  of  his 
sins. 

A  Crow  was  present  during  this  conversation,  who  from  his 
friendly  disposition,  was  named  JIfitra  kaka,  and  it  immediately 
carried  the  wdcome  news  to  Chanacya,  who  performed  the  necessary 
rite,  (the  Carshagni,)  and  went  to  Heaven.  But  the  Crow  was 
ciu*sed  for  its  indiscretion,  and  it  and  all  its  tribe,  were  forbidden 
ever  to  enter  Heaven  again,  and  doomed  whilst  on  earth,  to  subsist 
on  carrion. 

It  may  be  mentioned  here,  that  the  rite  of  Carshagni  is  performed 
at  the  present  day,  although  the  expense  of  a  boat  with  white  sails, 
is  not  generally  incurred,  an  earthen  pot  being  now  considered 
sufficient,  for  carrying  the  sins  of  a  Hindu.  This  is  sent  adrift  on  the 
Ganges,  loaded  with  the  suppliant's  misdemeanours  which  are  expect- 
ed to  be  either  carried  away,  or  covered  by  the  waters  of  that  holy 
stream. 

A  cruel  experiment  has  been  sometimes  tried,  of  salivating,  or 
rather  mercurialiadng  Crows,  by  feeding  them  every  day  with  pieces 
of  bread,  in  which  calomel  is  secreted.  In  a  few  days,  the  poor  birds' 
heads  begin  to  droop,  whilst  their  feathers  get  dull,  and  fall  off, 

*  Wilford,  Atiatie  JReaearches,  VoL  9  page  06. 


THE  ROLLA.  467 

leaving  their  heads  bald ;  but  they  soon  become  suspicious,  and 
resolutely  refuse  all  overtures  of  bread 

But  Crows  are  also  occasionally  a  nuisance  at  night  time,  as  well  as 
daring  the  day,  for  they  sometimes  appear  to  assemble  in  large  num- 
bers, when  all  respectable  birds  are  sleeping,  and  fly  about  in 
every  direction,  cawing  and  making  a  great  noise. 

There  is  one  little  animal,  that  Crows  appear  fond  of,  when  food 
Ib  scarce,  but  find  great  difficulty  in  catching  :  viz.,  the  little  striped 
squirrel,  Sciuriu  palmarum  (Unnun, 'MaL)  One  day  a  full  grown 
squirrel,  was  observed  in  aCasuarina  tree,  Casuartna  muriccUa,  Roxb., 
trying  to  evade  the  pursuit  of  two  Crows,  who  were  doing  their  best 
to  catch  him.  He  ran  round  and  round  the  tree,  dodging  them,  but 
at  last  was  caught  by  the  tail :  he  then  commenced  running  about 
as  fast  as  possible,  dragging  the  Crow  after  him,  until  at  length  the 
tail  gave  way,  and  the  latter  being  thoroughly  tired  out^  gave  up 
the  pursuit,  and  the  squirrel  escaped. 

^  The  common  Mynah,  sometimes  attacks  Crows,  probably  in  conse- 
quence of  their  having  plundered  his  nest  In  one  instance,  when 
two  Mynahs  were  seen  furiously  attacking  a  Crow,  he  suddenly 
turned  round,  and  seizing  one  of  his  assailants  by  the  neck,  imme- 
diately killed  him. 

In  Cochin  a  Crow  one  day  flew  into  a  room,  and  aimed  a  blow  at  a 
fiJl  sized  guinea  pig,  which  was  running  about,  and  only  just  escap- 
-  ed  his  powerful  bill.  They  also  attack  and  eat  Lizards.  During 
the  commencement  of  the  South  West  Monsoon,  the  bull  frog,  Rana 
Malaharica  abounds  :  and  appears  to  form  their  principal  food. 
^  The  pretty  Rufus  Tree  Crow,  Dendrocitta  rufa^  Scop.,  {Woalun 
Narrairiy  Mai.)  comes  into  gardens,  and  is  not  afraid  of  the  vicinity 
of  houseSi  but  is  more  commonly  seen  near  the  high  jungles,  and 
gradually  increases  in  numbers,  as  these  are  approached. 

The  Indian  Holla,  or  Blue  Jay,  Coracias  Indica,  Linn.,  {Tourtoo 
Foata^Msl)  is  remarked  at  once  by  its  gorgeous  hues  of  blue.  Though 
not  very  numerous,  it  is  nowhere  rare.  It  is  generally  difficult  to 
approach,  and  wary  of  the  Sportsman,  whilst  its  harsh  clamour  dis- 
turbs other  game,  so  it  is  at  times  considerably  in  the  way.  It  is 
more  common  north  of  the  Beypore  river,  than  it  is  to  its  south. 

It  is  usually  to  be  seen  on  the  bare  bough  of  a  tree,  or  in  the 


468  PARROTS. 

middle  of  a  ploughed  field,  but  does  not  appear  to  remain  long  on 
the  ground,  at  one  time.  It  may  be  found  at  any  period  of  the 
year  in  Cochm.  Its  blue  colour  is  said  to  have  been  occasioned  by 
standing  on  Siva's  neck  at  the  time  he  was  poisoned,  and  as  the 
blue  line  showed  itself  on  the  Deity's  throat,  the  colour  of  the  Rolla 
also  acquired  a  blue  tinge. 

An  old  traveller  in  the  East,  has  often  been  accused  of  a  wilful 
perversion  of  facts,  because  he  asserted  that  he  had  seen  a  bird 
with  two  heads:  but  no  doubt  he  meant  one  of  the  Hornbills, 
Homraius  hicomts,  Linn.,  {Veshanibel,  Mai.)  which  are  sometimes 
seen  fl3dng  about  in  the  Malabar  forests.  It  is  called  the  Glaruda, 
and  is  sacred  to  Vishnu,  holding  the  same  position  with  some  tribes 
of  Hindus,  as  the  Brahmanee  Rite,  HaliaMur  hidus,  does  with  the 
generality  of  the  worshippers  of  that  Deity.  The  male  bird,  in 
order  to  insure  the  female's  not  quitting  the  nest,  during  the  period 
of  incubation,  blocks  up  the  opening,  into  the  hoUow  tree,  in  whic^ 
the  nest  is  constructed,  leaving  only  a  small  cavity,  through  which 
he  feeds  her.  Hornbills  are  believed  to  feed  with  impunity  on  the 
poisonous  seeds  of  the  N'ux  vomica,  which  abounds  in  the  Cochin 
territory.  Paoli  mentions,  amongst  his  observations  in  Malabar, 
that  it  devours  snakes. 

The  Hed  Hombill,  Hydrocissa  caronata,  Bodd.,  is  the  most  com- 
mon species  found  here.  One  was  observed  in  confinement  who  always 
when  a  plantain  was  given  him,  threw  it  up,  caught  it  again  length- 
ways, and  swallowed  it  whole. 

The  tribe  of  Climbers,  Scamores,  are  very  numerous^  beautiful 
and  interesting. 

^  Parrots  {Tliatta,  MaL)  are  amongst  the  most  common  of  all 
Indian  birds,  and  are  caught  in  large  numbers  for  sale.*  The  Rose 
Hinged  Parrokeet,  Pakeornis  tarqttaiusj  Briss.,  the  Blae  Winged 
PaiTokeetj  F.  Columhoides,  Vigors,  the  Plum  or  Blue  Headed  Par- 


*  Amongst  the  P<tMac»)MS,or  short  square  tailed  true  parrots, the  Indian  species 
are  not  loquacious :  none  could  compete  with  the  following  pair  which  belonged 
''  to  a  serious  old  lady,  one  of  which  (a  recent  acquisition,)  having  bestowed 
"  some  hearty  forecastle  curses  upon  his  mistress,  the  other,  whose  education 
*'  hod  been  better  attended  to,  immediately  followed  with  the  pious  response, 
•*  *  We  beseech  thee  to  hear  us,  good  Lord.' " 


THE  OOEL.  469 

Tokeet,  P.  cyajiocephahtSy  Linn.,  are  all  found  bere,  and  al»o  the 
Alexandrine  Ring  Necked  Parrokeet,  P,  Alfxandri,  Linn.,  although 
more  rarely.  This  last  obtained  its  specific  name  from  being  the 
first  of  its  tribe  imjjorted  into  Europe. 

A  Golden  or  Canary  coloured  Parrokeet  is  occasionally  caught,  but 
only  at  long  intervals,  they  are  considered  great  curiosities.  One  was 
brought  round  Cochin  for  sale,  and  no  one  would  purchase  it  for 
some  time,  as  it  was  believed  to  have  been  painted  yellow.  It  is 
supposed  to  be  a  ''  lusus"  of  another  sort,  but  nothing  has  been 
proved  respecting  it 
^  A  very  pretty  little  Lorikeet,  or  Dwarf  Parrot,  which  is  red  under 
the  tail,  Psittaculus  vemalU,  Sw.,  is  found  in  the  high  jungles,  oc- 
casionally it  descends  in  large  flocks  into  millet  crops,  or  where 
food  is  abundant 
#  The  Woodpeckers  and  their  allies  are  very  numerous.  Tlie  green 
Barbet^  Megalaima  canicep%y  Frank,  comes  into  Cochin.  It  is 
quite  a  mistaken  idea  that  this  bird  confines  itself  to  the  forests,  it 
is  curious  to  observe  that  the  usually  common  Indian  Barbet,  Xan- 
tholcema  I^idica,  Lath.,  is  much  the  most  rarely  seen  of  the  two. 
The  Indian  Barbet  though  small,  is  a  weU  known  bird,  owing  to  the 
singular  noise  it  makes,  like  a  copper-smith  at  work  hammering, 
whilst  its  beaatiful  crimson  forehead,  and  zone  round  its  chest,  ren- 
ders it  an  object  of  remark  to  every  passer  by. 

The  handsome  Royal  Indian  Woodpecker,  Chryioeolaptes  Sulta- 
runs,  Hodgs.,  is  by  no  means  rare  in  the  jungles,  its  crimson  crown 
and  pretty  plumage  generally  induce  sportsmen  to  aim  at  it,  but 
even  wheu  shot,  it  is  a  very  difficult  bird  to  secure. 

The  Crow  Pheasant  or  Chestnut  Cuckoo,  Centropus  rujlpennis, 
Tllig.,  is  very  common,  and  certainly  bears  a  resemblance  to  the  Eng- 
lish Pheasant,  especially  when  perceived  running  amongst  bushes. 
The  note  it  utters  is  very  similar  to  that  of  a  monkey.  It  devours 
lizards,  insects,  and  even  snakes,  and  is  a  very  harmless,  stupid  bird. 
Some  natives  eat  it. 
yT  The  Coel  or  Eiistem  Black  Cuckoo,  Eudynamys  Orientalis,  Lina, 
is  not  rare,  and  from  its  being  fond  of  stealing  pepper,  it  has 
obtained  the  Malyalim  name  of  Mtdlagoo  Poathee  (pepper  eater.) 
This  bird  on  finding  the  nest  of  the  Grey  Headed  Crow,  and  more 


470  THE  SUN  BIRDS. 

rarely  that  of  the  Bkck,  is  said  to  turn  out  tlie  whole  of  the  eg^ 
belonging  to  the  original  occupant,  and  lay  one  of  its  own  in  their 
place.  As  the  Crow  always  attacks  this  Cuckoo,  whenever  it  finds  it 
near  its  nest,  it  is  probably  suspicious  of  its  intentions.  The  natiTea 
assert,  that  as  soon  as  this  bird  has  discovered  what  scnct  of  a  chicken 
it  has  hatched,  it  drives  it  away  to  seek  its  own  food,  and  the  old 
Coel  being  on  the  watch,  takes  charge  of  its  progeny. 
^  Perhaps  one  of  the  most  beautiful  birds  on  the  Malabar  Coast  is 
the  fasciated  Trogon,  Harpactes  fasclcUtM,  GmeL,  which,  though  rare, 
is  occasionally  procured  by  the  sportsman,  but  more  commonly  by 
the  native  Shikaree.  This  is  a  most  difficult  bird  to  obtain  good 
specimens  of,  as  its  very  thin  skin,  and  easily  detached  feathers,  rea- 
ders skinning  it  far  from  being  an  easy  task. 

/^  The  Hoopoe,  Upupa  nigripennis,  Gould.,  is  not  uncommon,  it  may 
be  seen  running  about  in  search  of  food,  or  sitting  on  an  elevated 
place  uttering  its  single  note,  and  raising  its  elegant  crest  It 
generally  comes  about  October,  and  is  rarely  seen  after  April  or 
May. 

<  ^  One  of  those  birds,  which  at  once  reminds  persons  of  being  in  a 
tropical  countiy,  is  tbe  pretty  diminutive  purple  Sun  lArd,  Araeh- 
juchthra  Anaticay  Lath.,  looking  like  a  bright  green  beetle.  They 
may  be  found,  although  not  very  commonly,  from  April  (or  some- 
times only  from  June)  to  January.  The  most  numerous  species  is 
the  ii.  ioienia,  Linn.  {Artickka,  MaL,)  which  remains  all  the  year  round  : 
they  may  be  seen  hovering  about  over  flowers,  into  which  they 
insert  their  curved,  and  comparatively  long  bills.  In  the  month  of 
October,  its  beautiful  nest  containing  a  pair  of  eggs,  15  x  ^  of  an 
inch  in  size,  and  speckled  with  dirty  white  near  the  laiger  end,  on  a 
white  ground,  may  be  found  in  every  garden. 

The  nest  hangs  from  a  small  twig  of  a  tree ;  of  two  taken  in  one 
day,  one  was  from  a  nutmeg  tree,^d  the  other  from  an  acacia.  Ita 
shape  is  generally  oval,  with  a  portico  hanging  over  the  entrance^ 
evidently  as  a  protection  from  the  rain,  and  is  composed  of  grass 
and  horsehair,  lined  with  feathers.  Some  moss,  cobwebs,  and  other 
materials,  are  placed  outside,  for  the  sake  of  concealment,  and  so 
arranged,  as  exactly  to  resemble  the  bough  of  a  tree.  In  both  in- 
stances mentioned  above,  the  nests  were  hanging  over  pathways. 


PIGEONS.  471 

and  one  only  about  7  feet  from  the  ground,  but  their   colour  had 
screened  them  from  observation. 

The  Cochin  territory  must  be  considered  as  very  well  supplied 
with  Fowls  and  Pigeons,  though  the  Spurred  Partridge,  Francolintu 
Ponticerianuif  GT^Yf  also  called  the  Scavenger  Partridge,  is  not 
abundant^  the  latter  name  is  very  applicable  as  regards  its  habits. 
The  Rock  Pigeon,  Pterocles  exusttu,  Temm.,  the  Painted  Rock  Pigeon, 
P.  quadrieinctm^  Temm.,  and  the  Painted  Partridge,  appear  unknown.* 
But  the  Peafowl,  Paw  erittatw,  Idnn.,  the  Jungle  Fowl,  OalltuSan- 
neratiif  Temm.,  (Kathicoli,  MaL)  and  the  Spur  Fowl,  Francolimta 
BpadicetUy  Lath.,  are  very  numerous.  The  Peafowl,  {Miloo,  MaL)  in 
the  jungles,  often  warns  sportsmen  of  the  vicinity  of  tigers,  as  when 
several  of  these  birds  are  congregated  together,  one  of  these  animals 
is  seldom  far  distant. 

Different  species  of  Quails,  Cotumix^  (Coda,  MaL)  though  small,  * 
afford  good  sport,  when  larger  game  is  unattainable.    The  pretty 
little  Button  Quail,  Ortygi»  DiMsumieriif  Temm.,  is  occasionally  to  be 
lirocnred. 

Pigeons,  (Prow,  MaL)  as  might  be  anticipated,  are  very  numerous, 
and  when  the  cashew  nuts  begin  to  ripen,  they  come  in  flocks  from 
the  ghauts,  to  feast  on  them.  Perhaps  the  most  beautiful  species 
is  the  Imperial  green  variety,  Carpophaga  cenea^  Auct,  (Cuila, 
Mai.)  which  is  about  a  foot  and  a  half  in  length.  It  may  be  killed  in 
the  beginning  of  September  at  Trichoor,  but  does  not  appear  in  any 
numbers,  until  November  or  December.  The  Green  Pigeon,  Vinago 
mililaris,  Jerd.,  {Choola,  Mai.)  is  very  common  in  some  seasons.  It 
comes  in  September,  the  smallest  variety  with  the  purple  on  their 
wings,  first  making  their  appearance.  The  common  Blue  Pigeon, 
Cdumba  omas^  Linn.,  is  very  numerous,  and  often  shot  when  perch- 
ed on  the  top  of  one  of  the  Travellers'  Bungalows.  The  prettiest 
dove  is  one  with  bronse  wings,  Imperial  Dove,  C  Tavanica,  Jerd., 
which  is  veiy  common  inland. 


*  The  Painted  Snipe  u  found  in  oonsidenble  munben,  on  a  large  tract  of  land, 
near  TelUcherry,  but  appesrs  rarely  to  go  further  aouth.  It  ib  by  no  means 
oonunop  around  Cannanore.  The  Shikarees  say  that  it  remains  all  the  year 
round.    It  is  also  found  at  Palamcotta. 


^72  WADERS. 

The  degant  Demoiselle  Crane,  Anthropaides  Virgo,  BufE,  is  some- 
times perceived  in  small  flocks,  or  flying  in  long  lines.  When  struck 
by  the  Peregrine  Falcon,  its  mate  is  said  to  come  to  its  assistance, 
tt  fights  with  its  sharp  beak  and  inner  claw. 

The  European  Heron,  Ardea  ciiierea,  Lath.,  is  very  frequent  on 
the  banks  of  the  back-water.  The  Purple  Heron,  A.  purpurea,  Anct, 
is  very  common,  and  at  the  commencement  of  the  year  may  be  seen, 
towards  evening,  flying  in  flocks  of  some  hundreds,  in  an  irr^ular 
line,  towards  their  feeding  ground. 

The  beautiful  milk  white  Egrets  are  most  prominent  objects  all 
along  the  back-water  from  October  to  June.  The  larger  or  yellow 
billed  Egret  is  very  common,  EgreUa  Jlavirostris,  Temm.,  but  the 
smaller  black  billed  one,  JB,  garzeUa,  Auct,  is  by  no  means  rare. 
They  may  be  seen  running  about  at  the  sides  of  streams,  and  pieces 
of  water,  catching  fish,  and  other  articles  of  food.  Natives  believe 
that  the  powdered  bones  of  this  bird,  employed  in  cooking  fish, 
render  their  bones  soft,  and  capable  of  being  easily  and  agreeably 
eaten.  The  Green  Heron,  E,  Tavanica,  Sw.,  and  the  little  Chesnnt 
HecoiifBotau/nu  ciiinamom«2M,GmeL,are  both  occasionally  seen  aloQg 
the  banks  of  the  back-water,  where  there  are  a  few  overhanging  trees. 
The  white  necked  Stork,  Ctconta  UucocepkcUa,  Anct.,  is  not'onoommon, 
and  breeds  in  the  deep  jungles,  where  a  species  of  Marabout  is  also 
obtained  >  its  feathers  are  collected,  but  are  only  in  season,  during  the 
month  of  September,  as  the  most  delicate  parts  soon  get  rubbed  off. 
Most  of  these  families  quit  Cochin  during  tlie  monsoon,  whilst  the 
Spoonbills  and  Flamingos,  so  common  in  most  parts  of  India^  do  not 
visit  it  at  alL 

Besides  the  birds  frequenting  the  sides  of  the  back-water  and 
rivers,  other  Isribes  are  found  on  the  tanks,  which  rarely  intrude 
elsewhere,  bat  remain  thionghoat  the  year.  The  tank  runners, 
Parra  IndicaylaXh,,  the  Purple  Qoo%Porphyrio gmaragnotus/£eaarL 
the  Bald  Coot^  Fulica  atra,  linn.,  the  blue  throated  Rail,  RoUum 
gularis,  Horsf.,  and  the  Indian  water  hen,  GaUinuia  akool,  Sykes., 
are  all  pretty  common ;  the  last  is  most  prevalent  in  the  dry  months, 
when  morning  and  evening  it  may  be  seen  wandering  about  in 
the  paddy  fields  and  roads,  sometimes  far  from  any  water,  in  search 
of  food. 


GULLS.  473 

The  varieties  of  Snipea  and  Sandpipers^  are  very  great^  and  the  re* 
presentativea  of  each,  are  common. 

The  Snipe,  GaUiiiago  itetmra,  said  to  be  the  same  as  the  Enropeaii, 
one  Oallinago  scolopticinus,  from  which  however  it  differs  most 
esaentiailyy  comes  to  Cochin  about  December,  and  remains  until 
April,  single  specimens  may  be  procured  inland  as  early  as  Septem- 
ber. Its  flight  is  by  no  means  so  rapid  as  that  of  the  European 
species,  and  the  fact  of  its  having  from  twenty-four  to  twenty-six 
tail  feathers,  at  once  proves  it  to  be  distinct  Its  European  relative 
is  said  to  be  very  common  in  Bengal,  but  does  not  come  so  far 
south  as  Cochin. 

The  little  Sandpiper,  OoUeBf  Mai.,  is  frequently  seen,  especially  in 
the  cold  season,  but  rarely  if  ever  in  the  rains ;  it  generally  arrives  in 
September  and  at  once  pairs.    The  green  Sandpiper,  and  Redshank; 
are  by  no  means  rare,  whilst  the  Curlew,  Numeniu$  arquata,  Briss.,^ 
and  the  Whimbrel,  If.  phceopw^  Briss.,  are  both  found 

The  common  Ringed  Plover,  Ckaradritu  2irreah,  is  to  be  seen 
not  only  by  the  sea  side,  but  also  in  sandy  plains,  dried  up  dusty 
paddy  fields  and  where  there  is  grass,  firom  June  until  December  it  is 
absent.  The  yellow  wattled  Lapwing,  VaneUus  hilobWy  GhneL,  is  by 
no  means  rare,  its  call  resembles  that  of  a  Pee-wit,  and  it  remains  all 
the  year  round. 

Amongst  the  Ducks,  {Warthoo,  Mai.)  the  Whistting  Teal,  Den- 
drocygna  awiuree,  Sw.,  a  few  remain  all  the  year  round,  but  it 
ecHues  in  flocks  in  October,  as  also  the  numerous  common  species 
JfetUpui  GoromandeliciUy  and  the  Qarganeys,  Bo$chai  oima,  linn., 
wfaikt  amongst  the  flights,  several  other  species  are  occasionally  ob- 
tained. The  average  price  is  about  two  poothens  each  (one  anna 
eight  pie.) 

A  Cormorant,  Carho  eormoranus,  Linn.,  formerly  stationed 
himself  on  the  buoy  in  the  outer  roads,  during  the  month  ol 
February,  arriving  daily  at  10  a.  h.,  and  remaining  until  the 
evening.     None  of  the  Darters,  Plotidm,  visit  this  part  of  India^ 

The  Oulls,  Laridce,  are  not  common,  but  the  Terns,  Siemidofy  are 
very  numerous  :  they  leave  during  the  monsoon  months,  and  return 
at  'the  end  of  October,  or  in  the  commencement  of  November. 

Cochin  is  celebrated  amongst  the  neighbouring  stations  fpr  its 

M  2 


474  POULTRY. 

poultry.  The  lai^ge  ChriBtian  population  in  the  villages  rear  it,  and 
the  Jews,  as  a  rule,  purchase  it  from  them,  to  supply  Europeans. 
The  trade  is  a  yeiy  profitable  one,  and  the  rii^  small 

Turkeys  {Oullukkoo,  MaL)  succeed  very  well,  full  grown  ones, 
excepting  near  Christmas  time,  cost  from  twelve  to  eighteen  rupees 
the  dozm,  and  very  large  ones  two  and  a  half  or  three  rupees  eacL 
They  are  cheapest  in  August,  when  half  grown  ones  can  be  obtained 
for  about  8  axmas,  because  the  paddy  is  then  rip^  and  they  stray 
into  the  fields,  where  they  commit  much  damage,  and  are  conse- 
quently killed  by  the  Byots.  Fine  fowls  {Coaree^  Mai.)  for  these 
parts,  may  be  procured  at  four  or  five  annas  each.  The  introduc- 
tion of  a  better  breed,  is  a  great  desideratum. 

The  numerous  sheets  of  water,  streams,  and  tanks,  which  abound, 
render  ducks'  very  easy  to  rear,  at  a  trifling  cost.  They  are  cheapest 
«about  October,  when  very  good  ones  can  generally  be  obtained  for 
Bs.  2^  a  dozen.  Qeese  also  thrive  pretty  well,  but  they  are  frequently 
difficult  to  dispose^of,  and  therefore  comparativdy  seldom  reared  by 
natives. 

This  bird,  according  to-  Cmaaae,  was  held  sacred  by  the  ancient 
Britons,  whilst  Mills  states,  that  the  first  Crusaders  which  issued 
from  England,  France,  and  Flanders,  adored  a  goat,  and  a  ^^oo9e, 
which  they  believed  to  be  filled  by  the  Holy  Spirit 

There  is  an  amply  sufficient  supply  of  poultry  for  Cochin  as  well 
8S  for  all  the  sailors  in  the  harbour,,  and  for  the  neighbouring  sta- 
tions. Some  of  the  fowls  have  black  bones,  or  more  properly  speak- 
ing, the  covering  of  the-  bones  (periosteum)  ia  black.  They  do  not 
look  well  on  the  taUe,  bat  are  the  best  kind  for  soups.  The  Scha- 
.  triyas  (Tirripards,)  consider  theb  houses  polluted  if  a  fowl  enter 
them,  and  immediately  destroy  all  the  cooking  vessels. 

Large  quantities  of  poultry  are  dbo  shipped  to  Ceylon  and  Bom- 
bay. From  December  to  April,  a  disease,  apparently  chicken-pox^ 
•ocasionally  breaks  out  amongst  them,  and  within  twenty  four  hours, 
fat  turkeys  fit  for  the  table  become  mere  skeletons,  and  perfectly 
useless.  The  disorder  is  contagious,  and  birds  thus  affected,  gene- 
nlly  die  within  a  week  or  two,  and  those  which  apparently  recover, 
take  a  very  long  time  to  fatten  again. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

REPTILEa 
Steptfles  in  Cochin  Stftte^CoIoMal  tortoiM  of  Mieient  times— Hawks-bill  turtto 
«nd  mode  of  procuring  tortoise  shell — Crocodiles — ^Acoounts  of  its  seizing 
human  beings — Its  enormous  size — Sacred  character — Mode  of  capture — 
Lizards-^^nakes,  objects  of  adoration — ^The  cobra — Snake  charmers — ^Bvil 
spirits  in  the  'form  of  snakes— Sea  snakes— Frogs  and  their  reputed  evil 
•«ffeots. 

Beptilee  are  ef  comrse  well  represented  in  sach  a  country  as 
Malabar,  having  a  tropical  climate,  low  lands  intersected  wifli  riv^v 
Mid  back-waters,  hills  covoed  with  scrubby  brushwood,  and  ghauts 
•with  forests.  In  addition  to  a  propitious  climate,  and  a  favourable 
locality,  many  of  the  tribes  of  reptiles  are  held  in  veneration  by  the 
Hindus,  which  renders  them  to  a  great  extent,  protected  from 
iioetile  attacks. 

There  are  several  species  of  land  Tortoises,  f(o  be  found  in  almost 
eveiy  part  of  the  country.  They  are  partial  to  wallowing  in  the 
mud,  and  by  following  the  beaten  tracks  made  by  these  creatures  in 
4ihe  Galapagos  Islands,  the  Spaniards  are  said  to  have  been  directed 
from  the  sea  shore  to  fresh  water  inland  The  tortoise  is  declared . 
unclean  in  the  Mosaical  law,  and  the  Mahomedans  strictly  regard 
this  prohibition. 

In  olden  times,  colossal  Tortoises  wandered  over  flindustan*^ 
Messrs.  Falconer  and  Cautley,  discovered  in  the  iSewalic  Hills,  the 
•remains  of  one,  which  must  have  measured  eighteen  feet,  perhaps  a 
degenerate  descendant  of  the  enormous  one,  on  the  back  of  which, 
on  the  ancient  Hindu  writings,  the  world  was  recorded  to  have  been 
'Supported  (p.  278.)  The  lyre  is  said  to  have  been  invented  by 
Mercury,  who  found  a  dead  tortoise  on  the  banks  of  the  Nile,  and 


476  SAITBIAKS. 

having  hollowed  the  shell  of  its  back,  fitted  it  with  strings,  and 
formed  a  musical  instrument.  , 

Turtles  are  not  unconmion,  the  Green  spedes,  Chelania  Midas,  is 
captured  in  numbers  whilst  sleeping  on  the  water,  it  is  a  large  one, 
that  weighs  above  sixtj  pounds.  Its  flesh  is  good,  but  its  shell  is 
considered  useless,  and  barnacles  are  firequentiiy  found  attached  to  it. 
The  Hawks-bOl  Turtle,  C,  irnbricatci,  {Ammah,  Mat)  is  likewise 
captured,  and  Tortoise  shell  obtained  from  this  species,  is  largely  ma- 
nufactured into  boxes  and  other  artideSb  Tbis  animal  visits  Cochin 
only  during  the  South-west  monsoon,  when  it  may  be  bou^t  alive  for 
about  eight  annas,  or  even  less.  The  size  of  all  of  them  is  usually 
the  same,  about  2^  feet  long,  its  snout  bearing  some  lesemblanoe  to 
the  bill  of  a  hawk,  has  obtained  for  it  its  specific  name.  The  beantifiil 
plates  of  tortoise  shell,  with  which  it  is  covered,  are  manufactured 
into  various  useful  and  £uicy  artidea,  there  are  five  aooUop  shaped 
plates  along  the  centre  of  the  back,  and  four  more  on  each  side,  the 
.second  being  the  longest  Its  white  under  horny  surface,  is  also  em- 
l^oyed  for  makii]^  bozeSb 

In  Ceylon  the  following  cruel  process  is  employed  £ar  obtaimng 
tortoise  ahelL  A  number  of  these  animals  having  been  captured, 
laige  fires  are  lighted,  and  the  captives'  feet  having  been  securely 
fastened  together,  a  bamboo  pole  is  passed  between  tham  and  the 
breast  plate.  Thus  the  unfortunate  creature  is  suspended  over  the 
fire,  until  the  dorsal  plates  start  f hmu  its  back,  and  then  the  whole 
thirteen  are  torn  off.  Tbe  tortured  Turtle,  in  this  denuded  state,  is 
allowed  its  liberty,  and  permitted  to  regain  the  salt  water. 

Turtle  in  Cochixi,  though  constantly  eaten,  does  not  appear  to 
vccasion  symptoms  of  Ch(4er%  attributed  to  the  eflfeets  of  tius  food  in 
Ceylon*  If  killed  immediately  it  is  cau^t,  its  flesh  is  bitter  and 
should  be  washed  in  beer  before  being  cooked,  to  remove  its  disagrea- 
able  aroma.  It  should  be  fed  on  cocoanuts  and  rice  for  a  week 
before  it  is  killed,  by  which  time  both  the  bitter  taste,  and  ofeoscve 
smell,  will  have  vanished  :  and  it  will  then  be  found  good  for  soups^ 
steaks,  roasting,  stewing,  or  curries. 

The  Saurian  dass  is  very  extensive  in  this  portion  of  Indie,  whilst 
the  size  of  its  members,  varies  from  the  gigantic  Crocodile  infesting 
the  backwaters,  rivers,  and  tanks,  to  the  little  waU  lijsard^  that  runs 


CROCODILKS.  477 

along  the  sides  of  the  rooms,  across  the  ceiling,  or  pays  its  visits  to 
the  dinner  taUe.  Whilst  amongst  the  great  curiosities  of  the  East, 
the  Chamelecm,  and  flying  lizard,  are  not  the  least  priied. 

Some  of  this  class,  sach  as  the  Crocodiles,  are  venerated  by  the 
Hindus,  and  were  formerly  employed  in  ordeals,  (page  385)  for  the 
detection  of  crime,  and  the  punishment  of  the  criminab :  whilst 
the  little  harmless  Brahmanee  lizard,  is  held  in  great  awe,  and 
its  bite  is  believed  to  be  inevitably  f ataL  Others  of  the  Idsards,  are 
execrated  by  the  Mahomedans,  who  consider  their  constant  bobbing, 
or  bowing  motion,  with  their  heads,  as  intended  to  mock  the  true  be- 
lievers. There  is  also  a  legend,  that  once  when  Mahomed  was  hiding  in 
a  well,  a  Spider  spun  its  web  over  tiie  top,  which  would  have  effectual- 
ly conoealed  him,  but  a  Liiard  would  look  down  on  his  place  of  securi- 
ty, and  continued  such  a  constant  chirping,  that  it  drew  the  atten- 
tion of  his  pursuers  to  the  spot,  and  he  was  discovered. 

The  Crocodile,  Crocodilus  poromsy  Schn.,  is  generally  termed  the 
All^pator,  or  Mugger,  and  may  be  fluently  perceived  basking  in  the 
sun,  (m  muddy  banks,  or  with  its  nose  just  above  the  water,  or  else 
laaly  reclining  on  the  top  of  a  rock  in  the  centre,  or  to  one  side  of 
a  river.  When  at  Test  it  appears  like  a  log  of  wood,  and  often  re- 
quires an  experienced  eye  to  detect  its  presence.  If  disturbed,  it 
quietly  sinks  its  huge  body  into  the  water  without  a  splash,  and  al- 
most without  a  ripple.  At  times  Crocodiles  become  men  eaters,  and 
■eize  bathers,  fishermen,  and  persons  who  go  to  draw  water. 

Accidents  sometimes  fatal,  are  of  frequent  occurrence  around 
Cochin  from  these  animals,  a  few  of  those  which  have  oc- 
curred during  the  last  three  years,  will  be  now  alluded  to.  In 
one  instance  a  fisherman  in  the  eariy  morning,  went  to  visit  the  nets, 
fiom  which  shortly  afterwards  awful  shrieks  were  heard,  but  owing  to 
its  stiU  being  dark,  nothing  could  be  seen :  many  fishermen  being  near^ 
they  raised  a  great  shout,  and  by  the  time  they  reached  the  nets,  they 
saw  their  comrade  in  the  jaws  of  a  Crocodile,  which  became  so  alarm- 
ed at  the  noise  that  it  let  go  its  prey.  The  poor  man  was  so  terribly 
bitten  that  he  died  the  same  day.  Another  day  two  lads  were  fishings 
with  hooks  and  lines,  and  hooked  what  appeared  to  be  a  large  prize, 
but  with  their  united  strength,  they  were  imable  to  lift  it  into  the 
boat     They  cried  out  lustily  for  assistance,  and  a  man  came  to 


i78  SACRED  CHARiL-GTBE  OF  THE  CBOGODILS. 

their  aid,  who  seiied  the  line  with  one  hand,  and  ran  his  other 
down  it,  to  catch  tha  fiah  by  its  gills.  But  unfortimately  the  piiae 
proved  to  be  a  Crocodile,  which  seized  the  man's  forearm,  when  the 
boys  with  great  presence  of  mind,  out  the  fishing  line,  and  the  animal 
carried  off  the  hand,  but  the  man  did  not  lose  his  life. 

Within  the  space  of  a  month,  two  girls  were  separately  pursned 
by  a  Crocodile,  the  first  he  caught  by  the  forearm,  but  before  he 
could  secure  his  prey,  some  men  hearing  her  cries  ran  to  her  assist- 
ance and  she  was  rescued  with  the  loss  of  an  arm.  In  the  second  in- 
stance, the  girl  escaped  altogether,and  within  a  few  days,  the  Crocodile 
was  taken  and  despatched. 

The  sise  of  this  animal  is  often  very  great,  and  though  personal 
observation  is  limited  to  18  or  20  feet^  the  natives  declare  that  it 
grows  to  30.  In  the  British  Museum,  is  a  skull  of  one  of  these 
creatures,  26  inches  long,  which  the  gentleman  who  presented  it, 
stated  was  taken  from  the  body  of  one  33  feet  in  length.  Another 
skull  in  the  same  collection,  is  3  inches  longer.  At  any  rate  its 
strength  is  so  enormous,  that  it  has  been  seen  to  carry  a  full  grown 
Bu^oe  across  a  piece  of  water.  As  might  be  anticipated,  such 
enormous  animals,  are  difficult  to  capture.* 

The  Crocodile  is  in  many  places  considered  sacred,  as  it  was  also 
in  Egypt,  where  it  was  reputed  to  have  365  teeth.  In  Malabar 
although  one  hears  nothing  about  the  number  of  its  dental  appen- 
dages, it  is  a  common  belief,  that  it  swallows  a  stone  every  year  of 
its  life,  and  thus  after  its  death,  the  number  of  seasons  it  has  seen, 
may  be  reckoned  up  from  the  stones  in  its  stomach.  Representations 
of  this  animal's  head,  are  seen  adorning  the  balustrades  of  the  bridges, 
leading  to  the  Rajah's  palace  at  Tripoonterah,  which  is  curious,  con- 
sidering that  in  Rangoon,  before  it  was  bombarded  in  1852,  the  same 


*  In  Africa  Mr.  McGregor  Laird^  states  that  Natives  run  a  spear  through 
Crocodiles  tails,  when  they  can  catch  them  asleep.  The  captor  holds  on  to  the 
spoar,  whilst  the  captive  twists  arotind  as  if  on  a  spit.  Kow  a  second  Native 
rushes  to  the  soene  of  strife,  and  endeavours  to  despatch  the  game.  In  India 
this  plan  would  hardly  suooeed,  as  the  Crocodile's  tail  is  too  well  protected  to 
be  securely  pivoted  through,  besides  he  is  not  a  sound  sleeper,  whilst  his 
strength  is  too  great  to  be  held  by  a  spear,  thrust  through  into  the  ground^ 
and  merely  pressed  down  by  the  weight  of  one  man. 


HODB  OF  CATCHING  CKOCODILES.  479 

embeUiahments  adorned   the  bridges^  leading  to  the  great  Buddhist, 
Bhoe  Dagon  Pagoda. 

When  it  has  been  dedded  to  attempt  the  destruction  of  a  dreaded 
■lan-eater,  a  spot  near  his  liaunt  is  chosen,  and  hare  3or  4  coir  ropes  are 
securely  fixed  to  trees,  or  strongstakes,  whilst  tothe  other  end  is  a  large 
iron  hook,  to  which  a  dog  or  a  goat  is  attached.  There  is  generaUy  no 
difficulty  inhookingthe game,  for  he  usually  swallows  thebait  on  the  first 
aight,  but  as  he  at  once  takes  to  the  water,  lus  final  capture  is  o  ot  so  easy. 

As  BOOQ  as  fr  large  Crocodile  is  reported  a»  hooked,  two  jungars, 
^page  27>  each  capable  of  accommodating  20  or  30  men,  are  brought 
close  to  the  spot  where  it  is  intended  to  drag  the  game  tothe  surface 
of  the  water.  Each  is  supj^ed  with  heavy  stones  for  anchors,  strong 
vopes,  and  boat  hooka  The  men  are  armed  with  guns,  spears,  and  har- 
poons, as  are  also  other  persons  in  small  boats,  who  are  intended  as  the 
attacking  party.  Two  ropes  are  now  passed  over  the  original  line,  to 
which  the  animal  is  hooked,  in  the  form  of  runnix^  nooses,  one  is  affix- 
ed to  one  jungar  to  the  right  of  the  hooked  game,  and  the  other  to  the 
left  The  8h<»re  line  is  then  hauled  up  by  people  on  land,  and  the  mon- 
ster's head  soon  appears  above  the  surface  of  the  water,  when  attempts 
are  niade  to  pass  the  nooses  over  it.  This  is  a  most  difficult  task,  as 
he  is  snapping  his  huge  ja^vs  at  everything  within  reach,  still  in  time 
with  the  assistanceof  the  boat  hooks,  the  two  lines  are  securely  passed 
around  hia  neck* 

The  monster  on  this  becomes  furious,  and  generally  makes  for  one 
of  the  jungars,  which  if  he  can  reach  he  at  once  attacks,  the  people 
in  the  further  jungar  then  endeavour  to  drag  the  game  in  their 
direction,  whilst  the  occupants  of  that  which  is  attacked,  try  to  har- 
poon or  otherwise  wound  it.  If  the  three  lines  can  simultaneously 
be  made  tight,  harpooning  is  not  very  difficulty  but  not  only  its  jaws, 
but  the  lashing  of  its  tail,  have  to  be  avoided.  The  shouting  on  all 
aides  is  deafening,  every  one  yells  for  a  different  course  to  be  pur- 
sued, and  this  ccmtinues  for  sometime,  and  it  occasionally  takes  three 
days  to  complete  the  work  of  destruction. 

When  the  Crocodile  is  dead,  each  of  its  legs  are  fastened  to  har- 
poons, which  are  stuck  into  his  body  like  skewers.  Thus  it  is  carried 
in  triumph  round  the  country  on  a  cart,  and  subscriptions  are  raised 
to  reward  the  captors. 


460  WALL  UZABDS. 

Besortiiig  to  the  banks  of  the  same  rivers,  where  the  Croccxfiles 
reside,  as  well  as  in  the  wood,  and  in  the  nests  of  the  white  ants,  is 
a  large  dark  species  of  licard,  generally  termed  the  Igoana,  Laoerta 
Iguana^  it  is  considered  very  good  eating  by  the  Natives,  and  is 
commonly  about  three  feet  or  more  in  length.  Its  enormously  long 
and  f oriced  tongne,  gives  it  the  power  of  readbiug  some  distance  into 
ants'  nests,  and  secnring  many  of  its  prey  at  a  time,  on  that 
sticky  organ.  Its  bite  is  very  much  dreaded,  and  it  is  a  common 
belief,  that  it  occasionally  causes  death  within  24  hours.  When  pur- 
sued on  land,  it  runs  speedily  to  its  hole,  or  if  far  distant  from  it, 
takes  refuge  in  trees :  sometimes  it  is  hunted  by  dogs,  and  when  tree'd, 
the  sportsman  must  get  upon  a  branch  above  it^  and  knock  it  down 
with  a  stick.  If  near  water,  it  at  once  takes  to  it^  and  generally  es- 
capes, as  it  is  very  expert  in  that  element  It  can  also  rapidly  make 
its  way  in  the  sand,  as  its  daws  are  both  sharp,  and  powerf oL 

Amongst  the  thick  tongued  group,  the  Bloodsuckers,  or  Qaleotes, 
CdloteSf  so  termed  from  the  blood  redocdour  of  their  heads  are  familiar 
to  almost  every  one  in  Cochia  They  attain  a  great  length,  due  more 
tothee3ctensionoftheirtails,thantothesi2eoftheir bodies.  TwopUced 
together,  will  wrestle,  jQght,  and  bite.  Persian  cats  are  very  f opd  of 
capturing  reptiles  of  this  family. 

Perhaps  the  prettiest^  as  well  as  the  most  extraordinary  li2aid,is  the 
flying  dragon,  JDrtico  volans,  which  lives  in  the  forests,  <m  the 
Qhaats.  Its  first  six  false  ribs,  are  extended  outwards,  to  support 
a  membrane,  something  like  a  wing,  or  more  properly  speaking  a 
parachute,  which  assists  the  animal  when  jumping  from  bough  to 
bough.     Its  colours  are  bright,  and  appearance  engaging. 

The  wall  liiard,  or  Qecko,  takes  very  good  care,  that  it  is 
not  overlooked.  Towards  evening,  it  gen^^y  emerges  from  un- 
der the  eaves  of  houses,  or  from  dark  comers,  and  makes  itself  use- 
ful, by  destroying  mosquitoes,  flies,  moths,  and  cockroaches,  as 
well  as  eating  the  ^ggs  of  these  last,  which  it  scratehes  out  witii 
its  sharp  claws,  as  soon  as  the  egg  cases  begin  to  open.  Active  in 
its  habits,  but  repulsive  in  appearance,  this  little  creature  often  gets 
destroyed,  its  usefulness  being  forgotten,  and  its  sociability  overlooked* 

Ito  brown  colour,  and  the  little  tubercles  over  its  body,  more  es- 
pecially on  the  tail,  give  it  a  disagreeable  appearance,  but  its  bright 


SKAlttt..  181 

and  comparatively  large  eyes,  and  the  silvery  colour  of  the  pads  of 
its  toes,  looking  underneath  like  a  silvered  leaf,  (to  be  seen  as  it 
runs  upon  glass,)  are  very  pretty,  or  Jnst  appearing  at  the  sides  of 
each  toe,  as  it  runs  along,  makes  it  look  as  if  it  had  frosted  edges. 
It  is  a  very  active  little  creature,  running  up  the  walls,  or  across 
the  ceiling,  and  if  caught  by  its  tail,  leaves  that  appendage  behind 
it,  but  reproduces  it  before  long. 

If  undisturbed,  it  soon  finds  its  way  to  the  dinner  table,  where  it 
eats  crumbs,  and  ^aduaUy  becomes  bolder  in  its  incursions,  even- 
tually returning  every  evening,  for  its  accustomed  supply.  On  ob- 
serving appropriate  food,  the  brown  colour  of  its  inferior  surface, 
changes  to  a  silvery  shade,  with  a  purplish  tinge  underneath  the 
throat,  when  it  rapidly  rushes  at  it,  and  almost  instantaneously 
swallows  it 

Many  superstitions  have  originated,  with  reference  to  this  little 
inoffensive  and  useful  creature.  If  a  Lizard  chirps  upon  a  wall,  the 
Hindu,  or  Syrian  Christians,  believe  there  is  some  latent  meaning, 
so  the  subject  of  discussion  is  changed,  but  should  the  chirp  be 
again  heard  in  the  same  position,  further  conversation  ceases.  It  is 
said  that  a  Liiard  divided  down  the  centre,  and  bound  to  a  person's 
body,  will  within  twelve  hours,  produce  an  ulc^,  having  every  appear- 
ance of  being  of  a  month's  standing.  The  Mahomedans  catch  Lizards, 
for  the  purpose  of  feeding  their  hawks  with  them,  of  which  they 
keep  many,  in  this  part  of  India. 

The  Chameleon  is  too  well  known  to  need  description,  it  crawls 
about  slowly,  looking  as  if  the  two  sides  of  its  head  had  originally  be- 
longed to  two  distinct  bodies,  and  had  been  joined  together,  or  that 
it  had  lost  one  of  its  sides,  and  had  stolen  that  of  another  to  supply 
itself  with,  it  is  neither  active,  nor  graceful  in  its  movements.  Its 
colour  changes,  but  not  to  any  great  extent,  and  appears  influenced  by 
its  feelings,  or  perhaps  by  its  nervous  system. 

Snakes  are  not  very  numerous  within  the  town  of  Cochin,  where 
fatal  effects  from  their  bites  are  rarely  heard  of.  But  in  the  Native 
States  and  in  the  Ghauts,  their  numbers  and  venomous  properties 
are  great  It  is  not  an  uncommon  belief,  amongst  the  Hindus,  that  a 
person  who  has  died  from  the  effects  of  the  bite  of  a  snake,  will 
come  to  life  again  in  fourteen  days,  provided  certain  ceremonies 

N  2 


482  TOBTOISES. 

are  performed  by  the  Brahmans.  An  antidote  as  a  preservative 
against  the  venom  of  these  bites,  is  said  to  be  the  seeds  of  the 
nux  vomica,  one  of  which  should  be  swallowed  daily.  Whether 
it  is  possible  for  this  immunity  to  be  purchased  by  drugs,  is  still 
a  question  open  to  doubt.  The  Mongoose  appears  to  escape 
.  with  impunity,  when  bitten,  which  has  been  attributed  to  his 
eating  the  leaf  of  a  plant,  which  counteracts  the  effect  of  the 
venom,  but  of  this  there  does  not  seem  to  be  any  proof,  and  it  is  a 
more  probable  supposition,  that  the  bite  of  a  venomous  Serpent, 
exercises  no  influence  on  its  deadly  enemy  the  Mongoose,  whilst  the 
venom  is  certainly  innocuous,  to  slugs,  and  leeches.  Those  who 
have  had  the  curiosity  to  taste  this  secretion,  (which  is  harmless 
should  there  be  no  wound,  or  sore  on  the  mouth,  or  tongue,  or  on 
any  part,  where  it  can  touch,)  declare  it  to  be  oily. 

There  is  no  question,  but  that  the  effects  of  the  bites  of  these 
reptiles,  are  at  some  periods  more  deadly  than  at  others,  depending 
both  upon  the  part  of  the  body  bitten,  and  whether  they  have  or 
have  not  lately  discharged  the  contents  of  their  poison  sac,  which 
takes  time  to  be  again  secreted  Snake  charmers  aware  of  this,  some- 
times make  them  bite  some  artide  such  as  a  bit  of  red  rag,  to  evacuate 
the  venom.  The  lower  classes  of  Natives,  have  no  objection  to  cap- 
ture Snakes,  but  appear  greatly  tantalized,  if  they  chance  to  see  one 
of  them,  put  into  a  bottle  of  good  arrack,  to  preserve  it,  and  some- 
times loudly  exclaim,  against  so  much  good  spirit  being  wasted ! 

Serpents  are  in  some  places  emblems  of  destruction,  and  have 
therefore  rites  performed  to  them,  to  deprecate  their  anger,  or  miti- 
gate their  vengeance.  Hindus  for4his  purpose,  set  aside  a  small 
grove  in  their  compounds,  where  the  reptiles  are  appeased  by  milk, 
and  clarified  butter.  It  is  not  considered  obligatory  to  keep  Snake 
Festivals,  but  if  once  kept^  they  must  be  continued,  and  there  is 
only  one  Temple  in  Malabar,  where  a  person  can  obtain  a  release 
from  them,  by  undergoing  a  very  expensive  course  of  ablutions,  and 
purification,  which  must  be  repeated  for  several  days. 

Besides  the  Tortoise  of  ancient  times,  there  was  also  an  enormous 
snake,  Ananta  (page  277)  which  was  generally  said  to  surround  the 
world  :  this  appears  to  have  been  the  Annultu  PlcUonis,  a  symbol 
of  life  and  death,  or  the  revolution  of  all  things,  which  idea  it  has 


tH£  COBRA.  483 

been  supposed  that  Plato  borrowed  from  India.  We  are  told,  that 
in  the  Wilderness,  the  children  of  Israel,  when  bitten  by  the  fiery 
serpents,  immediately  recovered  their  health,  if  they  looked  np  to 
the  brass  figure  of  a  snake  raised  upon  a  pole  (Numbers  xxL  89.) 
Moses  also  when  sent  to  Fharoah,  had  his  rod  turned  into  a  Serpent, 
as  a  symbol  of  his  divine  mission,  (Ezod.  iv.  2,  3,  Ac)  and  Bubee- 
quently,  the  Jews  were  told  that  tiiey  had  ''  changed  the  glory  of 
**  the  incorruptible  Qod  into  an  image  made  like  unto  corruptible 
'*  man,  and  to  birds,  and  to  four  footed  beasts,  and  creeping  tiiinge!^ 

Kristna  is  said  to  have  destroyed  a  Snake,  that  was  poisoning  the 
waters  of  a  river,  so  he  is  sometimes  represented,  either  with  a 
monstrous  Serpent  coiled  round  his  body,  or  placing  his  right  foot 
on  the  neck  of  one.  An  analogy  has  been  drawn,  between  this  figure, 
and  the  prophecy,  ''  I  will  put  enmity  between  thy  seed,  and  her 
''seed,  it  shall  bruize  thy  head,  and  thou  shalt  bruise  his  heel.*' 
(Gen.  iii  15.) 

There  are  numbers  of  exceedingly  venomous  Serpents,  but  a  large 
majority  of  harmless  ones.  Many  inhabit  the  salt  or  fresh  water, 
others  again  prefer  houses  and  outbuildings,  some  live  amongst  the 
stones,  and  grass,  or  in  the  Woods,  whilst  others  inhabit  the  ground. 
Some  are  accused  of  attacking  persons  in  the  water,  others  of  giving 
venomous  bites,  some  of  jumping  at  the  eyes,  and  others  of  throwing 
themselves  backwards  at  the  object  of  attack,  but  the  most  curious 
is  a  species  of  Amphisbcena^  which  is  believed  to  be  able  to  progress 
equally  well  either  backwards  or  forwards,  and  is  generally  said  to 
have  a  head  at  each  end  of  its  body,  the  appearance  and  markings, 
about  the  tail  being  so  very  similar  to  those  of  the  head. 

One  of  the  snakes  most  dreaded,  is  the  Cobra  di  capella,  or 
spectacle  snake,  Na^'a  tripudians^  {Kella  pdamba,  MaL)  the  bite  of 
which  is  often  rapidly  fataL  Its  colour  varies  greatly,  according  to 
its  age,  and  the  locality  in  which  it  resides,  some  are  of  a  light 
clayey  brown,  whilst  in  others  the  tint  is  black.  It  is  capable  of  ex- 
panding the  skin  of  its  neck,  in  the  form  of  a  hood  over  its  head ; 
on  it  there  is  a  black  mark,  like  a  pair  of  spectacles.  When  exas- 
perated, it  raises  itself  hisses  and  darts  at  its  enemy.  It  has  a 
deadly  antagonist  in  the  little  Mongoose,  and  Monkeys  will  destroy 
Snakes,  whenever  they  get  an  opportunity. 


48^  WHIP  8KA&SS. 

The  Cobra  is  generally  used  by  the  snake  clianners,  who  sometimeef 
remove  the  poiaon  fianga,  bat  frequently  omit  to  do  so.  On  hearing 
music,  it  raises  the  front  portion  of  its  body  from  the  grouud,  and 
sways  itself  backwards  and  forwards  marking  the  tima  The  instant 
the  music  stops,  the  creature  ceases  its  movements.  Many  persons 
imagining,  that  because  these  animals  allowed  themselves  to  be 
handled  so  quietly  by  the  snake  charmer,  their  venom  must  have 
been  removed,  have  foolishly  allowed  themselves  to  be  bitten  by 
them,  and  have  lost  their  lives  for  their  temerity.  A  few  years  since,  a 
Snake  charmer  who  was  considered  very  clever  at  tricks  with  Snakes, 
was  accustomed  to  swallow  a  Cobra,  holding  it  by  the  tail,  and  when 
nearly  out  of  sights  pulling  it  back  again.  But  one  day  he  unfor- 
tunately lost  his  hold»  when  the  reptile  slipt  down  his  throat,  and 
his  death  ensued. 

If  Snakes  are  fed,  they  will  return  to  the  same  house  every  day  to 
receive  milk,  but  they  are  very  averse  to  strong  scents,  and  tibe 
fames  of  sulphur,  will  generally  cause  them  to  leave  a  place. 
Natives  who  had  secret  rooms  constructed,  in  which  to  deposit 
treasure,  used  frequently  to  place  very  poisonous  Snakes  in  them,  to 
deter  plunderers  from  taking  their  goods* 

A  little  innocuous  Snake,  {Tevi,  Mai.)  of  a  brownish  coloor,  is  very 
common  in  the  houses,  and  it  is  asserted,  that  when  one  of  th«n 
dies,  or  is  killed,  all  its  relatives  come  to  its  funeral,  consequently 
Natives  are  very  averse  to  its  being  destroyed. 

A  long  thin  snake  like  a  whip,  {Coambarree  Mookan^  Malr)  or 
branch  climbing  Mookan,  has  obtained  its  name  from  the  belief, 
that  it  is  the  incarnated  spirit  of  a  departed  enemy,  or  some  demon 
employed  by  an  enemy,  for  the  destruction  of  an  adversary.  After 
having  bitten  a  person,  it  is  said  to  climb  up  into  a  tree,  and  creep 
to  the  extreme  end  of  a  branch,  where  it  most  attentively  watdies 
the  ground  on  which  bodies  are  burnt.  If  it  perceives  an  increma- 
tion taking  place,  it  is  supposed  that  its  malevolence  is  appeased,  as 
it  labours  under  the  belief,  that  its  venom  has  effected  the  object 
it  had  in  view.  On  the  other  hand,  should  no  smoke  arise  from  the 
burning  place,  it  is  believed  that  at  some  future  date,  it  will  renew 
its  attempt,  on  the  object  of  its  maleyolenee. 
The  beautiful  little  innocuous  green  snake,  so  common  in  gardens, 


FROGS.  485 

u  (requenAly  caa^^t,  and  killed^  as  it  is  considered  a  good  remedy  for 
headachea,  when  bound  around  a  person's  temples. 

A  veiy  common  harmless  snake  of  an  olive  colour^  C<nyphodon 
BlumenbcLchiii  {Cheera^  MaL)  is  frequently  seen  near  moist  places^  in 
paddy  fields,  and  often  as  the  monsoon  sets  in,  by  the  side  of  the 
public  roads,  it  grows  to  a  very  large  size.  It  hits  its  captors  with 
its  tail,  and  wounds  so  inflicted,  are  said  to  be  very  difficult  to  care. 
Sometimes  in  the  monsoons,  some  of  these  reptiles  are  swept  down  by 
the  rivers,  to  the  islands  between  the  backwater  and  the  sea.  The 
Rock  Snake,  Python  Molurm,  Gray,  in  the  ghauts,  grows  to  a  very 
large  size. 

Sea  anakes  are  exceedingly  numerous,  though  there  are  only  Ave 
common  species.  None  are  reputed  to  be  venomous.  One  day  a 
specimen  was  brought,  with  a  bone  protruding  through  its  side, 
which  however  was  not  apparently  causing  much  distress.  On  dis' 
seeting  it,  the  bony  protrusion  was  found  to  ^be  the  spiny  ray  of 
a  Boj^its,  or  sea  cat  fish,  as  it  is  sometimes  termed,  which  it  had 
swallowed. 

The  Frog  {TowaUay,  Mai.)  in  Egypfc,  was  considered  sacred,  and 
looked  upon  as  an  emblem  of  the  sun,  or  Osiris  the  first  object  of 
their  adoration.  In  Malabar,  it  should  be  considered  an  emblem  of 
rain,  for  as  the  first  showers  of  the  S.  W<  Monsoon  commence,  the 
croak  of  the  large  Bull  Frog,  Rana  Malaharica,  is  at  night  time 
heard  in  all  directions.  Silence  may  sometimes  reign  undisturbed, 
when  suddenly  the  croak,  almost  bleat,  of  one  of  these  batrachians 
is  heard,  and  others  answer  from  all  sides ;  the  concert  however  termi- 
nates as  rapidly  as  it  began,  to  be  recommenced  after  a  short 
interval. 

The  Bull  Frog  frequently  extends  to  eight  inches  in  length,  and 
is  of  an  olive  colour,  with  yellow  underneath.  It  may  be  found  in 
every  moist  place,  and  swampy  bit  of  ground,  in  the  morning  long 
lines  of  them  may  be  seen  near  the  sea  beach,  but  when  disturbed, 
they  at  once  make  landwards.  The  leaps  they  take  are  enormous, 
as  well  as  the  height  to  which  they  jump. 

The  Crows  are  very  much  attached  to  these  reptiles,  and  feed  al- 
most entirely  on  them  whilst  they  continue  about  the  place,  as  do 
also  the  Brahmanee  kites,  and  other  birds,  as  well  as  snakes.    When 


486  THE   TBIE  PROG. 

these  last  eeize  a  frog,  it  straggles  most  violently,  and  makes  a  loud 
and  extraordinary  noise  for  help.  The  aroma  from  a  dead  Frog,  is 
most  exceedingly  unpleasant,  and  extends  to  a  very  long  distance. 
Natives  have  an  idea,  that  in  one  night  the  brown  Frog  txuns  green, 
the  same  as  they  assert  that  the  tree  Frog  is  born  from  the  leaves  of 
trees. 

The  brown  Well  Frog,  is  hardly  inferioi"  in  size  to  the  Boll  Frog, 
and  is  esteemed  very  useful  in  keeping  the  water  pure  in  wells,  iu 
each  of  which  one  of  them  is  usually  found.  They  are  considered 
very  good  eating,  but  there  are  few  natives  who  will  permit  their 
destruction. 

One  small  brown  Frog  has  a  very  bad  character,  as  it  is  asserted 
that  should  it  jump  upon  a  child,  it  will  cause  it  to  become  ricketty* 
The  fat  of  the  Frog,  rubbed  over  the  hand,  is  said  to  be  a  preserva- 
tive against  burning,  and  it  is  asserted,  that  any  part  of  the  body 
thus  protected,  may  with  impunity  be  touched  with  a  red  hot  iron. 

The  active  and  pretty  little  Tree  Frog,  Hyla  Uueom^stax,  is  some- 
times seen  inside  houses,  most  frequently  in  the  bath  rooms.  Out 
of  doors,  it  is  most  commonly  found  under  the  leaves  of  plantain 
trees.  It  is  very  active,  and  as  it  has  suckers  at  the  under  surface 
of  each  toe,  it  can  attach  itself  to  the  wall,  to  wood,  or  even  to  glass. 


CHAPTER  XV. 


FISH. 

KumerouB  fish  in  Cochin  State — Fishermen —Modes  of  fitthing—by  nets*— 
Hooka  and  lines — Trolling— Shooting-— Labyrinths— Poison — Fish  emblem 
of — CamiTorons  fish — Mackerel  Shoals,  and  mode  of  cure — Lancet  fish-— 
Climbing  perch —Walking  fish — Legend  of  fish— Tame  ones  in  river— Sar- 
dines— Sharks— Saw  fish,  its  extraordinary  ^e^aooidents  from  fish — Eco- 
nomic asp^  of  Indian  fisheries. 

The  Fish  ivhich  find  their  homes  in  the  ocean  that  bounds  the 
Cochin  State,  as  well  as  those  which  populate  the  enormous  expanse 
of  Backwater  running  parrallel  to  its  shoi^  and  those  inhabiting 
its  numerous  rivers  and  tanks,  afford  objects  of  extreme  interest,  to 
several  classes  of  persons.  To  the  Fishermen  by  the  employment  they 
give  him,  the  Community  in  the  food  they  supply,  the  Merchants 
for  the  Fish  oil  obtained,  the  Shopkeepers  for  the  salted  provisions 
procured-  from  them,  and  the  Naturalist  for  the  variety  and  interest 
of  the  numerous  families,  composing  this  tribe.  Whilst  the  Artist 
values  them,  for  their  beautiful  and  ever  varying  tints,  and  the 
Medical  man  is  interested,  in  ascertaining  the  effects  of  a  fish  diet, 
upon  the  health  of  the  general  population. 

The  number  and  variety  of  forma  which  exist,  the  beauty  of 
some  species,  the  extraordinary  habits  of  others,  render  fish  one  of 
the  most  interesting  divisions  of  the  animal  kingdom,  perhaps  en- 
hanced by  the  difiSculty  in  ascertaining  their  individual  peculiarities. 

Fish  are  generally  considered  cold  blooded  animals,  but  this  must 
be  admitted  with  a  reservation,  as  for  instance,  some  species  can  re- 
side in  hot  springs,  whilst  in  Northern  Europe,  they  have  been 
found  apparently  quite  frozen,  and  resuscitated  by  thawing.  As  a 
nile  it  appears  probable,  that  those  tribes  which  swim  near  the  sur- 
face in  the  Tropics,  such  as  the  Mackerel  and  other  allied  species. 


488  FISHIKO  BOATS. 

have  a  high  standard  of  respiration,  and  a  low  degree  of  muscular 
irritability,  whilst  having  a  great  necessity  for  oxygen,  they  die  al- 
most as  soon  as  removed  from  their  native  element,  and  taint 
almost  immediately  after  death.  Those  tribes  which  live  in  deep 
water,  have  a  low  standard  of  respiration,  a  high  d^ee  of  muscular 
irritability,  a  less  necessity  for  oxygen,  live  long  after  their  removal 
from  water,  and  remain  fresh  some  time  subsequent  to  their  demise. 

The  castes  of  natives  fishing  along  the  sea  coast^  besides  the  Chris- 
tians are  the  Arriaiu  and  the  Muciioi,  Mai,  who  have  always  been 
considered  inferior  races  and  as  such  were  in  former  times  preclud- 
ed from  travelling  along  the  public  roads,  and  obliged  to  keep  to 
the  sea  coast  When  the  Portuguese  power  first  became  predomi- 
nant in  the  East,  the  Romish  Missionaries  particularly  turned  their 
attention  to  the  conversion  of  these  poor  degraded  Fiahermeny  and 
at  the  present  time,  the  majority  of  them  acknowledge  the  Roman 
Catholic  religion.  It  should  be  mentioned  that  by  becoming 
Christians,  they  were  elevated  in  the  social  scale,  and  that  by 
relapsing  into  heathenisin  they  again  become  outcastes.  Formerly 
oh  the  death  of  a  prince  of  Malabar,  all  fishing  was  temporarily 
prohibited,  and  only  renewed  after  three  days,  when  the  spirit  of  the 
departed,  was  supposed  to  have  had  time  to  choose  its  own  future 
abode  without  molestation,  and  this  law  is  not  yet  abrogated 

The  modes  of  fishing,  vary  according  to  the  seasons  of  tihe  year,  and 
may  be  divided  into  those  employed  in  the  deep  sea,  along  the  coast, 
and  in  the  river  and  Backwater,  these  again  may  be  subdivided,  into 
several  different  methods,  a  short  description  of  some  of  which,  may 
be  deemed  interesting. 

At  some  periods  of  the  year,  boats  leave  for  the  deep  sea  fi^ung, 
about  four  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  and  having  remained  out  all 
night,  may  be  seen  returning  with  their  captures,  at  about  7  o'clock 
the  following  morning,  when  the  purchasers  meet  them  as  they  laud. 
At  other  seasons,  they  leave  at  daybreak,  and  return  about  4  in  the 
afternoon,  and  sell  their  cargo  on  coming  to  shore,  either  in  lots  or  as  a 
whole.  Should  the  weather  appear  stormy,  no  boats  go  out  to  sea,  and 
fishing  with  nets,  excepting  in  the  river,  or  backwater,  is  unknown, 
consequently,  the  loss  of  fishing  vessels,  with  all  hands  on  board,  is 
of  very  rare  occurrence. 


INLAND  riSHBBMEN.  4d0 

Nets  are  generaUy  made  of  cotton  thread,  and  when  the  large  wall 
nets  are  employed,  they  are  as  a  rale  the  joint  property  of  sereral 
persons.  Meshes  of  three  sizes  are  used,  according  to  the  class,  or 
rather  the  power  of  the  fish  it  is  intended  to  capture.  One  share, 
which  is  a  distinct  piece  of  netting,  and  usually  belongs  to  one 
person,  is  about  five  yards  square  :  and  a  large  one  sometimes  con- 
sists of  about  forty  of  these  pieces,  fastened  together.  These  wall  nets, 
are  employed  for  catching  large  fish,  and  also  shoals  of  small  ones. 
The  larger  ropes,  are  invariably  made  of  coir. 

The  Mackerel  net  is  generally  a  single  wall  net,  about  one  hundred 
yards  long,  by  ei^teen  feet  deep,  floated  by  hollow  cocoanut 
shells  at  the  top,  and  weighted  below  with  stones.  When  a  shoal  of 
Mackerel  is  perceived,  a  heavy  stone  is  affixed  to  one  end  of  the  net, 
which  is  thrown  into  the  sea,  and  the  boat  to  which  the  other  end 
is  attached,  is  rowed  quickly  round  the  shoal. 

This  same  species  of  net^  about  half  a  mile  in  length,  is  also  occa- 
sionally employed  when  shoab  of  fish  come  near  the  shore,  one  end 
is  kept  on  shore,  and  the  other  carried  round  them,  and  thus  enclos- 
ed they  are  dragged  to  land. 

When  round  nets  are  required,  two  boats  must  be  used.  In  the 
centre  of  the  net  is  a  long  funnel,  otherwise  it  is  much  the  same  as 
that  employed  in  taking  Mackerel  The  funnel  is  first  thrown  into  the 
sea,  and  then  the  two  beats  to  each  of  which  one  end  of  the  net  in 
attached,  are  rowed  rapidly  through  the  shoals. 

Cast  nets  are  employed  from  the  shore,  by  a  number  of  fishermen, 
who  station  themselves  either  in  the  early  morning,  or  in  the  after- 
noon, along  the  coast  from  50  to  100  yards  apart.  They  keep  a 
careful  watch  on  the  water,  and  on  perceiving  a  fish  rise  sufficiently 
near  the  land,  rush  down  and  attempt  to  throw  their  nets  over  it. 
This  is  not  done  as  in  Europe,  by  twisting  the  net  round  and  round 
the  head,  until  it  has  acquired  the  necessary  impetul^  and  then 
throwing  it :  but  by  the  person  twirling  himself,  and  the  net^  round 
and  round,  at  the  same  time,  and  then  casting  it ;  he  not  unfi*e- 
Quently  gets  knocked  over  by  a  wave.  When  fish  are  caught,  they  are 
buried  in  the  sand,  to  prevent  their  tainting. 

In  the  wide  inland  rivers,  fishermen  employ  cast  nets,  in  the 
following  manner.     Each  man  is  in  a  boat,  which  is  propelled  by  a 

0  2 


490  LIKK  riBHINO. 

boy,  with  a  baddxK).  The  fiaherman  has  a  cast  net,  and  a  small 
empty  ooooanut  shell,  this  last  he  throws  into  the  river,  about  twen- 
ty yards  before  the  boat,  and  it  comes  down  with  a  splash,  said  to 
be  done  to  scare  away  the  Crocodiles.  As  the  boat  approaches  the 
place  where  the  cocoanut  shell  was  thrown,  the  man  casts  his  net 
around  the  spot.  This  method  is  only  for  obtaining  •  small  fish,  and 
as  many  as  fifteen  boats  at  a  time,  are  to  be  seen  thus  employed  in 
one  place,  one  following  the  other  in  rapid  succession,  some  trying 
the  centre,  others  the  sides  of  the  river. 

Double  rows  of  long  bamboos^  firadly  fixed  in  the  mud,  are 
placed  at  intervals  across  the  Backwater,  and  on  these  nets  are  fixed 
at  the  flood  tide,  so  that  fish  which  have  entered,  are  unable  to  retmm 
to  the  sea.  Numbers  of  very  large  ones,  are  oocasioaally  captured 
in  this  way. 

A  species  of  Chinese  nets,  are  used  along  the  river's  bonks,  they 
are  about  1^  feet  square,  suspended  by  bamboos  from  each  comer, 
and  let  down  like  buckets  into  the  water,  and  then  after  a  few  mi- 
nutes drawn  up  again  ;  a  piece  of  string  to  which  is  attadied  por- 
tions of  the  white  leaveiTof  the  cocoanut  trees,  is  tied  at  ^ort  inter- 
vals along  the  ebb  side  of  the  net,  which  effectually  prevents  fish 
from  going  that  way. 

As  this  mode  of  fishing  is  continued  all  through  l^e  monsoon,  (ex- 
cepting on  v^  stormy  days,)  it  affords  an  excellent  criterion^  of  ^e 
tribes  and  species  to  be  found  in  the  rainy  months  and  renders  Co- 
chin the  best  place  along  the  Western  Coast,  for  makii^  observations 
on  this  subject :  owing  to  this,  the  Icthyologist  can  continue  his  en- 
quiries, (with  occasional  intervals,)  during  the  boisterous,  as  well 
as  the  quiet  months  of  the  year,  although  the  sea  netting  may  be  quite 
suspended.     Fish  thus  caught,  are  8<^d  at  the  nets. 

A  plan  somewhat  analogous,  is  employed  on  a  small  scale  for  catch- 
ing crabs,  i  net  three  feet  square^  is  supported  at  the  four  comers, 
by  two  pieces  of  stick,  fastened  crosswise :  from  the  centre  of  these 
sticks  where  they  cross,  is  a  string  to  pull  it  up  by,  or  let  it  down, 
and  a  piece  of  meat  is  tied  to  the  middle  of  the  net,  inside,  lliisls 
let  down  from  a  wharf,  left  under  water  for  a  few  minutes,  and 
then  pulled  up  again,  and  crabs  coming  to  feed,  are  thus  cau^t 

Fishing  with  a  line,  is  seldom  attempted  in  the  deep  sea,  except- 


PISHIVO  FROM  BHALL  BOATS.  491 

ing  for  fiharka,  rays,  and  other  iAvge  fisL  The  hooka  employed  are 
iyi  two  descriptioiiB,  the  roogheat  although  perhaps  the  strongest,  being 
of  Native  rnaanf actara,  the  others  are  of  English  make,  denominated 
China  hooks. 

The  hook  is  fieurtened  to  a  species  of  fibre,  called  Thtmhao,  said  to 
be  derived  fram  a  sea  weed,  bat  more  probably  from  <me  of  the 
species  of  palms,  it  takes  the  place  of  the  silk  worm  gat  in  Europe. 
For  very  large  fish,  a  brass  wire  is  attached  to  the  hook;  on 
one  of  these  two  sabstances,  the  lead  for  sinking  the  bait  is 
placed. 

The  lines  are  either  hemp,  cotton,  or  the  fibre  of  the  Talipot 
Palm,  Caryata  urens^  which  is  obtained  by  maceration.  But  although 
'  very  strong,  these  lines,  are  if  a  little  dry,  apt  to  snap^  when  suddenly 
bent     In  Europe^  they  are  called  "  Indian  gat" 

Trolling  from  the  shore,  at  the  river's  mouth,  is  only  carried  on 
of  a  morning,  or  evening,  during  the  winter  months  of  the  year, 
when  the  sea  is  smooth.  The  line  is  horn  80  to  100  yards  in  length, 
wid  held  wound  round  the  left  hand,  the  hook  is  fastened  to  the 
line  by  a  Inraas  wire,  and  the  bait  is  a  live  fish.  The  fishermen 
after  giving  the  line  an  impetus  by  twirling  it  round  and  round 
his  head,  throws  it  with  great  precision,  from  50  to  60  yards.  A 
man  is  always  close  by,  with  a  cast  net,  catching  baits,  which  he 
sells  for  one  quarter  of  an  anna  each.  This  mode  of  fishing,  is  very 
exciting  sport,  but  is  very  uncertain  in  its  results,  and  therefore 
usually  carried  on  by  coolies,  either  before  their  day's  work  has  com- 
menced, or  after  its  termination. 

Fishing  witli  a  bait,  continues  all  day  long  in  Cochin  during  the 
monsoon  months,  when  work  is  almost  at  a  stand  still,  and  five  or 
six  persons  may  be  perceived  at  each  jetty,  busily  engaged  in  this 
occupation.  The  Bagrus  tribe  is  then  plentiful,  and  as  it  bites 
readily,  large  numbers  are  captured.  * 

Fishing  in  small  boats,  appears  at  times  to  be  a  dangerous  occu< 
pation,  the  small  canoe  only  steadied  by  the  paddle  of  one  man  seat- 
ed in  it,  looks  as  if  it  must  every  minute  be  swamped.  Very  large 
fish  are  sometimes  captured  in  this  way,  should  one  be  hooked  too 
large  for  the  Fisherman  to  managei  the  man  in  the  next  boat  comes 
to  his  assistance,  and  receives  a  quarter  of  the  fish  for  his  trouble. 


492  CEAB  FISHIKG. 

This  is  carried  on  all  through  the  year,  and  the  size  of  some  of  the 
Bagri  thus  caught  is  enormous. 

Night  and  day  lines^  are  not  much  in  vogue,  which  is  rather  strange, 
as  the  returns  would  probably  be  great  Fly  fishing  in  the  rivers  of 
Cochin,  does  not  afiford  large  sport ;  but  small  fish  may  be  caught  in 
numbers^  and  it  is  certainly  a  pleasure  again  to  cost  an  English  fly, 
and  land  a  fish,  however  small  the  prize  may  be. 

Fish  are  shot  in  various  ways,  by  a  Chittagong  bamboo,  which  is 
a  hoUow  tube,  down  which  the  arrow  is  propelled  by  the  marks- 
man's month.  This  mode  is  sometimes  very  remunerative,  and  is 
followed  by  persons  who  quietly  sneak  along  the  shores,  eitlier  of 
sluggish  streams,  or  of  the  Backwater,  sometimes  they  climb  up  into 
trees,  and  there  await  a  good  shot.  Or  during  the  monsoon,  the  sports- 
man quietly  seats  himself  near  some  narrow  channel,  that  passes 
from  one  wide  piece  of  water  into  another  and  watches  for  his  prey. 

Other  Fishermen  shoot  with  bows  and  arrows,  and  again  others 
with  cross  bows,  the  iron  arrow  or  bolt  of  which,  is  attached  by  a 
line  to  the  bow,  to  prevent  its  being  lost. 

But  netting  fish,  catching  them  with  hooks,  or  shooting  them 
with  arrows,  are  not  the  only  means  employed  for  their  capture. 
Bamboo  labyrinths,  bamboo  baskets,  and  even  men's  hands  alone, 
are  called  into  use. 

Persons  fish  for  crabs*  in  shallow  brackish  water,  provided  with 
baskets  like  those  employed  in  Europe  for  catching  eels,  but  open 
at  both  ends.  The  Fishermen  walk  about  in  the  mud,  and  when 
they  feel  a  fish  move,  endeavour  to  cover  it  with  the  larger  end  of 
the  basket,  which  is  forced  down  some  distance  into  the  mud,  and 
the  hand  is  then  passed  downwards  through  the  upper  extremity, 
and  the  fish  taken  out. . 

Another  plan  of  catching  them  by  the  hand,  is  by  having  two 
lines  to  wCich  white  coooanut  leaves  are  attached,  tied  to  the  Fish- 
erman's two  great  toes,  from  which  they  diverge :  the  other  end  of 
each,  being  held  by  another  man  a  good  way  off,  and  some  distance 

*  As  the  Zoolopotl  portion  of  this  work,  is  intended  more  for  popular  read- 
ing, than  as  a  scientific  treatise,  the  maimer  of  catching  crustacese,  has  been 
placed  in  the  chapter  on  Fish,  and  amongst  the  various  methods  of  fishing;, 
instead  of  amongst  the  radiate. 


FISH  WHAT  7HET  ARE  XMBLKMS  OF.  493 

apart.  On  these  lines  being  shaken,  the  fish  become  frightened, 
and  strange  as  it  maj  appear,  cluster  for  protection  around  the 
man's  feet,  who  is  able  to  stoop  down,  and  catch  them  with  his 
hands,  by  watching  his  opportunity. 

Bamboo  labyrinths  are  common  all  along  the  backwater,  in  which 
a  good  many  fish,  especially  eels,  and  crabs,  are  captured.  These 
labyrinths  are  formed  of  a  screen  of  split  bamboos,  passing  perpen- 
dicularly out  of  the  water,  and  leading  into  a  larger  baited  chamber. 
A  dead  cat  is  often  employed  as  a  bait  for  crabs,  a  string  is  attach- 
ed to  its  body,  and  after  it  has  been  in  the  water  some  days,  it  is 
pulled  up  with  these  crustaceae  adherent  to  it.  Persons  are  often 
surprized  at  crabs  being  considered  unwholesome,  but  their  a.%tonish- 
ment  would  cease,  if  they  were  aware  what  extremely  unclean  feed- 
ers they  are. 

Fish  are  obtained  from  the  inland  rirers  by  poisoning  them,  but 
this  can  only  be  done  when  the  water  is  low :  a  dam  is  thrown 
across  a  certain  portion,  and  the  poison  placed  within  it.  It  ge- 
nerally consists  of  Cocculus  Indicus  pounded  with  rice  :  croton  oil 
seeds,  &c.  The  fish  when  captured,  are  either  sent  away  for  sale,  or 
dried  and  then  sold. 

A  fish  is  an  emblem  of  Vishnu,  in  commemoration  of  his  first  in- 
carnation. It  is  also  one  of  the  symbols  of  the  Kings  of  Madura,  or  as 
they  were  formerly  called  Kings  of  Pandia,  whose  standard  was 
called  a  Meen  kodak,  or  Fish  standard,  which  fact  alone  would 
almost  prove  them  to  be  Hindus,  and  Vishnuites.  The  fish  is  also 
found  on  Buddhist  seals.  As  these  kings  exacted  tribute  from  the 
ancient  Travancore  Rajahs,  many  cash  with  fish  on  them  are  found 
in  that  State,  and  even  as  far  north  as  Cochin,  although  it  would 
pu2zle  a  very  good  Icthyologist,  to  decide  to  which  family  they 
belong. 

•  The  tribes  of  fish  caught  during  the  Soutli  West  Monsoon,  in  the 
Cochin  river,  depend  upon  the  amount  of  the  freshes,  and  the  conse- 
quent saltness,  or  the  reverse,  of  the  water.  Thus  if  the  estuary  is 
very  fresh,  fish  are  few  in  number,  for  instance  on  July  23rd,  1862, 
the  fishermen  refused,  even  to  try  their  nets.  The  most  prevalent 
species  at  this  period,  are  the  bagii,  serrani,  and  white  bait,  whilst 
the  Hemiramphus  becomes  very  rare. 


494  THB  PIBCHXS, 

The  Epicure  would  not  regard  the  finny  tribes  of  Oochin,  as  oC 
superior  quality.  They  have  at  times  a  muddy  taste,  there  being 
no  rocks  in  the  ocean,  or  backwater  around,  and  a  great  paucity  of 
sea  weed,  but  the  mud  bottom  of  the  sea,  and  the  Narrikal  mud 
bank,  within  a  few  miles,  appear  to  be  good  feeding  and  breeding 
places.  Higher  up  the  coast,  where  smaller  rivers  open  into  ih)s  sea, 
and  there  is  therefore  not  such  an  accumulation  of  mud,  whilst  the 
shores  are  rocky,  the  fish  are  far  superior  in  flavour. 

It  appears  that  owing  to  the  smoothness  of  the  sea  about  the 
Nairikal  mud  bank,  and  the  great  width  of  the  backwater,  fish  pro- 
ceed there  to  spawn :  hence  the  roe  for  which  Cochin  is  famous,  and 
which  is  generally  very  plentiful,  although  scarce  on  other  parts  of 
the  coast. 

As  is  the  case  in  all  divisions  of  Zoology,  those  tribes  which 
voraciously  prey  upon  their  neighbours,  such  as  the  sharks,  and 
perches,  are  more  numerous  in  India  than  the  more  peaceful  tribes, 
such  as  the  mackerel,  sardine,  &c,,  but  of  course  the  individual 
numbers  of  the  last,  are  much  the  greatest 

It  is  remarkable  that  many  fish  are  prevalent  during  the  whole 
year,  which  are  generally  said  to  feed  on  sea  weeds,  and  around 
rocks;  this  cannot  however  be  invariably  the  case,  as  such  places 
and  food  are  unattainable  around  Cochin. 

The  Perches  both  in  the  sea  and  the  backwattt',  form  a  very 
numerous  group,  some  few  families  are  also  found  in  the  rivers, 
tanks,  and  swampy  places.  The  finest  of  them  is  called  the  Soldier 
fish,  from  its  bright  red  colour,  Holocmtrue  ruhety  {Chemboollay, 
Mai.)  it  grows  to  about  afoot  and  a  half  in  length,  and  is  esteemed 
good  eating,  although  seldom  procurable,  untQ  the  South  West  Mon- 
soon has  commenced,  when  it  become  plentiful.  Other  perches  of 
great  variety  are  found,  but  the  number  is  much  too  large  for 
enumeration,  they  are  of  every  shade,  from  a  bright  golden,  to  a 
dull  brown :  some  spotted,  others  striped  with  gold,  and  again  others 
plain. 

The  AmhoBsU  genus,  are  found  ui  all  the  backwaters,  and  rivers, 
beyond  the  influence  of  the  tides,  and  even  in  the  ponds.  These 
diaphanous  fishes,  are  very  numerous,  and  though  it  is  said  that  in 
the  East  they  are  made  into  anchovies,  such  does  not  hold  good  in 


OOLOUXATION  OF  FISH.  495 

Malabar.  They  are  very  bony,  bat  are  eaten  by  the  Natives.  There 
are  several  spedes,  if  a  sli^t  variety  in  the  number  of  the  fin  rays 
may  be  taken  as  a  distinctive  mark. 

Amongst  the  curious  fishes,  may  be  placed  the  Nandm  marm/ora^ 
tus,  C.  Y.  which  has  an  olive  green  body,  marbled  over  with  brown, 
and  fins  also  streaked  with  the  same  colour.  It  has  a  brassy  reflec- 
tion, when  fresh.  Its  lateral  line  is  interrupted  in  the  posterior 
third.  Its  long  protmsible  mouth,  does  not  add  to  its  beauty,  but 
no  doubt  is  very  serviceable  in  catching  its  prey. 

One  of  the  prettiest  fishes,  althoqgh  rarely  found,  is  a  small  yellow 
Upeiieui,  with  longitudinal  gold  and  chesnut  stripes.  The  MuUus 
family  is  interesting  on  account  of  the  great  esteem  in  which  one  o£ 
the  species  belonging  to  it  was  held  by  Epicures  of  andentRome.  Thus 
a  fish  of  six  pound's  weight,  is  said  to  have  been  worth  an  amount 
equivalent,  to  X48  sterling,  a  large  one  as  much  as  £64,  whilst  on 
one  occasion  £240  were  given  for  three  laige  ones. 

Of  the  Maigre  family,  the  Scicmida  are  common,  both  in  the  fresh 
backwater,  snd  in  the  sea.  The  Otolithui,  and  Corvina  generoe, 
have  several  species  slong  the  coast,  and  a  beautiful  Undnina  is  also 
found,  but  as  they  are  rarely  eaten  by  Europeans,  farther  notice  of 
them  is  unnecessary. 

•  There  are  numerous  species  of  PrMpomay  and  Seoloptides,  whilst 
some  very  interesting  ones  are  found  amongst  the  Sdoenidoe,  in  the 
fresh  and  backwaters.  A  species  of  Mroplw,  of  a  deep  green  colour, 
with  six  vertical  deep  green  bands,  and  an  inky  black  base  to  its 
ventral  extremity,  is  found  to  above  nine  inches  in  length.  This 
species  may  be  the  Etroplus  maculatuSf  C.  Y.  which  also  exists  in  the 
same  localities,  but  does  not  appear  to  grow  to  the  same  length,  and 
the  colouration  is  a  little  different,  but  in  both,  the  lateral  line  is 
absent  in  the  posterior  half  of  the  body. 

The  colours  of  living  fish,  cannot  be  accurately  determined  by  the 
examination  of  dead,  or  dried  specimens,  the  latter  invariably  change, 
as  also  do  fresh  fish,  kept  sodden  in  water.* 

*  liihouldbe  stated,  that  preserved  Bpecimens  of  every  Bpecies  of  fish  here 
mentioned,  besidee  many  others,  are  kept  for  tranamuuion  to  Europe,  by  an  early 
opportunity ;  when  the  new  BpecieSi  several  of  which  are  included  amongst 
them,  may  be  named. 


496  XACKREXL. 

The  beautiful  little  ^<re^tM(7ortft:At,  CY.  {PuHuUay  meen,  MmL) 
which  rarely  exceeds  three  inches  in  length,  is  very  common  in  every 
little  stream  of  water,  antl  even  in  the  mud  of  the  paddy  fields.  Its 
general  colour  is  yellow,  with  17  horisontal  lines,  of  bright  golden 
spots,  along  its  back  and  sides.  The  fins  are  stained  with  black,  and 
some  black  blotches  are  seen  along  the  mdes.  This  small,  pre^y, 
but  pugnacious  animal,  keeps  amongst  plants,  which  grow  in  tank:i 
and  streams.  It  avoids  nets,  by  divipg  down  into  the  mud,  but  may 
be  easily  taken  by  ground  fishing.  It  defends  its  eggs,  and  drives  o£f 
all  intruders,  but  if  several  are  placed  together  in  an  aquarium,  they 
seem  never  tired  of  fighting. 

There  are  several  genera,  and  species  of  the  scaly  finned  family, 
they  appear  most  common  during  the  South  West  Monsoon,  but 
are  on  the  whole  less  numerous,  than  on  the  Eastern  coast  One 
bat  species,  FlcUax  ve^perHliOy  CY.,  which  is  frequently  found  on  the 
Eastern  coast,  as  far  as  Ceylon,  does  not  appear  to  have  extended  its 
range  to  Cochin. 

The  Choetodons,  are  not  very  plentiful,  but  several  species  of  them 
are  found,  amongst  which  is  one  of  a  lavender  colour.  They  are 
rarely  above  four  inches  in  length,  and  are  never  eaten  by  Europeans. 
With  the  South  West  Monsoon,  a  beautiful  little  species  comes  into  the 
river  rather  abundantly.  Its  general  colour  is  grey,  one  long  white  line 
passes  completely  around  it  behind  the  eye,  and  two  others  in  front 
of  it.  The  tail  is  of  a  scarlet  colour,  excepting  the  last  half,  which 
is  snow  white.  The  posterior  part  of  the  dcH:^  fin  i»  edged  with 
white,  having  a  red  border  on  each  side.  The  prettiest  species  is  an 
elegant  little  Coachman,  ffeniochus  macrolepidafus,  C. Y.  about  two 
inches  long,  of  a  pearly  white  colour,  dashed  with  lavender,  and  two 
wide  dark  purple  ventral  bands.  Its  compressed  oval  form,  and  bright 
appearance,  gives  it  much  the  resemblance  of  a  pretty  butterfly.  Its 
third  dorsal  ray,  is  extended  to  about  the  same  length  as  its  body, 
which  has  obtained  for  this  genus  the  designation  of  the  coachman, 
they  are  rare  at  all  times,  but  particularly  so  during  the  dry  hot 
weather. 

The  Mackerel  family,  ScamheridoSf  are  extremely  numerous. 
Amongst  them  are  some  which  are  very  highly  esteemed.  The 
Indian  mackerel,  Scomber  haragurta,  C.  Y.  (Ila^  MaL)  is  very  abun- 


THJS  SBIB  nsH.  497 

dant  along  the  Weetera,  and  Southern  parts  of  India,  as  well  as 
around  Ceylon,  but  appears  not  to  be  found  on  the  Eastern  Coast 
It  rarely  exceeds  ten  or  eleven  inches  in  length,  and  appears  to  be 
usually  of  the  same  size.  It  is  most  common  in  April  and  May,  and 
is  very  excellent  eating,  the  flavour  being  the  same  as  in  the  Euro* 
pean  species,  S.  Scomber.  Natives  recognize  two  sorts,  one  being 
smaller  than  the  other  bdt  with  a  larger  eye,  this  they  call  the  Cunny 
ila,  MaL  It  does  not  venture  within  two  miles  of  the  shore,  or  into  the 
backwater.  During  the  hot  weather,  great  exertions  are  made  to  salt 
this  species  of  mackerel,  and  from  20  to  50,000  of  them,  are  frequent- 
ly landed  daily  at  Yypeen,  where  the  salting  process  is  carried  on, 
either  by  the  natives,  or  by  persons  who  come  over  from  Ceylon  for 
that  purpose,  as  well  as  to  assist  in  capturing  them. 

The  first  process  consists  in  a  oooly  making  one  cut  with  a  sharp 
knife  along  the  back  bone^  from  the  head  to  the  tail,  and  then  a 
second  down  its  ventral  surface,  exposing  the  intestines.  It  is  then 
thrown  over  to  a  woman,  who  having  removed  its  inside,  tosses  it  into 
a  basket  with  two  handles,  which  when  half  full,  is  carried  by  two 
men  to  the  sea  shore,  where  the  fish  are  washed  without  being  re- 
moved. When  dean,  they  are  thrown  on  some  leaves,  and  the 
salting  commences.  Women  and  children,  rapidly  put  some  black 
salt  into  each  cut,  and  throw  the  fish  into  a  boat  close  beside  them, 
(on  the  shore,)  in  which  there  is  brine,  there  they  remain  for  a  few 
hours,  and  are  subsequently  spread  out  in  the  sun,  dried  and  packed 
in  square  bundles,  of  1000  each,  and  usually  sold  for  export  to 
Columba 

The  Seir  Fish,  or  Indian  Salmon,  Cgbium,  abound  off  Cochin,  and 
have  at  least  four  varieties.  They  grow  to  a  laige  size;  most  of  them 
are  captured  from  October  through  the  cold  months.  The  Fisher- 
men denominate  the  four  sorts  accordiog  to  their  size  and  shape.  The 
largest  is  called  Arraheec^  and  is  said  to  grow  to  four  feet  or  even 
more  in  length.  The  second  Ib  the  Varee  meen,  it  ia  broader  than 
the  first  and  does  not  exceed  three  feet  in  length.  The  third  is  the 
Chumbum  which  is  never  above  two  feet  long,  and  the  smallest  the 
PoooUha  Chumbum  is  rather  less.  They  are  commonly  said  to  be 
the  best  of  Indian  fishes,  but  although  good,  a  large  common  mullet, 

is  in  no  wise  its  inferior,  and  perhaps  might  even  claim  superiority. 

p  2 


498  TH£  CLIMBING  PERCH. 

The  Scad  or  Horse  Mackerel,  Caranx,  is  rare  on  the  Western 
Coast,  but  amongst  the  shoals  on  the  Eastern  side  of  the  Peninsu- 
lar, Mr.  Jerdon  mentions,  having  procured  at  least  23  species. 

The  Pomfret  of  both  varieties  is  found;  the  white,  Stroniaieus 
candiduSf  C.  V.  (Vella  Arwoolee,  Mai.)  and  the  black,  S.  Niger,  C.  V. 
(Kar  Arwoolee,  Mai.)  The  first  is  the  most  nomerous,  and  held  in 
the  greatest  estimation  for  eating,  it  is  like  a  small  turbot,  but  of 
more  delicate  flavour,  occasionally  the  latter  comes  in  large  quanti- 
ties. They  are  most  commonly  found  during  the  South  West  Mon- 
soon, but  may  also  be  procured  in  the  succeeding  months. 

Amongst  the  ribbon  shaped  fishes,  Toenidoe,  two  species  of  hair-tail, 
TricJdurus  naumela,  C.  V.  and  T.  savala,  are  exceedingly  common, 
and  much  esteemed  by  the  natives  for  food. 

'  The  Lancet  Fish  family,  ThetUyes,  has  one  species  of  Acanthurus, 
which  is  not  uncommon.  It  is  rarely  above  five  inches  long,  and  of 
a  flat  oval  form.  Its  general  colour  is  a  dull  brown,  with  deep  brown 
longitudinal  stripes,  having  Uuish  margins.  At  the  side  of  its 
tail,  is  a  lancet  shaped  spine,  capable  of  being  either  elevated  or  de- 
pressed, within  a  kind  of  yellow  sheaf.  When  irritated,  it  can  in- 
flict a  severe  wound,  by  striking  sideways  with  its  tail,  and  hitting 
a  person  with  this  little  weapon.  There  is  a  Siganm  and  other  armed 
fish,  which  will  be  subsequently  mentioned. 

The  family  of  fish  having  dilated  and  hollowed  superior  pharyngeal 
bones,  peculiar  to  tropical  countries,  are  well  represented.  The  most 
extraordinary,  although  generally  speaking  true  accounts  of  this  tribe 
which  have  been  given  to  the  world,  have  been  but  too  commonly 
treated  as  subjects  for  ridicule,  or  incredulity,  it  will  therefore  de- 
mand more  space,  than  would  otherwise  be  necessary.  They  are 
able  to  rcmain  from  a  few  hours,  to  above  a  day,  out  of  fresh  water, 
to  live  in  the  mud,  and  crawl  over  dry  land,  therefore  their  apparently 
miraculous  presence,  in  newly  formed  ponds  of  water,  during  the 
Munsoon,  has  given  rise  to  the  belief,  that  they  must  have  fallen 
from  the  sky. 

Perhaps  the  most  extraordinary  of  these  is  the  climbing  Perch, 
Ahabcu  Scandens,  Daldorf,  {KvrroopoOf  MaL)  also  denominated, 
Panieri,  or  climber  of  Palmira  trees,  by  the  Tamuls,  although  there 
is  no  such  distinctive  term  in  Malayalim,  Lieut  Daldorf  menticHis 


OLIMBIKO  FISH.  499 

having  witnessed  one  of  them,  five  feet  from  the  ground  ;  and  as  it 
is  well  known,  that  the  leaves  of  Pahnira  trees  come  down  close  to 
their  roots,  it  is  not  impossible  that  it  might  have  climbed  up  there, 
provided  its  walking,  and  leaping  powers,  were  proved. 

Having  procured  some  living  specimens  from  a  tank,  they  were 
placed  upon  the  ground,  and  they  certainly  progressed  for  some 
distance,  this  they  effected  in  two  different  modes,  either  by  lying  on 
their  sides,  flapping  their  tails,  and  moving  their  pectoral  fins,  in 
fact  by  almost  gliding  along ;  or  in  another  way,  which  was  still 
more  curious,  and  mnch  more  dignified,  principally  managed,  by 
the  aid  of  the  pectoral  fins,  which  were  moved  like  wrists,  one  being 
first  advanced,  and  then  the  other,  whilst  progression  was  assisted 
by  the  caudal  fin. 

There  is  scarcely  a  fisherman,  or  even  a  Native,  who  during  the 
Monsoon  time,  has  not  seen  the  climbing  Perch  proceeding  in  large 
numbers,  from  one  tank  to  another.  To  aid  him  whilst  on  land,  his 
pharynx  is  hollowed,  and  possesses  a  spongy  bone,  in  which  water  is 
carried,  with  which  he  moistens  Ms  fins  and  giUs.  Having  person- 
ally tried  to  ascertain  the  length  of  time,  this  fish  can  in  the  hot 
weather  live  out  of  water,  from  24  to  26  hours,  appears  to  be 
the  maximum. 

Having  thus  shown  its  powers  of  progression,  and  that  it 
can  live  out  of  water,  the  next  question  is,  whether  it  is  capable 
of  leaping.  Its  spinous  gill  lids,  have  been  considered  to  be 
the  instruments,  with  which  it  holds  on  when  climbing  up  a 
tree,  and  certainly  they  are  very  sharp  :  its  scales  even,  are  all  very 
rough,  and  it  appears  able  to  elevate  them  at  pleasure,  wliilst  its 
spinous  fin  rays,  renders  it  a  very  unpleasant  fish  to  lay  hold  of. 
Nevertheless  without  denying  its  climbing  propensities,  or  its  hold- 
ing on  by  its  gill  fins,  until  it  gets  higher  up,  such  certainly  appears 
doubtful.  A  Native  suggested,  that  perhaps  a  kite  might  have 
dropped  the  fish  into  the  position  in  which  it  was  seen  by  Daldorf. 
But  it  is  known  that  a  climbing  Perch  can  jump,  and  its  Tamul 
name  is  a  curious,  and  probably,  an  expressive  one. 

It  is  impossible  to  keep  this  fish  in  a  vivarium,  unless  there  be  a 
cover  on  the  top,  or  the  water  is  a  long  distance  from  the  glass :  one 
which  was  a  foot  in  height  could  never  keep  them  in. 


500  WALKING   FISH. 

This  fish  has  an  interrupted  lateral  line,  its  colour  is  dark  green, 
and  some  have  a  spot  near  the  side  of  the  tail,  only  perceptible  when 
in  the  water :  others  are  barred  transversely,  and  they  do  not  appear 
to  be  the  same  species. 

As  the  Monsoon  sets  in,  the  Andbas  Secmdem,  and  the  Ophice- 
phalus,  are  found  in  every  place^  where  there  is  water,  they  appear 
generally  to  creep  over  land,  from  the  full  stocked  tanks,  to  ^ose 
newly  created  by  the  fall  of  rain. 

There  are  several  spedea  of  Opkicephalif  (Verrarlj  MaL)  which 
'  might  well  be  termed  walking  fis^,  they  have  also  labyrinths  in 
their  pharynx,  but  not  of  nearly  so  complicated  a  description,  as  in 
the  genus  last  mentioned.  The  largest,  0.  8triatus,  Block,  grows 
to  nearly  3  feet  in  length,  and  is  perhaps  the  most  esteemed  of  all 
fresh  water  fishes  inland.  For  the  greater  the  distance  from  the 
sea  coast  the  more  indigestible  the  fish  become,  with  the  exception 
of  those  of  this  &mily. 

This  fish  is  of  a  lengthened  form,  and  rather  slimy,  of  a  dusky  green- 
ish colour  above,  and  white  underneath,  with  stripes  or  spots :  it 
will  jump  out  of  water,  but  by  no  means  as  high  as  the  climbing 
perch.  When  on  the  ground,  it  never  throws  itself  on  its  side,  but 
remaining  in  the  same  position  as  when  in  its  native  element,  helps 
itself  along  by  means  of  its  pectoral  fins. 

Further  inland  is  another  small  species,  0.  punctattu,  Block, 
which  is  said  never  to  exceed  6  or  7  inches  in  length.  It  has  two 
short  cirri  on  its  upper  lip ;  their  habits  are  similar.  The  most 
beautiful  is  the  0.  marulius,  BucL,  of  a  rifle  green  with  orange 
stripes,  and  pearl  white  spots,  it  grows  to  a  very  large  size.  All  this 
family  may  be  at  times  seen  in  soft  muddy  places,  where  it  would 
apparently  be  almost  impossible,  for  a  fish  to  remain,  but  the  testi- 
mony of  all  classes  of  Natives,  and  also  of  some  Europeans,  afford 
reliable  evidence,  of  these  fish  having  been  dug  up  alive.  Personal 
observation  cannot  be  brought  forward  to  support  this,  but  it  is 
without  doubt^  a  well  authenticated  fact. 

The  Mullets,  MugiUdae^  are  the  most  numerous  of  the  larger  fish, 
and  certainly  as  good  as  any  for  eating.  About  the  middle  of 
October  or  commencement  of  November,  they  begin  to  swarm  into  the 
river,  and  backwater  to  deposit  their  spawn.  They  are  then  to  be  pro- 


THE  SOCfK  FISH  FAMILY.  £f01 

cared  in  great  numbers  and  their  roe  is  mnch  songht  after.    By  Feb^ 
niary  they  begin  to  get  scarce  and  by  Apnl  are  almost  unprocarable. 

Mullets  take  surprising  leaps,  and  should  one  spring  over  a  net, 
others  foUow.  Whilst  sleeping  at  night  in  a  cabin  boat,  on  the 
backwater,  persons'  nenres  may  be,  and  often  are  upset,  by  the  grey 
Mullet,  Muffil  Capita,  C.  Y.,  jumping  in  at  the  window,  and  coming 
in  contact  with  the  sleeper^s  face.  Fish  frequently  jump  into  boats, 
and  are  thus  captured 

Several  species,  of  Mullets  (Ctmnumboo,  MaL)  are  distinguishable  in 
Cochin,  and  some  of  them  correspond  with  the  MugU  CapUo,  M. 
ChelOy  or  M.  Curtis,  of  great  Britain.  Certainly  a  good  Mullet,  Af. 
GephalctuB,  C.  V.  {M<Mah,  Mai.)  yields  the  pahn  to  no  fish  as  far  as 
its  table  properties  are  concerned,  although  abundant  and  wholesome, 
it  is  not  esteemed  so  much  as  it  deserves  to  be. 

Amongst  the  smaU  Eel  shaped  fishes,  having  very  long  projecting 
snouts,  the  MastacembluB  Marmoratm,  C  V.,  is  found  inland,  in  large 
quantities. 

The  Qoby  family,  or  sea  Gudgeons,  Gobiodce,2kTe  exceedingly  numer- 
ous, not  only  in  the  backwater,  but  also  in  the  tanks  and  rivers.  First 
in  the  rivers  come  the  Blennies,  and  one  little  tufted  species,  is  by  no 
means  rare. 

.  The  true  Gobies,  which  have  been  celebrated  from  the  time  of 
Aristotle,  for  building  a  nest,  and  watching  their  spawn,  are  very 
common,  and  grow  to  a  great  size.  They  are  a  curious  genus,  in  that 
the  ventral  fins,  which  are  distinct  one  from  the  other,  in  most  fish, 
are  joined  together  in  the  true  Gobies,  in  the  form  of  a  rounded  disc, 
or  sucker,  the  use  of  which  does  not  appear  to  be  well  known. 

One  small  species  of  this  family,  G,  Viridipunctatw,  C.  Y.,  is 
occasionally  taken.  Its  brown  body,  has  numerous  spots  of  a  beau- 
tifnl  emerald  green,  dispersed  over  it.  When  young,  these  fish  are 
without  the  spots,  which  are  also  lost  when  they  are  dried.  There 
are  several  species  of  EUotris  in  the  sea,  the  backwaters,  the  rivers, 
and  the  tanks. 

The  Wrasse,  or  Bock  fish  family,  called  by  Europeans,  the  *^  oUL 
wives  of  the  sea,"  has  its  representatives :  amongst  them  the  genus  of 
Julis,  though  small  in  size,  holds  a  conspicuous  place,  on  account  of 
its  beauty. 


603  TAME  FtSH. 

•  Tke  pipe  mouthed  fish,  Fidulay-icfif  are  extremely  curious  in 
their  appearance,  and  two  species  are  occasionally  obtained  ;  they  are 
called  tobacco-pipe  fish,  from  their  jaws  being  elongated,  and  only 
opening  at  the  extremity. 

Amongst  the  most  interesting  fish,  are  those  which  are  mostly 
inhabitants  of  fresh  water,  some  of  which  in  the  beauty  of  their 
colours,  vie  with  those  from  the  sea.  The  Sygtomm  JUamentosus,  V., 
when  alive  is  white,  when  dead  and  preserved  in  the  usual  way,  it 
becomes  of  a  carmine  colour. 

A  very  pretty  species  of  Sydomns,  exists  in  the  rivers,  it  is 
generally  about  four  inches  long,  with  two  tendrils  on  the  upper 
jaw,  the  colour  is  dusky  greenish  black,  sides  and  ventral  surface 
whitish,  black  diffused  spot  on  lateral  line  near  the  tail,  caudal 
fin  deeply  lobed,  its  centre  third  of  a  deep  scarlet,  its  posterior 
third  deep  black,  and  the  other  fins  white.  There  are  many  other 
species  in  this  family,  but  with  neither  beauty  of  colouring  to  bring 
them  to  notice,  nor  size  sufficient  to  recommend  them  a  place  at  the 
table  of  Europeans. 

There  are  several  species  of  Barhus,  Systomus,  and  Leucisctts,  &c., 
which  are  invariably  to  be  found  in  all  rivers  and  ponds. 

At  Erritara  Carvee,  nearly  eight  miles  North  East  of  Shallacoody, 
is  an  Umbalum,  situated  upon  the  river's  bank,  where  the  fish  re- 
ceive a  supply  of  food,  every  week,  and  it  is  believed  that  whoever 
kills  any,  will  certainly  die  within  the  year.  There  is  a  tradition 
that  a  Portuguese  Priest  ridiculed  this  idle  legend,  and  started  in 
a  boat  with  the  intention  of  catching  some:  after  having  vainly 
attempted  to  obtain  the  assistance  of  the  boatmen,  he  fired  his  gun 
at  one  of  the  fish  with  fatal  effect,  and  it  instantly  sank.  He  then 
directed  his  servant  to  dive  down  and  bring  up  the  game,  but 
he  declined  :  so  the  Priest  went  down  himself,  where  according  to 
the  Native  account,  he  found  a  lot  of  Demons,  who  however  vanish- 
ed when  he  made  the  sign  of  the  cross.  He  then  seized  his  prey, 
and  ascended  into  the  boat,  but  hardly  had  the  fish  touched  its  planks, 
when  it  miraculously  disappeared.  The  Priest  returned  home  and 
died  in  two  days. 

Setting  tradition  aside,  the  place  is  sufficiently  remarkable,  it  is 
a  deep  river,  about  500  yards  wide,  well  wooded,  and  removed  from 


Tfl£  FLYING  FISH.  S03 

houses,  or  dwellings,  (no  one  resides  in  the  Umbalum)  and  hun- 
dreds of  carp  flock  up,  to  recelye  rice  from  the  passer  by.  They 
vary  in  size,  from  three  feet,  to  8  inches  in  length,  and  are  so  tame, 
that  they  will  take  food  from  a  person's  hand.  It  is  no  use  attempt^ 
ing  to  capture  them  with  the  hand,  in  some  instances  a  finger  may 
even  be  inserted  in  their  mouths,  (this  tribe  have  no  teeth,)  but 
they  cannot  be  held,  as  they  are  too  slippery  to  drag  out  of  the 
-water.  No  assistance  can  be  obtained  from  the  boatmen,  who  are 
afraid  of  hurting  them.  It  is  said,  that  should  any  one  visit  the 
place  with  the  intention  of  capturing  them,  he  will  see  none,  but 
X)er8onal  experience  does  not  carry  out  this  theory.  Some  species 
brought  from  another  place,  but  said  to  be  the  same,  were  the  Bar- 
bus  McUabaincuSf  Jerd. 

A  little  Loach,  Cobitis  rubripimug,  Jerd.,  may  be  seen  in  any 
irrigated  paddy  field,  generally  in  company  with  some  species  of 
Ophicephalm,  and  the  little  EtropltiB  conichi. 

Amongst  the  Pike  family,  the  genus  Belone,  {Goplah,  MaL)  affords 
more  than  one  example.  Their  jaws  are  extended  into  a  long  beak, 
their  colours  are  bright  green,  white  underneath,  and  a  black  spot 
on  the  tail.  The  species  found  in  the  rivers,  is  the  Belone 
Graiiy  Sykes.  (MorrahloOy  Mai)  They  are  considered  good  eating 
by  Natives,  but  not  so  by  Europeans,  on  account  of  their  bones. 
It  is  said  that  in  whatever  part  of  the  world  there  are  Jews,  these 
fish  are  to  be  found. 

A  common  little  fish,  in  the  Hemiramphvsj  {Morrtdy  MaL)  which 
much  resembles  a  small  Belone,  and  appears  as  if  its  upper  jaw  had 
been  cut  off,  as  the  lower  one  extends  far  beyond  it.  It  is  rare 
during  the  South  West  Monsoon,  at  other  periods  very  numerous. 
Of  this  family,  there  are  several  species,  one  of  which  is  found  in 
the  fresh  water.  It  is  very  highly  esteemed  for  eating  by  the 
Natives. 

The  flying  ^i^yExocetm  nigripinnisy  C.  Y.,  is  found  in  the  deep  sea 
and  rarely  comes  near  the  land.  It  is  curious  to  see  them  springing 
out  of  the  water,  apparently  to  escape  from  some  unseen  enemy. 
They  do  not  appear  exactly  to  fly,  but  jump  and  skim  along,  whilst 
their  long  pectoral  fins  remain  moist :  but  as  soon  as  they  are  dry, 
they  again  drop  into  the  ocean;  if  a  wave  touches  them,  they  seem 


604  THB  ANCHOVY. 

able  to  akim  further  along.    They  jump  to  a  great  height,  and  fre- 
quently come  on  board  laige  vesselfl.    They  are  good  eatiQg. 

In  the  family  of  SUuridce,  or  Sheat  fish,  is  found  a  spedes,  which 
ia  greatly  dreaded  by  the  Nattves.  With  something  the  appear- 
ance of  an  Eel,  it  has  eight  long  cirri  growing  from  round  its,  mouth, 
which  has  sometimes  caused  it  to  be  designated  the  cat  fish.  Its 
power  of  mischief  exists  in  a  very  strong  saw-like  bony  ray,  situated 
in  its  pectoral  fin,  with  which  it  strikes  severely,  inflicting  a  very 
jagged  wound,  believed  by  some  to  be  poisonous,  and  by  others  to  be 
very  irritating,  owing  merely  to  its  jagged  nature.  Its  colour  is  black, 
it  lives  in  the  tanks  and  stagnant  water,  and  is  esteemed  good  eat- 
ing, it  is  called  the  Kahree  meen,  Mai.  Silurtu  vocdts  (?)  Buch.  Im- 
mediately after  catching  it  the  Natives  break  off  itsoffonsive  spine. 

Another  species,  Silurtu  MalaharicuBy  BL,  is  also  found  farther  in- 
land, but  is  not  so  common,  and  its  wound  is  not  feared.  Its  colours 
are  very  much  lighter,  and  its  underneath  surface  of  silvery  white. 

Another  tribe  of  fish,  which  is  nearly  as  much  dreaded  as  the 
Siluridoe,  is  the  Bagrif  (Cooree,  MaL)  which  swarm  not  only  in  all 
the  fresh  water,  but  also  in  the  backf^ater.  Their  pectoral  spines 
inflict  severe  wounds.  The  species  are  very  numerous,  and  some  are 
of  a  large  size,  and  frequently  salted 

The  Herring  Family,  Clupeidco,  yield  some  very  important  fish, 
requiring  especial  notice,  which  are  apparently  much  more  numerous 
than  on  the  Eastern  coast  of  India :  still  in  Cochin,  their  prevalence 
during  different  years  varies  greatly.  The  oil  Sardine,  Sardinella 
Neohourii,  (Karlay,  Mai)  which  not  long  since  yielded  40,000  gallons 
of  fish  oil  in  twelve  months,  does  not  appear  since  then,  to  have 
come  in  any  numbers.  In  another  few  months,  shoals  may  possibly 
return  even  larger  than  any  that  have  preceded  them.  Nothing 
appears  certain  in  this  &mily,  as  they  are  very  capricious  both  in 
choosing  and  leaving  localities.  Another  species  is  recognised,  from 
its  never  being  so  fat  as  the  oil  sardine,  and  consequently  useless 
for  oil,  it  is  called  the  GtMhee  karlay,  MaL 

An  Anchovy,  about  5j|  inches  long,  Ungraulis  <Mu8,  C.  Y.,  comes 
in  enormous  quantities,  and  is  caught  even  in  the  parallelogram 
nets  at  the  mouth  of  the  river.  It  is  very  good  eating,  but  Indian 
ingenuity  has  not  yet  attempted  preserving  Anchovies,  as  is  done  in 


SKA   PORCUPINES.  505 

Earope,  for  which  purpose  the  Cochin  would  be  as  good  as  the 
Mediterranean. 

There  are  many  other  genera  of  this  vast  family,  that  come  in 
large  quantities,  and  are  extensively  employed  as  food,  but  none 
appear  to  be  preserved  or  salted 

The  flat  fish,  or  Flounder  Family,  Pleuronectidae,  are  not  numer- 
ous, still  they  are  not  unknown,  whilst  they  are  excellent  eating. 

There  is  a  very  curious  fish  the  Remora  or  sucking  fish,  Bcheneis, 
called  the  PuUoo  moday,  Mai.,  or  ^  catching  mouth,"  with  reference 
to  a  sucker  having  23  plates  on  the  top  of  its  head,  whereby  it  holds 
on  to  any  smooth  object  It  is  usually  found  attached  to  the  back 
of  a  shark,  from  whence  it  is  said  to  extract  its  vital  fluids  :  but  it 
cannot  be  considered  common. 

In  ancient  times,  its  powers  were  considered  very  great,  and  at  the 
battle  of  Aetium,  Antony's  ship  was  said  to  have  been  held  motionless 
by  a  huge  Bemora.  The  sailors  pulled,  but  the  remorseless  fish 
would  not  permit  them  to  advance :  other  equally  circumstantial 
accounts  are  in  existence,  but  in  the  present  age,  persons  are  not 
credulous  enough,  to  attribute  so  much  power  to  a  fish  of  about  a 
foot  in  length. 

The  Eels  do  not  appear  to  be  rare  anywhere,  and  some  of  them  are 
very  interesting.  There  is  one  species,  Balophis  OriefUalit,  which 
18  eanly  caught,  and  affords  great  amusement  to  boys,  as  if  thrown 
on  the  moist  sand,  it  buries  itself,  tail  foremost,  with  the  greatest 
rapidity.  It  is  much  more  numerous  a  little  to  the  South,  than  in 
Cochin. 

In  the  backwater,  canals,  and  other  places,  a  large  Eel,  anguilla, 
is  found,  which  does  not  quite  agree  with  the  recorded  species.  It 
is  excellent  eating.  Whilst  a  deep  brown  coloured  Synbranchut, 
blotched  with  black,  and  slightly  tinged  with  greenish,  exists  in  the 
Fort  Ditch,  and  other  places. 

The  sea  Porcupines,  TetraodonSj  (Eurramah  eutchee,  Mai.)  are 
veiy  common,  and  may  often  be  seen  thrown  up  by  the  sea,  and 
lying  inflated  on  the  shore:  they  are  very  tenacious  of  life,  and  are  able 
to  elevate  little  spines,  all  over  their  bodies  at  pleasure,  they  croak 
something  like  frogs.  The  natives  occasionally  eat  them,  but  they 
often  cause  indigestion,  whilst  others  call  than  sea  frogs,  and  will  not 

Q  2 


506  8HASKS. 

touch  them,  they  are  given  in  cases  of  consumption.  Though  mudi 
differing  in  appearance,  still  belonging  to  another  diviaion  of  the 
same  family,  is  a  class  of  fish,  Balistea,  with  hard  granulated  skiDs, 
bright  colours,  and  very  extraordinary  looking  spines,  or  horns 
firmly  attached  to  the  body.  In  the  Triaoanthus  (Mootarreey  MaL)  one 
horn,  extends  upwards  from  the  back  of  the  head,  and  two  down- 
wards, in  the  position  of  the  ventral  fins.  These  fish  are  most  com- 
mon about  the  cold  months  of  the  year,  and  the  termination  of  the 
South  West  Monsoon. 

Passing  onwards  to  the  Sharks,  and  Bays,  we  find  many  varietLea, 
of  which  curious  tales  are  told,  the  appearance  of  some  of  them  is 
very  extraordinary ;  whilst  the  uses  they  are  put  to,  are  varied,  and 
the  fear  they  instil  into  the  fishermen,  b  very  great. 

There  are  several  species  of  Dog  fishes,  Scylliidce,  and  Sharks,  Car- 
charicUXj  {Ghoorawoo,  MaL,)  which  destroy  fish,  and  tear  the  nets,  should 
they  become  entangled  in  them ;  the  large  species  is  very  common, 
and  will  even  carry  off  men.  A  man  eating  shark  is  of  very  rare 
occurrence.  For  several  years,  only  one  instance  has  occurred  of  a 
person  being  taken  by  a  shark  near  Cochin. 

A  fisherman  who  had  been  out  all  night,  in  January  1862,  wished 
for  some  toddy,  but  as  the  remainder  of  the  men  objected  to  landing, 
it  was  agreed  that  he  should  swim  ashore,  obtain  what  he  required, 
and  then  return  to  the  boat.  But  he  had  scarcely  left  the  boat's 
side,  when  a  large  white  shark  was  seen  in  pursuit:  it  sdzed  the 
unfortunate  man  almost  immediately,  and  Mt  a  piece  out  of  him,  but 
dropping  this,  it  turned  again  upon  its  back,  and  carried  off  its 
prey,  who  was  never  seen  again. 

The  most  frequent  accidents  arising  from  sharks,  occur  either 
after  the  fish  has  been  hooked,  and  brought  into  the  boat,  or  else 
when  it  has  become  entangled  in  a  net,  and  the  Fishermen  either 
attempt  to  seize  it,  or  to  cut  the  meshes  to  let  it  go. 

Sharks  are  generally  caught  by  lines  and  hooks,  and  take  a  bait, 
if  their  guide  is  not  with  them,  which  is  a  variety  of  the  Pilot  Fish, 
Naucrates  doctor,  that  appears  never  to  Ipse  sight  of  its  friend  the 
shark.  It  has  been  observed  to  keep  it  from  swallowing  a  bait,  and 
even  to  hold  on  by  its  tail,  after  it  has  been  hooked,  to  prevent  its 
Wng  drawn  out  of  the  water.     The  ancients  believed  that  the  pilot 


THE  SAW   FISH.  507 

fish,  went  with  their  veeselsy  until  the  desired  haven  was  reachec^ 
when  it  left  them.  Its  darkly  striped  sides^  makes  it  easily  per- 
ceived from  the  deck  of  a  vessel,  and  when  captured,  it  is  good 
eating,  as  it  belongs  to  the  Alackerel  family. 

A  shark  is  rather  a  valuable  acquisition,  its  flesh  is  esteemed  very 
nutritive,  and  though  rarely  eaten  fresh,  it  is  salted  in  pieces,  and 
then  is  believed  to  be  very  good,  especially  for  women  who  have 
young  infants.  Its  native  name,  of  Fal  Soora,  Mai.,  or  milk  produc- 
ing, refers  to  the  powers  attributed  to  it.  The  hammer  headed 
•hark,  grows  to  12  feet^  or  even  more  in  length,*  it  is  not  esteemed 
80  nourishing,  as  the  other  species. 

The  Saw  Fish,  Pristis  semi  scigittatus,  Shaw.,  is  certainly  more  to 
be  dreaded  than  the  sharks,  and  accidents  are  more  commonly  seen 
caused  by  its  snout,  which  is  extended  like  a  sword,  and  toothed 
like  a  large  saw ;  a  very  formidable  weapon  of  offence,  and  one  it  is 
very  fond  of  making  use  o£  The  eye  is  very  curiously  formed,  the 
yellowish  coloured  iris,  which  has  a  very  fine  black  margin,  instead 
cf  possessing  a  circular  hole  in  its  centre,  commonly  called  the  pupil, 
may  be  said  to  be  entire,  and  an  oval  flap  made  of  its  upper  and 
lower  hall  These  flaps  appear  to  be  easily  raised,  depressed,  or 
expanded,  thus  partially  or  completely  excluding  light  as  required. 
The  habits  of  this  fish  are  too  little  known,  for  any  assertion  to  be 
made  regarding  the  use  of  this  peculiar  iris,  but  as  neither  eyelids  nor 
nictitating  membranes  could  act  owing  to  external  pressure  under 
water,  analogy  would  favour  the  belief,  that  this  fish  traverses  some 
peculiarly  bright  spaces,  where  the  light  would  be  too  strong  for  its 
optical  apparatus,  and  that  consequently  it  has  the  power  of  excluding 
as  much  of  it  as  it  pleases,  by  means  of  these  curtains  formed  of 
the  iris.  The  lens  is  peculiarly  soft  Their  flesh  is  equally  good 
with  the  sharks.  The  fins  of  all  these  species,  are  salted,  and 
generally  sent  to  China.  Their  skins  are  used  for  sword  belts,  and 
rubbing  down  rough  surfaces. 

The  Skates,  Raiaidm,  are  very  numerous,  and  of  great  variety, 

*  The  Natiyes  give  most  exaggerated  accounts  of  the  size  of  these  fish ;  the 
'luunmer  headed  shark,  they  say  is  often  from  40  to  60  feet  in  length,  and  the 
white  variety  much  larger,  but  they  cannot  cateh  them,  owing  to  their  enor* 
«nou«  size ! 


508  RAY   FISHES. 

both  in  colour  and  form.  They  are  considered  as  nutritious  as  the 
sharks,  all  are  used  if  captured  in  the  Monsoon  time  by  the  fish  oil 
manufacturers.  A  species  of  Eagle  Ray,  MyliobcUidcB,  also  known 
as  a  Whip  Bay,  from  its  long  tail,  which  hi  often  three  times  the 
length  of  its  body,  is  very  common  from  October  to  Febroary.  It 
is  generally  perceived  jumping,  or  as  the  Natives  express  it  flying 
out  of  the  sea,  or  Backwater,  at  which  period,  they  are  believed  to 
be  spawning.  Their  large  size  renders  them  conspicuous  objects, 
even  as  far  as  a  distance  of  three  miles.  When  jumping  they  torn 
round,  and  their  white  under  surface,  is  more  apparent  than  their 
darker  backs,  which  in^  some  are  marked  all  over  like  the  skin  of  a 
Cheetah. 

Natives  are  from  experience,  very  cautious  in  handling  these  fish, 
until  quite  dead.  The  spine  on  their  tails  are  employed  as  weapons 
of  either  offence  or  defence,  as  the  case  may  be.  By  twisting 
their  tail  around  a  person's  hand,  or  arm,  they  inflict  a  most 
severe  wound,  by  a  dragging  motion.  In  1861  a  man  came  to  the 
Dispensary,  with  his  right  forearm  mortified,  from  a  wound  of  this 
description,  and  amputation  was  obliged  to  be  resorted  to. 

One  day  on  the  backwater,  a  few  miles  from.  Cochin,  an  Eagle 
Bay  nearly  6  feet  in  length,  from  the  end  of  l^s  tail  to  the  tip  of 
his  nose,  was  seen  gyrating  about,  close  to  the  cabin  boat.  No  dif- 
ficulty was  experienced  in  coming  up  to  him,  but  the  question  then 
arose,  whether  he  was  only  playing  a  trick  to  induce  some  unwary 
individual  to  try  and  capture  him,  and  then  after  giving  him  a 
wound  with  its  tail,  to  swim  away  triumphant.  But  accidents  will 
happen,  a  boat  hook  was  at  hand,  the  prize  was  captured,  its  tail 
cut  off,  and  its  evil  powers  destroyed.  » 

This  tail  has  in  it  an  evident  power  of  evil,  whilst  the  fish  is 
alive,  but  after  its  death,  it  is  supposed  to  have  equally  excellent 
virtues.  The  fortunate  possessor  of  it,  being  effectually  protected 
against  charms,  and  able  to  face  the  evil  eye  with  impunity. 

There  are  many  other  species  of  Bays,  one  of  which  {Therrundeey 
Mai.,)  would  be  exactly  like  a  Bat,  were  its  long  tail  removed,  all 
appear  aware  of  the  possession  of  this  powerful  weapon,  and  Fisher- 
men almost  invariably  cut  it  off,  as  soon  as  the  Fish  is  caught,  to 
prevent  its  injuring  them. 


COCHIN  PISHRRIES.  609 

Some  species  of  Electric  Bays,  are  found  farther  down  the  coaat, 
bat  they  do  not  appear  to  be  <»iptured  at  Cochin. 

The  Fisheries  are  now  unrestricted,  but  in  the  time  of  the  Dutch| 
every  fisherman  was  either  obliged  to  pay  a  certain  amount,  or  give 
a  proportion  of  his  gains  as  a  sort  of  royalty,  to  the  officials  of 
Coehin. 

The  foregoing  glance  at  the  enormous  numbers,  and  varieties  of 
fish,  must  give  rise  to  the  thought ;  what  use  are  all  these  bounti- 
ful gifts  of  Providence  turned  to  f  Or  are  the  Shark  and  the  Perch 
allowed  to  prey  upon  their  smaller  neighbours,  and  the  weaker  to  be 
destroyed  by  the  stronger,  whilst  man  is  starving  in  the  vicinity  f 
It  is  unfortunately,  but  too  evident,  that  year  after  year,  the  horrors 
of  starvation  are  not  unknown  amongst  the  population,  and  a  want 
of  nutriment  is  of  common  occurrence.  The  Hindu  of  Bengal  may 
exclaim,  thai  those  of  his  religion  will  not  eat  fish,  but  such  ia 
incorrect,  in  Malabar  most  of  the  twice  bom  classes  refuse  to  do  so, 
none  of  the  Sudras  and  those  beneath  them. 

The  reason  why  large  quantities  of  salt  fish  are  not  exported 
from  the  Native  States,  is  a  question  for  the  Politician  to  solve,  but 
heavy  taxes  on  salt,  and  enormous  almost  prohibitoiy  duties, 
cannot  conduce  to  the  success  of  this  trade.  In  Europe  fkom 
very  early  ages  fisheries  were  protected  by  l^slative  enactment, 
not  so  in  the  Native  States  of  India,  where  neither  protec- 
tion, free  trade,  nor  encouragement,  is  afforded  the  low  caste  fisher^ 
man,  to  enable  him  to  extend  his  occupation,  to  the  curing  and  ex^ 
portation  of  fish. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


INVERTEBRATE  AKIMALS. 

MoUttM«— Ciifctk  fliih—Sh6lb^Arttoakt»--IiiMdsuidwhflDfouiid-~BeetI«^ 
Rom  BMU«—Coo(MuitttB«eU6»-^Carpeiit«r  Bea— Waftps— Ants—Butterfliei 
and  mothfl — Moaquitoes — Fleaa^Ant  Uona — Dn^n  ^ea— White  Ante— 
EarwigB— Cockroachea— Mantia  and  St.  Francis  Xavier— Walking  leavee— 
Walking  sticks —Mole  crickets  and  uses  to  which  put — Locusts — ^Bugs— 
CiaadflB — Fiah  inaeota — Ceotipedea~Spidera-'>-9eorpiona — Cimbs — Spider 
erftba--Cnj  fiah— Hennit  oraba— Sea  Maatia. 

The  Molluaca  have  numy  representativM,  inhabitiiig  both  the  salt 
and  the  fresh  water,  the  nmning  streams,  and  the  stagnant  taob^ 
a9  well  as  the  snrfaoe  of  the  earth,  although  more  sparingly.  A 
certain  deficiency  in  variety,  is  compensated  for,  by  the  enormous 
numbers  of  some  of  the  existing  species. 

During  the  South  West  Monsoon,  and  subsequent  to  it,  there  are 
many  long  oval  plates  on  the  sea  beach,  which  although  fragile,  are 
easily  recognised  as  shells :  being  the  internal,  or  dorsal  plate,  (gladlus,) 
of  the  Cuttle  fish,  Octopiu,  which  are  thrown  up  by  the  violence  of 
the  winds  and  tides.  They  are  so  numerous,  that  they  are  coUected 
for  cleaning  windows,  and  similar  domestic  purposes. 

The  common  species,  has  a  convex  back,  of  a  shield-like  form, 
whilst  the  skin  covering  it  is  loose,  and  of  a  rich  purplish  brown, 
shot  with  other  colours.  It  can  apparently  change  its  hue  at  plea8are» 
or  through  fear,  when  touched  it  frequently  becomes  of  a  silvery 
white.  The  shell  of  its  back  la  shaped  very  much  like  a  d<^'s 
tongue,  and  is  from  4}  to  5  inches  in  length. 

This  most  voracious  Mollusc,  has  a  head  surrounded  by  eight  a^IU^ 


THB  POTAMIDBS.  61} 

or  appendages,  of  about  equal  lengtli,  all  of  which  are  furnished  with 
suckers  on  their  inner  surfSace.  Its  mouth  is  armed  with  brown 
homy  jaws,  resembling  a  parrot's  bill,  ezceptiug  that  the  short  man- 
dible is  the  upper  one :  whilst  round  this  organ  aretwo  rows  of  suckers. 
Its  ink  bag,  from  the  contents  of  which,  a  rich  tint  of  sepia  may  be 
procured,  it  employs  to  discolour  the  water  around  it  when  pursued. 
It  swim9  with  rapidity  or  crawls  along  the  bed  of  the  river,  or  sea, 
in  search  of  crustacoea,  or  its  finny  prey. 

Wonderful  tales  have  been  told  of  the  enormous  size  to  which  this 
creature  grows,  navigators  have  asserted  that  they  have  seen  it  with 
arms  sixty  feet  in  lei^h,  with  which  it  has  embraced  and  dragged 
down  passing  boats,  and  one  of  them  mentioned  in  Scandinavian 
legends,  was  able  to  lay  hold  of,  and  remove  Islands ! 

Passing  on  to  the  gasteropods,  we  reach  that  beautiful  division, 
which  both  charms  the  eye  by  the  colouration  and  forin  of  its 
shelly  covering,  and  pleases  the  Epicure,  by  the  delicacy  of  the  food 
afforded  by  its  tribes.  ' 

The  family  of  Jfuricicbe  are  not  well  represented,  as  but  two 
species  are  apparently  found,  and  those  only  during  the  violence  of  the 
South  West  Monsoon.  One  is  a  spiny  morex  with  a  long  beak,  the 
other  a  frog  shell,  {Randla^  Lam.) 

Along  the  shore  as  the  tide  recedes,  are  perceived  many  varieties 
of  the  Auger  shell,  (Terebra,  Lam.)  their  colours  varying,  from  pure 
white,  to  bluish  purple,  whilst  some  are  striped,  others  plain. 

The  Cones  are  not  common,  occasionally  a  dead  money  cowry, 
Cyprcea  monetae  may  be  found  on  the  shore,  but  it  is  not  improbable 
that  such  may  have  been  dropped  there.  But  still  as  they  form  a 
laige  article  of  commerce  in  the  neighbouring  Maldives  and  Lacca- 
dives,  they  may  not  be  merely  visitors  here.  Cowries  are  not  employ- 
ed as  small  change  for  money  in  Cochin,  as  in  the  Deccan  and  other 
inland  places,  but  occasionally  a  favourite  bull  may  be  perceived, 
with  a  string  of  them  around  his  neck. 

Amongst  the  Potamides,  the  Terebralia  teUseopia^  is  very  comt- 
mon  at  the  mouths  of  rivers,  and  within  the  influence  of  the  tides. 
A  number  of  specimens  which  were  obtained  from*  the  canal  during 
the  hot  month  of  November,  and  placed  in  an  ant's  nest  were  remov- 
ed in  the  end  of  January,  in  the  expectation  that  the  animal  substance 


512  8BA  SNAILS. 

wovid  have  been  cleared  out :  bat  wben  they  were  pat  into  a  bftsin  of 
water,  preparatoty  to  their  being  deanaed,  after  two  or  three  boon 
the  animals  oommenoed  emerging  from  the  aheUa,  as  healtiiy 
as  ever.  No  donbi  they  kyhemate,  if  it  may  so  be  called,  in  the 
heat,  and  as  in  the  ant's  nest  they  had  no  means  of  sabaiatingy  tiiey 
retreated  into  their  shelJs,  which  they  firmly  dosed  with  the  oper- 
cnlum  at  the  external  aperture,  and  waited  for  a  damper  state  of  the 
weather,  and  a  time  more  congenial  to  their  requirements.  Thfi  little 
Ceriihidea  oUura^  Lam.,  is  seen  lying  in  thousands  along  the  mnddy 
banks  of  the  same  pbices  where  the  Potamides  are  found,  these  last 
are  collected  in  great  numbers,  and  burnt  with  other  sheila  for  lime. 

A  spedes  of  undescribed  marsh  snail  is  found  on  the  ooast,  it  is 
**  a  variety  of  the  Paludomus  Parva,  of  Edgar  Layard,  and  differs 
from  the  Deccan  and  Bombay  spedes."  The  little  Jidania  tuber- 
aUata^  is  common  in  every  stagnant  piece  of  water.  Two  varieties 
of  TurrileUa  are  exceedingly  numerous  on  the  sea  shore,  the  one 
being  light,  (T^  imbricata^)  the  other  slate  coloured. 

Amongst  the  family  of  FtUudinitla,  there  are  many  known  species, 
the  river  snail  is  very  abundant :  in  localities  not  far  removed  from 
the  sea,  the  light  brown,  P.  mdanottamoy  Benson,  is  most  prevalent, 
but  inland  the  larger  olive  coloured  and  striped,  P.  BeHgaliam$f 
appears  to  take  its  place.  Together  witii  this  last,  is  an  angulate 
variety,  which  is  of  rather  a  lighter  colour,  and  has  been  obtained 
from  Burmah  and  Bundelcund.  These  snails  are  employed  as  arti- 
cles of  food,  by  some  of  the  lower  classes. 

AmpullorioB,  or  apple  snails,  are  very  abundant,  and  some  of  them 
grow  to  a  very  large  mse.  The  average  diameter  of  the  aperture  ci  four 
of  these  taken  from  amongst  a  number  collected  for  eating,  was  1 1  by 
^  inches,  whilst  one  of  them,  (A.  Malabarica,)  hdd  If  ounces  oi 
water.  Natives  assert  that  in  the  month  of  January  very  much 
laiger  specimens  may  be  obtained 

Nerites  or  sea  snails,  and  Trochi,  are  occadonally  found  on  the 
shore,  but  are  ndther  so  common,  nor  so  large,  as  further  south 
where  there  are  rocks.  Of  the  Cup  and  Saucer  Limpets,  ('Caljfptroi 
id<ByJ  there  is  one  small  species  exceedingly  numerous  along  the 
shore,  as  wdl  as  a  Tooth  shdl,  (ctenialium,)  There  is  one  fresh  water 
Nerite,  {Neritina  crepidulafia,  Lam.)  which  is  common. 


BIVALVES.  513 

Th^  Helicidoe,  or  Laad  Snails,  said  to   exist  wherever  there  are 

threes,  is  not  unknown  in  Malabar,  but  it  is  most  difficult  to  obtain 

fresh  specimena  In  the  hot  months,  dead  ones  may  be  perceived  under 

shrubs,  and  amongst  bushes,  but  living  ones  are  rarely  to  be  found. 

In  tanks,  the  Pond  Snail,  {Lymnooa  laieola,  Lam.)  is  very  com- 
mon, as  well  as  the  little  BUhinia  TravancoricOf  and  the  Planorbu 
Jfidicm,  Benson.  On  examining  dried  up  tanks  at  the  end  of  the 
cold  season,  as  in  March,  numbers  of  specimens  of  the  Planorbis  are 
aeen,  in  all  of  which  the  Mollusc  is  dead.  The  same  observation 
liolds  good  in  respect  to  Ampullarioe,  many  dead  sheUs  of  which,  are 
eveiywhere  apparent  in  the  scorched  up  paddy  fields  at  this  time, 
smd  when  they  are  irrigated  in  January  and  February,  enormous  num- 
bers of  dead  Ampnllarioe  and  Palludinoe,  float  about  in  the  water. 

In  the  fresh  water  tanks,  there  are  a  great  quantity  of  a  bivalve, 
somewhat  resembling  a  dark  brown  cockle,  (pyrtna^  Lam.)  it  grows 
to  some  sixe,  and  is  employed  for  food,  whilst  its  shells  are  burnt 
for  lime.  The  Carhicula  siriatablcil  Desh.,  is  also  found  in  the 
sandy  inland  rivers,  in  company  with  what  appears  to  be  the  Ifya- 
rculitUus,  Ch.,  as  '^  in  form  it  approaches  that  figure  in  Wood's  Index." 
The  fresh  water  mussel,  which  *^  has  a  salmon  nacred  shell,  is  appa- 
rently identical  with  the  Chinese,  Unio  cofuobrinus,  Lea."  It  is  very 
numerous  in  ponds,  and'  moist  paddy  fields,  beyond  the  influ- 
ence of  the  tides,  but  a  long  and  patient  search,  has  failed  to 
detect  pearls  in  them.  It  is  esteemed  as  food,  as  is  also  a  smaller 
▼ariety,  which  usually  inhabits  the  same,  or  contiguous  localities. 
The  OytherecBj  Lam.,  are  much  used  for  food,  in  spite  of  their  size 
not  being  great :  the  rather  ugly  brown,  C.  ecuto,  is  generally  the 
largest^  but  tiie  C.  ovum,  Var.,  (7.  meretrix,  Lam.  Jun.,  and  C.  ftuca,  (?) 
are  amongst  the  most  common  species.  A  beautiful  bright  blue 
green  mussel,  is  found  in  the  sea,  both  North  and  South  of  the  Cochin 
state,  and  the  pretty  Cultellu9  poUtus^  Wood.,  is  occasionally  thrown 
up  by  the  waves. 

Space  will  not  permit  the  enumeration  of  the  various  shells  pro- 
curable, even  ware  such  possible,  but  it  must  be  observed,  that 
enormous  numbers  of  MytUidc^y  Araxdos,  Gyprinidoi^  VeneridcB,  and 
other  bivalves,  are  collected  on  the  sea  beach,  for  the  purpo.se  of 
making  chtmam. 

B  2 


514  INSECTS. 

Oysters  are  exceedingly  num^rous^  and  are  procured  in  Ittge^ 
quantities  by  divers,  in  about  ten  feet  water.  They  are  very  laige, 
and  at  times  unwholesome,  occasionally  little  pearis  are  found  in 
them.  As  there  are  no  rocks  to  which  they  can  attach  themselveSy 
they  affix  themselves  to  any  object  within  readi,  and  may  frequently^ 
be  seen  clinging  to  one  another.  Both  the  singular  cock's  comb 
Oyster,  Ostrea  crista  gaUiy  and  the  cuxioos  Anonua^  are  also  found 
along  the  coast.  The  Pearl  Oyster,  MeUagrina  margariUfercSf  is  not 
found,  but  it  might  be  worth-while  to  trjr  the  experiment  of  import- 
ing it,  as  in  such  a  locality  a»  the  Narrikal  mod  bank,  it  might 
possibly  thrive. 

The  Articulata  division  of  the  animal  kingdom,  is  veiy  largely 
represented  and  is  divisible  into  the  true  articulated  animals,  aad 
the  worms.  The  insect  class  claims  much  of  the  attention  of  the 
residents  on  the  Malabar  coast  Many  of  its-tiibea  are  goigeooaly 
arrayed,  and  the  brilliant  colours  of  some  of  them  as  they  tit 
about  from  bush  to  bush,  give  a  charms  to  liie  scenery,  which  mo- 
tionless objects  could  never  afford  The  Obntipedes  are  dreaded, 
from  their  venomous  bites ;  the  Thy8anouf%  for  the  family  of  the 
fish  insect  which  they  contain,  so  destructive^to  dothea;  the  Sucto- 
rial tribe  for  the  initation  caused  by  it»fleaS)  the  Beetles  for  the 
^wliationand  consumption  oi  trees,  food,  and  dothmg^:  the  Orthop^ 
tera,  for  the  disgusting  cockroach,  the  still  more  frightful  looldng 
mole  cricket,  and  the  numerous  locuatSb  The  Hemiptera  for  its 
brilliant,  but  too  odoriferous  bugs ;  the  Nenroptera  for  the  white 
ants,  the  Hymenoptera,  for  its  biting  and  stinging:  insects,  and  its 
numerous  bees,  and  wasps  :  even  the  beautiful  dass  oi  Lepidoptera, 
furnishes  the  moth,  which  is  so  destructive  to  dothes  and  fuis :  and 
the  Diptera  contains  the  unf ertmuitdy  but  too  well  known  mosquitoe. 

Insect  life  is  comparativdy  defident  duriog  the  rains,  but  after 
their  cessation,  and  the  commeDcement  of  the  cold  weather,  the  vari- 
ed food  most  suited  to  the  tastes  and  habits  of  each,  aboonda ;  and 
insects  come  forth  from  their  retreats,  enlivening  the  soenety  with 
their  gorgeous  colours,  peopling  the  air,  the  water,  the  grass,  the 
high  lands,  the  plains,  and  the  woods,  fuznishing  their  destroyen- 
with  food,  and  the  lover  of  nfttosal  history,  with  most  interesting  and 
ever  varying  wonders. 


TIGER  BEETLES.  515 

Besides  the  seasonal  other  causes  are  in  operation,  regulating  the 
"difliribution  of  insects ;  thus,  amongst  the  Beetles  *  the  great  mass 
of  Cicindelidoe  are  found  along  the  sea  shore,  and  the  Scorpion  beetle, 
'J^Antkia  ^-guUata)  prolific  on  the  mountainous  ghauts,  is  unknown 
in  the  plaina  This  Qeographical  limitation,  is  perceptible  in  many 
^othar  forms  of  insect  life,  and  though  many  species  have  a  most  exten- 
sive range,  there  are  others  with  a  most  circumscribed  distribution. 

The  Beetles,  CBkoptercey^  form  a  numerous  family,  not  only  on  ac- 
'connt  ef  the  number  of  their  genene,  bdt  also  ia  respect  of  the 
infinity  of  individuals  belonging  to  each.     Some  are  employed  as 
medicine,  others  as  food,  some  are  admired  for  their  brilliant  colours, 
«nd  again  others  are  dreaded  for  the  mischief  they  occasion,  especial- 
ly amongst  the  Cocoanat  trees,  which  form  much  of  the  wealth  of  this 
portion  of  India*     Whilst  some  destroy  the  rice  which  is  being  kept 
for  human  food,  or  the  Ginger  in  readiness  for  export  to  European 
markets,  others  again  elear  away  dead  animal  substances,  and  thus 
piwentmuch  of  the  unwholesome  taint,  which  the  atmosphere  might 
veceiye  therefironi.    Coeoanut  beetles  vary    in   different    localities. 
In  Ceykm|  the  dreaded  Cocoanmt  beetle,  is  of  the  Long  Homed 
species,  Zon^teomsa,  and   ia  South    Travaacore    a    Longirostral 
i^ureulio,  is  accused  of  causiag  the  misohief^  but  in  North  Travancore 
^md  Oocbin,  the  HeUocopris  nUdcu,  has  the  credit  of' it.     But  it 
snust  be  remembered,  that  some  species  attack  the  stem,  and  cause 
it  to  become  rotten,  whilst  others   attaoh  themselves  to  the  leaves, 
and  others  again  fix  th^nselves  to  the  summit  of  the  tree,  and  des- 
troy the  portion  known  as  the  cabbage. 

Along  the  sea  shore,  a  beautiful  and  most  numerous  species  of 
CicinddOj  (G,  JBiramosa,  Fab.)  may  be  found,  its  long  legs  assist  it 
in  jumping  about  most  actively,  whilst   its  bright  purple. under- 

*  A  large  collection  of  Coleopterco,  has  been  peraonally  made  in  Malabar ; 
•umongst  which  are  spedmens,  of  every  Bpeoiee  named  in  these  pages. 

t  Amongst  much  ▼iliiable  information  on  insects,  and  shells,  kindly  f urnish- 
•ed  me  by  Ifl  B.  Benton,  Stq.,  and  included  in  these  pages,  I  am  also  indebted 
to  him  for  the  knowledge,  that  Ce^eput  oil,  is  the  best  preservative  in  coUec- 
tions  of  insects,  against  the  depredations  to  which  they  are  so  subject,  especial- 
iy  witbm  the  tropics.  A  few  drops  on  a  piece  of  sponge,  renewed  every  three  «r 
iottr  months,  in  each  tray  will  be  foand  to  be  most  efficacious. 

t  Sir  Emerson  Tennent^  Ceylon. 


516  THE  SKIP-JACKS. 

surface,  greenish  red  chesty  and  reddish  back  with  black  siatk" 
ings,  renders  this  little  Tiger  beetle,  a  prominent  object  on  the  aands 
of  the  sea  ahorou 

The  Scorpion  beeUe,  AnMa  ^-guttaia^  as  it  is  generally  called, 
on  account  of  the  venomous  wounds  it  inflicts,  is  found  on  or  near 
the  Ghauts,  but  does  not  descend  to  the  plains,  it  is  also  common  on 
the  table  land  of  Mysore,  the  Deocan,  and  the  Neilgherries,  and  is 
every  where  dreaded.  It  is  about  1^  inches  long,  and  black  with  six 
large  white  spots,  which  renders  it  a  very  conspicuous  object  Several 
species  of  water  beetles,  Difiicfiu^  and  Whirligigs,  Gyriniy  are  recog- 
nised by  strangers,  as  closely  resembling  their  European  relatives. 

Amongst  the  Serricomes,  is  the  Rose  beetle,  Stemocera  ChrysU 
which  is  found  in  great  numbers,  both  on  the  Ghauts  and  inlands 
Its  under  surface  is  a  glossy  green,  with  wings  either  of  a  deep 
chestnut  colour,  or  of  a  bluish  green,  whilst  its  head  and  chest  aiB 
of  a  golden  green,  in  little  pits,  even  the  Natives  notice  this  beauti- 
ful beetle.  When  taken  it  tries  to  throw  itself  on  the  ground,  where 
it  is  slow  in  its  movements,  although  its  flight  is  very  rapid.  Chil- 
dren affix  a  string  round  it,  between  the  chest  and  the  wing  cases, 
which  part  it  can  close  with  great  force,  squeezing  anjrthing  which 
may  get  there  severely.  The  Hector  butterfly,  Papilio  Hector^  is  also 
frequently  fastened  to  a  piece  of  cotton  in  a  similar  manner,  and  play- 
ed with  by  children.  The  wing  casesof  this  green  species  of  beetle;, 
are  collected  in  laige  numbers,  and  sold  in  the  Bazaar,  either  for 
exportation  to  Bombay,  or  for  Native  actors  and  mountebanks,  to 
adorn  their  dresses.  There  is  a  beautiful  green  gold  species,  of  the 
Buprestis  family,  £,  Chrysochora,  and  another  rare  species  of  the 
same  family,  which  has  its  wing  cases  and  thorax  pitted  in  lines, 
and  coloured  with  green  and  gold  Tbda  has  been  also  found  at 
Saugor,  but  appears  to  be  still  unnamed. 

A  curious  family,  known  as  skip  jad&s,  EkOeridae,  furnish  some 
very  gorgeous  beetles,  and  few  in  India  can  surpass  the  colourings, 
of  the  Campsostemus  Stepli^mtiiy  Hope.  Its  wing  cases  are  of  a 
golden  green  colour,  whilst  the  thorax  which  is  expanded  transverse- 
ly, is  of  a  chesnut  colour  in  the  centre,  and  surrounded  by  a 
beautiful  blue.  This  appears  however  to  be  very  rare,  the  single 
specimen  here  referred  to,  was  caught  at  Trichoor.     A  smaU  but 


Tdry  beantifal  little  bromse  coloared  Elater  has  the  credit  of  etAaag 
clothes,  and  evidence  is  strongly  in  fiivonr  of  such  being  the  case. 

The  Scarabeides,  give  some  large  species  which  are  not  lo<dDBd 

upon  with  foyoor,  owing  to  a  great  extent  to  their  scavenger  duties, 

and  to  the  want  of  brilliancy  in  their  colouring,  but  to  this  last» 

there  are  several  exceptions  ;  one  large  black  species,  Coprw  molo»tu$t 

baa  a  horn  on  the  summit  of  its  head,  and  each  of  the  front  and  ex^ 

temal  comers  of  its  chest,  are  carried  forward  into  overarching  pro- 

jectioiia     Another  nearly  allied  species  of  copris  is  smaller,  and 

of  a  brown  colour ;  one  very  rough  brown  beetle,  has  wing  cases  like 

the  baric  of  a  tree,  or  perhaps  something  like  a  toad,  it  does  not  appear 

to  have  been  described,  but  is  to  a  certain  extent  similar  to  the 

Troae  granulahUy  which  is  found  in  the  Do4b,  and  elseidiere.     One 

small  species  of  Scarabeus,  is  of  a  burnished  blue  green  colour,  S. 

OfUhrophoffui^  it  is  mostly  seen  in  sandy  places.  A  Bull  homed  dung 

beetle  Anthrophagus  —  ?  is  very  beautiful,  it  has  two  horns  in  front, 

like  those  of  a  cow,  and  another  small  one  in  the  centre,  its  head  and 

chest  ore  of  a  bronze  green  colour,  whilst  its  wing  cases  are  brown, 

it  is  1^  inches  long. 

Amongst  the  stag  beetles,  is  one  enormous  species  of  Lucantu, 
three  and  a  half  inches  long,  by  one  inch  wide  :  its  mandibles  are 
large  and  strong,  and  it  is  altogether  a  formidable  looking  creature. 
Its  colour  is  brown,  and  it  is  not  uncommon  about  the  monsoon 
time.  * 

A  very  handsome  Curculio  is  found,  but  more  frequently  in  Tra- 
vancore  than  in  Cochin,  its  general  colour  is  a  reddish  chestnut,  with 
a  heart  shaped  black  mark  in  the  centre  of  its  wing  coverings, 
which  are  sulcated,  and  one  round  black  spot  on  either  side  :  its 
nnder  surface  has  also  some  chestnut  markings.  One  deep  purple 
colored  Elephant  beetle,  so  named  from  its  prolonged  snout,  is 
rather  handsome,  it  is  the  BhyncophorusferruffiMmu,  Fab.  An  ex- 
ceedingly curious  beetle  which  is  rather  rare  in  Cochin,  but  common 
further  south  in  Travancore,  is  a  species  of  Paossus,  PkUyrhopaltu^ 
MMii  :  each  of  its  antennoe  terminate  in  a  flattened  knob,  giving  it 
at  the  first  glance  the  appearance  of  having  two  heads,  its  wing 
cases  are  of  a  deep  brown  colour.  It  emits  a  yellow  fluid,  having 
ah  offensive  smell,  that  lasts  for  a  day,  and  the  stain  of  which 


518  HINDU  VEKEBATION  FOB  THE  ANT  AND  BSE. 

flhoold  it  get  upon  a  penon'is  hand,  continaes  for  nearly  a  week.  IV 
has  a  nasty  squeak  when  captured.  One  placed  with  an  Earwig  in 
a  g^ass,  was  deToured  by  the  latter  insect 

The  Long  homed  beetles  are  very  numerous,  the  finest  is  the 
Lamia  Soglii,  or  a  closely  allied  species,  nearly  2  inches  long,  of  a 
brownish  colour,  with  four  reddish  white  round  spots  on  either 
wing  case.  Occasicmally  the  hardened  white  cases  looking  like  ^Qgs, 
within  which  are  the  perfect  insects,  may  be  found  inside  soft  trees. 
Some  obligingly  sent  by  Mr.  Kohlhoff  from  Trichoor,  measured 
1^  X^  inches.  As  a  number  of  them  often  exist  in  the  same  tree,  the 
timber  is  of  course  rendered  comparatiyely  useless.  In  some  places  it 
is  said,  that  even  aft^r  furniture  has  been  made  up,  these  unwelcome 
visitors  are  occasionally  perceived,  emerging  from  the  interior. 

The  CassididcB  are  numerously  represented,  one  little  species  look- 
ing like  burmshed  gold,  may  be  seen  of  an  evening  in  the  cold 
months  of  the  year.  Another  is  of  a  light  green  and  gold,  whilst  a 
third  is  smaller  but  of  much  the  same  colours,  although  differently 
marked,  and  there  is  also  a  laige  unnamed  species,  certainly  bearing 
a  strong  resemblance  to  a  miniature  Tortoise.  The  Lady  Birds> 
{fioceindla)  cannot  easily  be  mistaken,  either  in  their  appearance,  or 
their  smell,  one  lovely  littk  species  is  of  a  beautiful  blue  green 
colour. 

The  Hymenopteroe,  or  membrane  winged  insects,  call  for  especial 
attention,  as  the  Hindus  highly  venerate  the  Bee,  and  some  species 
of  Ants,  believing  that  the  spirits  by  which  they  are  animated,  are 
favoured  of  Qod,  and  their  intellects  more  developed,  than  in  most 
other  forms  of  insect  life.  Amongst  this  tribe  are  the  Carpenter 
Bees,  {Xjflocapa  IcUipes,)  the  deep  blue  species,  is  sacred  to  Vishnu, 
and  there  is  another  smaller  one  with  a  yellow  thorax.  Both  are 
very  destnietive  as  they  bore  into  wood.  The  Honey  Bee  which 
exists  in  lari^e  swanna  in  the  jungles,  furmshes  large  quantities  of  ho- 
ney, and  wax,  not  only  to  man,  but  to  bears  and  other  wild  animals. 

The  solitary  Wasp,  is  a  frequent  visitor  into  houses,  where  it 
forms  its  nest  consisting  of  elngle  mud  cells,  in  which  it  deposits  its 
^ggs  against  the  door  posts,  Venetians,  or  any  other  suitable  places ; 
day  after  day,  or  eveiy  second  or  third  morning,  it  increases  the 
structure,  by  adding  one  more  room  within  each  of  which  it  encloses 


ANT8.  519 

s  caterpillar.  TheSodal  Wasps  aa  they  are  tenned,  constnict  a  little 
delicate  neat,  as  if  made  of  paper,  divided  into  cdU^  and  hanging  from 
the  ceiling  by  a  fine  stalk. 

Many  and  exceedingly  interesting  are  the  vast  family  of  Ants, 
which  oome  to  the  notice  of  the  trayelier,  on  account  of  the  rirolence 
of  their  attacks,  to  the  resident  for  the  damage  they  do  to  his  goods 
and  stores,  and  to  the  Sanitary  Officer,  suppoaii^  one  to  exist,  for 
the  service  they  render,  by  removing  aaunai  substances,  which  with- 
out their  assbtaoce,  might  remain  to  taint  and  poiscm  the  atmos- 
phere, giving  rise  to  various  and  fatal  diseases^ 

The  common  Black  Ant,  Formica  campreBsa,  Fab.,  does  not  re- 
side in  this  portion  of  India  :  but  a  ^tecie*  wliich  is  quite  as  viru- 
lent is  found,  viz.,  the  Rufous  tree  ant,  Formica  gmaroffdina,  nearly 
half  an  inch  in  length,  it  forms  its  nest  of  leaves,  eq)ecially  of  the 
Mangoe,  whilst  they  are  growing  on  the  trees.  After  having  drawn 
them  together,  it  unites  them  with  a  fine  white  web,  and  numbers  of 
them  reside  within  this  nest  Should  any  person  take  hold  of  one  of 
these  domiciles,  in  mistake  for  a  bird's  nesty  he  will  repent  his  cap- 
ture, as  the  inmates  at  once  sally  forth,  in  defence  of  their  dwelling, 
and  woe  to  him  whom  many  of  them  simultaneously  attack. 

A  Gentleman  wishing  to  examine  one  of  these  Ant's  nests,  directed 
his  servants  to  {nrocure  one,  and  j^ace  it  <m  has  table:  Thiswasdone, 
but  on  Ms  return  home,  he  found  his  visitors  had  become  so  irate, 
that  no  one  could  venture  into  the  room,  in  which  they  were 
located.  In  the  North  West  Fh>vince8,  these  ants  are  em^^oyed  to 
free  houses  of  wasps  which  sometimes  take  up  thdr  abodes  within, 
and  they  speedily  destroy  or  drive  them  away,  but  subsequently 
become  so  irritated,  that  they  attack  ail  the  inmates  indiscriminately. 
They  are  by  no  means  averse  to  animal  food,  and  may  frequency  be 
perceived  upon  bamboo  fences,  catching  small  Black  Ants,  FornMa 
phpUojMla,  Jeni,  by  their  backs,  and  cartyii^  them  away  for  a  meal. 
But  in  doing  this,  they  are  obliged  to  be  careful,  as  should  the  intend- 
ed prey  exude  a  certain  secretion,  which  it  has  the  power  of  doing, 
it  produces  most  injurious  effects  on  them. 

A  minute  ant,  which  is  more  frequently  noticed  by  persons  who 
ively  leave  their  houses,  has  a  light  buff  coloured  chest  and  legs,  with 
a  dark  brown  body,  Attn  dettrurtor^  Jerd.     It  clears  away  anything 


520  BUTTKIIVLIE& 

that  comes  in  its  way  fnmi  cmmbB  of  breads  to  laige  pieces  of  fle&k 
In  fine  weatiier,  in  the  cold  montha  of  the  year,  colonies  of  theae  aats. 
may  be  seen  passing  along  the  walla  of  houaea.  Soon  after  a  nnmber 
of  neuters  issue  forth  carrying  egga,  and  then  some  femalea,  about 
three  times  the  length  of  the  neuters,  show  themselves.  Each  d 
the  last  appears  to  have  a  driver  behind  her,  and  other  assistants  oa 
either  side,  to  convey  her  to  her  new  home.  Should  a  female  iaH  off 
the  wall,  a  great  commotion  arisea,  and  some  of  her  personal  atten- 
dants, immediately  proceed  in  each  direction,  in  search  of  her,  and 
reconvey  her  into  the  proper  road. 

An  ant  having  found  a  piece  of  bread,  or  any  other  sabstance, 
suitable  to  its  requirements,  and  of  a  proper  siie,  seizes  it  with  ite 
jaws  and  straightens  it  with  its  feet  and  antennoe.  YHien  progressiDg, 
the  antennoB  project  on  either  side  of  the  object,  to  steady  it^  Whe& 
several  ants  are  aimultaneouly  dragging  or  rolling  an  object  aloi^ 
some  are  frequently  underneath  it 

A  very  beautiful  bright  blue  stinging  fly,  t^ilbum  splerUUdum,  West 
is  seen  in  almost  every  house,  it  is  very  active,  and  is  captured  with 
difficulty.  Sometimes  it  haa  a  spot  of  scarlet  on  either  side  of  its 
body,  this  may  be  a  distinct  species,  and  much  resembles  the  5. 
oculatum,  of  Westwood. 

The  Lepidopteroe,  are  most  common  during  the  cold  m<Hiths  of 
the  year,  and  are  of  all  colours  from  the  moat  sober,  to  goigeous  red, 
blue,  green,  or  golden.  Their  size  varies,  from  six  inches  in  the  ex- 
panse of  their  wings,  or  even  more,  down  to  less  than  one  third  of  an 
inch.  WhilstintheLarvaState,  as  Caterpillars,  theydo  much  damage, 
and  the  period  passed  in  their  transformations,  varies  with  thefamiiy 
to  which  th^  belong,  and  the  time  of  year  in  which  such  occurs. 

The  Butterflies  are  most  gorgeous,  and  vie  in  beauty  with  the 
little  Sun-birds,  as  both  flit  in  the  sunshine  from  tree  to  tree,  and 
from  one  flower  toanother.  One  of  the  largest  of  the  Diurnal  Lepidop- 
teroe, (OmitkopUra  darnus,  Ghny.)  appears  during  October,  and  is 
seen  from  the  early  momiog,  to  the  evenings,  as  late  as  Febniaiy» 
or  March.  Its  upper  wings  are  of  velvet  black,  its  lower  mostly  satin 
yellow,  whilst  their  expanse  is  rarely  less  than  six  inches.  The 
beautiful  black  and  red  FapUio  Hector,  lina,  is  never  unconunon* 
and  appears  to  take  very  long  flights,  being  frequently  perceived 


TAB  AITT  LIOKS.  621 

crossing  the  backwater,  when  at  least  a  mile  from  land.  Where  all 
are  more  or  less  beantifal,  and  species  so  varied,  it  is  dijQ&colt  which 
to  specify^ 

Moths  are  as  numerous  as  Butterflies,  and  some  most  delicately 
marked  and  colonrod  species  exist,  specially  amongst  the  Noctnce, 
which  are  most  easily  obtained  by  spreading  a  sheet  out  of  doors  of 
an  evening  and  placing  a  lamp  in  the  centre  of  it  The  white 
Lithosia  SaTiguinolenta^  Donovan,  with  the  front  edge  of  its  fore 
w  iiigs,  of  a  crimson  colour,  and  the  posterior  pair  spotted  with  black, 
occasionally  shows  itself  in  considerable  numbers.  The  Taragama 
ganesa,  Lafeb.,  is  curious  on  account  of  its  dropping  down  as  if 
dead,  when  touched. 

The  Gnat  tribe  is  not  wanting.  Its  representative  the  Mosquitoe, 
CtUex  moiUgtuSj  which  is  never  absent,  becomes  most  common  about 
a  fortnight  after  the  rains  have  set  in.  In  the  cold  months,  these 
pests  are  comparatively  few,  but  as  the  hot  season  begins,  they  in- 
crease. To  some  persons  their  buzz  as  they  fly  around,  is  as  irritating 
as  their  bite  is  to  others.  The  Flea,  Pulex  irritans,  becomes  most 
conmion  in  the  hot  months  of  the  year. 

If  a  house  is  closed  for  any  length  of  time,  on  being  re-opened  it 
is  found  swarming  with  these  little  pests.  If  a  fowl  is  sick  they  at- 
tach themselves  to  it.  Between  its  eye  and  bill,  there  are  generally 
large  communities,  so  closely  packed  that  a  pin  cannot  be  inserted 
between  them. 

The  second  sub-class  of  insects  (ffemimetabolaj  are  very  nume- 
rous, and  some  of  them  very  attractive,  owing  either  to  their  elegant 
or  curious  forms,  whilst  others  on  the  contrary  are  very  disgusting, 
not  only  in  their  appearance,  but  owing  to  the  articles  upon  which  they 
feed.  Some  again  are  very  destructive,  without  external  beauty 
to  (Ma  as  an  excuse. 

The  nerve  winged  insects  (NturopUros)  are  exceedingly  numerous. 
Amongst  the  Trieapterce  are  an  enormous  number  of  the  Phryga- 
neidoe  &mily,  and  their  hvrvoe  may  be  found  enclosed  in  various 
materials,  such  as  bits  of  stick  and  grass.  Amongst  the  flat  winged 
(Flanipedts)y  there  is  a  very  interesting  species,  of  Ant  Lion,  (Myr- 
mdeoj  which  is  however  by  no  means  so  common  in  the  town  of 
Cochin,  as  in  many  other  localities,  such  as  Trichoor.    The  little 

s  2 


522  WHITS  ANTS. 

pits  which  they  form  in  the  sand,  may  be  seen  at  the  side~of  patbs 
«and  sandy  spots  of  ground,  and  should  an  snt  or  other  small  in^  * 
fall  in,  it  instantly  disappears  in  a  shower  of  sand,  discliai^ged  at  h 
by  the  hidden  occupant  of  the  trap.  It  is  said  that  in  order  to  ol^ 
tain  a  satisfactory  answer  to  any  request,  the  internal  adminutratiui! 
of  an  ant  Lion  is  a  capital  specific,  given  to  the  party  from  whoia 
the  benefit  is  required. 

Amongst  the  net  winged  insects,  {DictyotopUra)  are  the  bemitif al 
Dragon  Flies,  LibeUtdidce,  they  may  be  seen  in  all  directions^  of  mos^t 
varied  and  gorgeous  hues,  which  however  decrease  in   brilliancy 
after  death.     Some  have  crimson  bodies,  some  blue,  or  yellow,  and 
others  (Mrange,  or  yeUow  and  blue,  in  fact  there  is  scarcely  any  shade 
of  colour  of  which  they  may  not  be  perceived,  whilst  the  sise  of  the 
apecies,  is  very  varied.*    One  of  the  most  destructive  ci  Indian  in- 
sects, is  the  Termite,  or  White  Ant,  (GurriaaHy  or  chedddy  MaL)  it  is 
found  in  British  Cochin,  but  owing  to  the  sandy  nature  of  the  soil, 
its  communities)  do  not  erect  the  large  nests,  which  are  conunon  in 
the  Native  etate  and  elsewhere.    As  they  never  work  in  the  light, 
they  prefer  nioms  which  are  kept  dark,  especially  if  the  floors  are 
made  of  mud,  and  they  destroy  everything  they  are  capable  of  mas- 
ticating.    They  construct  their  nests  of  mud  prepared   in    their 
mouths,  and  covered  with  a  sticky  secretion :  and  form  covered 
passages  along  which  they  reach  any  object  they  intend  to  consume ; 
or  else  they  glue  boxes  or  other  objects  to  the  floor,  and  then  com- 
mence their  destruction.    They  ascend  trees  in  the  same  manner,  re- 
moving the  bark,  and  destroying  their  vitality.    It  is  not  uncommon 
to  see  one  of  these  raised  galleries,  commenced  in  the  c^itre  of  a 
floor,  and  carried  up  as  much  as  a  foot  from  the  ground,  and  then 
forsaken :  it  appears  that  they  sometimes  raise  tiieee,  in  hopes  of 
finding  some  edible  substance,  but  failing  in  doing  so  forsake  theiu, 
and  retire  to  some  more  favourable  locality. 

Although  white  ants  may  occaaionaliy  destroy  boxes,  and  articles, 
left  upon  the  floor,  in  one  nighty  such  is  of  rare  occurrence,  as  they 
are  generally  at  least  twelve  hours  in  glueing  ol^ects  down,  with 
their  gummy  fine  sand,  before  they  commence  eating  them  :  thu^ 

*  Dragon  flies  in  confinement  aoon  die.  CoL  Ptingle  states  that  a  j^^ifit^ 
for  this  is  to  cut  off  their  heads. 


THE  MANTI&  623 

furniture  which  is  moved  once  every  24  hours,  will  very  seldom  be 
injured.  There  are  certain  subetA&oes  to  which  they  have  a  great 
uversioO)  such  as  oik,  indigo,  teak,  iron  wood,  and  more  especially 
the  oil  of  the  cashew  nut 

On  examininga  living  mangoe  tree^  the  stem  of  which  was  cover- 
ed by  these  termites,  the  first  thing  perceived,  was  their  great  dis- 
like to  light,  which  evidently  induces  them  to  form  covered  passages, 
leading  to  their  works  of  depredation.  The  bark  of  the  tree  was 
bitten  into  grooved  channels,  and  small  galleries  of  a  strong  charac- 
ter, were  evidently  set  aparty  for  the  reception  of  the  eggs.  Many 
little  black  ants,  Fermiea  PhyUaphila,  Jerd.,  were  inside  these  gal- 
leries, but  what  they  were  doing  it  was  impossible  to  conjecture, 
the  instant  the  ^gs  were  exposed  to  the  light,  these  little  black  at- 
tendants, seised  them  with  avidity,  and  carried  them  away  to  darker 
places.  Not  far  distant,  were  a  number  of  large  brown  ants,  Ponira 
i^ctdpta,  Jerd.,  apparently  watching,  but  not  for  the  purpose  of  afford- 
ing protection,  as  immediately  a  termite  appeared,  they  seized  it, 
and  carried  it  away  for  a  meal. 

The  Orthopteroe  are  largely  represented,  first  comes  the  Earwig, 
which  in  Malabar  does  not  appear  to  have  obtained  the  credit  of  tak- 
ing up  ito  abode  in  people's  ears,  but  is  said  to  eat  bugs.  The 
Cockroach,  BUOta  InduM,  is  of  such  an  enormous  size,  and  so  com- 
mouy  that  ito  presence  cannot  be  concealed  :  it  infeste  houses,  and 
outbuildings,  eats  clothes,  especially  if  made  of  woollen  materials,  or 
stiffened  with  rice  conjee,  as  well  as  both  the  outside  and  inside  of 
books,  and  almost  any  animal,  and  most  vegetable  substances.  On 
the  approach  of  damp  weather,  it  flies  about  the  rooms  of  an  even- 
ing, (Old  becomes  very  active.  Its  egg  cases  are  found  adherent  to 
the  panels  of  doors,  window  frames,  tables,  and  in  almost  any  situa- 
tion, but  they  are  frequently  detected,  and  destroyed,  by  the  wall 
lizards.  The  Cockroach  forms  a  favourite  repast  of  a  large  spider. 
It  is  looked  upon  with  great  disgust,  as  in  common  with  some 
Hpedes  of  ants,  it  devours  the  in/ce  and  extremities  of  the  dead.  The 
best  animal  to  keep  in  the  house  for  ito  destruction,  is  the  mongoose. 
Several  species  of  Mantis,  {ManHncg)  are  found,  their  slow  steady 
gait,  and  the  praying  attitude  of  their  front  limbs,  gives  them  an  ap- 
pearance of  solemnity,  which  has  gained  them  the  appellation  of  the 


524  THE  HOLE  CBICEET. 

'*  Mftlabar  PanoiLs/*  amongst  Enropeans,  whilst  the  NatiTes  for  the 
same  reason,  designate  them,  Parasu  Rama'B  poockeey  or  ^  Parasa 
Kama's  insect."*  It  is  believed  to  be  always  praying  for  rain  to 
descend  on  the  earth.  It  is  most  prevalent  at  the  commenoement  of 
the  monsoons.  In  the  sixteenth  oentnry,  when  ^i^.  Francis  Xawitr 
came  to  Malabar,  he  is  believed  to  have  reqnired  a  choir,  to  diant 
upon  a  certain  occasion,  and  not  having  one,  he  asked  a  Mantis, 
(the  species  is  not  recorded,)  to  sing  &e  praises  of  the  Ddty, 
on  which  without  any  hesitation,  it  broke  f(»ih  into  a  beautiful 
canticle.  After  such  an  excellent  character,  it  is  unfortunate 
to  be  obliged  to  add,  that  its  acticMis  do  not  correspond  with 
its  devout  attitudes,  &s  it  is  of  a  very  pugilistic  disposition,  and  when 
two  of  them  are  placed  opposite  one  another,  they  immediately  engage 
in  a  most  determined  combat.  One  of  the  most  curious  species, 
(Empma  Chngyloides^  is  of  a  dark  brown  colour,  with  a  leaf  like 
liead,  and  a  hu^  expansion  over  each  joint. 

The  beautifully  delicate  walking  leaves,  Phylliidce,  are  not  unhe- 
quently  seen,  but  are  more  abundant  in  the  jungles,  they  are  as  ele- 
gant in  their  structure,  and  as  capuvating  in  appearance,  as  any  oi 
the  tropical  insects.  The  curious  walking  sticks,  or  spectres 
Fhatminm,  are  also  numerous.  Xutives  most  positively  assert,  that 
the  first  18  merely  a  leaf,  to  which  life  has  been  imparted,  and  the 
latter  a  vivified  piece  of  stick,  and  no  arguments  can  convince  them 
to  the  contrary. 

Amongst  the  jumping,  (saltatorial,)  section  of  the  orthopteroa,  isthe 
Afole  Criehet  (Grt^lotalpa.)  It  is  a  constant  visitor  indoors,  of  an  even- 
ing, more  especially  during  the  North  East  Moasoon  and  the  cold 
months.  This  horribly  ugly  insect,  was  formerly  employed  for  purposes 
of  torture,  as  it  has  a  strong  saw  like  apparatus,  on  the  outer  sur- 
face  of  its  front  legs,  to  fit  it  for  burrowing.  Wherever  it  may  he, 
it  tries  incessantly  to  work  its  way  out,  by  means  of  these  front 
legs.  Should  a  person  have  refused  to  pay  his  taxes,  one  of  tiiese 
insects  used  to  be  placed  on  some  tender  part  of  the  body,  and  co- 
vered by  a  cockle  shell,  which  was  kept  in  its  place  by  a  piece  of 
cloth  :  the  pain  caused  was  so  excessive,  that  this  refined  piece  of 


*  See  Chap.  ii.  origin  of  Malabar. 


ctfuelfy,  Was  Usually  very  efflcacioua.  If  it  did  not  succeed,  the 
insect  was  subsequently  placed  over  tlie  eye!  It  is  denominated  the 
t^oolla  Poochee,  MaL,  by  the  natives,  and  married  women  who  are 
childless,  are  advised  to  sWallow  a  dead  mole  cricket  which  they 
must  first  have  killed  themselves,  and  this  recipe  is  vulgarly  consi- 
dered very  efficacious.  There  are  a  large  vaiiety  of  Itouse  and  Field 
cdckets. 

Locusts  are  much  more  common  than  Grasshoppers,  GriUincp, 
but  the  elegant  green  species  of  the  latter  is  seen  everywhere.  Na- 
tives who  keep  birds,  may  often  be  observed  in  the  early  momingi 
hunting  about  in  the  grass,  to  find  insects  of  these  families,  for  tame 
Partridges,  Mynahs,  or  Bulbuls,  which  they  either  carry  with  them, 
or  else  have  running  about  near  them,  ready  to  come  and  receive 
the  captured  prize,  immediately  on  being  called.  In  Persia  and 
Arabia,  Locusts  are  used  for  hiynan  food,  they  are  first  fried,  until 
their  legs  and  wings  drop  ofi^  and  then  mixed  with  rice  and  dates^ 
sometimes  flavoured  with  spice  and  salt 

Amongst  the  Hemiptera,  several  species  of  both  Water  Bugs^ 
(Hydroeores)  and  Land  Bugs,  (Geocores,)  are  found  In  the  Land 
Bug  group,  and  the  family  of  Scutatce  are  some  very  large  and  brilli 
ant  species,  even  rivalling  the  colouring  of  buttei'flies.  One  beauti- 
ful but  very  unpleasantly  odorif  ei'ous  species,  Raphk/aster  incamatuSf 
West.,  is  bright  scarlet  c»-  yellow,  and  may  be  seen  of  every  intermediate 
shade,  it  is  extremely  common  in  some  localities.  The  smaller  yellow 
Bug,  spotted  with  black,  Pentdtojna  crudoUa,  West,  is  still  more  nu- 
merous, and  more  extensively  spread.  The  common  Bed  Bugs,  Simex 
lectuaritUf  must  not  be  omitted,  still  in  this  portion  of  India,  and 
especially  for  a  sea  port  town.  Cochin  may  be  said  to  be  remarkably 
free  from  them.  The  popular  belief  appears  to  be,  that  they  have 
been  devoured  either  by  the  enormous  numbers  of  cockroaches, 
which  swarm  everywhere^  or  by  the  ear  wigs,  which  are  also  ac- 
counted amongst  their  greatest  opponents.  Pounded  Bugs  are  pre- 
scribed for  intermittent  fevers,  and  convulsions,  and  if  their  flavour 
is  anything  similar  to  their  smell,  the  remedy  must  be  a  strong  one^ 
One  species  of  Nepa,  nearly  2^  inches  long,  is  found  in  the  old  fort 
ditch,  and  in  most  stagnant  pools  of  water,  and  moist  muddy  places. 

Amongst  the   Homoptera,   the  first   family  calling    for    notice 


626  THB  FISH   tNSBCT. 

h  the  Chirperay  (SiridulantMi)  amongst  wkich  is  the  CicoJi. 
often  from  two,  to  three  and  a  half  inches  in  length.  All  the 
year  round,  excepting  daring  the  South  West  Modaoon,  it  enlivens 
the  stillness,  with  a  noise  resembling  the  winding  ilp  of  a  multiply- 
ing fishing  reel,  or  the  grinding  of  a  knife  upon  a  stone  wheeL  Au- 
licreon  composed  an  ode  to  its  happiness,  which  according  tu 
another  poet,  is  augmented  from  the  fact^  that  "  all  have  9aieel€s$ 
iripeSf*  the  female  being  mute.  Amongst  the  CicadeUinoe^  are  the 
Frog  Hoppers,  which  number  a  great  many  species,  and  small 
ones  may  be  perceived  of  an  evening  on  tables,  where  there  is  a 
light  They  are  little  triangular  insects,  the  most  common  speciess 
being  green,  or  green  and  black  ;  on  being  touched,  they  take 
long  hops.  Some  of  them  have  extraordinary  f<HinS|  looking  almost 
us  if  they  were  monstrosities,  or  else  that  nature  had  indulged  in 
some  freak.  These  Ust  are  most  frequently  perceived  just  before 
the  South  West  Monsoon^  and  in  inland  situations. 

In  the  family  of  Plant  Parasites,  (Aphides J  are  seen  several  little 
species,  which  the  Black  Ants  are  so  fond  of  mUking^  that  they  have 
received  the  name  of  "  the  Ants'  milch  cows."  These  are  the  larvce, 
stud  pupoe,  in  which  state  they  are  covered  by  a  white  flaky  secre- 
tion, and  exude  a  sweet  gummy  substance.  That  generally  seen 
u[K>n  the  Bamboo,  looks  like  a  dark  spot,  surrounded  by  a  yellow 
circle,  but  with  the  exception  of  the  rainy  season.  Aphides  may 
be  perceived  all  the  year  round  on  the  Mangoe,  the  Bauhinia^  and 
iiuuiy  other  trees.  Should  an  Aphis,  from  which  au  Ant  has  be^ 
Hacking  the  sweets^  be  suddenly  removed,  and  the  Ant  on  his  retom 
find  it  gone,  a  great  tumult  ensues.  Other  ants  assemble,  and  all 
join  in  a  search  for  the  missing  cow,  which  the  natives  assert  is 
every  night  penned  up  by  the  Ants,  and  taken  in  the  morning  to  the 
tree  in  which  it  lives  during  the  day.  Amongst  the  Ckiccina  group 
there  is  one  species  which  produces  the  gum  lac,  on  various  trees. 

The  third  sub  class  of  insects,  contains  some  very  common,  but 
no  less  disgusting  house  parasiteS)  some  of  which  make  themselves 
at  home  in  the  hair  of  their  hosts,  without  leave  being  either  asked 
t>r  obtained,  whilst  others  destroy  clothes* 

In  the  order  Th^sanura,  exists  one  of  the  greatest  pests  to  the 
I  Possessor  of  books  and  clothes,  the  silvery  grey  Fish  insect  or  Lepisma, 


THE  CEOTIPEDES.  527 

X.  niveo-foiciaia^  Temp.,  which  is  particularly  active  in  the  monsoon 
time  :  inland  a  darker  variety,  L,  Nlger^  Temp.,  is  more  common, 
but  not  less  active  in  its  depredations.    Hiese  insects  are  exceeding- 
ly destructive  to  books,  in  which  they  bore  small  circular  holes,  and 
cutting  laterally,  remove  pieces  of  the  leaves.     Clothes  are  eaten  by 
them  in  numerous  little  slits,  as  if  snipped  with  a  pair  of  scissors, 
but  in  this  process,  a  small  elater  bears  its  share.     They  appear  to 
be  remarkably  fond  of  country  paper,  on  which  no  records  intended 
for  preservation,  should  ever  be  written  :  they  do  not  destroy  either 
French,  or  English  foolscap,  to  any  great  extent     It  is  said  (but  no 
doubt  incorrectly,)  that  the  Portuguese  introduced  these  little  crea- 
tures, but  the  species  found  in  the  old  Portuguese  Fort  of  Cochin 
and  at  the  houses  at  Kurriavanoor,  and  other  places,  are  not  the  same. 
The  best  preservatives  against  them,  are  camphor  wood  boxes,  and 
turpentine,  perhaps  the  oil  of  cajeput  might  also  succeed     It  is  s^iid 
that  placing  leaves  of  the  neem  tree,  between  some  of  the  pages  of 
books,  will  keep  them  away,  but  this  certainly  is  not  invariably  the 
case.     The  Spring  Tails,  Poduridcs,  are  perceived  principally  iu 
moist  places.    The  Wool  devouring  MallophagoB^  and  the  unarmed 
tailed  AnoplurcB,  order  of  insects,  are  common  amongst  birds'  fea- 
thers, the  fur  of  animals,  or  as  parasites,  and  although  some  are 
troublesome,  none  are  very  attractive  in  their  outward  forms. 

Amongst  the  Myriapods,  the  Centipedes,  are  exceedingly  nume- 
rous, but  not  very  venomous  in  the  town  of  Cochin.  They  are  not 
frequently  seen,  as  they  live  under  stones,  and  in  other  congenial 
spots,  or  enclosed  within  the  folds  of  shawls,  &c  Their  bite  causes 
severe  pain,  which  often  continues  for  some  hours.  Swarms  of  the 
lulus,  are  perceived  in  the  moist  cold  months,  in  communities  of 
hundreds  at  a  time.  When  bruized  in  vinegar,  they  are  regarded  as  ir- 
ritants, whilst  their  other  ill  effects  have  already  been  alluded  to. 

The  Arachnidce,  or  Spiders,  and  Scorpions,  are  very  numerous, 
both  in  the  sub-classes,  and  divisions.  The  Spiders  are  a  class  which 
require  working  out,  as  tribes  hitherto  undescribed*  would  reward 

*  It  would  be  most  desirable  if  Spiders  oould  be  tiafely  traDsmitted  uninjured 
to  Europe  for  examinatjon.  But  they  loose  their  colour  in  spirit^  or  G]yoerint«^ 
and  then  their  interest  ia  much  diminished.  The  numbers  instead  of  being  enu- 
merated by  tens,  and  twenties,  would  be  found  to  condst  of  handredi. 


528  THB  spmcfts. 

the  inquirer,  wliilst  the  immenae  nnmber  and  beauty  of  the  apede< 
is  very  great  It  is  not  improbable,  that  a  nearer  relationship  iril] 
be  found  to  eziat,  between  the  Pedipalpi  and  Dimerosomata,  than  i? 
afforded  by  the  Thelyphonidod  and  the  Anmeidoe. 

Spiders  are  all  canuTorous  creatures,  and  though  one  species  of 
Mygale  has  been  reputed  to  catch  small  birds,  the  report  has  been 
received  with  incredulity  by  many,  although  believed  in  by  othem 
A  specimen  of  the  Mygdk  foidatay  7  inches  in  diameter,  waa  placed 
under  the  same  finger  glass,  with  a  small  Qecko,  where  they  live^l 
together  quite  amicably.    But  the  Mygale  had  no  intention  of  re- 
maining on  similar  terms  with  a  Cockroach,  which  was  subsequently 
put  underneath  the  glass.    On  seeing  the  latter,  it  commenced  dean- 
ing  its  mandibles,  and  then  rushed  at  its  victim,  which  it  quid;lj 
seized,  and  turning  it  over,  caught  it  by  the  throaty  holdiii^  its  head 
and   chest   fast    by   aid   of  its  antennos.      After  having  killed 
it,  the  spider  let  it  go,  apparently  to  see  which  was  the  best  x>art  to 
b^n  eating,  or  perhaps  to  allow  it  to  get  tender.  It  then  again  clean- 
ed its  mandibles,  and  commenced  its  repast,  the  Lizard  in  the  mean 
time,  looking  quietly  on.    A  Mole  Cricket  was  afterwards  intro- 
duced, who  foiled  the  Spider  when  it  attacked  it,  and  the  encounter 
was  not  renewed  On  the  following  day,  the  Cricket  died,  but  the  My- 
gale  would  not  eat  it,  and  it  also  refused  to  touch  the  body  of  a  dead 
Cockroach,  which  was  given  it  for  food     But  it  very  soon  killed 
and  ate  a  live  green  Mantis  ;  and  a  House  Spider,  which  was  put 
into  the  glass  to  keep  it  company,  soon  shared  the  same  fata    Thi^ 
spider  appears  to  choose  its  lair,  and  to  remain  thero  day  after  day, 
watching  for  its  prey. 

The  Mahomedaus  regard  the  Spider  with  respect,  because  they 
believe  that  it  concealed  Mahomed  from  his  enemies,  by  spinning  a 
web  over  the  mouth  of  a  well,  in  which  he  was  hiddea  The  Jews 
also  assert  that  when  David  was  concealed  in  the  cave  of  Adullam 
he  remained  undiscovered,  because  a  Spider  wove  its  web  over  the 
entrance.  Some  species  form  long  burrows  in  hedgerows,  and  simi- 
lar places,  in  which  they  make  their  nests.  They  are  most  wary, 
and  although  seen  at  the  entrances,  are  rarely  captured 

Some  Spiders  of  the  Lycosidce  family,  live  in  trees,  holes,  and  out  of 
the  way  places,  and  run  down;  or  jump  out  upon  their  prey  :  others 


THE  CALUNO   CRABS.  529 

such  as  the  Aranaidoe,  as  a  role  spin  nets,  in  which  to  capture  their 
▼iotiBiA,  and  although  in  this  portion  of  India,  these  are  in  the 
minority,  still  the  varieties  are  nnmerous.  The  webs  of  some  specien 
are  reputed  to  be  good  anteperiodics,  and  natives  apply  them  to 
crises  of  ulcers. 

The  Scorpions  are  by  no  means  rare,  especially  a  brown  house 
species,  Scorpio  australis^  and  the  common  flat  one,  S.  linearis^ 
the  effect  of  their  sting  is  not  severe,  and  although  during  the  last 
few  years,  many  instances  have  occurred,  none  have  been  serious. 

The  large  black  Scorpion,  Bvthus  afer^  is  found  in  the  town, 
althongh  only  rarely,  but  it  is  much  more  frequent  in  the  interior 
of  the  country.  Its  sting  is  very  severe,  it  lives  under  stones,  by 
the  river,  in  moist,  places,  and  is  able  to  swim,  it  is  thus  ofteuer 
seen  by  sportsmen  in  the  jangles,  than  in  houses.  It  is  curious  to 
see  the  skin  of  a  person  who  has  been  stung  by  one  of  these  crea- 
tures, as  a  profuse  perspiration  is  generally  perceived  around  the 
injured  spot,  which  is  probably  an  effort  of  nature,  to  discharge  the 
poison.  A  naturalist  placed  a  Scorpion  and  its  young  under  a  glass, 
when  the  mother  destroyed  all  her  offspring,  with  the  exception  of 
one,  which  got  on  her  back  and  revenQ:ed  iti  brothers  and  sisters, 
by  killing  its  parent  Surrounded  by  burning  spirits,  Scorpions  unable 
to  escape  are  said  to  sting  themselves  to  death. 

The  Decapoda,  include  an  enormous  number  of  species,  amongst 
which  the  Crabs  rank  first,  and  form  a  vast  and  interesting  family. 
One  of  the  prettiest  of  them  which  is  much  esteemed  for  the  table 
belongs  to  the  stalk  eyed  family,  (Podophthalmvs.)  The  two  last 
joints  of  its  hind  claws,  being  converted  into  reddish  coloured  pad- 
dles. Its  body  is  reddish  brown,  with  three  purplish  spots  like  eye.s, 
on  its  dorsal  surface.  Though  its  front  claws  are  pink,  the  last  two 
joints  are  of  a  beautiful  light  blue  colour.  Crabs  are  to  be  found 
everywhere  along  the  shore  burrowing  in  the  sand,  and  living  with- 
in the  influence  of  the  breakers  :  in  the  backwater,  or  paddy  fields, 
or  else  along  the  margm  of  canals  ;  the  little  red  and  black,  Calling 
Grabs,  exist  in  thousands,  and  if  alarmed  suddenly  disappear.  They 
have  only  one  claw  developed,  the  other  .remaining  qxute  rudimen- 
tary. Whilst  running  they  carry  their  lai^  claw  over  their  back, 
and  if  several  are  pkced  together  in  a  small  space,  they  fight  most 

T  2 


530  THE  SKA  MA5TIS. 

desperately,  and  some  will  soon  be  killed  with  the  red  claw  of  their 
neighbour,  fixed  into  their  black  bodies.  One  of  the  great  difiSculties 
in  coUeekbg  good  specimens  of  this  family,  is  the  facility  they  pos- 
sess, of  shedding  their  claws.  During  the  months  of  October,  No- 
vomber  and  December,  they  are  sometimes  poisonooa,  and  occasion 
^iymptoms  like  cholera. 

The  little  Spider  Crab  (Maiada)  living  in  the  deep  sea,  reqairea  s 
passing  notica  It  has  a  round  or  oval  body,  rarely  larger  than  a 
nut,  covered  with  spines,  to  which  are  attached  bits  of  grass  and 
stick,  evidently  for  the  purpose  of  concealment  Numbers  are  cap- 
tared  in  the  sea  fisheries,  during  the  cold  months  of  the  year,  but 
no  use  is  made  of  them. 

Cray  fish  are  very  common,  and  various  species  are  caught  all  the 
year  round,  both  in  the  sea  and  in  the  backwater. 

Amongst  the  Anomuroe,  is  found  a  Hermit  Crab.  Having  gcA- 
lected  a  number  of  large  Terebralia  telescopium,  from  the  canal,  and 
left  them  forgotten  for  some  days  in  a  chatty,  a  curious  appearance 
wafi  presented  when  they  were  turned  out  First  a  few  small  Her- 
mit Crabs  were  perceived,  and  on  examining  more  dosely,  green  feet 
like  those  of  a  large  spider,  were  seen  projecting  from  two  of  the 
shells,  but  on  being  touched  or  the  shdl  being  moved,  they  imme- 
diately retracted,  and  disappeared.  The  length  of  the  body  in  six 
{specimens,  averaged  four  inches. 

Wliether  they  had  as  is  usually  believed,  merely  taken  up  their 
abodes  in  empty  shells,  or  whether  as  seems  more  probable,  they  had 
tirat  dispossessed  the  original  tenanta,  ia  open  to  doubt. 

Amongst  the  mouth  footed  insects,  (Sk>mapoday)  the  Brown  Sea 
Mantis  (SquUla^)  is  often  caught  by  the  fishermen,  though  fre- 
quently overlooked,  it  is  usually  3  or  4  inches  in  length.  It  has 
long  bifurcated  antennos,  and  other  appendages  about  the  head, 
amongst  which  its  satin  green  eyes,  situated  on  long  stalks,  are  not 
the  least  interesting.  It  has  a  pair  of  foot  jaws  of  large  size^  which 
jrive  it  somewhat  the  appearance  of  the  common  mantis.  Its  three 
pairs  of  legs  are  followed  by  five  more  pairs  of  fin  like  organs,  each 
of  which  bears  gills.  Its  posterior  extremity  or  tail,  is  composed  of 
Hat  expanded  plates,  terminating  in  sharp  pointed  spinous  extremi* 
ties.     Its  general  colour  is  brown,  tinged  with  blue,  and  each  s^^ent 


THIS  MBDUSA.  531 

of  the  back  is  tenninated  on  either  side  by  two  raised  spines,  whilst 
down  its  centre,  is  a  pair  of  smaller  ones. 

Amongst  the  Isopods,  a  wood  boring  species  claims  attention,  it 
is  more  especially  seen  in  the  nuny  season,  in  boats,  and  crawling 
amongst  the  stones,  and  about  the  wharfs,  whilst  in  the  warm  weather 
it  is  always  found  in  moist  places.  It  is  about  two  inches  long,  of 
a  light  brown  colour,  whilst  each  of  its  tail  filamsnts,  are  again  sub> 
divided  into  two.  It  is  principally  owin^  to  the  destractive  proper- 
ties, of  this  creature,  that  the  wooden  piles  of  the  wharfs  have  to  be 
renewed  every  third  year.  After  climbing  above  the  copper,  it  com- 
mences destroying^the  wood,  and  high  tides  enable  it  to  complete  the 
work  of  destruction. 

The  Wood  Louse,  (OnuciUy)  and  several  species  of  the  same  family, 
are  not  uncommon,  but  an  insect  of  this  order,  which  deserves  atten- 
tion, is  one  of  the  Natatorial  Isopods  which  appears  generally  to*  be 
found  as  a  parasite,  about  the  heads  ani  mouths  of  fish.  Its  clawn 
are  furnished  with  hooks,  enabling  it  to  take  very  firm  hold. 

Amongst  the  creatures  with  feet  and  heads  in  one,  (CirrhopodayJ 
both  the  Barnacle,  and  the  Belanus,  are  found,  this  last  making  the 
bottoms  of  vessels  very  foul. 

The  Annelides,  and  the  worm^  are  weU  known,  both  to  patients  and 
Medical  Practitioners,  from  the  Leech,  which  swarms  in  the  paddy 
fields,  but  is  difficult  to  capture,  unless  when  the  water  is  low,  to 
the  Parasitic  Worm%  that  infest  the  interior  of  the  Human  body. 
The  Tape  worm  and  Guinea  worm,  unless  imported,  are  unknown, 
but  other  species  are  numerous. 

The  Medusoe,  are  common  excepting  during  Uie  cold  months  of 
the  year,  and  are  seen  making  their  way  against  the  current  in  the 
Backwater  by  aid  of  their  tentacles. 

Where  such  vast  numbers  of  f  amiHes  enst,  with  almost  infinite 
divisions  of  species,  and  when  at  Aearly  every  step,  something  new 
in  Zoology  strikes  the  eye,  bold  would  be  the  individual  who  attempt- 
ed a  description,  of  all  that  exists  in  Malabar.  Volumes  might 
be  filled  by  simply  enumerating  the  species.  The  foregoing  is  only 
intended  as  a  brief  summary,  of  some  of  the  more  common  and  in- 
teresting tribes,  to  be  found  in  British  Cochin  and  in  the  neighbour- 
mg  Native  State. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

BOTANY. 

Relationship  of  Botany  to  wealth,  beauty,  utility,  and  health  of  a  country— 
Water  kept  pure  by  weeds — Ghraaaes  rare— Oil  producing  plants  common  - 
Fruit  trees — Cocoanut,  its  origin,  and  uses —Plantain — Tamarind — Jack  fruit 
— Mangoe — Vegetables — Shumach — Cork  tree— Oasuarina — Wild  almond — 
B'lowering  trees— Pepper — Talipot  palm — Maroti — Cashew  nut — Bamboo — 
Banian— Teak— The  Poon  tree— Blackwood— Ebony— Sappan— Cotton— 
Coffee — Lemon  grass.    Van  Beede's  Hortus  Malabaricus. 

Much  of  a  country's  wealth,  depends  upon  its  vegetable  produc- 
tions which  in  their  turn,  are  influenced  by  soil,  climate,  and  eleva- 
tion :  whilst  a  great  effect,  is  reciprocated  upon  climate,  by  the  vege- 
tation, or  more  properly  speaking  by  forests.  Trees  which  flourish 
in  the  dry  plains  of  India^  would  wither,  and  die,  on  the  Malabar 
i'oast :  whilst  were  the  vegetation  of  the  Western  Ghauts,  tnuii}- 
planted  to  the  a4<i  plains,  the  same  results  would  doubtless  ensue. 

The  Cocoanut  tree  of  Travancoi*e  and  Cochin,  thrives  along  the 
\yestem  shores,  as  far  as  Calicut^  but  further  North  its  size  and  pro- 
ductiveness steadily  decreases,  whilst  a  few  miles  inland,  the  crop 
is  compiajratively  valueless.  The  Coffee  tree,  flourishes  from  2500  to 
4500  feet  above  the  sea  level,  on  the  Wynaad,  and  elsewhere,  and 
although  it  grows  and  produces  its  important  berry  at  the  sea  level, 
it  is  with  a  corresponding  diminution  of  productiveness.  The  Teak 
ur  Indian  Oak,  so  magniflcent  and  so  hard,  when  taken  from  the 
high  forests,  runs  to  a  mere  pole,  on  the  stony  laterite  low  lands, 
where  the  Blackwood  hardly  grows  at  all. 

The  beauty  of  countries,  much  depends  upon  thw  vegetation ;  tiie 
traveller  from  the  interior^  cannot  but  be  struck  with  that  of  Malabar, 
as  he  glides  along  the  Backwater  in  his  cabin  boat :  whilst  if  long  from 
Europe,  it  will  give  him  pleasure,  to  see  the  shrub  Dilivatia  iUdfo- 


KUMAEI   CCLTIVATION.  533 

lia^  whkh  so  much  reaembieB  the  Eaglish  Hoiiy,  growing  on  its  allu- 
vial banks.  Or  should  a  visitor  arrive  at  Cochin  by  sea,  in  the 
earlier  part  of  the  South  West  Monsoon,  the  appearance  of  the 
Flamboyante  tree,  Painciana  Regia,  must  strike  his  attention,  as  it 
appears  covered  with  a  scarlet  mantle  of  flowers,  interspersed  with 
green  feathery  leaves.  Little  less  beautiful  is  the  Lagentnzmia 
H^ncBj  Rox.,  (€uiamboey  Mai.)  which  is  obtained  from  the  jungles. 
Its  huge  bunches  of  flowers,  are  of  a  lilac  or  purplish  rose  colour, 
whilst  it  continues  in  blossom,  from  April  to  July.  It  can  be  at  a 
distance  ecHupared  to  nothing  better,  than  a  large  Kngliah  Lilac  tree, 
in  full  bloom.  It  is  much  priced  in  gardens,  and  looks  ezcedingly 
well  by  the  side  of  the  Fhunboyante.  Smaller  in  me  is  the  Persian 
lihic,  which  is  however  nearly  as  i»etfy  as  the  Adamboe,  whilst  there 
are  many  other  trees  equally  striking.  Along  the  tanks  and  ditches, 
the  screw  pine,  Pandantu  odor€Uimmu»,  Linn.,  with  its  Pine  apple 
looking  fruit,  arrests  the  attention  of  tlie  passer  by.  The  Hindu 
refuses  to  admit  its  flowers  amongst  those  suited  for  religious  pnr> 
poses:  and  even  the  Termites  shun  it  owing  to  its  strong  aroma: 
but  tlia  devil-worshippers  consider  it  indispensable  in  their  ceremo- 
nies. The  whole  of  the  jungles  from  May  to  July  are  magnificent, 
owing  to  the  beauty  and  variety  of  the  flowering  trees  and  shrubs, 
which  require  to  be  seen  to  be  properly  appreciated. 

The  utility  of  a  country,  is  often  directly  in  respect  to  its  vegeta- 
ble wealth,  whether  as  a  com  or  rice  producing  and  exporting  land, 
or  a  timber  field,  which  the  interior  of  Ck>chin  undoubtedly  is.  Here 
the  Teak  grows  to  perfection,  a  worthy  substitute  for  the  English 
Oak:  and  but  little  inferior  to  it,  is  the  Anjely  wood,  whilst 
the  forests  have  always  been  celebrated,  for  their  Foon  Spars  or 
Masts  for  vessels.  To  v^etation  we  must  look  for  building  materials, 
as  well  as  for  those  for  fencing,  conveyances,  furniture,  and  orna- 
ments :  it  is  therefore  a  great  pity,  more  care  is  not  taken  in  pre- 
iterving  these  forests,  and  keeping  up  a  proper  supply  of  timber. 

The  healthiness  of  a  climate  may  be  impaired  by  irregular  de- 
fttruction  of  forests,  thus  the  Kumari  or  Pimam  cultivators,  who  burn 
down  the  jungle,  in  order  to  raise  their  crops  of  grain  on  the  rirli 
debris,  cause  the  death  of  the  larger  trees,  as  well  as  of  the  smaller 
brushwood.     But  after  two  or  three  years,  vegetation  again  com- 


Mi  SKlflON  FOB  FSLLUra  tucbxb. 

menoM  to  raiae  its  head,  and  a  small  acrabby  f evanah  jnn^e  takes 
the  plaee  of  the  former  one.  Liaige  forest  treea  do  not  appear  to  be 
xuahealthy  per  m,  bat  low  atanted  vegetation  nndonbtedly  is  so, 
isrhilst  elimate  is  modified  by  trees,  and  the  healthiness  of  a  place^  Is 
freqaently  improved  by  judicious  plantiiig  and  thus  screening 
off  prevailing  urinds,  whibt  trees  partially  mitigate  the  intensity  of 
laropical  heat^  and  create  or  improve  the  soiL  The  amonnt  of  rai|i 
fall  is  in  plaees  increased  by  trees,  whilst  they  keep  the  surface  of 
the  ground  cool,  thus  to  a  certain  extent  preventing  the  diying  up 
of  the  springs ;  consequently  felling  trees  thut  cover  1^  sommita  and 
sides  of  mountains,  diminishes  not  only  the  htAf  bot  alao  the  water 
of  a  place.  Mountain  forests,  especially  on  ridges,  attract  and  also 
condense  the  clouds,  and  besides  diminishing  the  local  temperature, 
are  supposed  to  give  rise  to  electric  action.  In  the  Cochin  state,  al- 
though the  large  timber  is  in  places  being  felled,  perhaps  ii^judici- 
ously,  still  no  considerable  clearance  of  forest  lands  has  yet  taken 
place,  probably  owing  to  the  want  of  forest  roads,  otherwise  no  doubt 
all  the  best  trees  would  soon  be  sold. 

The  water  in  the  various  tanks  and  ditches,  is  kept  sweet  by  the 
growth  of  a  weed,  Pistia  itratioteSf  Linn.,  on  its  surface,  which  keeps 
off  the  sun's  rays,  preventmg  both  its  too  great  evaporation,  and  ita  be- 
coming putrid.  It  ought  never  to  be  removed,  until  its  leaves  and 
roots  begin  to  decay. 

Grass  is  a  very  rare  production,  of  the  low  lands  of  the  Cochin 
State.  In  the  Town  itself,  owing  to  the  vast  amount  of  alluvial 
deposit,  and  debris  existing  there,  it  thrives  wall :  but  sandy  or  late- 
rite  formations,  are  unsuited  to  its  growth.  This  occasions  much  dis- 
tress in  feeding  cattle,  which  are,  as  already  stated,  a  poor  diminutive 
breed.  There  are  some  important  wild  grasses,  from  that  producing 
the  lemon  grass  oil,  to  other  species  employed  in  Hindu  customs  and 
ceremonies  Thus  biting  a  blade  of  grass,  is  considwed  a  token  of 
submission,  and  may  possibly  be  the  origin  of  the  European  expres- 
sion "  biting  the  grass."  In  religious  ceremonies  again,  the  Brahman 
in  not  always  present  to  officiate,  but  an  efficacious  and  excellent 
representative,  for  the  absent  priest,  is  found  in  a  bundle  of  50  blades 
of  cusa  grass. 

The  proper  season^  for  felling  timber,  is  an  important  consideration. 


HIKDV  OUGIK  OF  THS  COOOANUT  TKX&  6S5 

The  Nati^w  of  Coebin,  and  all  EiuropeanB  who  have  anythiqg  to  do 
with  the  IbiestSy  agree  that  trees  ahodld  be  felled  when  the  sap  is 
least  in  quantity,  which  in  those  with  deciduous  leaves,  is  known  to 
be  at  the  period  of  the  fall  of  the  leaf.  ^Hmber  and  bamboos,  also 
last  much  longer  if  cut  when  the  moon  is  on  the  wane,  than  when  on 
the  increase. 

•Thete  is  probably  no  part  of  the  world  where  there  are  more  oil 
producing  v^etables  ready  to  the  hand  of  man,  than  in  Malabar, 
much  is  certsinly  collected,  espedaliy  from  the  Cocoanut  tree,  but  the 
cashew  nut  appears  to  be  left  to  the  Pigeons,  (more  especially  the 
Imperial  variety,)  which  come  in  flocks  to  feast  upon  its  fruit :  and 
the  ground  nut  falls  to  the  share  of  the  wilder  animals,  whilst  the 
maroti  is  more  commonly  left  to  decay. 

Fruit  trees  of  many  and  varied  sorts,  and  esculent  v^tables,  are 
common.  In  different  species,  fruits,  leaves,  or  root  stocks,  form  arti- 
cles of  diet  But  the  Natives  are  mostly  ignorant  of  modes  of  graft- 
ing ;  the  wild  mangoe  continues  the  same,  and  they  are  careless  res- 
pecting improving  it.  Satisfied  with  the  trees  they  possess,  although 
thankfully  receiving  better  ones  as  a  gift  if  they  cost  them  no  trouble, 
they  do  not  concern  themselves  about  obtaining  them.  All  ib  left 
to  nature,  and  as  their  fathers  lived,  so  the  sons  are  satisfied  to  subsist. 

Pre-eminent  amongst  the  trees  in  the  town  of  Cochin  and  tower- 
ing above  all  others  along  the  sea  shore  and  sides  of  the  Back- 
water, are  the  Gocoanut  Palms,  Cocoa  nucifera,  Linn.,  every  portioi^ 
of  which,  from  their  leaves  to  their  roots,  may  be  turned  to  some 
useful  purpose. 

Hindu  tradition  informs  us,  that  Kusi  Rajah,  being  a  strenuous 
worshipper  of  one  supreme  Qod,  and  rejecting  the  custom  of  offerings 
to  inferior  divinities,  became  in  course  of  time,  almost  equal  to  the 
'gods,  and  made  many  of  the  grains  now  in  common  use.  As  his 
powers  increased  so  did  his  ambition,  and  he  meditated  creating 
another  species  of  human  being  very  superior  to  anything  existing  in 
the  world.  But  after  he  had  completed  its  head,  the  demi-gods  be- 
came slarmed,  and  prevailed  on  him  to  cease  his  work.  The  head  was 
therefore  transformed  into  a  Cocoanut  tree,  which  was  henceforth  to 
be  one  of  the  most  useful  of  all  trees  in  the  vegetable  kingdom :  and 
was  dedicated  to  Oanesha,  the  protector  of  sciences,  and  learned  men . 


536  Tire  COOOANUT  TRKR 

The  cocoanut  tree  flourishes  best  along^the  sea  coast,  and  tUriTes 
in  the  sandy  and  aUnvial  soil  of  Ooefaio.  Salt  appears  almoHt 
e^^sential  to  it,  consequently  a  few  miles  from  the  sea,  it  becomes 
less  luxuriant,  and  not  so  prolific. 

North  of  Calicut,  where  the  laterite  rooks  extend  down  to  the 
sea,  it  is  less  productive,  and  its  appearance  is  more  stunted.  In 
Ceylon  there  is  a  saying,  also  apj^cable  to  Malabar,  that  "  this  tree 
will  not  grow  further  than  a  man's  voice  can  extend  from  his  dwell- 
ing/'  ^his  very  tndy  demonstrates,  the  amount  of  attention  that 
is  necessary,  for  its  successful  cultivation. 

It  commences  to  bear,  about  the  sixth  year,  sometimes  before, 
sometimes  after,  and  reaches  its  prime  when  nearly  a  quarter  of  a 
century  old.  For  about  fifty  years  it  continues  prolific,  but  by  the 
time  it  has  attained  the  ripe  age  of  a  century,  its  bearing  powers 
have  ceased,  its  work  is  done* 

It  is  unnecessary  to  enter  upon  the  cultivation  of  this  tree  in  its 
various  phases,  it  requires  a  moderate  amount  of  water,  and  occasion- 
ally  manure,  amongst  which,  could  it  be  afforded,  salt  would  form 
a  good  staple.  When  age  has  rendered  this  tree  usdess,  and  the 
place  it  occupies  is  required  for  younger  ones,  a  plan  is  successfully 
adopted,  which  not  only  clears  away  the  roots,  but  also  manures  the 
soil.  The  stem  is  cut  off  a  few  inches  alM>ve  the  ground,  and  allow- 
ed to  dry  thoroughly,  charcoal  or  firewood  is  then  heaped  round 
the  stump,  and  the  whole  set  on  fire.  It  is  remarkable,  that  this 
smoulders  away  until  the  whole  of  the  fibrous  structure  has  been 
consumed.  The  young  tree  which  has  been  raised  from  the  nut  is 
then  placed  over  the  same  spot,  some  time  before  the  commencement 
of  the  South  West  Monsoon.  Cocoanut  trees  are  planted  about  20 
feet  apart  if  near  the  sea,  but  if  farther  inland,  at  a  greater  distance. 

The  Cocoanut  has  been  caUed  *'  the  great  nut  of  India,"  and  more 
than  one  author  has  pointed  out,  that  it  is  sufficient  to  build,  rig,  and 
freight  a  vessel,  with  bread,  wine,  water,  oil,  vinegar,  sugar,  aud 
other  commodities. 

The  tree  is  valued  at  from  half  a  rupee  to  five  rupees  when  in  full 
bearing,  and  is  taxed  according  to  its  productiveness :  the  prefits 
from  large  plantations  are  considerable,  especially  if  they  are 
the  property  of  a  Native,    and   still  more  so  if   he  also  is   the 


U8I8  or  THK  COOOAMUT  TRBK.  537 

ddtiTator.  The  Toddy  Drawers,  whose  especial  duty  it  is  to  dimb 
these  trees,  to  remove  the  produce,  cut  steps  about  one  f od  H^art, 
on  each  side,  up  which  they  carefully  ascend.  The  slave  castes  nuiy 
tend  the  trees,  and  tie  thorns  around  them,  to  keep  off  thieves,  but 
they  are  not  permitted  to  cut  them,  with  any  sharp  instrument. 

**  Of  all  the  trees  which  Providence  has  bestowed  on  the  Oriental 
world,  the  Gocoanut  tree  most  deserves  our  notice.  In  this  single 
production  of  nature,  what  blessings  are  conveyed  to  man  !  It  grows 
in  a  stately  column,  from  thirty  to  fifty  feet  in  height,  crowned  by  a 
verdant  ci^ital  of  waving  branches,  covered  with  long  spiral  leaves ; 
under  this  foliage,  branches  of  blossoms,  clusters  of  green  fruit,  and 
others  arrived  at  maturity,  appear  in  mingled  beauty.  The  trunk 
though  porous,  furnishes  beams,  and  rafters  for  our  habitations,  and 
the  leaves  when  plaited  together,  make  an  excellent  thatch,  common 
umbrellas,  coarse  mats  for  the  floor,  and  brooms :  whilst  their 
finest  fibres,  are  woven  into  very  beautiful  mats  for  the  rich.  The 
eovering  of  the  young  fruit  is  extremely  curious,  resembling  a  piece 
of  thick  cloth,  in  a  conical  form,  close  and  firm  as  if  it  came  from 
the  loom,  it  expands  after  the  fruit  has  burst  through  it»  enclosure 
and  then  appears  of  a  coarser  texture,  llie  nuts  contain  a  delicious 
milk,  and  a  kernel  sweet  as  an  almond,  this  when  dried  affords  abun- 
dance of  oU  ;  and  when  tfatt  is  expressed,  the  remains  feed  cattle 
and  poultry,  and  make  a  good  manure.  The  shell  of  the  nut 
furnishes  cups,  ladles,  and  other  domestic  utensils,  whilst  the 
husk  which  encloses  it,  is  of  the  utmost  importance,  it  is  manu£ic- 
tured  into  ropes,  and  cordage  of  every  kind,  from  the  smallest  twines, 
to  the  largest  cables  which  are  far  more  durable  than  those  of 
hemp.  *  *  *  The  Asiatic  celebrated  either  in  verse  or  prose,  the 
three  hundred  and  sixty  uses,  to  which  the  trunk,  the  branches,  the 
leaved,  the  juice,  and  the  fruit,  were  skilfully  applied.  Many  of  the 
trees  are  not  permitted  to  bear  fruit,  but  the  embryo  bud  from  which 
the,  blossoms  and  nuts  would  spring,  is  tied  up,  to  prevent  its  expan- 
sion, and  a  small  incision  being  made  at  the  end,  there  oozes  out  in 
gentle  drc^  a  cool  liquid  called  toddy,  the  Palm  wine  of  the  poets. 
Thifl  when  first  drawn  is  cooling  and  salutary,  but  when  fermented 
and  distilled,  produces  an  intoxicating  spirit  (arrack.)"* 

•  Porbesy  Oriental  Hemoin.  Vol.  I.  page  12. 
V  2 


1138  .  OOCOAHUT  PILES. 

The  web-like  texfcurey  from  azound  the  fronds,  where  the  brandifls 
expand,  the  Toddy  Drawers  employ  for  straining  the  toddy  throng  ; 
it  is  also  used  for  ooarse  cloths,  and  bags,  or  as  a  torch  after  it  has 
been  steeped  in  oil  and  lightly  rolled  up. 

Should  epicures  desire,  a  substitute  for  a  good  cabbage,  or  a  nioa 
pi(^e,  they  may  obtain  it  from  the  cocoanut  cabbage,  or  the  termi- 
nal bud,  at  the  summit  of  the  tree. 

Some  very  useful  purposes  are  served  by  the  leaves^  which  ace 
first  divided  down  the  centre  of  the  midrib  into  halves,  exposed  for 
two  or  three  di^s  to  the  sun,  then  soaked  for  about  the  same  period 
in  water,  and  subsequently  plaited  into  baskets,  or  thatch  for  huts 
and  houses.  Owing  to  the  amount  of  potash  the  leaves  contain,  th^ 
are  also  burnt  by  the  Dhobiea,  and  the  ashes  mixed  wiUi  the  water, 
in  which  the  clothes  are  soaked.  The  wood  of  the  tree  is  strong 
and  hard,  and  is  susceptible  of  a  veiy  fine  polish ;  it  is  known  as  the 
porcupine  wood,  from  its  black  and  white  veins.  The  stem  is  em* 
ployed  as  rafters  of  houses,  bridges,  beams,  small  boats,  &c.  The 
nuts  are  used  as  cups,  and  small  bmpa^  they  ate  also  cui 
and  poUshed,  carved  as  baskets,  and  into  many  {Nretty  and 
curious  ornaments.  The  midribs  of  the  leaves  are  employed 
as  paddles  for  small  boats.  In  olden  times  they  also  formed  aa 
instrumept  of  tortura  A  few  pieces  about  four  inches  in  length, 
were  cut  ja^;edly  from  the  midrib,  and  four  of  these  were  lightly 
bound  around  the  prisoner's  thumb,  with  a  piece  of  strong  wlup 
oord.  When  the  circulation  was  completely  aneated,  and  swelling 
had  taken  place,  each  of  these  four  pieces  were  in  succession  slowly 
dragged  out  through  the  congested  skin.  The  torture  was  declared 
by  the  victims  to  be  excessive.  Hie  root  of  this  palm  is  chewed  hj 
Natives,  as  a  substitute  for  the  aieca  nut 

In  Cochin  the  piles  employed  for  jetties,  are  very  commonly 
made  of  Cocoanut  trees,  and  although  it  would  at  first  sight  appear 
probable  that  they  would  last  many  years,  experience  shows  that 
five  is  as  much  as  may  be  anticqiAted.  The  Carpenter  Bees,  Xpio- 
copa  UUipes,  and  X.  tmuiieapa^  do  not  appear  to  wait  until  the  tree 
is  dead,  before  commendng  their  destructive  attacks  upon  it, 
whilst  immediately  that  it  is  driven  into  its  position,  some  species 
of  Isopods  commence  their  inroads,  these  are  probably  the  most 


THE   PLAHTAm  OK  BANAIIA.  639 

destraetiye  ammals,  small  thou^  thty  be^  which  inf «rt  the  Godun 
river,  deBtroying  the  boats,  and  woodwork. 

The  Oocoannt  tree  when  hollowed,  is  commonly  employed  as  laige 
pipes  for  drains,  whilst  asingle  tree  is  both  an  ordmaty  Native  bridge, 
and  when  notched  at  the  sides,  an  useful  ladder; 

Atree  which  is  often  seen  amongst  the  CSocoanuts,  and  other  trees, 
bnt  more  commcmly  in  gardens  by  itself  is  the  Plantain  or  Banana, 
Muta  paradinaea,  Linn.  {VeUa^  MaL)  Thisnseful  tree  which  forms 
snch  a  common  staple  of  food,  appears  to  thrive  f^m  the  sea  level, 
to  five  thousand  f  eet>  and  even  more :  it  is  considered  an  emblem  of 
fertility,  and  plenty,  by  the  Hindns,  and  dways  takes  its  place  in 
marriage  ceremonies,  and  other  grand  oocariona,  whilst  amongst  the 
Princes  of  Malabar  it  is  a  symbol  of  sovereignty. 

The  wide-spieading  leaves,  which  diminish  the  dionlation  of  air, 
also  tend  to  keep  the  gromid  moist,  and  conseqaently  houses  surround- 
ed by  them,  are  damp.  On  the  midar  surface  of  their  leaves,  is 
often  seen  the  little  tree  frog.  There  are  many  varietjles  of  this  tree, 
ene  garden  at  Trevandrum,  is  said  to  contain  forty  species :  as  an 
article  of  diet^  it  is  hardly  inferior  in  nutritive  properties  to  the 
potatoe.  From  the  fibrous  texture,  especially  of  one  species,  i/« 
ieseUUij  is  obtained  a  kind  of  fiax,  from  which  a  delicate  doth  is 
nualiufactuied.  The  whole  of  the  tree  is  so  fibrous,  that  from  plan- 
tain tribes,  almost  any  amount  of  fibre  could  be  obtained  for  export 
If  the  best  sort  is  taken,  and  the  fibre  well  cleaned  and  prepared,  all 
the  sap  having  been  quickly  removed,  it  bears  immersion  in  water 
well,  and  issaid  to  be  of  about  the  same  strength  as  Russian  hemp. 

Besides  many  other  properties,  it  riiould  not  be  omitted,  that  the 
leaves  are  employed  as  caps  and  bags  by  the  Ghogans,  and  are  also 
very  usefdl  to  the  Medical  practitioner.  They  are  commonly  em- 
ployed, in  dressing  blisters.  If  their  upper  sur&ce  be  applied 
to  the  Mistered  part,  tiie  healing  process  soon  takes  place,  on 
the  contrary  should  it  be  desirable  to  prevent  the  sore  from  rapidly 
ffipntimg  over,  the  under  surface  of  the  leaves  act  aa  the  necessary 
irritant  If  manured  with  the  weed  (PaiUoOy  MaL)  PuCia  Siratiotes, 
it  IB  said  to  bear  more  plentifuDy  and  to  have  larger  and  better  tasted 
frnt    To  ripen  plantains,  a  little  lime  is  smeared  on  each  one. 

The  slow  growing  dark  green  Tamarind,  Tamarindus  Indica^ 


540  THB  MANGOS. 

LmiL,  is  found  in  Cochin,  sparingly  spread  over  the  country.  The 
large  amount  of  acid  properties  contained  in  this  tree,  renders  it  un- 
advisable  for  travellers  to  encamp  in  its  shade,  as  should  a  shower 
of  rain  occur,  and  the  drops  fall  from  its  leaves,  it  will  most  assured- 
ly rot  the  tent  Ev^  the  damp  weather  will  destroy  tents  under 
this  shelter.     Natives  will  never  sleep  beneath  it 

Probably  amongst  the  most  beautiful  of  trees,  is  the  Bread-fruit, 
ArtocarpuB  incisa,  which  grows  exceedingly  well  in  the  soil  of 
Cochin,  but  does  not  thrive  inland,  on  the  laterite  formation.  Its 
growth  in  congenial  soils  is  rapid,  and  it  often  commences  to  bear 
by  its  third  year.  Its  spreading  branches  cover  rather  a  large  space, 
but  the  tree  is  rarely  above  40  or  50  feet  high.  About  March  the 
fruit  from  which  it  takes  its  name  is  ripe.  The  size  varies  from  that 
of  a  child's  head,  to  three  times  that  circumference.  It  is  said  to 
resemble  bread,  but  the  similarity  is  very  slight  After  being  cut 
and  baked,  the  outer  rind  is  removed,  and  the  interior  or  bread,  is 
very  like  dry  pith,  with  little  or  no  taste,  it  is  sometimes  curried. 
The  sap  of  this  tree  dried  in  the  sun,  and  subsequently  boiled,  forms 
an  inferior  substitute  for  pitch.  The  tree  is  propagated  by  shoots 
or  layers,  taken  from  its  roots. 

The  Jack  Fruit,  Artocarptu  iTUeffrifoUuSy  linn.,  is  a  far  more  use- 
ful tree  than  the  forcing,  to  which  its  fruit  in  outward  appearance, 
bears  considerable  resemblance.  The  wood  is  of  a  light  colour,  but 
after  a  time,  if  regularly  cleaned,  assumes  a  darker  hue,  approaching 
that  of  mahogany,  it  is  much  esteemed  for  tabids  and  furniture,  as 
well  as  for  general  purposes,  such  as  doors  and  buildings. 

This  tree  which  grows  on  laterite  soil,  ^riiere  the  Bread-fruit  and 
Cocoanut  do  not  thrive,  is  a  monop(^y  of  the  Sirkar,  and  yields  an 
annual  tax,  the  size  of  the  fruit,  which  is  much  prized  by  Natives, 
is  sometimes  enormous.  The  seeds  are  either  roasted  or  curried, 
and  taste  like  very  dry  broad  beans:  its  juice  is  sometimes  employed 
as  birdlime. 

The  Mangoe,  M<mgifera  IndicOy  grows  to  a  very  laige  size,  but 
its  fruit  is  of  a  very  inferior  description,  apparently  owing  more  to 
want  of  proper  cultivation,  than  the  incompatibility  of  the  climate 
Fine  trees  exist  at  Cannanore,  and  even  at  Calicut,  from  which  good 
mangoes  are  obtained.    There  is  one  curious  tree  in  the  Town  of 


THE  NUTmo.  541 

Coehia  which  although  it  never  produces  much  fruit  at  a  time,  still 
rarely  passes  a  month  mthout  bearing  some.  Mangoes  are  generally 
lipe  in  the  month  of  May,  but  they  have  mostly  disappeared  by  June. 

As  a  timber  wood,  it  is  sof t^  easily  decays,  and  does  not  stand 
moisture^  but  is  good  for  fuel  This  tree  should  be  propagated  by 
grafting.  In  some  parts  of  India,  no  Hindu  would  think  of  tasting 
the  fruit  of  his  Mangos  grove,  until  a  marriage  of  trees  has  taken 
place;  The  Tamarind  is  generally  chosen  as  the  Bride.  The  Brah- 
mans  attend  these  ceremonies,  and  derive  considerable  profit  from 
them,  as  they  are  conducted  with  much  pomp. 

There  are  many  other  trees,  grown  in  gardens,  which  are  useful 
for  food,  andprized  {or  their  ornamental  appearance.  The  Pome- 
granite^  Punica  grancUum,  Linn.,  has  a  pretty  bright  red  flower. 
Its  fruit  is  celebrated,  but  great  disappointment  is  usually  experienc- 
ed, on  first  tasting  it  The  Bullock's-heart  or  Soursop^  Annana 
reticulata,  Linn.,  is  found  in  gardens,  and  its  fruit  is  esteemed  one  of 
the  best  in  the  place.  It  grows  to  several  pounds  weight,  and  tastes 
like  the  Custard  Apple  flavoured  with  geraniums.  In  the  West 
Indies,  an  excellent  liqueur  is  made  from  this  fruit.  Its  leaves 
attract  bugs. 

The  Bed  and  White  Quavas,  Pddeum  p<mifsrum,  and'  P.  pyriferum, 
Linn.,  are  also  found:  the  fhiit  of  both  are  rather  too  strong  for  the 
table,  but  make  good  puddings,  and  excellent  preserves.  The  Limes, 
CUru4  bergamia,  Briss.,  are  add  but  usefuL 

The  Fapaw  Tree,  Carica  papaya,  Linn.,  is  liked  for  its  fruit,  which 
is  esteemed  for  puddings,  and  also  eaten  raw ;  the  Bilimbi,  Averrhoa 
hilimbi,  is  also  a  favourite  with  those  who  are  fond  of  add  fruit,  or 
preserves.  There  are  also  other  trees,  the  fruits  of  which  are  held 
in  esteem,  the  Lobi  lobi,  and  the  Marson,  are  both  found,  and  are 
probably  importations  from  Ceylon. 

There  are  many  other  useful  trees,  amongst  them  may  be  men- 
tioned the  Nutmeg,  Pyrrharia  HartJlddU,  Blume,  (Q  which  grows 
well  in  Cochin,  when  shdtwed  firom  violent  gusts  of  wind,  and 
strong  sea  breezes.  The  Cashew  nut,  Anaeardium  oceidentale,  linn., 
grows  well,  and  bears  abundantly,  even  as  early  as  February.  The 
loots  of  the  Horse  Beddiah  Tree,  Marvnga  pterygatperma,  Qoeertn, 
form  an  excellent  substitute  for  the  real  artide  as  a  reUsh  for  beef 


512 

Tb»  fStmlUook,  or  Pmnplflmose,  OUnu  deeumana,  Liim.,  is  not  a 
common  shnA).  This  large  spedes  of  orange^  is  mudt  liked,  but  Is 
more  muted  for  maknig  iolo  Mannelade,  then  for  eating  in  its  raw 
state,  wiiilst  its  fruit  makes  exbellent  jon.  The  C&tron,  OUrus  M^ 
diea,  linn.,  also  bears  in  Cochin,  and  good  Mannelade  is  made  from 
it  The  small  China  Orange,  the  fniit  of  which  is  hardly  larger  than 
a  pea,  thrives  well,  and  makes  ezceUeat  jami^  or  puddings,  as  well 
as  answering  the  purpose  of  good  gnm  on  an  emergency.  The  Mul- 
berry grows  well,  but  does  not  appear  to  bear  fmit  It  is  said  that 
in  olden  time,  the  silk  worm  floorished  here,  bat  this  is  not  wdl 
authenticated,  and  is  probably  incorrect. 

Other  useful  trees  must  not  be  omitted.  The  soap  nut  tree, 
Sapindtu  kMrifoUns^  TahL  (Punmfiy  MaL)  which  is  smtable  lor  the 
sides  of  roads,  has  a  saponaceous  berry,  which  is  used  as  noap  for 
washing  the  hair,  and  other  purposes.  From  its  wood,  harps  and 
combs  are  made.  The  Shumach,  OaaalpiTna  coriaria,  WiUd.,  known 
also  as  the  diri  divi,  grows  well  if  properly  attended  to,  yrhea  young. 
When  large  it  is  a  beautiful  tree,  and  most  valuable  for  its  pods, 
which  contain  about  50  per  cent  of  Tanmn,  the  price  x>f  which  va- 
ries in  Europe,  from  £S  to  JC13  a  ton.  In  its  native  soil,  the  pro- 
duce of  one  laree  is  about  lb.  100. 

It  germinates  well  from  seeds,  and  if  the  side  branches  are  trim* 
med  off  until  the  tree  reaches  ten  feet  in  height  and  the  stem  is 
properly  supported,  it  will  in  a  few  years  form  quite  a  fine  tree,  the 
cultivaticm  of  which  it  may  be  imagined  would  pay  as  a  commercial 
enterjNrise. 

Vegetables,  and  some  seeds^  succeed  pretty  well,  but  the  situation 
is  too  low  for  potatoes,  which  however  are  procured  from  the  Neil- 
gherries,  or  Pa^haut,  at  about  an  average  rate  of  Bs.  2  for  30  lbs* 
weight  The  following  grown  in  the  place,  are  most  esteemed,  the 
AghBty  kai,  Coronitta  Grandi^ora.  Willd,  Bed  Pumpkm,  CucuMia 
kMpiday  Thumb.,  which  Ib  very  common,  and  the  white  variety, 
reputed  to  be  extremely  strengthening,  and  therefore  seldom 
absent  from  the  meals  or  feasts  of  rich  Natives.  The  Brinal,  or 
Egg  Plant,  ScHanum  mdmigeMiy  linn.,  Bandakai,  ffUn&mu  etctUeniuSy 
Linn.,  Cucumber,  Cuewms  $aiim$,  Itinn.,  (MvUen  hdleri,  MaL)  Onion, 
Allkm  cepa,  linn.,  Pmeapple,  Ananoi  saHtrnt,  Schuli,  (Po^reeikee, 


THX  niMAV  AXJiOlfD.  54S 

MaL)  Mdoiiy  Cfucumii  mdo,  UmL,  Water  lUon,  CncuMia  dtruUut, 
Lum.  Seven!  species  of  Yanu^  JHoteorem  aiata;  D.  huUi/era;  JDl 
pmtaphyUa;  sad  D.  triphyUa^  IAbsl,  Sireefc  Fotefcoes,  C<m»oliimlu$ 
haUUoB^  liniL,  {Kappa  Kalen^  MaL)  Arrowroot,  Ourcf$ma  angutii' 
foUa,  Roxbuy  (JTooa,  MaL)  Pepper,  Piper  nigrum,  Linn^  {Motago-codi, 
MaL)  Betel,  Pi^  6ee^,  Lum.,  (refta,  MaL)  and  many  others. 

The  pretty  Cork  tree,  Bigncma  mberoiOy  Boxlx,  does  not  tbriye 
in  Cochin,  and  consequent^  is  nnadapted  for  avenues,  it  does  not 
flower  well,  and  its  sweet  scent  is  almost  unknown.  The  Neem  tree, 
AModiradUa  Indiea,  Ad.  de  Jnss,  likewise  merely  rons  to  a  small 
pole,  and  is  nnadapted  for  ornamental  planting.  It  is  an  emblem 
of  purification,  and  sacred  to  KalL  The  timber  is  beautifiilly  marie- 
ed,  and  suitable  for  cabinet  making.  The  Portia  tne,The8petia 
popukua^  LaoL,  grows  Terywell,  if  ptoperlj  attended  to,  but  if 
propagated  by  boughs,  they  are  apt  after  a  lew  years,  to  breek 
at  the  points,  from  wMeh  the  branches  sprout  o£  The  heavy 
rains  appear  to  weaken  this  par^  never  strong,  and  the  high  breeaea 
comidete  the  mischiet  Its  leaves  being  dedduous,  render  the 
gromd  very  untidy,  at  the  fall  of  the  leaf;  and  the  same  may  be 
said,  when  its  yellow  or  buff  coloured  blossoms  falL 

The  CSasuarina,  Casuarina  mwrieakiy  Roxb.,  grows  well  and  rapidly, 
but  unless  the  tops  are  oecasionaUy  cut  off  when  young,  it  runs  too 
mudi  to  a  weedy  head  top,  and  becomes  unfit  for  avenues.  Its  wood 
though  extremely  hard,  is  brittle  and  easily  bn^en  off  in  high  winds. 

The  finest  and  strongest  tree,  and  consequently  that  best  adapted 
for  ornamental  planting,  is  the  Indian  almond,  Tenminalia  catappa, 
linn.  Its  dark  tiiick  foliage,  ia  very  handsome,  and  shows  to 
advantage  in  the  months  of  March  and  April,  when  interspersed 
vrith  purplish  flowers.  Its  seeds  are  veiy  much  like  those  of  the 
true  Almond,  and  its  kernel  has  much  the  same  taste.  The  Flying 
Foxes,  Pteropui  Hdwardrii  are  very  fond  of  them,  aud  are  often  a 
great  nuisance  at  night  time,  fighting  over  the  spoiL 

Oil  may  be  expressed  from  the  nuts,  the  fruit  being  gathered, 
dried  in  the  sun,  and  the  kernels  cleaned,  they  are  bruized  in  a  mill, 
when  six  seers  produce  three  pucka  seers  of  oil.  The  oil  cake  is 
considered  good  for  feeding  piga  It  is  like  English  Alm<md  oil, 
but  eo  badly  prepared,  that  it  soon  becomes  turbid 


544  QABimr  shrubs. 

The  amatter  omamentel  treesy  wliich  are  grown  either  for  the 
beauty  of  the  flowers,  their  bright  tinted  leayes,  w  their  corioaa  ap- 
pearanee^arebynomeansfew,  eonaideringthe  small  amount  of  space, 
available  {ov  snch  porposes,  in  the  town  of  Cochin. 

The  Persian  lilac,  Melia  astedarcuh^  linn.,  though  not  growing 
to  any  height,  may  be  seen  covered  with  magnificent  clusters  of 
purple  flowers,  quite  loading  the  tree  during  March,  April,  and  even 
in  the  beginning  of  May.  The  beads,  are  bored  and  strung  by  the 
Roman  Catholics.    The  timber  is  hard  and  handsomely  marked. 

The  purple  species  of  Bauhinia,  often  variegated  with  brown  and 
yellow,  is  a  handsome  and  ornamental  tree.  1%e  Silk  Cotton  tree, 
Bombax  Malabarieum,  D.  C,  with  its  prickly  trunk,  branches  spring- 
ing at  right  angles  from  the  stem,  and  palmate  leaves,  grows  in  the 
town.  The  deep  red  flowers,  Uossoming  from  February  till 
April,  are  looked  upon  by  the  Natives  as  a  cause  of  sore  eyes,  as  it 
is  said  that  whoever  looks  at  them,  will  be  affected  with  ophthalmia. 
Its  seeds  are  embedded  in  a  silky  cotton,  the  staple  of  which  is  too 
short  to  weave,  but  is  most  useful  in  stuffing  pillows  and  mattrasses. 

Holding  a  conspicuous  place  amongst  the  smaller  flowering 
shrubs,  is  the  Rose  tree,  which  flourishes  and  blossoms  most  luxu- 
riantly, in  small  courts,  where  the  free  circulation  of  air,  must  sp- 
parently  be  almost  unknown.  Where  diere  is  a  little  more  space,  the 
£zile,  IT^eveHa  nerei/oHa,  Juss.,  may  be  found :  this  tree  is  a  native 
of  South  America,  but  now  naturalised  in  India,  it  grows  from  12 
to  20  feet  high.    Its  milky  juice  is  highly  venomous. 

The  shoe  flower,  or  China  Rose,  Hibiwui  rota  sinensis^  thrives 
in  both  its  buff,  and  red  varieties :  the  latter  are  employed  oa  festive 
occasions,  and  the  Nairs  in  olden  time,  made  garlands  of  them  for 
their  cannon,  and  for  hanging  around  their  elephants,  idien 
going  to  battle ;  the  petals  of  the  flowers,  are  employed  for  blacking 
shoes,  and  women  use  them  for  dyeing  the  hair  and  eyebrows  blade 
When  rubbed  on  blotting  paper  they  leave  a  bluish  tint,  and  render 
it  a  good  substitute  for  blue  litmus  paper,  for  detecting  the  addity  of 
any  fluid. 

The  deep  crimson  leaves  of  the  PaineeUia  pulehtrrimay  linn.,  give 
this  shrub  a  very  gay  appearance,  and  it  is  consequently  perceived 
in  most  gardens  as  is  ako  the  French  Croton,  CroUm  variet^umy 


ABICA  NUT.  345 

vfhick  is  grown  for  its  beantyias  well  as  many  other  ahrabs  which 
it  is  unnecessary  to  enumerate. 

The  foregoing  trees  and  shrubs,  (uniess  otherwise  stated,)  from 
the  Gocoanut  downwards,  may  be  found  within  the  small  space  of 
British  Cochin.  But  the  great  wealth  of  Malabar,  partly  arises  from 
its  Gocoanut  plantations,  its  pepper,  and  other  produce. 

Pepper,  Piper  nigrum^  Linn.,  (Molago  codi^  Mai.)  has  been  from 
the  most  ancient  times,  until  last  year,  a  monopoly  of  the  Sircar. 
It  was  formerly  called  ^  Malahar  Money"  The  Cochin  state  pro- 
duces but  little  of  this  article.  It  is  propagated  by  cuttings,  and 
commences  to  produce  in  about  three  years,  it  is  trained  up  trees 
which  have  rough  barks,  and  requires  careful  pruning  and  watching. 
The  berries  are  red,  but  when  dried  become  black.  The  best  are 
grown  in  the  Tallies  of  the  ghauts,  where  there  is  most  moisture. 
When  hlaek  pepper  is  required,  the  seeds  are  picked  green,  and  when 
dried  become  black,  with  a  corrugated  surface.  White  pepper  is 
the  ripe  fruity  in  which  state  it  is  covered  with  a  red  pulp,  which  is 
washed  ofl^  and  the  white  pepper  com  beneath  it,  cleansed  and  dried, 
after  which  it  is  ready  for  the  market. 

The  leaves  of  the  Betel,  Pi^ier  beUe,  linn.,  {VeUa^  Mai.)  are  most 
extensively  chewed  by  the  Native  and  Eurasian  population,  mixed 
with  Chunam,  and  the  nut  of  the  areca  palm.  This  practice  is  con- 
sidered conducive  to  health  and  is  a  powerful  stimulant  to  the 
salivary  glands,  and  digestive  organs,  though  if  long  continued  it 
renders  the  mouth  dry,  and  parches  the  tongue  and  fauces.  It  is 
said  to  diminish  perspiration,  but  has  an  unpleasant  sickly  odour. 
This  vine  requires  a  rich  moist  soil,  and  is  planted  in  rows,  and 
trained  up  on  poles  or  trees.  The  leaves  must  only  be  removed  at 
certain  seasons  6t  the  year. 

The  Areca  Pabn,  Areoa  oateehu^  linn.,  {Adaka,  Mai.)  is  a  most 
valuable,  and  at  the  same  time  beautiful  tree.  It  thrives  either 
near  the  sea,  or  even  in  high  regions^  at  some  distance  inland.  It 
produces  about  three  hundred  nuts  yearly  on  an  average,  which 
somewhat  resemble  nutmegs.  At  ceremonial  visits,  as  a  sign  that  it  is 
time  for  a  visitor  to  take  leave,  they  are  presented  in  slices,  mixed 
with  chunam  and  cardamoms,  folded  up  in  a  betel  leaf,  and  secured 
by  a  clove.     An  inferior  chewing  betel  in  the  presence  of  a  superior, 

w  2 


646  CASSBW    NT7T. 

is  at  the  least,  taking  a  great  liberty,  and  his  oondnct  may  well  be 
consideredy  aa  an  intentional  impertinence. 

The  Fan,  or  Talipot  Palm,  Corypha  umbrnculifera,  Linn.,  though 
perhaps  better  known  in  Ceylon  than  in  India,  is  by  no  means 
uncommon  a  few  miles  to  the  North  of  Cochin,  and  not  very  far 
inland.     It  is  numerous  at  Triehoor. 

Its  beautiful  fan  shaped  leaves,  their  enormous  sixe,  and  dark 
green  colour,  renders  this  tree  a  yeiy  striking  object.  It  is  said 
that  only  Royalty  in  Malabar  were  permitted  to  have  a  branch  of 
the  Cocoanut  palm  carried  over  them,  but  it  does  not  appear  impro- 
bable, that  this  is  a  mistake,  and  that  in  reality  it  was  the  leaf  of 
the  Talipot  pahn.  In  Ceylon  only  Royalty  and  Buddhist  priests, 
could  have  "the  talipot  fsji  borne  over  them,  with  the  broad  end 
foremost."  This  tree  is  generally  seen  in  gardens.  The  leaves  are 
cut  into  proper  sins,  and  used  as  a  substitute  for  writing  paper, 
an  iron  style  being  employed  as  a  pen :  they  resist  the  ravages  of 
time,  but  unfortunately  not  that  of  insects.  On  this  spedes  of  pa- 
per, all  the  records,  reports,  and  correspondence  of  the  Codun  Oo- 
vemment  were  kept^  until  the  year  1858,  when  paper  was  introduc- 
ed into  the  Dewan's  Office,  but  not  iikto  the  Talooks.  Its  leaves  are 
also  used  for  thatching  houses,  and  when  properly  dried,  for  umbrel- 
las. The  seeds  are  employed  as  beads  by  some  Hindu  sects,  and 
are  sometimes  cut,  dyed  red,  and  sold  as  coraL  Flour  or  a  sort  of 
sago,  \&  prepared  from  the  pith  of  its  trunk. 

Another  tree  which  arrests  attention,  is  the  handsome  Maroti, 
HydrocarpuB  indyriaiUy  VahL,  so  designated  from  its  froit  occasion- 
ing dizziness,  its  seeds  are  occasionally  employed  for  poisoning  fish. 
This  tree  grows  wild  in  many  places,  but  is  more  especially  seen  in 
gardens,  where  it  is  cnltivated  for  its  oil  The  fruit  from  which 
this  is  extracted,  is  about  the  size  of  a  small  orange,  of  a  brown 
colour,  and  a  hard  and  rough  texture. 

The  most  favourite  tree  along  the  road  sides,  appears  to  be  the 
Cashew  Nut,  Anaeardium  oeeidentale,  Linn.,  (Parunbimavakf  Mai.) 
from  its  trunk  is  obtained  a  gum,  horn  its  fruit  a  vesicating  oil, 
often  employed  for  putting  over  floors,  and  wooden  ralters,  to  preserve 
them  from  white  ants.  The  kernels  are  edible,  as  are  also  the  apples 
from  which  they  grow. 


THE  BAMBOO.  547 

The  Vomit  nut,  or  Poiaon  nut,  Strychno$  ntus  vomica^  Linn.,  (Cari- 
rav^MaL)  b  a  very  common,  medium  aued  tree,  its  yellow  fruit  looks 
at  a  diBtence  like  oranges,  and  immediately  attracts  attention.  Al- 
though the  powerful  irritant  poison  of  Strychnine,  is  contained  in 
the  seeds,  the  HombUl  and  some  other  birds,  are  said  to  live  uppn 
them. 

The  Bamboo,  Bawbma  arundmaeeay  Willd.,  although  found  in 
the  vicinity  of  the  sea,  increases  both  in  .size  and  number,  nearer  the 
£^ut8,  on  which  it  grows  most  luxuriantly.  Its  long  feathery 
foliage,  and  delicate  light  green  hue,  renders  it  when  waving  in  the 
breeae,  a  most  attnu^ve  object  But  it  is  not  only  for  its  beauty 
that  this  tree  is  valued,  as  being  light  but  strong,  it  is  useful  for 
many  economic  purposes. 

The  seeds  ripen,  about  April  or  May.  It  is  said  that  this  tree, 
flowers  only  once  in  fifteen  years,  fructifies,  then  droops,  and  dies. 
The  seeds  are  pounded,  and  eaten  by  the  poorer  classes,  but  are  con- 
sidered very  unwholesome. 

The  rapidity  at  which  this  tree  grows  is  something  wonderfbl, 
^  it  attains  a  o(msiderahle  height,  some  70 — 80  feet,  and  has  been 
*^  known  to  spring  up  thirty  inches,  in  six  days."* 

The  young  shoots  of  some  iq;ieeies  are  eaten  as  asparagus,  the 
stems  are  ^  converted  into  bows,  arrows,  and  quivers,  lance  shafts, 
<<  the  masts  of  veaseJs,  bed  posts,  walking  sticks,  the  poles  of  palan- 
*^  quina,  as  floors  and  supporters  of  rustic  bridges."  They  are  sharpen- 
ed and  hardened  in  the  fire,  and  thus  form  stockades,  or  the  hollow 
ones  are  loaded  as  guns,  to  which  slow  matches  are  attached  and 
left  in  bug  grass,  to  annoy  Infantry.  The  uses  to  which  they  are 
put  are  most  numerous,  the  partitions  being  destroyed,  they  form 
water  pipes.  "  Of  the  Bamboo  are  made  implements  for  weaving, 
''  the  post  and  frames  of  the  roofs  of  huts,  scafibldings  for  build- 
''ingi,  portable  stages  for  native  processions,  raised  floors  for  graaa- 
''  ries,  stakes  for  nets  in  rivers,  rafts,  masts,  yards,  oars,  spars,  dec, 
"  in  boat^a  decks.  It  is  used  for  building  bridges  across  creeks,  for 
'^  fences,  aa  a  lever  for  raising  water  for  irrigation,  and  as  flag  poles. 
^Several  agricultuial  implements  are  made  of  it,  as  are  also  hacke- 


•  J>n«7,  "  Ueeful  Plants  of  India,"  page  62. 


548  BANIAN. 

"  ties  or  carts,  doolies  or  litters,  and  biers;  the  shafts  of  jaTelins  or 
*'  spears,  bows  and  arrows,  dabs  and  fishing  rods. 

<'  A  joint  of  bamboo  serves  as  a  holder  ibr  pens,  small  instruments 
^  and  tools.  It  is  used  as  a  case  in  which  things  of  little  bulk  are 
"  sent  to  a  distance,  a  joint  of  bamboo  serves  the  purpose  of  a 
"  bottle,  and  a  section  of  it,  is  a  measure  for  solids,  and  liquids,  in 
"  Bazaars.  A  piece  of  it  is  used  as  a  blow  pipe,  and  as  a  tube  in 
"  a  distilling  apparatus.  A  small  bit  of  it  split  at  one  end,  serves 
''  as  tongs  to  take  up  burning  charcoal,  and  a  thin  slip  of  it,  is 
**  sharp  enough  to  be  used  as  a  knife,  in  shelling  betelnuta.  Its 
"  surface  is  so  hard,  that  it  answers  the  purpose  of  a  whet  stone, 
"  upon  which  the  Ryots  sharpen  their  agricultorai  im^ements."* 

In  the  jungles,  the  rotation  changes  from  that  found  in  the 
alluvial  or  kterite  plains,  and  this  alteration  becomes  more 
and  more  perceptible,  as  a  higher  elevation  is  attained,  thereforet 
leaving  a  further  account  of  the  Botany  of  Hke  open  country,  that  of 
the  Jungles  which  is  found  most  useful  for  building,  railways,  and 
other  purposes,  claims  our  attention. 

Amongst  the  Jungle  trees,  is  found  the  Elephant  creeper,  Arffynia 
Speciosa,  Sweet,  {Samudra  Utogam,  MaL)  which  in  Jidy  and  Au- 
gust, is  covered  with  rose  cc^oured  flowers,  something  like  convol- 
vulL  It  grows  to  an  enormous  thickness,  often  carried  from  one  tree 
to  another,  forming  a  natural  swing,  or  embracing  large  trees  so 
flrmly,  as  to  arrest  the  circulation  in  the  bark,  and  cause  iheit  death. 

A  well  known  tree,  is  the  Banian,  Ficui  JBengcUietuU,  linn. 
{PercUuy  Mai.)  common  all  oyer  India,  and  celebrated  in  prose  and 
Verse,  from  the  most  ancient  times.  Large  as  it  grows  in  the  Cochin 
territory,  it  must  pale  before  those  mentioned  in  many  other  places. 
One  at  Mhow  for  instance  is  Stated  to  have  had  68  stems,  and  is 
computed  to  have  covered  a  space^  large  enough  to  encamp  20,000 
men.  This  tree  is  very  destructive  to  buildings,  old  Forts,  and  mo- 
numents, as  the  seeds  are  frequently  conveyed  by  birds,  or  in  some 
other  way,  to  various  places,  where  they  rapidly  take  root,  and 
spring  up.  As  it  is  regarded  by  the  Hindus  in  a  superstitioius  light, 
they  will  never  puU  it  down,  and  the  young  sapUn  speedily  inserts 

*'  Drmy,  "Usefol  Plants  of  India,"  page  62. 


POPLAB-LSAVXD   FIO  TRKX.  649 

ka  roots  amongat  the  stonae^  and  in  tuna  f  oicaa  tfaMD  out  of  thair 
ysap&c  pHaoaa:  evan  after  tba  head  haa  been  cat  off,  the  root  oonti^ 
miaa  enlaigii^.  Sometiiiiei  it  genniiiatea  inaide  another  tree  inch 
aa  the  Falmyray  and  the  roots  descending  around  it,  by  degrees  en** 
tirely  en?elope  it^  with  the  eacoeption  of  the  head. 

It  ccmstantly  throws  out  roots  downwards  from  its  branches, 
which  stdke  again  as  th^  reach  the  ground,  and  these  descending 
portions  become  tronks,  from  which  the  same  process  is  carried  on. 
WinHnu  **  consider  its  long  duration,  its  outshadowing  arms,  and 
^  orearahadowing  beneficence,  aa  emblems  of  the  deity :"  and  be- 
neath them  the  Hindu  philoaophers  often  spend  much  of  their  time, 
in  contan^lation  and  solitnda.  Idols  are  often  found  at  its  base, 
Ganesha  the  Sylvan  deity,  being  that  in  whose  honour  they  are 
generally  qpeakdng  raised. 

The  small  red  fig  of  this  tree  when  ripe,  is  fit  for  human  food, 
and  is  also  eaten  by  monkeys^  wfuirreb,  and  birds.  Snakes,  lizards, 
and  other  reptiles>  seek  a  home  amongst  its  roots,  and  even  mice 
may  be  found  under  its  sheltering  protection. 

Nearly  allied  to  the  aboye  is  the  poplar*  leaved  fig  tree^  Ftcus 
rdigioia,  lann.  (Arealu,  MaL)  It  is  generally  found  near  Hindu 
Pagodas^  and  it  is  believed  that  VishnU  was  bom  amongst  its 
foliage  where  the  gods  now  delight  to  sit  listening  to  its  rustling,  as 
its  leaves  tremble  like  those  of  the  Aspen.  Under  this  tree  in  vil- 
lage communities,  suspected  persons  are  sometimes  taken  to  assart 
thetruth  of  their  statements^by  taking  one  of  the  leaves  in  their  hand, 
and  invoking  the  gods  aboye,  to  corse  them,  and  all  near  and  dear 
to  them,  if  they  speak  not  the  tratL  Hindus  belieye  that  did  any 
one  dare  to  assert  a  falsehood,  in  such  a  sanctified  place,  the  wrath 
of  the  gods  would  assuredly  descend  upon  him,  and  his  family. 
The  Syrian  Christians  assert,  that  the  wood  of  the  cross,  was  of  this 
tree,  in  consequence  of  which,  the  leaves  have  never  ceased  trem* 
hling.  The  Buddhists  affirm,  that  Buddha  when  on  earth,  delighted 
to  recline  under  its  shade,  since  which  period  the  leavsa  have  been  in 
a  state  of  incessant  ecstatic  motion.  This  tree  does  not  extend  it- 
self by  throwing  down  roots  from  its  branches. 

Another  species  of  fig,  Ficus  cunia,  BucL,  (Femia  teregamfJAsL) 
is  very  common,  and  its  rou^  leaves  are  very  useful  to  Cabinet 


550  TUX  TRHS. 

maken,  who  emj^oy  them  like  ShagreeD,  for  rnbbiog  dcmn  hum- 
tote,  to  a  smooth  mxhoe^  and  thua  preparing  it  for  its  final  poliah. 
It  IB  also  uaed  for  amoothiog  homa,  before  poliahing,  when  thej 
have  been  rboghly  filed. 

The  Teak  tree,  Tectona  grandis,  Linn.,  {Tekka,  MaL)  is  consi- 
dered the  oak  of  India^  and  the  most  naefnl  of  Indian  treea,  being 
yery  strong,  and  resistiog  to  a  great  extent  both  the  ravages  of 
White  Ants,  and  the  rotting  action  of  water.  Its  leaf  is  laige, 
thin,  and  rounded,  about  ten  inches  in  diameter ;  its  branches  of 
blossoms  have  been  compared  to  hops^  and  its  berries  to  gnpes. 
A  group  of  these  trees  when  in  full  bloom,  from  a  distance  resem- 
bles a  field  of  ripe  com,  owing  to  which  the  Mnlchers  and  Kaidars, 
discover  them  a  long  way  o£  In  ship  building  it  is  superior  to 
any  forest  tree,  and  the  best  Malabar  Teak,  is  reckoned  better  than 
that  fonnd  elaewhersL  Its  growth  should  be  slow,  for  that  which 
rapidly  comes  to  maturity,  in  rich  soils,  is  not  so  good  as  that 
which  takes  from  60  to  80  years  growing.  It  does  not  afifoct  iron 
in  any  way,  and  does  not  shrink. 

Hie  oily  nature  of  teak,  enables  it  to  resist  the  dry  rot  Vesaeb 
constructed  of  this  wood,  do  not  warp,  or  become  crazy,  like  those 
built  of  European  ttmbers.  But  possibly  teak  being  in  its  native 
climate  in  the  Indian  Seas,  is  not  so  susceptible  to  the  injurious 
effect,  either  of  the  heat,  or  of  the  sudden  changes  of  the  Mon- 
soons. However  that  may  be^  the  vessek  are  certainly  not  so 
leaky,  and  the  crews  consequently  more  healthy.  Ships  are  consi- 
dered to  last  from  30  to  50  years,  when  constructed  of  teak.  There 
are  four  sorts,  or  distinctions  of  this  wood,  known  to  Ship  builders^ 
brought  from  the  Malabar  forests.  A  small  species,  (Coal  TJdui, 
MaL)  has  a  porous  grain,  and  grows  at  the  £QOt  of  tiie  Ghauts,  in 
valleys  where  the  soil  is  rich,  and  deep,  and  along  the  banks  of  largp 
rivers.  This  is  rather  small,  but  is  adapted  for  planking  and  board- 
ing. The  hugest  but  most  inferior  species,  (Oami  Tekka,  MaL)  grows 
on  the  hills  and  but  rarely  at  the  foot  of  the  Ghauts.  As  a  general 
rule,  teak  timber  which  is  above  twenty  inches  in  diameter  at  the 
butt,  has  the  heart  shake  from  end  to  end,  and  consequently  re- 
quires much  care  to  convert  it  into  use. 

The  superior  kind  (CuUen  Tdcka^  MaL)  grows  in  the  forests,  where 


TE4K  F0&B6TS.  551 

the  soil  is  not  deep.  On  the  Ohaats,  it  is  cnrved,  hard  and  knotty, 
and  reiy  like  the  English  Oak,  its  weight  is  greater  than  the  above 
mentioned  species,  and  its  durability  more  considerable.* 

Teak  wood  oil,  from  the  inferior,  {Nee  Tekka^Vitl)  may  be  used  as 
a  substitute  for  the  Linseed,  and  makes  a  good  varnish  for  paint. 
The  number  of  these  trees  is  rapidly  diminishing,  as  the  Cochin 
Government  has  no  young  ones  planted,  to  succeed  those  which  are 
constantly  being  felled.  Up  to  1814,  the  Cochin  and  Travancore 
Sircar  teaks  were  excluded  from  the  Bombay  dockyards,  and  had  to 
be  sent  to  Bengal  for  sale,  where  there  was  a  great  demand  for  them. 

Next  in  importance^  and  but  little  inferior  in  value,  is  the  Anjelly 
-wood,  Artoearpm  hirttUtu,  linn.  {An^diy  MaL)  a  tree  exclusively 
fonnd  on  the  Western  Coast  where  three  species  are  known. 
A  large  tract  of  them  is  situated  about  40  miles  South  East  of 
Trichoor,  at  an  elevation  of  perhaps  3,000  feet.  It  is  much  prized 
by  the  natives  for  canoes,  snake  boats  and  house  building,  whilst 
from  its  hard  texture,  it  is  especially  adapted  for  large  sea  boats, 
the  boards  of  which  are  sewn  together,  as  they  are  apt  to  give  way : 
it  is  thought  more  durable  than  oak.  It  is  also  well  suited  for  the 
bottom  planking  of  ships,  as  high  as  the  bends,  but  the  fastenings  if 
not  trenailed,  should  be  made  of  copper,  as  it  corrodes  iron  very 
rapidly. 

It  is  now  getting  scarcer,  in  the  most  accessible  forests,  and  con- 
sequently the  value  is  greatly  augmenting.  It  appears  to  prefer  the 
higher  range  of  hills.  At  present  the  annual  supply  from  the 
Cochin  and  Travancore  forests,  only  averages  6,000  or  7,000  candies, 
not  above  one  tenth  of  which,  would  be  suitable  for  ship  building. 

Dr.  Cleghom  advances,  whether  '*  it  might  be  advisable,  to  form 
'*  plantations  on  the  banks  of  navigable  rivers :"  but  such  would 
most  likely  not  succeed,  as  the  trees  so  situated  would  probably 
grow  too  rapidly,  and  the  trunk  thereby  lose  much  of  its  density 
and  consequent  utility. 

*  The  following  is  a  list  of  the  Jint  Britith  Men  of  War,  built  of  this  material. 

Shipi  of  the  ^ne.— Minden,  Cornwanis,  Melville,Ma]abar,  Welleeley,  Ganges, 
Asia»  Bombay,  Oaleutta^  Haatioga. 

J^fVBles.— SaJsette,  Amphitrite,  Trinoomalee,  Seringapatam,  Madagascar, 
Andromeda,  Alligator,  Saoiarang^  Herald. 

Sloopi^-YictoTy  Cameleon,  Sphynz,  Cochin. 


552  SMNY. 

The  Poon  tree,  Calopkyllum  amgwUfoUunif  Rozb.,  or  Poon  Pine, 
WW  f onnerly  ezoeedingly  oommon,  and  is  wfXi  adapted  for  maato 
and  spars.  Drawing  as  it  does  to  70  or  80  feet  in  height,  and  from 
two  to  three  in  diameter,  it  has  been  cut  down  and  removed  from 
the  most  aocessible  places,  and  has  oouseqnentiy  become  scarce. 
Small  Poon  spars  are  believed  to  be  made  from  the  Stereulia  foBtida^ 
Linn.,  which  is  common  in  all  the  jungles. 

The  Blackwood,  is  one  of  the  most  valuable  of  the  trees,  and 
hardly  inferior  to  teak.  It  is  exported  to  Bombay,  for  the  fnr- 
niture  makers,  and  is  also  used  in  Cochin,  for  the  same  par* 
pose,  many  of  the  articles  being  sent  to  the  MauritiuB,  and 
elsewhere.  The  two  species  which  are  botanically  distinct, 
Dalberffia  latifolia^  Bozb.,  and  the  />.  Sis$oide$,  are  botli  found 
in  the  forests,  but  there  are  three  distinct  varieties  of  wood, 
obtained  from  different  species  of  Uiese  trees.  Hie  first  in  impor- 
tance and  value  for  exportation  to  Bombay,  and  certainly  the  hand- 
somest when  worked  up  into  furniture,  ia  the  weiy  dark  wood,  vrith 
deep  black  veins,  {Poo  ViH,  MaL)  the  next  (Chdlur  VUi,  MaL)  is 
more  like  rosewood,  of  a  brown  oolour,  very  strong,  and  unsuited 
for  splitting,  which  process  is  easy  in  either  of  the  other  varieties. 
The  third  is  very  black,  with  light  reddish  veins.  {Kurri  viii,  Mai.) 
Blackwood  is  known  in  the  market,  as  the  Indian  Rosewood. 

Blackwood  may  be  obtained  of  a  great  width,  but  two  ci  the 
varieties  are  very  liable  to  split,  unless  well  dried.  It  is  much 
esteemed  for  gun  carriage  manufaotories.  There  is  a  species  o( 
wood,  (Coroo  Mturadoo,  MaL)  of  which  there  are  four  varietieB,  which 
are  Hke  discoloured  Blackwood,  but  the  Carpenters  rub  some  com- 
position over  them  and  the  unwary  are  easily  deceived,  it  ia  coarse, 
but  does  not  split  readily. 

The  Ebony  tree,  Dio^pyroa  mdanoxyUm^  Boxb.,  is  found  in  tiie 
Cochin  forests,  but  it  is  far  inferior  to  the  Ceylon  Ebony.  It  is 
of  a  deep  black  colour,  and  of  enormous  weight,  but  the  sixe  is 
small,  being  only  found  in  the  interior  of  the  tree,  the  outside  hav- 
ing to  be  first  removed.  It  requires  great  care  in  drying,  during 
which  time,  it  must  be  placed  under  sheds,  as  othemrise  it  is  very 
apt  to  split.  Some  of  the  species  are  variegated,  with  light  brown 
lines,  which  deteriorate  from  the  beauty  of  the  wood. 


CUSTABD  APPLE.  553 

The  Sappan  tree,  Cceialpinia  Sappan,  Linn.,  is  much  valued  for 
its  dye,  and  has  a  good  export  market.  Some  of  the  Moplahs  on 
the  birth  of  a  daughter,  sow  a  number  of  the  seeds  of  this  valuable 
tree,  which  come  to  maturity  in  14  or  15  years,  and  form  the 
infant's  dowry. 

Jwo  of  the  most  useful  trees  for  common  timber,  are  the  so  called 
Cedars :  which  are  very  plentiful  in  tke  Cochin  forests.'  The  White 
Cedar,  (VeUa  Ugguly  Mai.)  shrinks  in  seasoning,  about  ^  Its 
density  is  4tt)  per  foot  superficially.  It  decays  if  exposed  to  mois- 
ture. On  account  of  its  cheapness,  [Rupees  4  per  candy,]  it  is 
much  sought  after  for  beams,  rafters,  and  laths,  of  houses,  boxes 
and  other  common  purposes.  It  is  rather  a  favourite  wood  with 
the  White  Ants.  There  are  certainly  two  species,  one  of  which 
floats  in  water,  whilst  the  other  sinks  at  once. 

The  Bed  Cedar,  Cedrelacea  {Ghogannur  Uggul,  MaL)  is  not  so 
common,  its  density  is  half  that  of  the  White  Cedar,  and  the  quality 
of  the  wood  not  esteemed  so  good.  It  is  useful  for  common  fumi 
ture,  and  takes  a  fair  polish.    There  are  two  varieties. 

A  short  summary  may  now  be  given,  of  a  few  of  the  most  useful 
and  pretty  trees  and  flowers,  found  in  the  Cochin  territory.  The 
Indian  Cotton  Tree,  Oasaypium  Indicum,  Linn.,  ia  merely  cultivated 
in  gardens.  This  plant  from  its  scourging  the  soil,  can  only  be 
sown  in  rotation  with  other  crops.  The  short  staple  ia  said  to  be 
the  best  for  Native  manufactures,  and  the  strongest  for  their  use. 
It  is  inferior  to  that  grown  in  TinniveUy,  and  Coimbatore. 

The  Custard  Apple,  Anona  Squamosa,  Linn.,  is  said  to  have  been 
introduced,  by  the  Portuguese,  but  does  not  atUdn  the  perfection 
arrived  at  in  the  Deccan.  It  is  only  found  in  gardens.  The 
Cocculus  Indicus,  Anamirta  Coeculus,  W.  A,  is  not  uncommon,  it 
is  an  article  of  export,  and  said  to  be  uaed  for  making  malt  liquors 
still  more  intoxicating.  The  Black  Dammer  Tree,  Canarium 
Strictune,  Boxb.,  from  which  a  deep  red  or  amber  coloured  resin 
,  can  be  obtained,  is  found  in  the  Trichoor  forests. 

The  Cassia  Fistula,  Cathartocarpus  fatula,  Pers.,  with  its  fragrant 
and  clustering  blossoms,  considered  by  the  Hindus  sacred  to  Vishnu, 
is  seen  every  where :  under  its  shade  votaries  to  that  god  erect 
their  altars,  and  ofler  their  flowery  sacrifices.    The  Catechu  tree, 

X  2 


554  ooLocnrvTH. 

Aeaeia  cate^u^  Willd.,  from  which  is  obteined  the  Catedin,  or  Te 
Japonica,  is  also  found,  as  well  as  the  Bastaid  Teak,  BuiMLfrondo- 
9a,  Boxb.,  with  its  beautiful  scarlet  flowers,  which  are  offered  to 
the  presiding  deities  of  Hindu  temples^  and  with  which  women,  alao 
bind  their  hair,  on  festive  occasions.  Hie  RingwDrm  shrub,  Gamia 
aUUay  linn.,  is  evidently  an  inqx>rtation,  but  is  found  in  manj  loca- 
lities, both  dry  and  marshy  >  its  name  denotes  (»e  of  its  principal  uaes. 
The  Wild  liquorice,  Abru»  precatantu,  linn.,  is  common,  whilst  the 
three  varieties  of  berries  which  it  bears,  are  cdlected  for  necklaces, 
and  omameotSy  but  the  crimson  with  a  deep  black  spot^  is  generally 
the  favourite.    Each  seed  usually  weighs  exactly  one  grain. 

The  Wood  Ai^e,  or  Jambo,  Eugenia  Malaceeniis,  linn.,  is  not  un- 
common, and  its  fruit  is  prized  for  the  dessert  taUe,  as  it  possesses 
a  delicate  rose  like  flavour ;  it  is  much  {Sundered  by  bats.  The  Bael 
tree,  (EgU  marjnelo$,  Corr.,  is  also  found,  its  fruit  when  partially  ripe, 
u  very  useful  in  cases  of  chronic  scorbutic  dysentery,  whilst  to  render 
it  more  palatable,  it  can  be  made  into  a  preserve.  A  species  of 
Ixora,  /.  coceinea,  Linn.,  is  prized  for  its  scarlet  flowers,  dedicated 
to  Iswara.  Cofiee,  Cofea  Arabicay  limL,  has  been  already  mention- 
ed, as  thriving  in  this  part  oi  India.  F€U)li  mentioned  it  before 
1790,  as  growing  wild,  bat  stated  that  it  was  not  cultivated,  as  the 
Natives  attend  to  productions  oi  more  utility  !  The  Indian  Oopal 
Tree,  VUeria  Indica,  linn.,  which  yields  the  copal,  or  piney  varnish, 
was  always  a  favourite  tree  with  the  Rajahs,  and  forms  excellent 
avenues. 

The  Colocynth,  C*truUu$  eolocynihii,  Sdnrad.,  when  its  fruit  is 
ripe,  at  once  attracts  attention,  its  bright  orai^  coloured  fruity  is 
perceived  either  in  a  long  irregular  row,  trailing  along  the  ground, 
or  hanging  from  the  branches  of  shrubs,  into  idiicb  it  has  dimbed. 
A  species  of  Gutta  Percha  tree,  Iwncmdria  ocwsMitato,  Lin^,  grows 
very  abundantly  in  the  forests,  and  appears  to  thrive  almost  equally 
well,  from  the  sea  level,  to  3000  feet  above  it.  The  wild  Mangos- 
teen,  Embrtfopteria  gltUinifera,  Boxb.,  is  made  use  of  by  Qurpenters, 
on  account  of  the  glue  it  contains.  The  Jasmine,  JamUnum  wmbac. 
Ait,  the  fragrant  white  flowers  of  which,  are  considered  sacred  to 
Vishnu. 

The  little  purple   Chiretto,  Exacum  Utragonum^  Boxb.,  whidi 


WILD  &AQO.  555 

altkongli  a  small  annoaly  is  most  usrfol  as  a  tonic,  whilst  the  Indian 
jalaps  Ipomea  turpethuniy  R,  which  is  grown  in  gardens  for  its 
flowers,  is  found  as  a  weed  in  the  jungles.  The  two  species  of 
Datora,  are  no  where  rare,  and  are  employed  for  rendering  intoxicat- 
ing liquors  still  more  inebriating.  The  purple  variety  is  the  strongest 
It  is  said  that  when  married  women  wish  their  husbands  to  remain . 
quietly  asle^  at  home,  they  add  some  of  this  drug  to  their  even- 
ing meaL 

The  Wild  Nutm^  PyrrhoM  HorsJUldiif  Blume,  grows  in  the 
forests  where  the  Wild  Cinnamon,  Ginnamomum  iners,  Bein.,  is  also, 
common  :  as  well  as  some  species  of  AruAclocfwBy  which  are  celebrat- 
ed all  over  the  worlds  as  antidotes  for  snake  bites.  The  country 
Qooseberry,  Cicca  dutickOj  Linn.,  is  cultivated  in  gardens.  The 
Belgaum  Walnut^  Alemrites  trilabay  Fors.,  is  found  in  the  Jung]e.<^. 
itd  uut  owing  to  the  very  laige  amount  of  oil  it  contains,  may  be 
burnt  as  a  candle,  and  will  continue  alight  for  a  long  time.  When 
dried,  they  are  strung  and  used  as  bracelets,  and  other  omaaients. 
The  tiger^s  milk  tree,  Excosearia  cametUaf  Spreog.,  grows  along  the 
sides  of  the  Backwater,  and  has  received  its  name  from  the  natives, 
«3  they  a^rt  that  if  its  irritating  white  juice,  penetrates  into  the 
eye,  it  will  infallibly  destroy  vision.  Good  Caoutchouc,  can  be  prepar* 
ed  from  this  secretion. 

The  castor  oil  plant,  Eieintu  communis,  Linn.,  grows  almost  every* 
where,  but  does  not  appear  to  pay,  when  growa  in  fields,  so  well  as 
other  crops.  The  Kamila,  EotUera  HnctariOj  Boxb.,  also  exists  in 
many  localities,  the  red  dye  is  much  prised  in  Europe.  It  is  known 
to  the  natives  as  the  monkey  faced  tree,  because  that  animal  often 
amuses  himself,  by  rubbing  the  dye  over  his  physiognomy. 

The  beautiful  creeper,  Oloriosa  superba,  Linn.,  blossoms  from 
August  to  October,  during  which  period,  its  yellow  and  crimson 
flowers,  may  be  occasionally  met  with  in  the  jungles,  or  hedgerows. 
Its  root  is  considered  highly  poisonous. 

The  Bastard  Sago,  Caryota  urenSy  Linn.,  is  found  sprinkled  over  the 
country.  Sugar  and  toddy  wine,  are  obtained  from  it,  and  a  species  of 
sago  from  the  pith,  on  which  some  classes  subsist  for  some  months 
in  the  year.  Its  fibres  are  made  into  fishing  lines,  and  bow  strings ; 
the  fibres  of  the  leaf  stalk,  yield  ropes  strong  enough  to  confine  ele- 


d56  CHINS8E  8UOAS  CXSZ. 

phants,  whilst  the  seeds  are  used  as  beads  by  the  Mahomedans.  The 
sugar  cane^  Saccharum  ojficinarum,  LiniL,  is  cultivated  in  many 
places,  but  its  saccharine  properties  are  insufficient  in  a  commercial 
point  of  view,  to  remunerate  for  expressing  the  sugar.  The  Lemon 
grass,  Andropogon  muricatumy  Retz.,  is  also  found  in  the  Trichoor 
Jungles,  its  pleasant  aroma  is  mueh  prized,  and  it  is  used  as  fringes 
to  punkahs,  and  tats  for  doors  and  windows.  There  is  also  one 
species  of  tree  fern. 

Much,  very  much,  remains  untold,  of  the  magnificent  botanical 
scenety,  which  exists  in  these  parts,  as  well  as  of  the  rich  timbers, 
the  splendid  flowering  shrubs  and  trees,  and  of  those  productions 
suitable  for  the  food  of  man.  Should  the  reader  be  curious  on  these 
subjects,  and  wish  for  more  information,  he  may  well  be  referred  to 
Van  Rheede's  ffortU9  Malabaricus,  In  conclusion  it  must  not  be 
omitted,  that  the  tea  plant  (one  species  of  which  is  said  to  grow 
wild  in  Ceylon)  was  introduced  by  Mr.  Huxham,  into  Travancore, 
some  twenty-five  years  a^,  and  has  since  then  been  successfdlly 
cultivated  by  the  late  Qeneral  Cullen ;  that  the  Cinchona  raised  at 
Ootacamund,  by  the  skill  of  Mr.  Maclvor,  has  been  sent  by  His 
Excellency  Sir,W.  Dennison,  the  Qovemor  of  Madras,  as  a  present 
to  the  Travancore  gardens,  situated  on  the  confines  of  the  Cochin 
State.  Whilst  the  introduction  of  the  Chinese  Sugar  Cane,  Sorghum 
SaecarcUumy  from  the  Mauritius,  has  been  accomplished  by  the 
exertions  of  M.  Regnaud  of  Cochin,  and  may  in  time  ^rhaps,  be 
successfully  cultivated  as  food  for  cattle. 


ft/sy^x^rs^^^r^r^f^^^^^« 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


TRADES  AND  OCCUPATIONfl. 
Imports  into  Coohin^BxportB  from  Cochin— Coooaout  oil^FiBh  oil— Coprah 
— ^Coir— Coffee— Setliten  in  land— PeppOT— Timber— NftUve  produce— Agri- 
« uk  ir^—OatUe—FiBheriee—Houaea—Chunam— Mercantile  fimw— Labour 
Market — Shoemakara — Caoarese —  Carpentera — Hawkers — Sailora — Vetiaels 
and  boats— Coinage— Weights  and  Measures. 

In  the  foregoing  pages,  a  short  account  of  the  most  common,  use- 
ful,  or  curioul  forma  of  animal  and  vegetable  life,  found  in  this 
portion  of  India,  has  been  detailed.  It  now  remains  to  point  out, 
which  are  most  prized  in  commerce,  and  what  are  the  various  trades 
and  occupations,  of  the  Commercial,  and  Artizan  inhabitants.  The 
Imports  and  Exports  for  the  last  5  years,  have  been  as  follows : — * 


tmpofiSUf  Cwt. 

1856-57 

1857-58 

1858-59 

1859-60 

1860^1 

Aver- 
age. 

Coooanut  oil 

976 

'     163 

72 

228 

1,515 

590 

Fish  oU, 

»> 

1,498 

7,968 

1,370 

4,416 

8,890 

4,828 

Coprah, 

»              w 

1,139 

727 

1,272 

717 

2,839 

1,339 

Cocoanuts, 

,.       Thds. 

48 

95 

141 

162 

49 

98 

Coir  goods, 

„        Cwt. 

4,411 

8,979 

3,928 

841.     1,712 

2,974 

Coffee, 

w               » 

5,895 

1,531 

828 

804 .  13,675 

4,447 

Pepper, 

»              n 

„ 

402 

19 

-„     1    8.214 

723 
546 

Gmger, 

»>              w 

95 

70 

)» 

178'    2,388 

Cotton, 

"      n    *' 

1,543 

6,174 

1,082 

1,247!     4,079 

2,825 

Hides, 

»  «9??1^ 

9,017 

1,861 

690 

566'        361 

2,497 

Rice, 

„  Eobbms. 

74.336 

76,424 

62.040 

77,607 

80,907 

74,263 

Horns, 

„        Cwt 

8 

.    76 

6 

26 

140 

51 

Bees'  wax, 

n              » 

6 

94 

90 

55 

130 

75 

Amongst  the  remaining  goods  imported,  viz.,  piece  goods  of  cotton, 
Wool,  or  silk :  Iron,  Copper,  Brass,  Lead  and  Spelter,  Sugar,  Paints, 


*  Furnished  by  the  Manager  of  the  Sea  Cuttcms* 


558 


EXPORTS  FBOM  COC?HIN. 


Tea  and  Canvas,  some  are  of  European  mannfactnre,  but  tlie  -prhc^ 
are  so  mixed  up,  that  it  is  not  worth  while  to  give  the^figurea. 

Thetotal  BxporU  of  Native  produce,  have  been  as  follows  ;  of  wliioli 
much  has  been  sent  to  Europe,  and  elsewhere ;  the  totals  of  whidfe, 
will  be  found  under  each  heading. 


CocoftOttt    oil 

exported, 

1850-574357-51 

1858-59  1859-60 

1860-61 

Aver- 

Cwt. 

lMs*2 

1,33,018 1.51,22?'!, 22.070 

18,543  1,26,1 74  j 

Fi%hotl,      exports,  ,, 

t,90i 

]7,l«5i    21T,154     31,569 

18,295     19,630 

Coprah, 

I          ♦♦ 

n,m4f 

13,S42i    IMS8 

3L181i    79,642|   S»^43 

Cocoanuts,        , 

,     Thd*, 

731 

41*5 

23.809 

l,t{70i      2,360'      7,015! 

Coir  goods, 

,       CwtJ 

1,21,336  MM S2 

1,25.817 

l,3B,496'l,06,224l,21,aili 

Coir  fibre, 

t          ?t 

4,*5fi 

5.563 

|,S68I      4An'     8,7»5i 

Coffee. 

T             a 

14,251     10.682 

8,430 

10.375     13,:h3     U,44f>i 

Pepper, 

1* 

10,675!    18,723 

6.101       7,882      4. 8-^7       9,424; 

Ginger, 

1             It 

4,310 

3,65J 

5,903^      9,«0«|    12,24S;      7.145! 

Cotton, 

J              ?* 

1J90 

5,401 

466|        $K)8 

£,3S6 

2,1851 

Hide*, 

,    Djrpea. 

uu 

io,m 

6,521       t.097 

i;247 

4,762l 

Rice, 

,         CwU 

Meal   i9,n^\  ai,}62|    Zi95 

1U^74 

13,963j 

Horns, 

J                      PT 

2,104 

1,204,         851i         322 

•     630 

1,022 

Wax, 

»»                      t> 

291 

168 

825 

58 

lee 

194 

Croton  seeds. 

»                       1* 

141 

146 

1»8 

228 

348 

211 

By  examining  into  the  declared  value  of  the  articles  of  native 
produce,  exported  to  various  parts  of  the  world,  it  is  found  that 
Europe  obtains  about  37  per  cent,  the  Indian  markets  about  45  per 
cent,  Ceylon  about  14  per  cent,  the  Mauritius  and  Bourbon  nearly 
4  per  cent,  and  the  remainder  goes  in  small  quantities  to  other 
places,  such  as  Australia,  America,  Cliina,  the  Malay  coast,  Muscat 
and  Singapore.  Out  of  the  produce  which  finds  its  way  to  Europe, 
about  82  per  cent,  goes  to  England.  Cochin  may  thus  be  considered 
more  valuable  in  the  capacity  of  a  feeder  to  other  Indian  markets, 
than  as  an  exporter  to  Europe  on  its  own  account  Nearly  one 
third  of  the  produce,  appears  to  be  taken  in  small  country  crafts 
along  the  coast 

Tlie  principal  article  is  Cocoanut  Oil,  the  export  of  which  has 
averaged  upwards  of  126,174  cwt  yearly,  71  per  cent  of  which  goes 
to  the  European  markets.  The  selling  price  in  London,  has  averaged 
about  X46  per  ton,  and  at  the  present  time  it  is  rising,  not  only 


COFFEE.  550 

there,  but  also  in  India.  The  average  Bazaar  price  in  Cochin  haa 
been  about  73  rupeee  a  candy.  Bat  although  the  average  cost  ia 
merely  set  down  at  73  rupees  a  candy,  the  Merchant  rarely  obtains 
it  at  that)  as  he  seldom  purchases  until  the  end  of  August^  or  com- 
mencement of  September,  and  the  price  haa  then  advanced,  and  78 
rupees  may  perhaps  be  considered  a  fair  average,  although,  it  some- 
times reaches  nearly  as  high  as  100  rupees.  Considering  the  duties 
and  other  charges,  the  profits  on  the  article,  do  not  appear  large. 

Fish  oil  depends  upon  the  number  of  Sardines,  and  other  oil  pro- 
ducing fish,  which  come  to  Cochin :  this  has  been  alluded  to  in  the 
chapter  on  fish,  where  the  mode  of  preparing  it,  has  also  been  detail- 
ed. It  is  a  good  substitute  for  cod  liver  oil,  but  as  it  haa  been  ably 
shown  in  Europe,  that  the  amount  of  phosphorous  and  iodme  in  each 
species,  depends  not  only  on  the  mode  of  its  preparation,  but  also  on 
the  time  of  the  year,  and  the  state  of  health  of  the  fish :  so  no  doubt 
the  same  would  be  found  in  Cochin.  Its  value  in  the  market  ia 
about  Rupees  35,  or  37,  a  candy. 

Coprah,  or  the  dried  kernel  of  the  cocoanut,  ia  largely  exported, 
in  both  its  white  and  black  varieties,  and  the  average  appears 
increasing,  to  the  detriment  of  the  amount  of  oil  manufactured. 
Some  goes  to  Europe,  but  Calcutta  is  the  great  market  for  this 
commodity,  where  it  forms  an  ingredient  in  every  Native  curry. 
Cocoanuts  are  also  exported  in  great  numbers.  As  a  general  rule, 
toddy  drawers  have  steps  cut  in  the  trees  by  which  to  ascend  them, 
but  the  cocoanut  pickers  have  a  string  passing  from  one  great 
toe  to  the  other,  and  sometimes  a  belt  which  goes  from  their  backs 
around  the  t^ees. 

Coir,  or  the  fibrous  covering,  or  rind  of  the  nuts,  is  obtained  by 
soaking  them  for  a  few  months  in  brackish  water.  From  this  coir 
ropes  are  made,  or  the  substance  is  exported  in  bales.  Its  strength, 
elasticity,  and  lightness,  renders  it  one  of  the  best  materials  for 
cables.  A  considerable  quantity  is  exported  to  Bombay,  where  it 
is  largely  shipped,  as  broken  stowage. 

Coffee  is  grown  in  gardens,  but  the  ingenuity  of  the  fiscal  arrange- 
ments of  the  Native  states,  (especially  that  of  Tiavancore,)  are  appa- 
rantly  those  best  calculated  to  check  its  cultivation.  From  the 
little  place  Alwaye,  only  16  miles  ^m  Cochin,  a  duty  of  Rupees  12 


560  ARTICLXS  OP  KATITE  PRODUCE. 

a  candjT  is  now  levied,  which  will  be  probably  aagmented,  and  in 
addition  to  this,  the  boats  containing  the  prodnee,  are  detained  at 
the  small  custom  hooses,  and  every  impediment  ia  thrown  in  the 
way  of  its  being  Inronght  to  the  coast  The  Cochin  State,  will  be 
as  great  a  loser  by  tlus  Travancore  prooeBS,  as  any  one. 

Fortunate  will  it  be  for  Cochin  and  Travaaoore,  when  the  at  present 
unreclaimed  Western  ghauts,  are  dotted  with  plantations  of  cofiee, 
and  possibly  tea.  And  when  other  minor  productions,  which  are  as 
yet  untried,  find  cultivators  in  those  magnificent,  bat  feverish  regions, 
where  the  tiger,  the  bear,  and  the  elephant,  find  secure  retreats,  stall 
untrodden  by  the  foot  of  man.  Every  inducement  ought  surely  to  be 
afforded  to  settlers  there,  even  as  far  as  guaranteeing  the  land  at  a  cer- 
tain rate,  and  permanerUijf  fisdng  the  trantU  dtUiet  to  be  levied  on 
the  produce. 

Am<Migst  the  disadvantages  enjoyed  by  a  settler,  who  takes  land  in 
a  Native  State,  for  coffee  plantations,  is  the  facility  with  which  any 
petty  official,  can  stop  his  obtaining  labour,  unless  he  receives 
*'  Custom ;"  whOst  taxes  on  produce  may  be  increased,  almost  at 
pleasure. 

Pepper  since  the  removal  of  the  monopoly,  may  be  said  to  have 
been  chiefly  smuggled  into  Cochin,  where  it  may  be  obtained  at  a 
certain  rate.  Ginger  is  not  much  grown,  as  though  highly  remune> 
rative  in  some  years,  it  is  a  total  failure  in  others.  It  must  be  raised 
away  from  the  soa.  The  krgest  quantity  comes  fnHU  Chemaad,  in 
Malabar:  whilst  en  route  to  Europe,  it  suffers  greatly  from  the  de- 
predations of  2  or  3  species  of  Coleopteroe.  It  costs  from  90  to  100 
Eupees  a  candy. 

The  timber  merchants  consist  of  those  who  purchase  from  the  Native 
State,  the  timber  as  it  stands :  and  those  who  trade  in  it  when  cut. 

Trade  in  timber  mostiy  consists  in  Teak,  Anjelly,  Benteak,  White 
cedar,  Bed  cedar,  Sapan  and  Sandal  wood.  The  worm  is  very  de- 
structive. 

The  following  articles  of  Native  produce  are  those  principally 
dealt  in,  Arrowroot,  Bees'  Wax,  Cardamoms,  Cocoanuts,  Cocculus 
Indicus,  Coffee,  Coir  rope,  Yam,  fibre  and  junk.  Coprah,  Ginger,  Kino, 
Hemp,  Hides,  Hogslard,  Horns,  Myrabolams,  Nux  vomica^  Cocoanut 
oil,  Fish  oil,  Poonac  oil,  and  Gingelly  oil,  (which  is  used  in  Europe 


NATIVE  AOMCDLTOEIST.  561 

for  the  manufactnre  of  Olive  oil,)  Paddy,  Pepper,  Rice,  Croton  seeds, 
Terra  Japonica,  and  Turmeric. 

The  manner  in  which  Parasu  Rama  obtained  this  country  from  the 
sea)  and  his  method  of  peopling  it,  as  well  as  the  uses  to  which  he  de- 
voted it,  have  been  detailed  in  the  second  chapter.  When  the 
second  race  of  Brahmans  had  obtained  possession,  and  been  instructed 
how  to  propitiate  the  snakes,  they  came  to  the  conclusion,  that  agri- 
cultural  pursuits  were  neoessaiy,  in  order  to  procure  agricultural 
productions,  to  sustain  life.  They  accordingly  addressed  their  pa- 
tron,* stating  that  although  the  land  was  fertile,  they  were  ignorant 
of  the  means  of  cultivating  it ;  on  which  he  is  believed  to  have  given 
full  instructions  on  the  best  methods  of  proceeding.  The  work 
was  divided  into  four  parts,  but  as  the  directions  were  very  full, 
and  the  present  generation  have  become  wiser  than  their  ancient 
lawgivers,  it  will  be  unnecessary  to  detail  them,  and  will  answer  a 
better  purpose  to  enquire  what  course  is  now  pursued. 

In  olden  times  the  Agriculturists  were  merely  the  Slaves  of  the 
higher  classes,  and  in  return  for  their  labour,  received  a  certain 
amount  of  protection.  War  had  few  terrors  for  them,  as  only  the 
Nairs  and  the  superior  castes,  indulged  themselves  in  the  pleasures 
of  fighting,  and  the  cultivators  were  only  employed  as  Coolies,  for 
carrying  the  baggage,  and  throwing  up  earth  works,  as  their 
caste  was  too  low,  for  any  one  to  kill  them.  In  warfare,  cultiva- 
tion was  always  spared,  the  cocoanut  plantations  and  the  rice  fields 
were  as  safe  from  the  foe  as  the  friend,  and  the  'Agriculturist 
might  continue  his  occupation  in  peace,  undisturbed  by  the  proxi- 
mity of  hostile  armies.  The  Portuguese  appear  to  have  been  the 
first  who  introduced  the  practice  of  destroying  the  means  of  sub- 
.sistence,  when  harassing  an  enemy's  country. 

It  was  formerly  the  plan,  and  may  be  said  still  to  be. 
flo,  to  cultivate  almost  wholly  the  low  lands,  and  those 
easily  watered,  as  the  Agriculturist  was  formerly  almost  un- 
able to  trade  in  grain,  in  consequence  of  the  rents  to  the 
Sirkar  .being  paid  in  that  produce,  and  the  supplies  being  sold 
.  to  the  Sirkar  Officials,  to  whose  agents  this  traffic  was  confined,  even 

*  Mackoizie,  M.SS.   Book  No.  3,  C.  896.    Secdon  8. 
Y  2 


562  BICE  CULTIVATIOK. 

as  late  as  1810.*  Thus  there  was  no  inducement  to  the  Agricul- 
turist to  cultivate  more  than  was  required  for  his  own  family  and 
dependants,  as  the  small  shops  had  even  to  pay  a  tax  for  retailing 
it  The  tax  on  the  Backwater  is  at  present  a  great  drawback  to 
the  conveyance  of  grain  to  other  places,  and  many  of  the  disastrous 
famines  in  Travancore,  may  have  been  partly  ascribed  to  the  rapa- 
city of  the  Sircar  under  officials,  and  the  discouragement  given  by 
them  to  traders  and  producers.  There  was,  and  still  is,  only  one 
class  unaffected,  viz.  the  Brahmans,  who  fed  at  Qovemment  expense 
out  of  the  i»oduce  of  the  land,  fatten  in  idleness,  and  luxuiy,  and 
are  consequently  averse  to  any  change  in  the  present  system. 

The  methods  of  rice  cultivation,  are  divided  into  three;  the 
Moondoovmn^  which  is  the  largest  and  principal  crop,  is  sown  in 
August,  and  reaped  in  January.  The  Poonjah^  which  is  sown  in 
January,  in  low  moist  lands,  and  reaped  in  April,  the  crop  is  small 
but  profitable  :  and  the  Birripoo,  which  is  a  dry  crop.  It  is  only 
very  rich  lands,  which  will  yield  three  crops,  and  the  first  and 
third,  are  those  most  usually  produced  The  Birripoo  is  grown 
on  high  dry  lands,  and  is  succeeded  by  granu  In  fact  rice  is 
raised  by  three  principal  methods,  dry  or  wet  sowing,  or  trans- 
planting. After  the  land  has  been  prepared  by  ploughing  twice 
a  month  for  several  in  succession,  the  first  sowing  occurs, 
after  a  fall  of  rain.  The  fields  are  manured  with  ashes, 
prepared  from  burning  the  leaves  of  Coooanut  trees,  or  if  procura- 
ble from  the' manure  of  cows.  The  seed  is  sown  broad  cast,  about 
2^  bushels  being  required  for  each  acre,  and  it  b  hoed  or  ploughed 
in.  A  month  subsequently,  the  ground  is  weeded,  and  more  ashes 
put  on,  the  banks  are  then  repaired,  and  the  water  is  confined  to 
the  field,  or  else  raised  and  brought  into  it  by  the  aid  of  either  a 
Persian  wheel,  or  a  tread  wheeL 

The  sprouted  seed  requires  different  management,  the  land  is 
prepared  to  receive  it,  by  being  kept  moist,  and  subsequently  drain- 
ed, imtil  only  four  inches  of  water  are  left;  and  at  every  ploughing 
ashes  are  put  into  the  mud,  but  rarely  manure.  The  mud  is 
smoothed  by  having  a  plank  drawn  over  it  by  men,  if  the  water  is 
■~  ""■■  ■  ■  ■ 

*  Official  Reports  to  the  Resident.  Litut.  Arthur,  1840. 


KITMARI  CULTIVATION.  563 

deep,  but  if  shallow  by  bnfyoes,  which  are  preferred  for  this  pur- 
pose to  oxen.  The  water  is  drained  off  before  the  sowing  com- 
mences, ten  days  after  this  two  or  three  inches  are  aUowed  to  remain 
upon  the  field,  and  as  the  crop  grows,  the  depth  of  water  is  increased. 

Transphmted  rice  is  raised  at  the  same  time  as  the  sprouted  seed. 
The  young  plants  are  transplanted  into  the  field  in  which  they  are 
to  be  reared.  If  many  worms  are  seen  amongst  them,  they  are  kept 
for  three  days,  with  their  roots  uppermost,  in  bundles  on  the  banks, 
which  separate  the  rice  plots.  They  are  planted  in  a  field  whicli 
has  three  inches  of  water  on  it,  and  this  is  increased  on  the  fourth 
day  to  nine  inches.       * 

In  irrigated  lands,  along  the  banks  of  the  backwater,  only  one  crop 
is  obtained  yearly,  which  is  the  second  one,  sown  about  September, 
for  rice  cannot  grow  in  salt  water,  (which  the  backwater  is,)  and 
unless  the  fields  are  banked  up  highly,  the  tide  overflows  them, 
whilst  even  if  well  embanked,  the  strong  tides  are  liable  to  break  in 
and  destroy  the  crops.  In  the  Trichoor  lake,  in  the  ThaullapuUy 
district,  and  in  the  Northern  parts  of  the  State,  two  crops  con  be 
grown  yearly,  because  the  water  is  fresh  and  in  some  parts  of  Thaul- 
lapuUy, even  three  are  annually  produced. 

The  dry  sowing  is  the  least  trouble,  and  if  the  early  rains  are 
<;opious,  the  crop  is  generally  good.  The  transplanting  process 
requires  the  greatest  labour,  but  as  it  is  the  most  remunerative,  it  is 
usually  pursued  at  the  second  period. 

Kumariy  or  Malavellamy  cultivation,  yieldsa large  return :  and  is  a 
species  of  jungle  crop.  A  portion  of  the  forest  is  appropriated  for  this 
purpose,  and  set  fire  to.  The  soil  of  course  is  rich,  owing  both  to  the 
v^table  debris,  and  to  the  ashes  of  the  burnt  trees.  This  ground  is 
then  ploughed,  and  the  seed  sown,  from  which  enormous  crops  are 
usually  reaped.  On  the  following  year,  a  smaller  one  is  obtained, 
and  on  the  third  year  also,  provided  the  bushes  have  not  lisen  too 
high.  The  cultivator  then  passes  on  to  another  portion  of  the  fbrest, 
where  all  large  trees  are  again  destroyed  by  the  action  of  fire.  It  is 
considered  that  this  process  may  be  repeated  on  the  same  spots, 
once  in  every  ten  years,  but  in  some  districts  once  in  every  seven. 

The  abundance  of  the  crops,  depends  entirely  on  the  amount  of 
rain,  for  artificial  irrigation  is  only  employed  very  locally.     Should 


564  loixvT. 

the  rain  fall  haye  been  smally  the  rice  becomes  yellow  and  theyidd 
is  onremtmeratiye :  or  if  the  South  West  Monsoon  has  been  ezcesshre, 
the  crops  get  washed  away  bodily.  Rioe  in  fall  bearing,  looks  Tery 
much  like  an  English  wheat  field.  At  intervals  of  about  100  yards, 
there  are  small  sheds^  in  which  watchers  are  located  to  scare  away 
birds. 

The  implements  of  agricalture  are  of  the  most  primitive  descrip- 
tion, the  wooden  plough  scarcely  deserves  the  name,  and  in  dry 
lands  does  not  turn  up  the  earth  for  more  than  six  inches  in  depth. 
In  some  of  the  gravelly  districts,  a  hand  hoe  is  substitated  for  a 
plough,  and  the  dry  grains  thrive  well  on  the'slopes.  The  sickle  for 
cutting  rice,  is  like  that  used  in  Ei^land,  but  fflnaller.  Tl^e  stalk  is 
divided  about  six  inches  from  the  ground,  or  should  the  paddy  be 
growing  iu  the  water,  the  ear  only  is  cut  o£  If  rice  is  required  for 
immediate  consumption,  the  bundles  or  sheaves  are  taken  by  the 
stalks,  and  beaten  against  a  block  of  stone  or  wood,  until  most  of  the 
seed  b  obtauied.  This  seed  is  the  rough  paddy,  which  is  soaked 
for  one  night,  and  the  next  morning  partially  boiled,  after  which  it 
is  dried  in  the  sun,  and  the  rice  subsequently  obtained  by  beating 
it  in  a  wooden  mortar,  in  fact  a  species  of  threshing.  It  is  then 
winnowed,  and  the  husk  separated  from  the  rica  If  it  is  intended 
to  keep  the  rice  for  seed  after  it  is  cut,  it  is  at  once  dried  in  the  sun 
without  being  boiled.  Some  of  the  grains  are  then  broken  through, 
to  ascertain  whether  they  are  of  a  good  quality  for  sowing,  which  is 
evidenced  by  their  being  quite  white  in  the  centre.  Three  at  four 
days  after  the  paddy  has  been  threshed  by  the  hand  beating  as 
described,  the  straw  is  placed  in  a  room  with  a  wooden  floor,  and 
muziled  oxen  are  turned  in,  to  tread  out  any  grains  that  remain. 
The  straw  is  used  for  fodder.  The  rice  may  be  kept  for  yeans  if  it 
has  been  partially  boiled  before  drying,  but  if  not  it  becomes  a  pow- 
der. It  must  not  be  cmutted,  that  the  varieties  of  rice  are  veiy  nu- 
merous, some  are  best  adapted  for  one  species  oi  cultivation,  and 
some  for  another,  but  an  enumeration  of  each,  would  fiU  up  much 
space,  without  being  of  any  practical  utility. 

Millet,  (Chamay,)  Panicum  Miliaoeumy  Linn.,  is  grown  in  con- 
siderable quantities  in  inland  places.  It  is  very  easy  of  digestion, 
and  esteemed  wholesome  food. 


caMlb.  565 

The  Cocoanut  plantations  are  those  which  occupy  the  principal 
place  in  the  maritime  districts,  as  wherever  they  flourish,  other 
agricaltural  produce  is  generally  neglected.  The  soO  of  the  valleys 
and  uplands  of  the  State,  consists  of  a  tou^  clay,  of  a  dark  colour, 
which  on  the  banks  of  the  streams,  is  mixed  with  sand.  In  the  low 
lands  it  has  a  brown  stiff  character,  but  changes  in  the  higher  spots, 
either  to  loose  white  sand,  or  to  a  gravelly  earth.  The  higher  the 
ground  is,  the  larger  is  the  proportion  of  sand,  which  also  greatly 
predominates  along  the  maritime  tract,  between  the  sea  and  the 
backwater.  This  just  suits  the  cocoanut  tree,  as  it  receives  salt 
from  the  air,  whilst  there  is  sufficient  mould  in  the  sand  for  its 
subsbtence,  and  the  soil  is  of  the  loose  nature  it  delights  in. 

More  inland,  there  are  two  other  prevalent  species  of  garden 
cultivation,  viz.,  that  of  the  Areka,  and  Sago  Palms.  Picking  the 
Areka  nut,  is  rather  a  dangerous  occupation,  as  the  man  after 
climbing  to  the  top  of  the  first  tree,  and  having  picked  the  fruit 
it  contains,  does  not  descend,  but  swings  the  fragile  tree  on  which 
he  is,  backwards  and  forwards,  until  he  is  able  to  take  hold  of 
some  portion  of  the  next  in  the  row,  which  he  then  clings  to,  and 
lets  go  the  first  After  obtaining  the  fruit  from  this  second  one,  he 
repeats  the  process  to  the  end.  But  unfortunately  the  trees  fre- 
quently break,  and  fatal  accidents  ensue,  from  this  fancied  saving 
of  labour.  When  the  nut  is  prepared  for  the  inland  market,  it 
is  sliced  and  covered  with  a  thick  coating  of  gum,  which  improves 
its  appearance,  and  increases  its  weight.  Spinning-tops  for  children, 
are  often  made  of  betel  nuts,  with  a  stick  inserted  through  them. 

The  cattle  which  consist  principally  of  oxen  and  buffaloes,  vary  in 
their  comparative  quantities,  in  different  parts  of  the  State.  They 
are  generally  a  very  diminutive  breed,  and  their  appearance  varies 
according  to  the  district,  and  the  time  of  year.  During  the  South 
West  Monsoon,  they  are  in  the  best  condition,  as  there  is  sufficient 
grass  from  about  June  to  October,  for  them  to  subsist  on.  But  as 
the  dry  hot  weather  returns,  the  vegetation  becomes  burnt  up,  and 
persons  who  have  laid  by  straw  feed  their  cattle  upon  it :  but  where 
DO  such  provision  has  been  made  for  them,  the  poor  creatures 
roam  about  in  search  of  food,  and  soon  look  miserable  enough.  The 
buffaloes  appear  to  thrive  better  than  either  the  cows  or  oxen,  as 


S66  BuiLDmofl. 

they  pass  the  heat  of  the  day  in  the  water.  In  some  portions  of  the 
State,  the  cattle  appear  almost  wild.  Although  goats  are  plentiful, 
sheep  do  not  thrive,  and  though  Agriculturists  have  frequently 
tried  to  introduce  them,  they  have  never  succeeded  in  doing  so. 

The  Fisheries  have  been  previously  alluded  to,  salt  fiish  forms  an 
article  of  export  One  morning  on  visiting  the  deep  sea  fishing 
ground,  48  boats  were  perceived  engaged,  of  which  34  were  Cey- 
ionese,  who  although  idle  and  indifferent  around  their  own  fishing 
grounds  in  Ceylon,  appear  very  industrious  in  Cochin  :  the  waste  of 
fish  is  lamentable,  and  a  mitigation  of  the  enormous  salt  tax  in  the 
Native  States,  in  favour  of  the  curers  of  fish,  one  might  imagine 
would  prove  a  beneficial,  politic,  and  humane  proceeding:  bat  the 
poor  fisher  appears  to  have  no  friends* 

Before  entering  upon  the  trades,  a  remark  is  necessaiy  on  the 
houses,  in  which  produce  was  formerly  stored.  With  the  exception 
of  Rajahs,  Princes,  Priests,  and  Foreign  Merchants,  no  persons  at 
the  time  of  the  advent  of  the  Portuguese,  were  permitted  to  have 
stone  houses.  As  the  only  buildings  vHbdch  will  stand  the  climate, 
are  those  made  of  stone,  the  composition  of  the  walls,  requires  no- 
tice. All  were  constructed  of  laterite,  but  the  trade  of  the  Chnnam 
maker,  appears  to  have  been  better  understood  in  olden  times,  than 
in  the  present  day.  Whether  the  Bricklayers  were  superior,  more 
jaggeiy  was  mixed  up  with  the  mortar,  or  any  other  reason  existed 
for  such  being  the  case,  it  is  now  almost  impossible  to  say :  but  the 
fact  is  patent.  As  houses  are  a  necessity  for  aU,  the  first  occupa- 
tions adverted  to,  will  be  those  of  the  Chunam  makers,  and  Brick- 
layers. 

Buildings  erected  by  the  Dutch  and  English,  as  a  rule  are  un- 
sound, and  not  unfrequently  fall  down,  whilst  the  great  majority  of 
those  now  standing  in  Cochin,  are  of  Portuguese  construction. 
Buildings  in  the  interior,  do  not  show  this  decadence,  which  is  com- 
monly attributed  to  the  violence  of  the  Monsoons,  but  in  addition 
to  this,  the  quality  of  the  building  materials,  must  exercise  a  great 
influence. 

•  Many  buildings  no  doubt  fall  down,  owing  to  the  superior  de- 
scription of  laterite,  not  having  been  employed  in  their  construc- 
tion :  or  else  its  having  been  used,   before  exposure  to  the  sun  had 


CHtrXAM  MANUFACTURE.  567 

rendered  it  siifiiciently  dry  and  bard.  But  these  causes  will  not 
account  for  all  the  damage  now  going  on. 

As  lime  to  make  Chunam  for  mortar  has  to  be  brought  from  long 
distances,  shells  which  are  exceedingly  common  are  burnt,  and  the 
lime  thus  obtained  when  slacked,  is  adapted  for  use.  Salt,  (Chloride 
of  Sodium)  as  is  well  known  exists  in  the  sea,  and  ia  the  principal 
caase  of  its  saline  taste.  One  of  the  many  well  known  characteris- 
tics of  salt,  is  to  abstract  moisture  from  the  atmosphere,  and  any  one 
remaining  only  a  few  days  in  Malabar,  during  the  Monsoon  time, 
has  only  to  look  at  his  salt  cellar  to  perceive  the  great  extent  to 
which  this  is  carried  on« 

Sand,  as  well  as  chunam,  is  necessary  for  building  purposes,  and 
those  in  Cochin  who  desire  lasting  walls,  send  to  the  Alwaye  river, 
where  it  cannot  be  mixed  with  saline  matter.  When  salt  is  present  in 
mortar,  owing  to  its  absorbing  properties,  it  keeps  the  walls  damp, 
and  perhaps  occasions,  or  at  least  greatly  assists  their  destruction.  Of 
late  years  sand  has  been  used,  which  has  been  collected  during  the 
Monsoon  time,  from  the  mouth  of  the  river,  where  it  empties  itself 
into  the  sea,  or  in  fact  from  the  sea  shore.  As  the  freshes  come 
down,  they  remove  the  taste  of  salt  from  this  sand,  but  chemistry 
shows,  that  they  do  not  carry  away  all  its  saline  ingredients.  Damp 
ia  thus  drawn  from  the  atmosphere  to  buildings,  walls  are  weakened, 
and  structures  fall  down.  Sand  should  invariably  be  taken  from  a 
river,  beyond  the  influence  of  the  tides,  or  at  least  beyond  that  point 
to  which  salt  water  ever  reaches. 

There  are  four  descriptions  of  shells,  mainly  employed  for  chunam : 
bivalves  from  the  sea  shore :  Oysters  from  the  backwater :  large 
Potamides  from  the  estuaries:  and  Cyrenoe,  amongst  which  are 
often  Ampullarioe,and  Unionacice,  from  the  fresh  water  marshes,  and 
lakes.  If  the  three  first  were  thoroughly  cleansed  from  salt,  before 
they  were  bumt^  no  doubt  they  would  be  as  good  as  the  last :  but 
all  are  burnt  as  found,  and  the  fresh  water  species  being  commonest 
inland,  is  presumptive  evidence  in  favour  of  their  use,  being  one  cause 
(conjoined  with  fresh  water  sand,)  why  inland  houses  stand  the 
Monsoon  the  best. 

There  are  several,  probably  too  many,  European  Mercantile  firms 
in  Cochin.    They  have  instituted  a  Chamber  of  Commerce,  to  which 


568  TBS  NATIVX  LABomt  UABKST. 

Merchants  and  others  are  admissible.  The  Native  traders,  and  petty 
Merchants,  appear  to  be  doing  well,  and  the  country  coasters  have  » 
thriving  carrying  business.  Contrary  to  what  is  the  usual  course 
elsewhere,  it  does  not  appear  improbable,  that  the  trade  of  the  £aro- 
peans  has  reached  its  maximum,  unless  it  obtains  some  at  present 
unexpected  stimulus,  whilst  that  of  the  Natives  will  increase. 

The  first  thing  to  be  noticed  in  trade,  is  the  labour  market,  far 
even  procuring  coolies  is  an  occupation.^  Merchants  have  to  keep  ji 
Moopa,  to  obtain  men ;  and  a  Mooputtee,  to  engage  women.  Now 
as  both  the  employer,  and  empbyee,  have"  to  give  eutiom^^  synony- 
mous with  a  pecuniary  reward,  in  the  form  of  a  salary  from  the  former, 
and  a  percentage  from  the  latter's  pay,  it  follows  that  the  middle  man 
or  woman  as  the  case  may  be,  has  often  a  good  time  of  it.  This  is 
said  to  be  only  contracting,  and  the  fixing  of  the  price  of  the  labour 
market  by  Qovemment  to  be  a  hardship.  Matters  are  only  changed 
in  Cochin,  instead  of  Government,  the  Moopas  and  Mooputtees  are 
the  fixers  of  the  rate  of  pay  for  the  coolies,  out  of  which  they  obtain 
a  percentage.  Inhnd  this  is  what  is  so  unfair  to  the  European 
traveller,  however  well  it  may  act  in  sea  port  towns.  The  rights  of 
the  Native  are  said  to  be  protected,  but  are  not  those  of  the  Euro- 
pean disregarded  1  The  cooly,  or  the  cart  man,  cannot  now  supply  the 
traveller,  without  the  sanction  of  the  head  of  his  department^  (if  it 
may  so  be  calledi)  in  fact  of  his  Moopa,  and  the  European  is  in  his 
hands. 

It  is  not  here  intended  to  argue  respecting  the  law  of  supply  and 
demand,  but  many  theories  true  in  Europe  are  misplaced  in  India, 
and  even  in  England  it  is  questionable,  at  what  rate  the  Cab  man, 
or  Omnibus  driver,  untrammelled  by  law,  would  cliarge  a  stray  pas- 
senger, almost  ignorant  of  the  language  of  the  country.  But  when 
common  bullock  carts,  going  at  the  rate  of  15  mUes  a  day  in 
Malabar,  cost  4  annas  or  six  pence  a  mile,  (including  tolls,)  or  the 
rate  of  a  London  cab,  surely  some  alteration  is  called  for,  and  some 
protection  for  the  Europsan  traveller  needed :  for  this  is  not  compe- 
tition, but  combination.  Likewise  if  unrestricted  combination  is 
permissible,  for  the  purpose  of  augmenting  the  rates  of  land  and 
backwater  travelling  in  Malabar,  (exclusive  of  the  Native  State,)  why 
is  it  not  allowed  for  sea  boats?    The  theory  if  true  for  one,  must 


THE  0ARPSNTER8.  569 

bo  true  for  the  other.  Bat  Koensed  boats  only  can  ply  for  hire  and 
tben  at  a  fixed  rate,  when  engaged  in  loading  and  unloading  ves- 
sels. If  the  first  is  not  a  iMrdship  to  tite  European,  the  latter  must 
be  to  the  N'atwe. 

The  Shoemaking  trade  appears  to  be  a  lucrative  one*  Governor 
Moens  stated  in  his  Memorial^  that  Shoemakers  were  sent  for  from 
Tuticorin  to  Cochin  by  Governor  de  Jong,  before  1731,  and  remark- 
ed tliat  in  1781,  they  consisted  of  16  families  numbering  71  persons, 
some  of  whom  had  become  Christians  whilst  others  were  Mahome- 
dans.  At  the  present  time  the  majority  of  them  are  Eurasians. 
Skins  of  animals  with  the  fur  on,  can  be  most  beautifully  tanned  in 
CochuL 

The  Cloth  dydrs  according  to  Mnens,  were  brought  to  Cochin 
about  1681  from  Coilpatnam,  near  Tuticorin,  and  were  introduced 
by  a  Caiiarese,  named  Baba  Porboo,  and  were  employed  by  the 
Dutch  Company. 

Amongst  the  traders  of  note,  arc  the  Konkanies,  or  Canarese, 
(page  309).  They  are  astute  in  their  dealings,  and  clever  in  their 
transactions.  Moens  stated,  that  *^  on  the  taking  of  Cochin,  they 
**  cafne  under  Dutch  protection,  and  that  boys  of  six  or  seven  years 
"  of  age,  were  taught  their  trades.  That  they  were  up  to  every- 
"  thing,  had  ingratiated  themselves  so  with  the  high  Officials  about 
"  the  Rajah,  and  were  so  ready  to  barter  anything  for  money,  that 
"  much  required  information  could  be  obtained  through  them." 
The  Banians  he  continued  were  originally  identical  with  the  Wun< 
uejirs,  and  though  they  dabbled  in  all  trades,  were  masters  of  none. 
To  a  Banian,  Moens  stated,  the  imports  and  exports  of  Cochin  were 
rented  out.  The  Tuttans  or  Silversmiths,  do  not  appear  to  have 
been  more  celebrated  in  those  times,  for  correct  dealings,  than  they 
are  now,  for  he  says,  "  they  were  great  rogues  in  making  up  trinkets, 
"  and  never  worked  in  shops,  but  went  wherever  their  services  were 
"  required." 

The  Carpenters  compose  a  large  portion  of  the  working  class, 
some  of  them  carve  well  in  teak  or  blackwood,  but  not  so  neatly  or 
cheaply  as  those  in  Bombay.  The  Coopers  Kkewise  have  a  good 
trade,  owing  to  the  large  demand  for  casks,  in  which  oil  is  exported. 
Blacksmiths,  and  Brassfounders,  are  also  clever  at  their  respective 

z  2 


570  KATTTIB  VnSXLS. 

trades.  Tailors  abound,  and  obtain  excellent  wages.  The  Dhobies 
are  of  two  classes,  the  CSiristians,  and  the  Hindus,  the  latter  bong 
Tamols.  They  are  by  no  means  superior  to  those  of  their  ooenpa- 
tion  elsewhere. 

The  Hawkers,  some  of  whom  are  large  shopkeepers,  sell  articles 
of  attire,  in  fact  of  almost  eTerything  required  in  houses,  excepting 
furniture.  They  always  wish  to  dispose  of  something  in  the  first 
house  they  go  to  of  a  morning,  as  it  is  considered  a  bad  omen 
should  they  not  do  so.  Hindus  unless  of  very  low  caste,  rarely 
trade  on  Thursdays,  and  many  of  the  Hawkers  are  Konkanie 
Brahmans.  Moplahs  will  do  nothing  on  Fridays,  until  they  return 
from  their  mosque,  mostly  about  3  p.  m.  Jews  do  not  work  from  6 
p.  M.  on  Fridays,  to  6  p.  m.  on  Saturdays.  Syrians  from  6  p.  m. 
on  Saturdays,  to  6  p.  H.  on  Sundays. 

The  next  occupation  which  deserves  attention,  is  that  of  the  Sea- 
faring Native,  and  the  Ship  builder.  A  short  description  of  the 
various  boats  and  vessels,  which  are  made  in,  or  trade  to  Cochin,  U 
therefore  given.  In  the  early  part  of  this  century,  some  Frigates 
made  of  teak,  were  built  in  the  port,  but  although  their  quality  was 
excellent)  their  cost  was  great.  The  same  may  be  said  of  merchant 
vessels,  and  a  large  one  is  now  very  rarely  launched,  the  last,  named 
the  AUum  Ohir  of  800  tons,  was  completed  in  1861.  Small  crafts 
and  native  vessels  are  not  uncommonly  built,  but  more  frequently 
in  the  neighbouring  Native  State  at  Muttencherry,  than  within 
British  territory. 

Native  vessels  are  as  follows,*  Pattaman  which  are  employedJLn 
the  Bombay  coasting  trade,  and  are  amongst  the  best  for  stowing 
cargo  in,  as  well  as  for  sailing  qualities.  Owing  to  their  construc- 
tion, they  are  able  to  sail  nearer  to  the  wind,  than  any  other  des- 
cription of  vessel,  whilst  their  speed  is  pretty  good.  They  are  '^grab 
built,"  or  with  a  prow  stem,  which  is  of  the  same  length  as  the 
keel.  They  have  two  masts,  the  foremast  raking  forwards,  for  the 
purpose  of  keeping  the  ponderous  yard  clear  when  it  is  raised  or 
lowered.  The  3rard  is  slung  at  one  third  of  its  length.  The  tack 
of  the  sail  is  brought  to  the  stem  head,  through  a  fixed  block,  and 

*  Edge.    On  Indian  Veasels,  JourmU  AtUUic  Society,    Vul  I.  1834. 


AHAB  DOWS.  571 

a  sheet  hauled  aft  at  the  side.  The  haulyard  is  a  pendant,  and  treble 
block,  from  the  mast  head  aft  to  midships,  thus  acting  as  a  backstay 
for  the  mast's  security :  there  are  also  about  two  pairs  of  shrouds. 
The  size  of  the  large  Pattamars,  are  about  76^  feet  long  :  21^  broad  ; 
11  feet  9  inches  deep  :  and  of  about  200  tons  burden.  They  are 
planked  with  teak,  upon  jungle  wood  frames,  and  put  together  iu 
the  European  manner,  with  nails,  bolts^  ^z. ;  their  bottoms  are 
sheathed  with  inch  board,  and  a  layer  of  chunam,  mixed  with 
cDOoanut  oil  and  country  resin,  said  to  preserve  the  planks  very 
effectually,  against  the  ravages  of  insects.  Some  of  the  smaller 
Pattamars  have  their  planks  sewn  together  with  coir,  but  these 
have  only  one  maat 

The  sailors  are  generally  Mahomedans,  and  these  vessels  often 
come  from  Bombay,  with  salt  and  other  cargoes,  and  take  back  coir, 
rice,  cocoanuts,  coprah,  oil,  timber,  sandal  wood,  pepper,  and  other 
productions  of  tlvs  coast  Some  occasionally  bring  passeiigers,  but 
these  are  of  a  very  superior  description,  with  a  fine  cabin  in  the 
stem  part,  and  a  large  pandall  outside  for  servants,  with  a  deck  over 
the  after  cabin.  The  hold  is  divided,  the  laige  portion  being  suffi- 
cient to  accommodate  two  ponies,  and  two  cows.  Pattamars  are  usual- 
ly  anchored  every  night,  when  sailing  along  the  coast.  The  crews 
axe  generally  honest,  and  tniat-worthy,  as  well  aa  civil  and  obliging, 
if  their  prejudices  are  not  interfered  with. 

The  Arab  DowSy  are  vessels  employed  in  trading  between  the  Rad 
Sea,  the  Arabian  Coast,  the  Golf  of  Persia,  and  the  Indian  coast. 
They  are  invariably  manned  by  Arabs.  Their  size  is  generally  from 
150  to  250  tons  burden  by  measurement,  they  are  grab  built,  with 
ten  or  twelve  ports.  This  description  of  vessel  is  occasionally  con- 
structed at  Cochin.  They  have  a  great  rise  of  floor,  and  are  calculated 
for  sailing  with  small  cargoes.  They  are  fully  prepared  for  defence, 
with  decks,  hatchways,  ports,  poop  decks,  and  in  fact  are  adapted 
either  for  .war  or  piracy.  Many  of  them  are  sheathed  on  2  j  inch 
plank  bottoms,  with  one  inch  board,  and  the  same  preparation  of 
oil  and  resin,  as  is  placed  on  Pattamars,  is  put  between  the  planks 
and  the  sheathing  boards^  On  the  outside  there  is  a  coat  of  white- 
wash, to  which  resin  and  oil  are  added,  which  is  renewed  every  year. 

Dows  have  generally  one  mast,  the  yard  is  the  length  of  the  ves- 


f)72  SMALL   NATIVE  CRAFTS. 

sel  aloft,  and  the  mast  rakes  forward,  for  the  purpose  of  keeping  tho 
ponderous  weight  clear,  in  raising  or  lowering  it  The  tack  of 
the  sail  is  brought  to  the  stem  head,  and  sheets  aft  in  the  asual 
way.  The  haulyards  lead  to  the  taffrail,  having  a  pendant  and 
treble  purchase  block,  which  becomes  a  backstay,  to  support  the  mast, 
when  the  sail  is  set :  this  with  three  pairs  of  shrouds,  completes 
the  rigging,  which  is  very  simple,  and  made  of  coir  rope.  Tippoo 
Sultan's  fleet  on  the  Malabar  Coast,  consisted  of  this  class  of  vessels. 
Those  which  come  to  Cochin,  generally  bring  dates,  fruits,  preserves, 
shiraz  wine,  and  horses  ;  and  take  back  the  productions  of  the  coun- 
try, as  well  as  European  articles,  and  have  also  been  known  to  have 
carried  off  kidnapped  women,  to  dispose  of  at  2ianzibar.  More  Dows 
and  Budgerows  are  said  to  be  annually  lost,  ^an  any  other  descrip- 
tion of  native  craft,  as  they  are  very  unsafe. 

The  Budgerows,  or  BaggaUu^  are  Indian  vessels,  manned  with 
Lascars,  Arabs,  or  Natives  of  Cutch,  who  trade  from  the  coast  of 
Hindustan,  to  the  Gulf  of  Persia,  the  coast  of  Arabia,  and  the  Bed 
Sea.  The  peculiar  form,  and  extraordinary  equipment  of  these  ves- 
sels, is  said  to  have  remained  unaltered  from  the  time  of  Alexander 
the  Great.  They  are  armed  with  two  guns  on  the  after  part,  or 
right  aft  of  the  stem,  as  a  defence  against  Pirates.  Their  poop 
deck  has  a  round  stem,  they  are  very  broad  in  proportion  to  their 
length,  with  a  sharp  rising  floor.  The  stem  is  straight,  and  rakes 
very  little  more  than  the  stem  posts.  The  extreme  length  is  about 
74  feet :  25  broad  :  11^  in  the  depth  of  the  hold,  and  they  are  of 
about  150  tons  burden. 

These  vessels  are  constructed  with  timbers  and  planks,  which  are 
nail  and  trenail  fastened,  in  the  radest  and  most  imsafe  manner 
possible.  They  have  one  mast^  with  a  huge  yard,  made  from  two 
spars  :  the  small  ends  of  which  are  lashed  together.  The  tack  of  the 
sail  goes  to  the  stem  head.  The  topside  above  the  deck,  is  barri- 
cadoed  with  mats  on  the  outside  of  the  timbers,  which  run  up  to 
about  8  feet  from  the  deck.  If  there  is  no  cargo,  these  are  removed. 

The  Munjoo  or  Mimjees^  are  very  strong  built  boats,  with  some- 
thing of  a  Grab  prow,  with  no  deck,  but  a  sort  of  cabin  astern. 

They  convey  produce  from  port  to  port. 

•  Col.  Welali,  Military  Remini«c€ncts.  V.  II.  p.  74. 


COINS.  57S 

The  Cargo  BoaU  are  very  safe,  the  whole  length  of  the  keel  is 
sometimes  constructed  from  one  tree,  to  which  phuiks  are  sewn  by 
coir  ropes.  Underneath  the  coir  rope,  is  a  long  piece  of  coir,  which 
has  been  steeped  in  oil  and  resin,  and  which  covers  the  seam  from 
stem  to  stem.     They  are  about  36  feet  long,  and  5  broad. 

The  Fishing  BoaU  for  single  persons,  are  composed  of  hollowed 
trees,  in  which  one  man  paddles  about^  in  his  piscatorial  occupation. 
Cabin  BoaU  for  backwater  travelling,  are  of  various  descriptions, 
bnt  vastly  superior  to  the  things  called  by  the  same  name  at 
Calicut.  A  first  class  one  is  from  4}  to  5^  feet  broad,  and  from 
34  to  38  long.  A  second  class  from  i\  to  4f  feet  broad,  and  32 
to  34  long.  A  third  class  from  4  to  4^  feet  broad,  and  28  to  30 
long.  But  there  are  others  even  smaller.  The  largest  take  about 
14  rowers,  and  a  Steersman  or  Marakan,  and  the  smallest  4  and  the 
Steersman.  In  Cochin  the  hire  of  a  first  dass  boat  a  day,  without 
rowers,  is  from  1  ^  to  1 }  rupees ;  of  a  second  class  1  rupee  :  of  a 
third  from  8  to  12  annas.  The  pay  of  the  coolies,  differs  consider- 
ably. 

^^'99^^  ^<^^  v»ry,  from  those  adapted  to  convey  1000  or  1200 
Markals  of  paddy,  to  quite  small  ones,  whilst  the  hire  is  in  accord- 
ance with  the  size. 

Stuike  BoaU  are  more  used  as  boats  of  honour,  on  either  side  of 
that  of  tlic  Rajah,  or  of  the  Resident,  on  State  occasions,  than 
for  travellers.  The  numerous  paddlers,  who  use  their  paddles  to  the 
sound  of  a  wild  Malabar  song,  form  a  pretty  sight,  but  in  spite  of 
their  apparently  rapid  motion,  they  cannot  keep  up  with  a  good 
cabin  boat. 

Having  thus  detailed  the  objects  of  merohandize,  and  the  mode 
ia  which  it  is  conveyed,  the  medium  of  exchange,  as  respects  the 
coinage  in  use,  claims  attention. 

The  possessor  of  the  old  coins  of  a  country,  may  be  said  to  have 
its  history  for  some  centuries  in  his  possession.  From  them  the 
religion  of  its  inhabitants  may  be  gathered,  whilst  changes  in  its 
Monarchs,  and  especially  in  its  Dynasties,  are  invariably  succeeded 
by  alterations  in  its  coinage.  These  and  the  inscriptions  on  plates 
of  metal,  and  on  stones,  are  now  the  only  data,  of  the  ancient 
history  of  Southern  India.  ' 


574  poRTuauKSK  money. 

It  appears  probable,  that  the  art  of  coining  money,  by  the  aid  of 
dies,  giving  an  inscription  on  both  sides,  came  from  the  West,  and 
was  not  introduced  into  India,  until  about  two  centuries  before  the 
Christian  era.  So  slowly  did  the  process  spread,  that  south  of  the 
Nerbudda,  it  was  not  employed  for  coining  precious  metals,  until 
the  5th  or  6th  century. 

The  earliest  coins  which  are  apparently  now  to  be  collected,  are 
those  of  the  Romans,  some  of  whose  gold  ones,  are  occasionslly 
found  They  may  hare  been  originally  received  from  traders,  who 
came  to  the  Western  Coast  At  Ponany,  and  near  Coimbatore  inland) 
the  largest  numbers  have  been  found  in  one  spot,  where  they  had 
been  no  doubt  secreted  by  some  persons  for  security.  This  could 
not  have  been  done  by  the  original  traders,  as  it  is  improbable  that 
they  penetrated  hr  into  the  interior  of  the  country,  and  they  may 
fairly  be  considered  to  have  been  purchased  of  the  Romans,  by 
Natives,  for  the  purpose  of  hoarding.  Buddhist  coins  are  also 
reputed  to  be  occasionally  found  in  the  tombs  spread  over  the 
country. 

A  good  numismatic  collection  is  still  a  great  desideratum  for 
these  parts,  and  one  for  which  there  is  ample  scope.  Paiasu  Rama's 
battle  axe,  may  be  said  to  be  the  type  of  the  Malabar  coins,  and 
it  may  be  traced  in  those  found  in  Ceylon,  until  at  last  the  convex 
coins  of  that  Island,  are  perceived  bearing  this  device;  It  is  un- 
necessary  to  enter  into  any  discussion  here,  as  to  when  the  Malabari- 
ans  conquered  Ceylon,  and  the  people  of  India  obtained  such  as- 
cendancy there,  that  their  coinage  even  superseded  that  of  the  island 

The  hook,  or  fish  money,  termed  ridi,  was  introduced  by  the 
Portuguese,  and  consisted  merely  of  pieces  of  twisted  silver,  Ceylon 
was  originally  supposed  to  have  been  the  country  from  which  they 
emanated,  but  their  Persian  device  has  now  proved  their  origiiL 
The  Dutch  continued  to  use  them  during  their  supremacy. 

The  Portuguese  historians  affirm  that  on  the  arrival  of  their  nation 
in  Cochin,  none  of  the  native  Princes  along  the  coast^  had  the  power 
of  coining  money,  with  the  exception  of  the  Samoria  It  does  not 
appear  that  the  Portuguese  coined  any  Indian  money,  whilst  they 
retained  possession  of  the  country,  but  they  certainly  introduced 
European  coinage. 


COINS  FOUND   IN   COCHIN.  575 

0>ntmiiiiig  tlie  history  of  the  coins  of  Malabar,  we  arrive  at  the 

time  of  Hyder*8  second  conquest,  (1774),  when  there  appears  to 

have  been  two  species  of  gold  fanams  current,  one  termed  the  Canna* 

nore,  the  other  the  Yerary,  the  rate  of  the  former  being  with  the  shroff 

four  fanams  per  surat  Rupee,  or  2^  Rupees  to  the  nominal  Hoon. 

After  Hyder's  Government  had  become  established  in  Malabar,  the 

Yerary  which  alone  was  employed  for  Revenue  matters,  was  stamped 

with  the  Hiudustanee  H  on  one  side  in  allusion  to  his  own  name, 

thus  constituting  the  Yerary  the  Hyderie  fanam,  but    its  value 

remamed  the  same.    The  Hyderie  Hoon  or  Pagoda,  was  of  4  Rupees 

value.     In  1786-87*  Tippoo  ordered  the  cessation  of  this  coinage, 

and  in  its  stead,  introduced  the  Sultany,  the  value  of  which  fell 

below  that  of  the  Hyderie  coinaga     In  1790-91,  on  the  restoration 

of  the  Samorin,  the  old  Yerary  Hoon  was  re-introduced.     In  1793 

the  relative  value  of  the  Hoons  had  become  as  follows,  10  J  new 

YerarySy  were  worth  10  Sultany  fanams,  and  Hoons  were  at  any  rate 

worth  Rs.  3  each,  but  in  revenue  matters,  the  British  discovered  that 

they  were  imposed  upon  by  the  Samorin's  Minister,  who  valued 

them  in  the  accounts,  at  Rupees  2},  thereby  causing  a  loss  of  nearly 

Rupees  120,000  in  one  year. 

The  most  common  copper  coins  now  current  in  the  Bazaar,  next 
to  those  of  the  English  East  India  .Company  are  those  of  the  Dutch, 
which  have  a  large  Y  on  one  side,  with  an  O  on  the  right  arm  of  the 
Y  and  a  C  on  the  left.  These  coins  have  various  emblems  on  the 
other  side,  generally  with  a  crown  surmounting  one  or  more  Lions, 
or  a  coat  of  arms.  The  only  ones  with  inscriptions,  are  those  of 
1791  and  1792,  on  which  are  Imieo  est  9pe$  nostra.  The  earliest 
date  to  be  found  on  them,  is  1731,  but  specimens  of  almost  every 
year  from  that  time,  until  1792,  may  be  procured.    In  1757  a  half 

•  "From  Hyder's  death,  until  the  year  1200,  A.  H.  all  Tippoo's  gold  and 
"  silver  coins,  are  dated  according  to  the  usual  calculation,  the  figures  reading 
"  from  left  to  right.  About  this  time  however,  with  his  well  known  love  of 
*'  hmovation,  he  introduced  a  new  system  of  reckoning,  which  from  some  of 
"  the  inscriptions  on  his  copper  coinage,  i^pears  to  have  been  reckoned  from  tho 
"  Death,  instead  of  the  flight  of  Mahomet,  the  figures  reading  from  right  to 
"  left.  This  then  will  account  for  the  space  of  eleven  or  twelve  years,  which 
**  intervenes  between  coins  struck  in  two  sucoessive  years  of  his  reign." — 
Hawkes.    SheUh  of  coinoffts  of  Mynore,  18«»6. 


576  COINAGE    OP   *HE  COCHIN   BTATJ2. 

cash  appears,  to  have  been  coined,  whilst  some  of  those  minted  in 
1746,  are  of  the  thinnest  description.  There  cannot  be  a  question,  as 
to  whether  these  cash  are  of  European  manufacture,  as  they  have 
evidently  been  minted  in  Europe,  and  subsequently  despatched  to 
India.  Antecedent  to  that  date,  good  Dutch  money  cannot  now  be 
discovered  in  Cochin,  but  a  curious  specimen  like  lead,  covered  over 
with  a  brown  amalgam  exists,  on  which  is  the  V  O  C  of  the  Dutch 
East  India  Company,  meaning  Vor  Ost  IndUn  Compagnie. 

The  next  most  common  coins,  are  the  Elephant  cash  of  Mysore,  pre- 
vious to  the  Mahomedan  era  of  Mysore,  the  symbol  was  invariably  an 
Elephant,  with  the  usual  cross  lines  on  the  obverse,  subsequently  a 
moon  was  placed  over  the  elephant  Tippoo  added  dates  and  letters, 
or  placed  an  Hindostani  B,  (Bangalore,)  over  the  elephant,  which 
is  now  known  as  the  B  elephant  cash.  When  the  present  line  of 
Mysore  Eajahs  returned,  the  copper  coinage  was  altered,  and  a  sun 
and  moon  placed  over  the  elephant,  to  which  in  a  few  years  subse- 
quently, the  figures  V,  X,  or  XX  cash,  in  English  characters,  were 
added.  Then  the  elephant  and  the  C3rpher  were  discaixied,  and  the 
tiger  looking  like  a  maugey  cat  was  substituted. 

Some  of  the  copper  coins  have  fish  upon  them,  some  deer,  and  in 
fact  there  are  specimens  to  be  met  with,  of  all  the  neighbouring 
petty  states,  that  coined  money.  Even  one  exists  much  corroded 
by  time,  which  hsm  a  large  does  on  one  side,  and  is  apparently  Por- 
tuguese, it  is  mostly  dug  up  in  the  ruins  of  the  old  forts. 

When  the  Cochin  Sfercar  first  commenced  to  coin,  is  not  well 
known.  Certainly  they  did  not  do  so  in  the  time  of  the  Portuguese, 
and  apparently  not  so  whilst  the  Dutcl^  sway  was  predominant 
In  1812  it  is  said,  the  coinage  was  as  follows,  1  doit,  equalled  2 
reas:  10  reas,  one  poothen:  19^  poothens,  one  Surat  rupee.  Here 
a  poothen  first  comes  into  notice,  this  is  a  Cochin  coin,  and  its 
very  name  signifies  "  new." 

It  i3  considered,  that  19|  poothens  equal  one  Company's  rupe& 
It  is  a  little  ugly  coin,  without  even  good  mintage  to  bring  it  into 
notice.  Its  materials  are  very  impure,  whilst  it  takes  32  to  equal 
the  weight  of  a  rupee,  thus  supposing  the  purity  of  the  two  coin- 
ages to  be  equal,  the  receiver  of  the  poothens  loses  12|  in  every 
rupee.    But  even  it  has  not  purity  to  recommend  it,  a  single  poothen 


WII0RT8  USID  IH  OOCHIN.  577 

having  only  6  pie  worth  of  silver  in  it,  it  follows  that  aboat  9 
annas  7  pie  is  a  l^gal  tender  in  the  Natire  State,  for  16  annas.  At 
the  Madras  Mint^  the  charge  for  ocnnage,  is  2  per  cent  on  silver^ 
andl  percent  on  gold,sending  metal  to  Madias  to  be  thus  convert- 
ed into  poothens,  at  the  present  rate,  oof^t  to  be  a  renranerative 
transaction. 

The  double  poothen,  has  a  Hinda  god  on  one  side^  wearing  a 
crown,  and  a  snake  emeiging  from  either  aide  of  his  chair,  and  meet- 
ing over  his  head  Bound  his  neck  is  a  string  of  sknlls,  in  his  left- 
hand  is  the  vi^eel  of  f ate^  around  each  shoulder  two  circlets,  and  on 
each  wrist  two  bracelets.  On  the  obverse  is  a  p^lanqneen.  For- 
merly instead  of  the  god  Siv%  there  was  a  chank  shelL 

The  British  coinage  is  the  same  as  elsewhere  in  the  Presidency 
12  pie,  one  anna:  16  annas,  one  rupee. 

The  wei^^t  and  measures  are  peculiar  to  the  place.  Of  course 
in  the  custom's  house,  the  Presidency  wei^ts  are  employed,  1  rupee 
equals  1  tolah :  80  tolahs  1  seer:  40  seers  1  maund,  or  82| 
English  pounds. 

One  Dutch  pound  equab  42^  tolahs,  or  1*0927  lbs.  Eng^isL  The 
usual  Baraar  maund,  is  30  Dutch  pounds,  20  of  which  equal  1 
candy,  or  656  Eoglish  pounds. 

For  iron  or  sugar,  25  Dutch  pounds  go  to  a  maund.  For  oil,  75 
Dutch  pounds  one  chodana,  25  of  which  go  to  1  candy.  For  wood, 
24  borrela  or  28|  square  inch  English,  1  tooda,  24  of  which  equal  a 
candy. 


FINIS. 


CHRONOLOGY, 


B.a68 


A.D.52 
AJD.68 

325 

(Wl?) 

341 

346 


360 

378 

379 
379 


829 


1341 
1496 


1498 
1600 
1601 


1601 


1602 


March  24tb. 
(about) 


lia7  20th. 
Deo.  20th. 
Jan.  10th. 


Deal6th. 


A  mat  ooDgreas,  is  believed  to  have  been  held  in 
Kerala,  at  which  the  rolen  decided  on  sending 
to  Ch^  (Madura,)  for  a  Permaul  or  Governor. 

St.  Thomas,  is  said  to  have  visited  Malabar. 

An  immigration  of  Jews  into  Malabar,  is  stated  to 
have  occurred. 

The  Rajah  of  Cochin  had  the  title  of  Baveeloke 
Sharajay  given  him. 

Cheraman  Permaul  ascended  the  Musnud. 

Thomas  Cana,  asserts  that  in  this  year,  he  saw  the 
last  of  the  Permauls  alive. 

Theophilus  the  fiunouB  Arrian  Bishop,  is  said  to 
have  visited  Malabar. 

The  year  when  Cheraman  Permaul,  was  last  seen 
alive. 

The  date  of  the  Jewish  and  Syrian  copper  plates. 

The  succession  of  the  Priesthood  in  India  was  cut 
off  from  the  Primate  of  Persia,  by  the  Metropo- 
litan of  Mosul, — on  which  the  Primate  throw 
off  his  allegiance  to  the  Seleudan  Patriarch. 

Mar  Sapor,  and  Mar  Peroses,  came  from  Babylon, 
and  obtained  leave  to  erect  Churches  in  the 
territories  of  the  Rigah  of  Culli-Quilon. 

Era  of  Poothoo  Veppoo,  or  New  Vypeen. 

The  Wiwah-karah  Mahlah,  a  code  of  Hindu  laws, 
written  by  Mahesha  Mungidiun  Nambuderi,  an 
inhabitant  of  Parumanum,  in  the  Cochin  State. 

Vasca  de  Qama,  anchored  before  Calicut 

Cabral's  fleet  arrived  at  Cochin. 

The  Samorin's  fleet  was  descried  off  Cochin,  on 
which  Cabral  puraued  it,  and  did  not  again  re- 
turn to  Cochin. 

The  Samorin*B  fleet,  of  about  180  vessels,  arrived 
off  Cochin,  for  the  purpose  of  attacking  the 
Portugese. 

The  Christians  at  Cranganore,  sent  a  deputation 
to  Vasca  de  €(ama  at  Cochin,  asking  him  to 

E resent  a  petition  to  the  King  of  Portugal,  that 
e  would  take  them  under  his  protection. 


CHRONOLOGT. 


1503 
1503 

1503 

1503 
1503 

1503 

1503 


March  Ist 


Sept.  20iL 


Sept.  22nd. 

Sept.  23rd. 
Sept26tlL 

Sept.  SOth. 


1504  August  17th. 
1505 

1517 


1521 

1523 
1524-25 

1531 


1538 

1539 
1542 
1545 

1545 

1550 
1557 

1560 


The  Samorin  entered  the  Cochin  territory,  and 
attempted  to  force  a  passage  by  a  Ford  near 

>    Cranganore. 

Francisco  de  Albuquerque,  with  six  sail,  arrived 
at  Cochin,  on  which  the  Samorin's  party  fled  to 
Cnmganore. 

The  Samorin's  troops,  were  defeated  at  the  Island 
of  Vypeen. 

The  Portuguese  attacked,  and  took  Repelim. 

The  foundations  of  the  Portuguese  Fort  at  CoGhin 
were  laid. 

Alonso  de  Albuquerque,  arrived  at  Cochin  from 
Portugal,  with  three  ships. 

The  Portuguese  obtained  land  from  the  Rajah  of 
Cochin,  and  established  a  factory  in  Codun« 

Pftcheco  defeated  the  Samorin's  troops  at  Chetwye. 

Don  Francisco  de  Almeyda,  first  Viceroy  of  In<uay 
arrived  at  Cochin. 

Alcacova  was  sent  out  from  Portugal,  as  ''Sur-. 
▼eyor  of  the  King's  Bevenue,^  or  Finance  Mi- 
nister. 

The  Samorin  attacked  the  Rigah  of  Cochin,  but 
was  routed. 

Cransanore  Fort  was  buOt  by  the  Portuguese. 

The  Mahomedans  engaged  in  a  barbarous  warfistfe 
against  the  Jews  at  Cranganore. 

The  Samorin,  anxious  to  conclude  a  peace  with 
the  Portuguese,  {M^esented  them  with  a  piece  of 
land  at  Chisiul,  on  whi^A  to  build  a  fort 

Puchi  Marear,  a  Moor  of  Cochin,  sent  forces  to 
Ceylon,  to  assist  King  Bhuwaneka  Behu  VII 
agunst  the  Portuffuese. 

Peace  was  oonduded  with  the  Samorin. 

Xavier  amved  at  Cochin. 

Albuquerque,  Arohlnshop  of  Oca,  compelled  his 
soldiers  to  marry  Native  women,  for  the  por^ 
pose  of  pxoMhrtisation. 

The  Bish<^  of  Goa,  sent  a  Franciscan  Friar,  to 
preach  to  the  S^ans  at  Cranganste,  and  en- 
quiries were  instituted  into  the  Syrian  ftith. 

The  Portuguese  built  the  R^jah  of  Cochin  a  par 
lace  at  Muttencherry^  or  old  Cochin. 

The  Church  of  Santa  Olns^  at  Cochin,  was  made 
a  Cathedral,  by  Pope  Pks  IV  at  the  request  of 
the  King  of  Portu^.  A  Doniinican  was  made 
Bishop  of  it. 

An  order,  promiilgated  by  the  B«ah  of  Ooehin, 
soon  after  the  arrival  of  the  Portuguese,  for- 
bidding his  subjects  to  embrace  the  Roman 
Catholic  faith,  was  cancelled. 


CHBONOIOOY. 


iii 


1661V 

1505 

1565 

1566 
1567 

1571 

1577 
1587 
1591 
1694 

16M 
1695 


1597 
1597 


1598 


1599 
1599 
1599 


1600 
1604 

1605 

1608 

1608 


Ja&y  27tlL   The  Biyth  of  Cochin,  and  two  Princes,  alain  in 

battle, 
Feby.  10th.  Another  Rajah  of  Cochin,  killed  in  battle  at 
Poodikavoo. 

The  Jews  left  Cranganore^  and  settled  at  Cochin, 
whilst  Jews  town  was  being  built. 

The  Portuguese  enlai^ed  the  Cranganore  Fort 

Jews  town  was  completed,  and  the  Jews  removed 
into  it. 

The  Portuguese  possessions  in  India  and  the  EnL 
were  divided  into  three  portions,  designatea 
India,  Monomotapa,  «id  loalaoca. 

The  Jesuits  commenced  publishing  religious  books 
in  Cochin,  in  the'Native  languages. 

A  College  was  erected  for  the  Syrians  at  Yaipi- 
cotta,  at  the  expense  of  Antonio  Morales. 

Captain  Raymond's  expedition  Was  fitted  out,  and 
left  Ensland  for  India. 

The  '<BuU  of  Crusade"  arrived  from  Portugal,  com- 
manding the  Portuguese  to  reduce  the  infidels 
of  Malabar  to  the  futb,  by  force  of  arms. 

Houtman  orguiiaed  the  Dutch  Efurt  India  Com- 
pany. 

Pope  Clement,  despatched  a  brief  to  Menezes, 
ordering  him  to  enquire  into  the  £uth  of  the 
Malabar  Bishop  and  nis  flodc 

Two  Dutch  vessels  appeared  off  the  coast  of  India. 

Mar  Abraham,  the  Syrian  Bishop  of  Malabar  died, 
and  Meneaee  nominated  a  Jesuit,  Francisco^ 
Vicar  Apostolic  of  Malabar. 

Don  Alexis  Meneses,  embarked  at  Goa  for  Co- 
chin, where  he  commenced  enquiring  into  the 
faith  of  the  Syrians. 

The  Synod  of  Diamper,  was  held  at  that  place. 

Menezes  returned  to  Qoa. 

The  Samorin  first  permitted  the  Portuguese  to 
erect  Churches,  and  forward  the  Christian  re- 
ligion in  his  dominions. 

The  English  East  India  Company  of  London,  was 
established. 

A  truce  of  12  years  was  agreed  upon  between 
Holland  and  Spain,  one  of  the  articles  of  which 
recognized  the  ri^^t  of  Holland  to  share  in  the 
commerce  of  India. 

The  See  of  Angamale  was  translated  to  Cransa- 

nore,  by  Pope  Paul  V.,  and  the   Plrelate  of  the 

latter  church  made  Archbishop. 

August.      The  first  Enghsh  ship  arrived  at  Surat,  under 

CaptHswkins. 

Nov.  16th.  [  The  Samorin  made  a  contcact  with  Admiral  Peter 


Dec  27th. 


June  20th. 
Nov.  16th, 


May  31st. 


IV 


CHBONOLOOY. 


1634-35 


1685 

1642 
1653 


1661 
1661 

1661 

1662 
1662 
1662 


lia7  22nd. 


March  12th. 


February. 

Oot25ih. 

November. 


1662  December. 


1663 
1663 
1663 


1663 


1665-66 


Jany.  8th. 
Jany.  23rd. 
Bl[arch20th. 


Willem  VerhoevBH,  bv  which  the  former  was 
oompeUed  to  besiege  we  town  of  Cochin,  then 
mider  the  Portuguese. 

A  treaty  was  entered  into  between  the  Bri- 
tish and  the  Portuguese,  bv  which  the 
English  gained  free  access  to  the  Portuguese 
Ports,  and  Mreed  in  return  to  receive  the 
people  of  that  nation  as  Mends  in  their 
factories. 

The  English  first  exported  pepper  from  the  Malar 
bar  coast. 

The  French  East  India  Company  established. 

A  tumultuous  congress  of  Syrians  was  held  at 
Alangatta,  which  ended  in  their  formally  sepa- 
rating themselves  from  the  Boman  C&thoLic 
Church. 

The  date  of  an  agreement  entered  into  on  board 
the  Muscaatboom,  between  the  Dutch  and  the 
Paliat  Achen,  who  agreed  to  assist  them  against 
the  Portuguese. 

The  Dutch  under  VanQoens,  attacked  the  town 
of  Cochin,  but  the  Rajah  of  Porca  came  to  the 
assistance  of  the  Portuguese,  and  the  Dutch 
were  beaten  off.  In  this  year  the  Dutch  took 
Quilon,  Cranganore,  and  Tangicherry. 

The  Portuguese  punished  the  Jews  for  having  as- 
sisted the  Dutch,  plundered  Jews  town,  attempt- 
ed to  destroy  the  Synagogue,  and  carried  away 
the  Pentateuch. 

The  Dutch  attacked  and  took  the  palace  of  the 
Ranee  of  Cochin,  and  made  her  a  prisoner. 

The  Dutch  forces  returned  to  Cochin  under  Gene- 
ral Hustaart. 

Van  Gk)ens  joined  the  Dutch,  who  were  besieging 
Cochin. 

The  R%jah  of  Porca,  the  Ally  of  the  Portuguese, 
arrived  at  EmaccoUum,  and  threw  supplies  into 
the  Cochin  Forty  on  which  a  bloody  engagement 
ensued,  between  the  Dutch  and  the  troops  of 
this  Rajah. 

Cochin  capitulated  to  the  Dutch.  The  garrison 
was  commanded  by  Captain  Pierre  de  Pou. 

Protestant  service,  performed  in  Cochin  for  the 
first  time,  by  Dr.  Anthonius  Scherius. 

The  Dutch  concluded  a  treaty  with  the  B^jah  of 
Cochin,  who  consented  to  become  their  vassal 

The  Propannda  convent,  the  Jesuit  cdU^ge^  and 
several  Koman  Catholic  churches  in  the  town 
of  Cochin,  were  destroyed  by  the  Dutch, 

The  Vypeen  church  was  built 


CHBOKOLOOY. 


1680 

1686 

1689 

1691 
1697 

1698 

1701 
1706 
1709 
1710 
1714 

1715 

1717 


Sept  10th. 


April  8th. 


January. 


1738 


The  Dutch  poaseBsiona  in  Malahar,  and  on  the 
Western  coast^  were  placed  under  the  Cochin 
command,  which  included  Quilon,  Culli-Quilon, 
*    Cnrnganore,  and  Oannanore. 
The  Jewish  Pentateuch  which  had  heen  taken 
away  hy  the  Foituffueae,  in  1661 ,  waa  recovered. 
An  attempt  was  made  hy  the  Dutch,  to  sell  back 
or  exchange  with  the  PortuffuescL  those  places 
where  the  Roman  Catholic  faith  nad  taken  such 
hold,  retaining  the  town  of  Cochin  for  the  pur- 
poses of  trade. 
Immigration  of  some^  White  Jews  from  Amster- 
dam. 
Adoption  into  the  flsunily  of  the  Bajah  of  Cochin 

took  place. 
Chetwye  was  given  to  the  Samorin  by  the  Dutch 
The  Cochin  Fort  was   reduced  one  halfl  .  The 
Cnmganore  Fort  was  left  with  only  the  outer 
walls,  and  the  Forts  6f  Caonanore  and  Quilon 
reduced  to  only  one  tower. 
The  date  of  a  letter  from  the  Court  of  Directors 
at  Amsterdam,  to  the  Government  of  Cochin, 
stating  that  permission  had  been  given  to  the 
Archbishop  <n  Ancyres,  to  send  a  few  Carmehte 
Priests  to  Malabar. 
War  commenced  between  the  Dutch  and  the  Sa- 
morin, which  lasted  until  1710. 
The  Kodaychayree  Kaimul,  shook  off  the  Samo- 
rin, and  joined  the  Cochin  iiftction. 
Many  of  the  Romo-Syrian  congregations,  attempt- 
ed to  join  the  Syrians. 
The  R^ah  of  Crcmganore  was  re-instated  in  the 

possessions  he  had  held  in  1691. 
A  dispute  occurred  between  the  Dutch  and  the 
Samorin,  respecting  a  piece  of  ground  at  Chet- 
wye, which  resulted  in  the  Samorin  taking  and 
destroyinj^  the  Chetwye  Fort 
The  Samonn  invaded  and  conquered  part  of  the 

Cochin  State. 
A  peace  was  concluded  between  the  Dutch 
and  the  Samorin,  who  was  compelled  to 
re-build  the  walls  of  the  Chetwye  Forty 
to  cede  the  whole  of  Chetwye  to  the  Dutch, 
and  to  divide  all  his  possessions  on  that 
Island,  between  the  Rajan  of  Cochin,  and  the 
Dutch* 
Annria  the  Pirate,  attacked  the  Dutch  ship  Noord 
Wolfeberffen,  and  the  yachts  Zeelands  Wolvaren, 
and  MsRdalena,  and  after  three  days'  fighting, 
capturea  the  two  last. 


▼1 


CHBOHOUIOY. 


173» 

1742 
1742 

1747 

1749 
1760 

1753 

1753 

1757 
1756 

1757-68 

1758 

1761 
1762 

1762 
1762 

1766 
1766 
176: 


Oct.  1501, 


April, 
Feby.  iOtiu 


The  Ru9h  of  QiiO<»  died,  and  his  country  became 
blepdad  with  that  of  CfoUi-Quilon,  the  Rajah  of 
which,  was  also  Bi^ah  of  PumapQlIy. 

The  Datoh  Fort  at  Quilon,  was  attacked  by  3,000 
of  the  Travanoore  troopci^  who  were  beateo  otL 

The  Samorin'a  troops  1,000  strongs  invaded  the 
territories  of  the  Ckxshin  Bt^ah,  but  retreated 
on  the  English  protesting. 

The  Syrians  obtained  a  bishop  from  Babylon, 
through  the  assiatance  of  a  Jew  named  EzekieL 

Angria's  piratical  fleet  aweared  before  Codiin. 

The  Nestorians  oeasea  to  preside  over  the 
churches  of  Malabar. 

The  Cochin  B^jah  met  the  Dutch  Ambassador  at 
MavilUcurray,  when  they  attempted  to  negoti- 
ate a  peace  with  Travancore. 

A  peace  was  concluded  between  the  Dutch  and 
the  Travancore  Bi^ah  by  which  the  former 
bound  themselves  to  a  strict  peace  policy. 

Three  hundred  Eoropeuis  and  17,000  coloured 
troops,  arrived  at  Cochin  from  Batavia. 

The  Samorin  attacked  and  took  part  of  Chow- 
ghaut»— on  which  the  R^jah  of  that  country  im- 
plied to  Hyder  for  assistance. 

The  Rajah  of  Cochin  and  the  Dutch,  formed  an 
alliance  to  drive  the  Samorin  out  of  the  Cochin 
State. 

The  Dutch  relieved  the  Chetwye  Fort^  routing 
the  Samorin's  troops. 

The  Travancore  lines  constructed. 

The  R^jah  of  Travancore  defeated  the  Samorin  ia 
the  cause  of  the  Rajah  of  Cochin^  whom  he  19- 
iostated  in  part  of  his  dominions,  (Chowgfaaut.) 

The  Rajah  of  Travancore  opened  Allepey  to 
foreign  trade. 

The  dirtriots  of  PaitXHr,  Alungaad,  and  Eorutnaar^ 
were  made  over  to  the  Rajan  of  Travancore,  by 
the  Riyah  of  Cochin. 

Hyder  conquered  Malabar,  from  Cannanore  to 
the  State,  of  Cochin,  when  that  Rigah  agreed  to 
become  tributary  to  him,  if  he  would  not  in- 
vade his  tenitory. 

The  Dutch  ComnuasioDeni  at  Hyder's  request 
met  him  at  Calicut^  and  enumerated  the  various 
tities,  &&,  by  wmch  they  held  their  fnctoriesy 
&c,  under  the  Samorin. 

Ryder's  fleet  of  28  sail,  came  into  the  Cochin 
roads,  and  two  of  them  even  entered  the  river, 
and  anchored  eloee  under  the  walls.  They  left 
the  next  day. 


anonwAGY. 


ni 


1770 


1775 

1776 

1776 
1776 

1776 

1778 

1778 

1778 
1778 


in9 

1784 

1787 

1788 
1788 


1780 
1789 


1789 
1789 

1789 


1790 
1790 


August 
Not.  ISilL 

Not.  13th. 

Jany.  8lh. 

Jany.  19th. 
lufoh  dra. 


May  28th. 
Jane  4th. 


1789     August 


Ootober. 
Deer.  28ih. 

Deer.  i9th. 

AptiL 

April  IGih. 


Hie  Mahratfai  fleet  of  80  sail  oame  into  the  Cochin 
roada^*and  propoaed  to  the  Dutch  to  form  an 
aUianoe  with  them,— 4iiey  ramained  eighteen 
daja,  and  then  aailed  northwards. 

The  IVsvanoore  fines  were  improved,  and  the 
pound  on  whidi  they  stood  purchased  by  the 
Rajah  of  Travanooie,  from  the  DutdL 

Tiimoo  took  Cranganore  and  Ayroor,  the  Rajahs 
or  which  had  previously  been  under  the  protec- 
tion of  the  Dutch. 

Hyder^s  troops,  invaded  the  Northern  part  of 
Cochin,  and  took  the  Fort  of  Trichoor. 

The  Dutch  troops  landed  at  Chetwye,  but  hBimt 
into  an  ambuscade,  the  advanced  guard,' were  aU 
either  killed,  or  made  prisoners. 

Hie  Dutch  Fort  of  Chetwye  was  compelled  to 
surrender  to  Sirdar  Khan. 

The  Fort  of  Cochin,  was  repaired  by  Qovemor 
Moens. 

The  Dutch  stormed  and  took  the  palace  of  the 
Cranganore  Rajah. 

The  Dutch  were  eompelled  to  retreat  topranganore. 

Hie  Mysofeans  attacked  the  palace  of  Crai^anore, 
and  compeOed  the  Dutcn  to  retire  to  Uie 
Orangaciore  Jr  ort. 

The  IVotestant  Churoh  at  Cochin  was  renovated. 

Orders  arrived  from  Batavia^  to  return  the  terri- 
tories of  the  Rajah  of  Chetwye,  to  Tippoo. 

The  Ri^  of  Coohin  imposed  a  poll  tax  upon  the 
Christians  of  St  Thomas. 

The  Rajah  of  Cochin  met  Tippoo  at  Paulghaut. 

lie  Rigahs  of  Travsnoore  and  Cbehin  held  a 
conference  at  Amianada,  North  East  of  Cranga- 
nore. 

The  Fort  of  Cran^puiore  sold  by  the  Dutch  to  the 
Travancore  Rajah. 

Chows^uiut  was  taken  by  the  British  forces. 

Cranganore  and  FalSport  sold  by  the  Dutch  to 
Travancore. 

Hppoo's  amnr  was  encamped  near  Pau^hsot 

Tippoo  established  his  camp  6  miles  to  the  North 
01  the  princqMd  gate  of  the  IVavaneore  lines. 

Tippoo  unsucoeasfully  attempted  to  take  the  Tra- 
vancore wall. 

Tippoo  reeeived  re-inlbnements  and  effseled  a 
Dreach  in,  and  took  the  TVavancore  lines. 

Tippoo's  trocps  took  the  Monastery  of  Verapoly, 
the  records  of  whidi  were  lost  in  the  nver, 
whilst  the  Mesta  were  endeavouring  to  convey 
them  away. 


VUl 


CHBOKOLOQY. 


1790 

1790 
1790 


1790 

1791 
1791 
1791 

1791 

1791 

1791 

1793 

1794 
1794 

1796 

1795 

1796 

1796 

1796 
1797 

180S 

1802 
1803 


May  7th. 
May  84th. 

Not.  26th. 


Maroh  1st 

Feby.  24th. 

S«pt6th. 

Sept  10th. 
Oct.  19th. 
December. 


Oct  6th. 


Tippoo  occupied  Craoganore  Fort  which  had  been 
evaooated^the  nicht  before. 

Tippoo  hnrried  back  to  his  capital 

A  treaty  was  concluded  between  the  Rajah  of  Co- 
chin and  the  English,  in  which  the  former 
agreed  to  pay  the  latter  a  tribute  of  Rs.  100,000 
annually. 

The  Britiflh  Commissioners  let  the  Island  of  Cbet- 
wye  to  the  Rajah  of  Cochin,  for  one  year,  at 
40,000  Rs.  rent 

Lally,  Tippoo*s  General,  was  driven  out  of  Cranga- 
nore. 

The  Rajah  of  Cochin  was  enabled  by  the  assistance 
of  the  British,  to  throw  off  the  Mysore  yoke. 

The  Riyah  of  Cochin  loaded  the  Eonkames  with 
new  unposts,  but  was  opposed  by  the  Dutch, 
and  eventually  obliged  to  admit  their  rig^t  over 
this  people. 

The  above  disputes  occasioned  the  ''Dagwar's 
Kinm"  war,  ouring  which  the  fionous  Eonkanie 
Bhimmimi  was  removed  to  Allepey,  by  the 
Eonkames  for  safety. 

There  was  a  subsidiary  treaty  between  the  British 
and  the  R^jah  of  Cochin. 

The  Dutch  presented  Chetwye  as  a  gift  to  the 
Samorin« 

Cochin  was  transferred  from,  the  Government  of 
Bombay  to  that  of  Madras. 

Earthen  ramparts  were  erected  around  Trichoor. 

The  Reception  Hall  at  Tripoonterah  built  by  the 
Dutch. 

The  date  of  a  letter  received  from  the  Stadtholder, 
hj  the  Dutch  in  Cochin,  ordering  them  to  ad- 
mit the  British  into  their  possessionB. 

MMor  Petrie,  Mr.  Stevenson,  and  Governor  Van 
Spall,  held  a  conference  at  Cochin,  respecting 
gi'dng  up  that  fortress  to  the  British. 

A  re-inmrcement  left  Tellicheny,  to  join  Major 
Petrie  at  Cochin. 

The  fortress  of  Cochin  was  captured  by  the  Bri- 
tish. 

The  Cochin  prisoners  of  war  were  sent  to  Bombay. 

The  Cochin  prisoners  of  war  received  permission 

to  go  to  Batavia. 
The  people  of  the  Cochin  R^jah,  arrested  persons 
in  British  Cochin,  so  all  subjects  of  his  State 
were  ezduded  from  the  town. 
A  party  of  persons  from  British  Cochin,  present- 
ed the  Ri^ah  with  a  portrait  of  Ni^Kileon. 
Orders  beanng  this  date,  were  sent  to  Cochin,  di- 


CHRONOLOGY. 


IX 


1803 

1808 


1809 
1809 


Dec.  29th. 
Jany.  14th< 


18091  Feby.  8th. 


1809 

1809 


April  11th. 
April. 


1810 
1814! 


1814  Augt.  16th. 


1817 
18181 


1820-21 
1823 


1832 
1835 


18361 


rectingthe  garriaon  to  be  prepared  for  foreign 
invaders. 

The  Cochin  Fort  was  blown  up. 

The  Travancoreans  entered  Cochin,  attacked  the 
Resident's  house,  and  set  the  prisoners  in  the 
jail  at  liberty. 

The  Travancoreans  again  attacked  Cochin. 

The  district  of  IrunaacL  and  Mooloorcurry,  assum- 
ed by  the  Rajah  of  Uochin,  in  consequence  of 
the  miat  Achen  having  rebelled  against  the 
British. 

The  date  of  a  subsidianr  treaty  between  the  Bri> 
tish  and  the  Rajah  of  Cochin. 

The  Resident  took  forcible  possession  of  the 
Palace  at  Muttencherry. 

The  Christians  in  the  Cochin  State,  petitioned  to 
the  British  to  protect  them  against  the  ill 
treatment  they  received  from  the  Native  Offi- 
cials. 

The  Cochin  Zillah  Courts  were  established. 

The  town  of  Cochin  was  finally  ceded  to  the 
British. 

The  English  Qovemment  gave  up  all  control  over 
the  Native  Christians  in  the  Rajah's  territory, 
who  were  ordered  to  be  henceforth  subject  to 
the  Rajah's  Courts  of  Law. 

The  Zillan  Court  of  Cochin  was  abolished,  and  the 
records  were  sent  to  Calicut. 

The  subsidy  from  Cochin  was  reduced  to  two 
lacs,  with  the  proviso,  that  should  they  not  be 
forthcoming,  Government  would  be  at  liberty 
to  annex  the  country. 

Three  British  friflates  were  built  in  Cochin. 

The  first  coffee  plantation  was  established  in  Ma- 
labar. 

Amaravady  Chapel  built 

The  R%jah  of  Cochin  was  in  arrears  with  his  kist, 
as  the  Dewan  had  misappropriated  the  revenues 
of  the  coimtry,  so  the  British  Resident  of  Travan- 
core  and  Cochin,  gave  the  Ruah  the  option  of 
either givinguphiskingdom  to  the Briti8h,aooord- 
ing  to  thetreaty  of  1809,  or  agreeing  to  receive  a 
certain  sum  monthly^  and  being  allowed  to 
retain  his  title  of  Rajah,  with  the  customary 
honors.  The  Riyah  acceded  to  the  latter 
course  ;  the  Dewan  was  put  in  irons,  and  all 
Mb  propertv  confiscated. 

The  Bishop  of  Calcutta  wrote  to  the  Syrian  Me- 
tropolitan,  enc^uirinjg  into  the  disagreements  be- 
tween the  Missionaries  of  the  Church  Missionary 


CHK05OLOGY. 


1853f 

1853 
1856 


1859 
186Q 


1862 

1862 


Jomiarf. 


Oct.  1st. 
Deer.  24th 


Society,  and  the  Qymjoa—on  which  the  Metrcv- 
politan  held  a  conclave  of  his  clei^,  and  replied 
that  the  membemof  his  faith  were  all  Jaooutes, 
and  that  if  the  Miasionariea  chose  to  preach 
thoee  tenets  in  their  Oborches  they  were  at 
liberty  to  do  ao.  He  then  imposed  a  solemn 
oath  on  his  clergy  that  they  womd  have  nothing: 
more  to  do  wi£  the  Protestant  Misnonaries. 

A  Cochin  Brahman  stole  the  Konkanie  Bhim- 
mum  from  the  Allepey  Pagoda^  and  carried  it 
to  Cochin. 

The  Qovennnent  Civil  Dispensary  at  Cochin 
onened. 

A  ^ew  Poor  House  wos  baOt  in  CoclnD,  in  Heu 
of  the  old  one  which  was  destroyed  by  a  pre- 
vious MonsooD* 

The  Telegraph  esttfb&shed  in  Cochin. 

The  detachment  of  troops  previously  stationed 
in  Cochin  was  withdrawn  and  a  Police  Force 
ox^ganised  in  its  stead 

General  Cullen^  late  British  Resident  of  IVavaacoro 
and  Cochin,  died  at  AUepey. 

The  Rajah  of  Travancore  visited  the  Rajah  of 
Cochhi  at  Triixxxiterah. 


INDEX/ 


Pages. 

Abingdon,  Major         ...            ...  ...            ...            ...            181 

Acbar,     ...            ...            ...            ...  ...            ...           362,363 

Accidents.     ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            ...           425 

Acunha,  Nunho  de              ...            ...  ..•            ...            104,105 

Ady  Rajah. 141 

Agriculturisis.       ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            561,564 

All  Razah  Khan.          ...            ...  ...            ...            ...            142 

Albuquerque,  Alphonso.      ...            ...  ...            ...    97,98,99,100 

„                „       Superseded  ...           ...           ...           100 

„           Francisco    ....            ...  ...            ...                   90 

Alle^y,  Aleppttzhaf    ...            ...  ...            ...          24,37J40,311 

„       Massacre.             ...            ...  ...            ...            187,188 

Almeyda.       ...            ...            ...  ...            ...             96,97,98,99 

Almond,  Wild.      ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            439,643 

Altar,  Syrian.                ...            ...  ...            ...            ...    258,259 

*  When  two  names  appear  in  the  Index,  the  second  of  whioh  ia  in  Italici,  it 
is  intended  to  designate  the  Native  reading  in  Romaniaed  characters. 
Having  prooored  from  the  Rev.  J.  Maten  and  other  Katites  the  words  written 
in  their  own  tongue,  Mr.  Garthwaito,  Intpeetor  of  SehooU,  kindly  undertook 
the  translation  of  their  characters. 

t  "  In  the  translations  of  Malayalam  names,  the  hard  letters  k-t-t  and  p-- 
"  when  not  initial,  and  not  doubled  (thos  kk,  tt^  tt  pp,}  are  to  be  pronounced  like 
"  the  corresponding  soft  letters,  g,  d,  d,  and  b-~when  commencing  a  word  they 
**  retain  their  usual  hard  sound.  Thus  in  JTarfi^mam,  Paniyan,  and  Tiyan  the 
**  letters  K,  P,  Tyliave  the  hard  sound,  but  Akam,  AU,  Vteyan,  and  Ldpam  are 
"  pronounced  Adi,  Udeyan  and  Ldbam,  This  rule  is  common  to  boUi  Tamil 
**  and  Malayalam,  two  languages  much  more  closely  related,  than  for  example, 
»  English  and  Broad  Scotch, "—iVbte  by  Mr.  OarthvfuiU. 


301  IKDKX. 


Pagw, 

Alwaye,  (I/tttdd)  ... 

... 

... 

... 

22 

Amusements. 

... 

... 

397 

Anchovy. 

... 

... 

6Q4yS06 

Angamsle,  {ATdsamali),.. 

... 

... 

13 

Angelbeck,  see  Van  Angelbeck. 

Angria,  The  pirate 

... 

•»• 

lao^td^ 

Anjengo.... 

••• 

..- 

... 

127 

Ants 

... 

W8i519^aD,52:> 

Ant  eater,  Me  Macis. 

Ants  White,  see  Termites. 

Appointments^  Sold  publicklj. 

... 

... 

... 

113,114 

Arabs. 

...        '    ... 

... 

3dd 

ArecaPahn. 

.». 

... 

... 

^45,M6 

Argieooloothoo,  {Argayilullad&) 

...            •«• 

.►. 

305 

Arjarree. 

•»• 

... 

•.. 

324 

Armanuddee,  {Armcmadu) 

... 

•»* 

14 

Arrians,  {Aravana) 

■•• 

... 

••• 

325 

Articulata,    ... 

... 

... 

514 

Asceticjs. 

,, 

... 

■•• 

28a 

Astrologers,  see  Cunnians,  and  Cimnya  Cooroopooa 

Attila,  see  Mar  Ignatius. 

Auguries 

... 

... 

389 

Aum.    ... 

... 

... 

271,28^ 

Ayacotta,  {AztfoioUa)  see  Palliport. 

Ayroor,  (Airur)  see  Paponetty. 

Backwater. 

«••            ... 

••r 

24 

BeLghsLYndA,  (Bhoffavati,)  ... 

... 

••• 

395 

Balistes. 

... 

.... 

506 

Balghatty.. 

... 

... 

... 

5,9 

Bamboo. 

... 

... 

547,54ft 

Banian  Tree. 

••« 

... 

... 

546,549 

Bank,  Mud,  Me  Mud  fiat. 

Bar,  Cochin.    ... 

... 

•  •• 

•  r. 

33 

Bomage. 

•t.            ... 

..  . 

349 

Bats 

... 

... 

•  •• 

440 

Baypin,  see  Yypeen. 

Bean. 

... 

... 

... 

444 

Bednore. 

...            ••• 

179 

■Bee.        „,           •••            ... 

... 

... 

..» 

518 

„  Carpenter 

•••            ■•• 

... 

538 

iHDnt 


m 


Bee-eaten. 
fieetleoM 

^      Coooanat. 
„      ElephAQt 
„      Long  homed. 
«      Boee. 


„      Stag. 

„      Tortoise. 
Belanga^  jm  F^iponetty. 
BttDettb  •••  ... 

Benson,  W.  H.  Esq. 
Berkenooor,  (BataitumJtur,) 


Beypoor.      •••  ...  ..« 

Bizds.   ... 
Births,  Hindu. 

^       Syrian*    ... 
Bishop,    „ 
Bison,  see  Oonr. 
Blackwood. 
Bloodsoekers.     ... 
Boats. 

„    Baggage. 

„    Cabin.  ...         ,  »i 

„    Cargo. 

„    Fishing. 

„    Snaka 
Bombay  attacked  by  tke  Dutch.. 
Bontayba 
Botany.         •••  •••  • 

Bngann^  Don.  C. 

Brahm. 

Brahma.  ...  ... 

Brahmanas. 
Brahmanioal  Congreas. 
Brahmans,  (Bn^kman) 

„  Birth  of     ... 

^  Ciicnmoision  of 


•a.  ••• 


Pages. 
409 
616 
616 
61T 
619 
616 
516,619 
617 
618 

417 
616 
189 
645 

39V93 

74 

466 

289,962 
292 
267 

568 

480 

25 

673 

673 

673 

673 

673 

127 

73^74 

532 

109 

297,999,300 

276;276>277 

299 

41 

901,909»393 

903 

189 


MV 


ItnXBL 


'Bnhmans,  Mftrriageof 

„  Nambooriesy  »ee  Namboories. 

y,  W«0teni. 

Breadfroit  trees    ... 
Breekpot^  Gbvernor.    ... 
British  appear  in  India. 

„       Treaty  with  Cochin. 
Buchanan,  Dr.  dadins. 
„         Dr.  Francis.   ... 

Buddha,  tooth  of: 
Buddhists.     ... 

Budgerowa 

Buffaloes. 

Bugs.      ...  ... 

Building.        •..  ... 

BulbuL    ... 

„        Sultana. 

Bull 

Bungalows,  Travellers'. 
BuruJs,  Syrian 

„       Hindu.... 
Butterflies^ 
Oabril. 

•  „       Bombards  Caliout, 
„       Qoes  to  Cochin. 

•  ^,        Meets  Samorin. 
,y       Seiies  Moorish  Ship. 

Ctjawans.  «.. 

Galicut,  De  Qama  arrives  at. 

Caliphs.    ... 

Camoens. 

Campo^  Alexander  de. 

Cana,  Thomas. 

Cancer.  ... 

Candenaad,  {Kantanat^) 

Cannanora 

„  Bebee  of  ... 

Gape  of  Good  Hope  discovered. 
Carcarlans,  (EdkicUani) 
Carmelite  Minion. 


Pages, 
8CH 


SS4 

640 

141 

iiV7e 

159 

247,248)341,343,345,350,363,354 

334,443 

109 


672 

451 

525 

660,567 

461,462 

460 

450 

28,209 

362 

292,293.334,335,363 

520,521 

79»80,81,82,83k2l7 

»1 

61 

64 

81 

325 

73 

359,360 

110 

239 

214 

432 

4 

141 

367,366 

71 

•••  326 

21 


nrDXi:.  rr 


Otfponton«««             •••           •.• 

Pages. 
509 

Curtiarte.             

229 

Ourtiiuuui,  R^jah  of. 

179,181 

OiMhewnui. 

646 

OMsifl. 

558,554 

CMte^  Hindu. 

297,298 

n         LoMOf.                 

62 

„           „       by  Brahmans. 

806 

863 

281 

„        Beetoniionta 

318 

CMtoroiL            

856 

Oastroy  Don  Juan. 

108 

Gasuarina. 

543 

Catanan. 

225,228,280,253 

Cata,  Toddy.        

442 

Cattle  Domesticated 

449,565 

Oedan.  ... 

...      '      ...                    553 

Centipedes. 

527 

Chagowana,  (CMhavaiu)  §ee  Chogans 

Cfaameleona. ... 

481 

Chaylayekurray.  ... 

1,20 

Cheetahs.      >.. 

441,442,444 

Blaot   ... 

ft               ■***«*v»^      ... 

441 

Olieraman  PermauL     ... 

43,45,214^343,865 

Chericul,  (ChsmikcO)  Bajah. 

179,180,181,182 

Chess. 

897 

Chettiee,  (Chettia) 

309 

Chetwye,  (Cfoiiuwa)    ...              12,128,141,149,151,152,153,154,105,178 

y^       Disputes  respecting. 

127 

Chetwye  taken  by  Mysoreatis    ... 

152 

Chittoor,  (a»«flr)*             

1,20,27,30 

Chcetodons, 

496 

Chogacs,  {fihdgani) 

316,318,319,320,321,322,375,376 

Chogutties.    ... 

320 

Cholera.... 

420,424,425 

Oholum  birds. 

46t 

Ghowghaut,  {Chdwakk&t)  Capture  of! 

55 

<}hristians,  Deputation  to^De  Qama. 

87 

,  „       Native* ... 

189,217,218,219,252,253,254 

»vi  IKDIEX, 


Christians,  New. 

239 

99 

On  advent  of  the  Dutch.  ... 

239 

<JhnMm,iCfMkkUijfan) 

325 

Church  of  St.  Cruj. 

109 

...     248,240 

ChurmurSy  (fihenanan) 

320,327^28 

Cicada. 

...           ..k           ... 

626 

Circumcision,  Jewish. 

345 

Climate. 

412,419 

Cloth  dyers. 

669 

Cobra  di  Capella.        

483,484 

Cooculus  Indicus.... 

553 

Cochin, 

{K(Khcht)Baji\i, 

203 

» 

Bazaar.   ... 

206 

w 

Beggus.         

209 

»> 

1 

99 

Buildings 

126 

99 

Burial  grotmd. 

202 

9> 

Burnt. 

90 

r* 

Capitulation  of,  to  British  ... 

...  164^1 65,166»167,168,ie» 

•n 

Churches,  Protestant 

...201,202,205 

n 

„       Roman  Catholic... 

205 

p 

Civil  Surgeon 

196 

99 

Clergy,  Protestant 

201,208 

99 

Council 

187 

99 

Cutcherry            ...            ...  - 

203 

99 

District  of 

6 

-99 

Drains 

175 

•»9 

Drinking  water 

210 

9> 

Flagstaff          

201 

9» 

Fort... 

200 

« 

„        erected 

' 91 

9» 

„        Size  decreased... 

124,126^186 

9» 

Four  states  of 

...   46,47 

■99 

Garrison  of 

...             147 

.     79 

Governor  of 

127,173,174 

•9'  ^ 

Hotel... 

126,208,809 

99 

Institutions,  British 

...    190 

">9 

„           Dutch 

169 

99 

Justice  in 

184^190^91,192,193 

mtmx.  xvii 


Coohioj  Mddioal  topography  of 

Pages. 
204 

99 

Newspaper 

203 

9f 

Orphanage 

194,195,196 

>l 

Parade  ground 

202 

f9 

Pay  of  I>atch  Officials... 

172 

*9 

Poor  of 

194 

r 

PostOffioe        

203 

» 

Rajah  of.           ...  45,46,(K),144,15.%i: 

r4,185,l86,l89,394,399,400 

79 

Hajabs,  Line  of. 

59 

•J 

„       Palaces  of. 

3,7 

99 

Eevenue,  British. 

190 

n 

River.  ... 

200,206,2()9 

7> 

Royal  family. 

59 

w 

Shipping 

194 

» 

Schools,  British. 

197 

» 

Sick. 

197 

f» 

State,  Population  of.... 

374,375 

5» 

Streets  lighted. 

175 

» 

Supplies. 

209,210 

r» 

Synagogue. 

203 

» 

Telegraph.  ... 

203 

» 

Town,  Population  of. 

374 

Cockroach. 

523 

Cocoanuts. 

565 

» 

tree         

532,535,536»537,538,539 

Coei. 

...      ...           ...            ...            ... 

469 

Coffee. 

... 

554,559,560 

«      ^ 

Dultivation. 

559,560 

Coins. 

... 

...     573,574,675,576,577 

„    British. 

577 

Coir. 

...            ....        ...            ... 

559 

Colastri)  (Koldatri)  see  ChericuL 

Colebrooke. 

883 

Colgun 

1,  {K9yUakam.)   ... 

405 

College,  Hindu. 

17 

Colocynth. 

554 

Colum, 

(jfiTotom)  era  of . 

8 

CommiadonerB,  British. 

56 

Cones. 

...            ...            ... 

511 

Consumption. 

424 

xriii  IKD1EX. 

Pages. 

Conolly,  Mn           ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  190,369 

Cooroopoo  (KaritppiL)                 ...            ...            ...  ...          320 

Coprah.                    ...            ...            ...            ...          ...  659 

Cord,  Sacred,  ««e»Poonool. 

(^riufpiie,  {KrolanffcUtu)'Smol     ...            ...            ...  179,181 

Corktree.       ...            ...            ...            ..•            .••  ...          543 

CoronatioiiB  in  Cochin.         ...            ...            ...            ...  ,   312 

Cormorants.                 ...            ...            ...            ...  ...            473 

Coatume,  Syrian....            ...            .,.            ...            ...  263 

Cotiote,  (A'oftto<«)  Rajah  of.                    ...            ...  ...            179 

Cotton.                 553 

Courts  Zillah.               ...            ...            ...  ...              18 

Coutinno,  Don.  F.               ...            ...            ...            ...  98 

Cowries.        ,7.            ...            .-            .-.            —  -.            511 

Ci-abs.                   529,530 

„    Spider.                ...            ...            ...            ...  ...            530 

Cranganore  ...  1,10,23,27,141,142,178,217,221,232,238,837,349,351 

„        R^ahof.            ...             10,144^145,148 

„        River.         ...            ...            ...            ...  ...              35 

„        Offered  for  sale.                ...            ...            ...  124 

„        Sold  to  Travanoore.                 ...            ...  ...              52 

„        Taken  by  the  Dutch.      ...            ...            ...  116 

CrocodUe....                 477,478,479 

„        Destruction  of.                 ...            ...            ...  479 

^„        Ordeal.                       ...            ...            ...  ...               9 

Crow  Pheasant.                   ...            ...            ...            ...  469 

Crows.  ...  ...  ...  .  .  455,465,466,467,485 

Crusade,  Bull  of                 ...            ...            ...            ...  112 

CruzMilagri.               ...            ...            ...            ...  ...               8 

Codumis.               ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  309 

CuUen,  QeneraL           ...            ...           ...            ...  ...      68,191 

CvHeuB,  (KaOan).               324 

Culli-Quilon,  (KdyanhUam)         129,133,138,161 

Culvetty,  {Kalvatt^     *      ...            ....        ...            ...  20O 

Cunnaains,  {Kamydns)               ...            ..            ...  ...            324 

Cunnians,  {Kardyafu)        ...            ...            ...            ...  323 

Cunnya  CooroopooB,  {Kaniya  KwruppH.)               ...  ...            324 

Curringacherry  Church.  *   ...       '    ...            ...            ...  4 

Customs,  9ee  Manners. 

Cuttlefish.           ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  510 


INDBX.  XIX. 

Pages. 

Dagwars  kinni  war.     ...            ...            ...            ...  ...      310»3U 

D'Albedyh'U,  C.  aq 121 

Dancing.         ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...      301,897 

Day,  Mr,  Francis....            ..,            ...            ...  ...                   177 

Days,  Malabar.            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...      379,380 

Death,  decreed  for  ...          ...           ...           ...  ...                    62 

Debt,  mode  of  arrest  for,           ...            ...            ...  ...              G4 

Doer,  spotted.       ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                   451 

Deformities.  ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...      432,433 

Deities,  Minor  Hindu.        ...            ...            ...  ...                   283 

Demon,  Rotator  of,  see  Vellichapard 

„         worship....            ...            ...            ...  ...             285,321 

DeNobilL 233 

Detachment.         ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                     18 

Dewan,  (i>i««r(i»)  Cutcherrj  of.  ...            ...            ...  ...  •              4. 

Devil's  mouth      ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                     22 

Diamper        ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...   ,     4,215 

„         Synod  of.               113,231 

Diaz,  Bartholomew.      ...            ...            ...            ...  ...         72,73 

Diseases,               334,412,417,434 

Dispensary.  ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...      418,419 

Dogfishes,            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                   606 

„     water.     ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...            444 

„     wild.              ...            ...            ...             ...  ...                    443 

Donkeys.       ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...            451 

Don,  title  of,  sold. ...          ...            ...            ...  ...                    113 

Dowers,  Roman  Catholic.          ...            ...            ...  ...     403,404 

Dows,  Arab.         ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                   571 

Drains,  eee  Cochin  drains 

Dragon,  Flying                    ...            ...            ...  ...                   480 

Dramas,  Acting  of       ...            ...            ...            ...  ...          .396 

Dress,  Native        ...            ...            ...            ...  398,399,401,402 

Dropsies                      ...            ...            ...             ...  ...            425 

Dubois,  The  Abba                ...            ...            ...  ...                  301 

Ducks  473,474 

Dugong  ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                   444 

Duncan,  Mr.                 ...            ...             ...            ...  ...             159 

Durbars                  ...            ...            ...            ...  ...                   400 

Dutch  agree  with  Roman  Catholics          ...            ...  ...      242,243 

„    Appear  in  India                     112,114,115,119 


XX 


TKDMX. 


Pages. 

Dutch  Attack  Cochin 

116,11«,117 

„    Clergy  of  Cochin 

123,124 

„    Disputes  with  Cochin  State.., 

60,146 

12<> 

„    Qovemois  of  Cochin... 

122,123 

„    Origin  of  E.  L  Co.... 

119 

„    Persecute  Boman  Catholics... 

121,122 

^    Records 

...         121 

„    Treaty  with  Native  State... 

47.121,138,134.147 

„         „     PfeliatAchen 

115 

„     Samorin 

128,138,140 

„    War  with  Mysoreans . . . 

161,153^154 

„      „    Samorin 

126 

„        „      „    Travancore 

131,132,133 

Duties,  Transit 

68 

"Rarwigs.                 ...            ... 

523 

East  India  Company,  French. 

179 

„      „           „          of  London. 

177 

„       99             n                   »         »»^ 

Christianity,            ...        264,265 

Ebony. 

552 

Education,  Indian.  ... 

19S 

Eels.                ...              

505 

EffluvisB  from  water. 

416,417 

Egrets. 

472 

Egypt,  Sultan  of.     ... 

79 

Elaters. 

616 

Elephantiasis. 

19,426,427,428 

Elephants. 

441,452,458 

Ellada,  {EledH)        

816 

Emaccollum,  {EranaJtkulam) 

4 

•„        School    ... 

-...              ...             ...                    09 

Ethnology. 

376,876 

Etiquette. 

390,391,392,393,394.395 

Eucharist. 

260 

Europeans  disliked  by  Brahmana 

801 

Evil  eye, 

889 

Execution  of  criminals. 

62 

Exports. 

^558 

Extreme  Unction,  Hindu.    ... 

291 

Eye,  Diseases  of. 

...           426 

nn>BX. 


sd 


TWiy  Uae  bird. 
Fftkoers. 
Fasts,  Jewish. 
,,      Mahomedan. 
ft      Syrian. 

Feasts  

^  Hindu, 
„  Jewish. 
„      Love. 

M      Mahomedans.    ... 
FesttTal,  Swinging. 
Fevers.  ... 

Finance  Minister  sent  to  Cochin. 
FirxBSi  Mercantile  in  Cochin.     ... 

Fish.      

yj    Colours  of. 
^    Cray. 
„    Emblem  of  . 
yy    Poisoning. 

„    Salt       

<,,    Shooting. 
Fishermen.    ... 
Fisheries. 
Fishing,  Deep  sea. 
„        For  crabj. 
„        Lines 
„        Modes  of. 

•     „        Nets.  

Flatfish... 
Flies,  Dragon 
Flowers. 
Flycatchers.   ... 
Flying  fish. 
Food. 

Forced  labour. 
Forbes  Mr.  ... 
Forests.  ... 

„       Conservator  of . 
Fowls.     .., 
Fox. 


Pages, 

462 

•••  ...  363 

347 

373 

25» 

406 

.9,1 1,285,286,287,288,406 

846,347,348 

230,260 

371 

6 

420,421,422 

101 

667,668 

...  487,488,494 
495 
630 

493 

493 

609 

492 

173,326,488 

666 

488 

.492 

491 

.  488,489,490,491,492,493 

...      489^490 

605 

^22 

...       632,633,544 

460.461 

603,604 

407,408,409,410,411 

668,569 

173 

633,634 

69 

474 
443 


XXii  DCDXX. 

Pages. 

Fox,  Flying.  489,543 

Frederick,  Caesar.        ...  .^,  ...  ...  ...  110 

Free  trade  in  Malabar       ...  ...  ...  ...  183 

French  intrigues  in  Cochin  ...  ...  ...  57 

Friend-in-Need  Society  ...  ...  ...  ...         196 

Frog  Hoppers  ...  ...  ...  ...  526 

Frogs  48o 

„       Bidl  485 

„       Tree  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  486 

„        WeU  486 

Fruit  Trees  ...  ...  ...        535 

Furniture,  Natives  ...  ...  ...  ...  406 

Gama,  Don  Stepfaano  ...  ...  ...  ...        107 

„        Vasco  de       71,72,73,74,75,76,77,78,79,86,86,87,88,102,103,367 
„        „        „    Bombards  Calicut        ...  ...  ...  86 

„        „        „    Death  of  ...  ...  ...  103 

„        „        „    Interview  with  Cochin  Rajah  ...  ...      86 

„        „        „  „  „  Samorin  ...  ....  76,77 

„        „        „    Massacres  Natives  ...  ...  ...     85 

„        „        „     Rewarded  ...  ...  ...  ...  79,88 

Gecko  ..•  ...  ...  ...  ...        480,481 

G^Iogy  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...        30 

Gnats  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  521 

Goa  attacked  by  Dutch  ...  ...  .,.  ..       114 

„        taken  by  Portuguese  ...  ...  99 

Goatsuckers  ...  ...  ...  ...  ..        459 

Goitre  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  428 

Gour  ...  ...  ...  ...        448 

Grasshoppers  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...        525 

Green,  Mr.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  190 

Guavas  ...         ...  ...  ...  ...  ...         541 

Gudgeon,  Sea  ...  ..  ...  ..^  ...      501 

Gulls  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  473 

Guinea  worm  ...  ...  ...  ■.  ...        431 

Hailstorms  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  416 

Hanbalites  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  362 

Hanifites  ...  ..  ...  ...  ...  362,369 

Harbour,  Cochin.  ...  ...  ..  •..  ...  33 

Harbours.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  33 

Hares.  ...  ...  ...  ••  ...  ...    445,446 


WDW3L  XZIU 


Pages. 

HaiTiers,  MftTsh. 

457 

Hartley,  Colonel. 

158,169 

Hawkers. 

570 

Hawkins^  Captain. 

177 

Hawk,  Sparrow. 

457 

H6gira.           

358 

Herbalists. 

,422 

Herons. 

472 

Herrings.             ...            .*.            *•• 

5(V4 

Hindus 

266,267 

„     Burials,  tee  Burials. 

„    Fly  to  Travancore. 

52 

„    OiFerings.                ...             ... 

284 

„    Objects  of  Adoration. 

285 

Hog,  Wild.          

454 

Home  Authorities  supersede  Indian  orders. 

101 

Honor,  Quard  of. 

394 

Hooping  cough. 

431 

Hoopoes, 

470 

Horosoopes... 

380,381,382 

HombiUs.                  

468 

Houses,  Native. 

405^406 

„         „       Names  of.      

305 

HoeiHtal,  Rajahs.             

4 

HyderAli.     ...        49,1.18,140,142,143,146,]  48,162,154,155,18(^lSl,d68 

„       „      Answer  to  Dutch. 

143 

„       „      Proposes  Dutch  AlUanoe. 

143 

„       „      Threatens  the  Dutch. 

149 

„       „      Wa»  with  the  British. 

180 

Hydrophobia. 

432 

Hyenas. 

442 

Hysterical  fits. 

431 

aDez.                •*•            i.«            •••            •*■ 

449 

Idols,  Hindu. 

288,289 

„        „        Origin  of. 

...             •••          276 

Iguana. 

480 

movers,  (Izhuvan)  tee  Chogans. 

Imams. 

360 

Imbrans,  (Tamburan,) 

...              !••  300,808 

Imhoff,  Mr.  Van.                 

130,131 

joar  iMDix. 


Pages. 

Impalement. 

171 

Imports,  Cochin. 

183,657 

Incremation. 

2d2 

Infanticide. 

364 

Inheritance. 

335 

Inquisition  of  Goa. 

221,235 

Inaects.            

514 

Interlopers. 

102 

Irinyalaoooday,  {IrinyOlaJbkuta,) 

14,23 

Iron.        ...              ...            ',.. 

32 

Inrenaad,  Chief  of. 

181 

luppen,  (J^oppan,) 

434 

Jackalls. 

442 

Jackfruit  tree. 

540 

Jacobites. 

216 

Jacobta,  Willen  Bakker. 

128 

Jesuits,  Books  published  by. 

Ill 

Jewesses. 

...  340,341,346 

Jewish  fasts. 

347 

„     feasts. 

346,348 

„     sabbaths. 

346 

Jews. 

336 

„    arrival  in  India. 

351 

„    Black 

^    ...  339,344,345 

„    Burial  of. 

...             ...         346 

„    Copr^er  plates.               

341,342 

„    Death  of.               

346 

„    Houses. 

337 

„    Marriages. 

341,345,354 

„    Punished  by  Portuguese. 

116 

„    Synagogues. 

336,338,344 

„    Town. 

336,337 

„    Wars  of,                

351 

„    White. 

339,341 

Jonaga  Moplahs,  see  Mahomedan  Moplahs. 

Jong,  Casparius  de. 

...  137,138,139 

Jungar,  (Changatam.) 

27 

Justice,  ancient  in  Cochin  State. 

60,61 

„      Modem  laws  for.             ...       '    ... 

64,322 

Kali 

.      ...                 326 

IBPKX.  xxy 


927 

Kardahs,  {Kddan) 

...     331,332,333 

Karriakars 

61 

Keeling,  Captain 

177,178 

Kerfi]&TJl]^ih  (KircMpattt)         

304,365,395 

Keetril  Hawks   '      * 

456 

King  Crows 

461 

Kingfishers 

459,460 

Kirut,  {Kirstan)  see  Pullichan. 

Kishen  Rao 

43 

Kite,  Brahmanee 

457 

„    Pariah             

456,457 

Kodachayree,  (£aeA«ncAm) 

1,12 

Kodungaloor,  {KodwngiMr)  see  Cranganoor 

KonkanieS)  {Konkani)        ...              51,147,300.308,309,310,311,312,669 

Kooroopoo,  {Kurappu)  title  of  ... 

316 

Koran 

356,370 

Koruttee,  (JTarflrfri) 

13 

Kroonenberg,  Governor  of  Cannanore 

142 

Kunuuri  Cultivation 

563 

Kunneauiir,  (Kannur) 

1A4 

Kunnmbilumcurray,  {Kunnankulamgara) 

16 

Kurriavanoor,  (Kuruvannur) ' 

27 

Labourers 

568 

liftdy  birds                    

518 

LaUy                     

157,182 

Lancet  fish 

498 

Larks                    

462 

Laterite 

31 

Laws,  Native 

384 

Lftwson,  Mr. 

350 

Lazaretto. 

...     9,419,428,42  9 

Leaves,  WalkiDg. 

524 

Leech,  Ceylon,     ... 

13 

Lieg,  Cochin,  see  Elephantiasis. 

Legistative  Council  established. 

109 

Lepisma. 

526,527 

iieproey... 

...  19,428,429,430 

Letters 

393 

„    Mode  of  conveyance. 

407 

xrn  IKBXX. 


Lime,  Presentation  of . . . . 

394 

Limpets. 

612 

Lines,  see  Travancore. 

Lion/ Ant. 

621 

Liturgies,  Syrian. 

258 

Lively,  Cruizer.    ... 

188 

Liver,  Affections  of.    ... 

426 

Loach,    .. 

503 

Locusts. 

525 

Loris.     ... 

439 

Maoaulay,  CoL 

187^92 

MackareL             

496,497 

„        Horae, 

498 

Madness. 

425 

Madura,  Roman  Catholic  Mission  to. 

233 

Mah6,  (J/a^^-.) 

181,182,183 

Mahomed.    ... 

...355,356,357,368,369 

Mahomedans. 

355 

„            Burials  of. 

372,373 

„            Marriages. 

371,372 

Maigres. 

495 

Malabar  nobility,  how  formed. 

43 

„    Origin  of. 

38 

„    Partition  of. 

44,45 

„    Peopling  of. 

39 

Malayalam,  {McdayaUm.) 

38 

Malayalim  language. 

377,378 

Malasirs,  see  Mulchers. 

Malecitee. 

362 

Malliapooram,  {MaUppuram.) 

8 

Mallung.            .». 

331 

Malpans. 

253 

Mammals. 

435 

Manis. 

447 

Mangatty,  (ira«^a<^'.)     

237 

Mangoebird. 

462 

„    tree. 

623,540,541 

Manners  and  Customs. 

374 

Mantis. 

628,524 

Mar  Abraham. 

221,222,223,224 

Maraans,  {Varans.) 

308 

l^DBX.  zxvii 


Pages. 

M&rggacarers,  (Marggakk&ran,)           ... 

211,385 

Mar,  Ignatius. 

234,235 

Marine,  CochiiL 

194 

Marks,  oaste. 

299,815 

Mar  Joseph. 

221,222 

Marriages,  Hindu. 

290,291,323,334,362 

n       Syrian.                 

261,262 

Mar  Simeon. 

223 

Mariineau,  Miss. 

339 

Maacarenhas,  Pedro  de 

104 

Maten,  Governor. 

129 

Matthsus,  Father 

841,842 

Measures 

577 

Medical  Practitioners 

421,422 

Medusoe 

531 

Menezes,  Don  Alexis            1 12,823,224,225,226,327,226,229,230,291,882 

„        „        Duarte 

102 

„        „        Enrique         ... 

103,104 

„       Suarezde 

...  93^4,95 

„       „       ,»        Bombards  Calicut 

94 

Menon,  (ir^nJ»)  Title  of           

316 

Menu,  Laws  of 

272,273,296 

Merchants 

169 

Metropolitan,  Syrian. 

...    218.253,254,255,256 

Mica              

32 

Middleton,  Bishop 

200,340 

MiUtia,  Cochin               

.    125,170 

Minerals 

32 

Missionary  Society,  Church  ...  ...  ...         247,263,264 

Missionaries  ...  ...  ...  ...  354 

Moens,  Qoremor  142,l43,U5, 146,1 48, 149,150,153,154,162,212,216,217, 

222,233,243,246,341 ,343,350 

„        Memorial  of  ...  ...  ...  146 

Moguls  ...  ...  ...  ...  362 

Mohorrum  ...  ...  ...  ...  360,373 

Mole  cricket  ...  ...  ...  524,525 

Molluscs  ...  ...  ...  ...  510 

Mongoose  ...  ...  ...  ...  443,444 

„       Chestnut      443 

M<mkeys  „,  ...  ...  ...  ...  435 


XXWUl 


IKDIX. 


Pages. 

Monkeys,  Brown 

4«r 

436,436,437,438 

„       Malabar  Waoderoo 

437 

„        Tranaportation  of    ... 

438,43» 

„        Wounded 

43» 

Monopolies 

139^540 

Months,  Malabar. 

879 

Monsoons. 

413,414,420 

Moojarree,  (ifw'drt.)    ... 

324 

Moondoocars,  {Mutidakdra,) 

125,160,170,244 

Moors  slaughter  Portuguese. 

81 

„        plundered  by    „    ... 

92 

Mooioodoo,  (MiUtadi^.) 

.!•             ...             ..•             ...             308 

KooeMhA,  {Mu8ad&,) 

301^ 

Moostoodoo,  {Mu89attad&) 

308 

Moplahs  {MapiOoi)  Christian 

160 

„      Mabomedan. 

318,325,355,364^365,360,368,369 

Mountains. 

29 

Mourning,  Hindu. 

38S 

Muckwas,  tee  Mucuas. 

Mucuas,  {Mukkji^ns,) 

316,325 

Mud  bank. 

...             •.•             .»•             .«•                 o 

n     Flat.               

36 

Mukundapurumy(J/t£iEv/ina/?uram.)         ...            ...            ...  •        ]^14 

Mnkkutti,  {MakkaUayi)     ... 

322 

Muldbers,  (MalayaraBar$) 

...             330,331,333 

Mulliars,  see  Mulcbers. 

Muliatur,  {MalaydttUr) 

6 

Mullets.         

500,501 

Munjoos. 

572 

Munro,  Major. 

250 

Muntras.              

268 

Murri,  (Mari)  Mukkutti. 

323 

Mussels,  Fresh  water. 

&ia 

Muttoncherry,  (Mattanj^) 

I09,»)6,20» 

Mynahs. 

464,467 

Nair  riots.      ... 

57,185,186,188 

Nairchee,  see  Shudrunmar. 

Nairs  (iVaj^aw.)            314,3}6,316,3l7,318,319,376,37e,377,397,3»8,403 

„    Burial  of. 

31^ 

IKDEX. 


xnz 


. 

Pages. 

Nairs,  Bucceasion  amongst. 

»17^18 

Nambiersy  {Ntmbiyor)  see  Pushputtoo. 

Nambooiies,  {Namb&n.)        ...          24,299,3(»»304,305,30e,308,315^23 

Narrikal,  {NgarakkdL.)                

8,35 

Nautches. 

397 

Neemtrew. 

643 

Neatorians. 

215,228 

Niadia.            

333^334,309 

Nioonoara,  {NaykanmSr$,) 

328 

Nidifiication. 

456 

Nueva,  John  de. 

83,84 

Nmnbuddee,  {Ncunbadi) 

308 

Nutmeg  tree. 

641,555 

Offences,  Petty  in  Native  State. 

68 

Oils 

636,558,559 

01iphant,Mr.               

121 

OUaha.        ...        

398,394 

Oolalidur8,(C7^a9».)                  

327,329 

0Qntm,(Un7iij 

808 

Ootooparrahs,  ( Cr««/>»ra.) 

3,20,23 

Ordeala.                

9,385 

„    Balance.              

387,388 

„    Crocodile. 

385,386 

n    Fire.                   

387 

„    Poison.        ...           r.. 

888 

„    Water.               

386,380,387 

Orme. 

307 

Ornaments. 

402,403,404 

Orphanage,  Dutch 

172 

Qyaters 

6U 

„        Pearl                   

514 

Owla                         

457,458,459 

Paoheco,  Duarte  de 

92,93,96 

Paliat  Achen,  (PdlifoUaehan) «.. 

67,189 

Palliport 

9,161,238,886 

„        Sale  of 

157 

Pallypuram,  (PalUparam)  .. 

15 

PanchamaSy  (PanoA(»nar«)                    .... 

320 

Paniapattoo,  {FdmyapcUtu)  Shudrum. . 

315 

Paoli  or  PaoUno 

214,218,^235,248,350,421 

XXL  INDEX. 

Pages. 

Papawtree                           ...            ...  ...                                  541 

Paponetty,  (Pa/jponctf^i)            ...            ...  ...                18 

Parasu  Bama,  (PofCMurAman)            ...  ...            38,4.1,309,378,561 

Pariahs,  (Pomyan)   '                 297,a«7,828 

Parnuns,  (Pdnon)                ...            ..•  ...            ...                    325 

Parravarsj  (Paratwn)                   ...            ...  ...            ...             326 

VArnch«roo\miB  (Patia'akoUam)         ...  ...            ...                   324 

Paroor  26^189,227 

Parrots  468,469 

„        Qolden             ...            ...            ...  ...            ...           469 

Pathans                 ...            ...            ...  ...            ...                   362 

Pattamars                    ...            ...            ...  ...            ...             570 

V^nlAiMngBl  {PaUuHnkal)   ...            ...  ...            ...                     13 

Paussus       .                  ...            ...            ...  ...            ...      617,518 

Pay,  Mutiny  when  reduced                ...  ...           ...                  108 

Pellians,  {Ptdatfan)      ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            327 

People,  Syrian .       ...            •••            ...  ...            ...                  263 

Pepper                          ...            ...            ...  ...            ...    545,560 

Perches.               ...            ...            ..«  ...            ...              494^495 

y,     climbing.        ...            ...            ...  ...               498,499,500 

Perdana  Kanakas,  (Pomona  iTanoibiiafM.)  ...            ...            ...     326 

VefncohmSf{Perinkollm$,)         ••            ...  ...            ...              324 

Perjury.                ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            ...     386 

Peregrine  falcons.                    ...            ...  ...            ...   -          456 

Permauls,  (ParumdO  Origin  of         ...  ...            ...            ...      42 

,,      Rebellion  of                ...            ...  ...            ...                48 

„      Residence  of          ..            ...  ...            ...            ...       23 

Petrie,M^jor.           ...            ...            ...  ...            ...       163,184 

Pigs.                     ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            ...     454 

Pigeons.                    ...            ...            ...  ...            ...              471 

Pikes.                    ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            ...     503 

Pilgrimages,  Hindu.                ...            *..  »••            ...                11 

Pipe  mouthed  fishes.          ...            ...  ...             ..            ...     502 

Pitta.             ..,            461 

Plantain  treCt        ...            ...            ...  ...            ...            •••    539 

Poisoning.                   ...            ...            ..•  ...            ...            433 

Poison  nut            ...          ...            ...  ...            ...            ...    547 

Pole,  Captain.             ...            ^.            ...  ...            ...            884 

Police,  Cochin.                    ...             ..  ...            ...            ...    193 

Poetry ,.  ,.  395,396 


nvDSX.  zxad 

Pages. 

Pomegranate.        ...          ...           ...  »..    Ml 

Pomfpet       ...            ...                          ...            .•            ...  408 

Pcmumbaiw,  (Pi0fkim6a9U.)                ...        •    ..                       ..  ..•    333 

Poodoowaal,  (PudutHti)          ...            ...            ...           ...  308 

Poonatoor,  (Punauar)  Chief.           ...            ...           ...  ...      15 

Poontree.    •               ...                           ...            ...            ...  552 

FdodooI,  (Pfinfii.)               302pS03 

ff       Converted  HindooB  wearing.                 ...            ...  234 

Poothens.              ...            ..            ..            ...            ...  676,677 

Poothoo  Veppoo,  (Ptc^Mppi)  Era  of  '    ...            ...           ...  7 

Porca,  (P^iia.)      ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  140 

PcMTCupine,  Common.  ■         ...            ..            ...            ...  446 

„        Orange        446»447 

yy       ooa.      ..•  •         ••*  .         ..•            ..•            ...  oOo 

Porpoise.       ..'.            ...           ...            ...            ....           ...  444 

Portugnese,  Massacre  of  Native.       ...            ..«           ...  Ill 

,,        King^B  proposal  for  Indian  trade.           ...           ...  •  8S 

„        Wars  with  Samorin 84,85,90,92,93^04^09 

Potamides.    ...           ...           ...           ..^           ...           ...  511 

Poties,  (P«<i)       ...            ...            ...                           ...  308 

Pottinger,  Sir  H.         ...            ...                           ...            ...  418 

Powney,  Mr.  168,169,244,245 

Prishardie,  (PuAaronX..            ...            ...            ...            ...  308 

Produce,  Native.  ...            ...            ...            ...            ...  560,561 

Protestant  Church.      ...            ..            ...            ...            ...  16,19 

Proverbs^.            ...                          ...                          ...  393 

Pullichan,  {PaUichdn)..,            ...            ...            ...            ...  815 

Pondarran,  (Pofuiamn).     ...                          ...            ...  324 

Punnikans,  (Pam^M).             ...            822 

Puranas....            267,274 

TvtBhT^iioo,  {PuihpaUU) 308 

Putters,  (Pa«ar<).        300,308 

TutitiisasA,{Pattikkdtu).               19,27 

Quails.    ...            ...            ...            ...            ti.           ••••  471- 

Quilon.  131,138,138,139,141,161,162 

„        Factory  established.         «..           •«.           ...  92 

„       Massacre  of              .«•           ...           ...           ...  96 

Babbits....           .^          .*.-          — ^           «•           •••  446 

Bain.            ....          .••           *.«           ...           ...            ...  414 

Bajah  of  Cochin,  m  Cochin.  Bajah.  . 


XXZU  JSfDWX. 


Pages. 

BamAjkuu'          *.• 

•■•            .•• 

305 

Ramzan.           

•            ••*            • 

37a 

Bata.      ... 

«•«            ..• 

444,445 

Bayfiah. 

•■•            ••• 

506,508,509 

Baymond,  Captain. 

••*            ••• 

177 

Reception,  B^jah's. 

•••            ••• 

...     400,401 

BecordB,  Dutch.  ... 

185 

Beede,  Adrian  Van.     .. 

... 

...  15^248^ 

BeligiouB  cases,  Disposal  of 

. . 

63 

Beptiles. 

•••             • . 

475 

Besidency,  see  Balghatty,  Trichooi 

',  Alway& 

Besidents,  Bntish. 

56,184 

Bevenue,  Ancient  collection  of 

... 

63,66,67 

„      of  Cochin  State 

•  !•                                  •. 

•            ...              66 

Bheumatism. 

...                                  ••• 

426 

Bice  Cultivation. 

•••                                   *•) 

...      562,563 

Bivers.  ... 

•  .•                                   •••• 

25 

Boads 

*••                          ..a 

27,28 

Boberts,  Kevd.  T. 

...                           ... 

d4S 

Bobin,  Indian. 

•  *•                           •■  < 

462 

Bock  fish. 

...                           ... 

501 

BoUa.            

•••                           ••• 

...      467,468 

Boyalties.              

...                           ... 

66,67 

Saktis.           

..•                          ..< 

283 

Salt.   , 

*••                           ..« 

33 

Sambur 

•••                           ... 

...     .          451 

Samorin,  {SamUri) 

•                           •■.                          • 

..  73,87,106,177,178 

„       attacks  Cochin  State 

•••                          •■. 

47,88,80,90,102,108 

„        „        Dutch 

48,135 

„       „        Portuguese 

*•!                              ... 

104 

,,       Commits  suicide 

>.                                 •• 

180,181 

„       Origin  of 

...                              •.« 

44^45 

^       Bequests  Cochin  Bajah  to 

expel  Portuguese 

87 

Sampayo 

•••                         at. 

103,10^106 

Sandpipers              

... 

473 

Sanhitas 

t«                         ••• 

267 

Sappan  tree 

•••                         *•• 

553 

Sawfish            ...            

507 

Scape  goats,  Hindu 

291 

Scarabeides 

•  t                         ••• 

517 

iNPcr,  Z3cziii 


BchAtnjM,  {KsKatriya)  297,312,313,383 

School,  Engliflh  ...  ...  •••  •••  16,19 

Schools,  Village  ...  ...  ...  «..  395 

Scorpions        ...  ...  ...  ...  •..  527,529 

Scrofula  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  431 

Seasons  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  414 

Seirfish  497 

Sequiera         ...  101,102 

Shafites  362,369 

Shallaooodie,  {Chalakkati)    ...  13,349,421 

Shaddock  ...  .*.  ...  ...  ...  542 

Shanars  ...  ...  ...  ...  320 

Shanties,  (5'<I»Um.)  ...  ...  ...    307 

•SWCrCT        ...  ...  ...  ...  ...     506,607 

Shastras,  (5<I<<m.)  ...  ...  ...    267 

Sheatfish.'  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  504 

Shedeeans.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    308 

Sheeas.         ...  ...  ...  ...  360,361,369 

Sheep.  ...  ^        ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    449 

Sheiks.  ..  ...  •••  ...  ...  ...  362 

Sherwturrah,  (CAof^iMrro.)  ...  ...  ...  ...        5 

Shoemakers.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  569 

Shoranoor,  (C%«rtfwanni*r.)  ...  ...  ...  ...      26 

Shrikes.        ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  461 

Shudrum,  (S&dran.)  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    314 

Shudrunmars.  ...  ...  ...  ...  304,817,318 

Shumach.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    542 

SirdahKhan,        ...  ...  ...  ...  ...       50,149,181 

SiTa,  (5t9a».)  275,276,277,288,315 

Skates!  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  507,508 

Skin  diseases.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  426 

Slaveiy  abolished.  ...  ...  ...  ...  65,191 

„      Decreed  for  ...  \..  ...  ...        62,65 

SlftTes.  ...  ...  ...  ...  171,183,340,384 

SmaU  pox.  420,422,433 

Snakes.  481,482,483,484,485 

, ,  OCft.  ...  .*«  ...  •*«  ...  vOO 

SnailSy  Apple.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    512 

,,       Land.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  513 

n        Marsh.  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...     512 


xtxif  iKinsx. 


Pages. 

SoailB/Pond.    . 

... 

613 

„       River.      ...            ... 

•••           ••• 

512 

„       Sea.                ... 

... 

612 

Snipes. 

**•           ... 

473 

Soap  nut  tree. 

*•*           •«. 

642 

Soarez.   ... 

... 

.      101 

Society,  Frieud-in-Need. 

...           *•. 

418 

Sodre,  Vincent  de. 

...           ... 

88 

Soonees. 

... 

360,361,369 

Souza,  de. 

*••           ... 

107 

Sparro^ra. 

... 

...      455,463 

Spiders. 

... 

527,528 

Spirits, Evil. ... 

■*            ... 

...     388,389 

Squirrel,  Flying.... 

... 

<M 

... 

445 

„        Striped. 

445,467 

Stadthplder,  Proclamation  from 

.. 

163,176,184 

Stamford,  Qunner. 

...           ..• 

178 

StavorinuS)  Admiral  ... 

...           ... 

35 

Stevens,  Mr. 

•••           ... 

164 

St.  Thomas. 

211,218,213,219,290 

„       „       Legends  oonoeming... 

11,13 

Stones,  Precious.         ••• 

•••            ... 

33 

Sucking  fish. 

... 

505 

Sudra8,(5wGrmn*.) 

...            •<* 

297,313.314 

Sugar  Cane. 

.. 

656 

Sun  birds.      ... 

...            .. 

...     470,471 

Superstition. 

...          .  ... 

204 

Sui^geon,  Civil,  of  Cochin. 

... 

418 

Sutras.    ..• 

...         .  ... 

269 

Suttee. 

... 

. .     293,294 

Swaardekroon,. Governor..  ..            ,.. 

. . 

129 

Swallows.              ...           ...• 

... 

.459 

Swanston,  Captain 

..- 

258 

Syeds.                   

...            »•• 

362 

Syrian  Churches. 

...    256,257 

„      College  at  P^port.    . 

«..  . 

.      ...       9 

Syrians. 

...      211,213,239,241,248,247 

SystomL 

.•• 

502,503 

Tabernacle,  Feaat  of      . 

...            ••. 

...    347,348 

IVDKr.  ZXZ¥ 


Pages. 

Tailor  Bird. 

'••• 

*.» 

468 

... 

670 

Talipot  palm. 

... 

•  •• 

...   546 

Tamarind  tree. 

*•• 

...    5d9,J540 

Tank  runners. 

... 

•  •• 

M.  472 

Tangicheny,  (Tanffochohiri.) 

••• 

...            ..»           162 

Tarrogana,  {Taragan».) 

... 

... 

324 

Taxes  in  Native  State. 

... 

... 

561,562 

Teak  trees.                    

.*• 

.,                 550,551 

JieerB.        •••            ,.•            •.. 

,., 

•  *• 

3Z9 

Tekkah  Paroor,  {Tekkam  ParHr.) 

•«. 

13 

Tellicherry,  (Talaeheri.) 

»•• 

... 

...  179,181,182 

Termites. 

... 

522,523 

-JistsAds.                   

•■« 

... 

432 

'Thaiilaycaad,  {ToUakiaii^.) 

... 

.*•                  ..»                 lo 

Thaullapullay,  (Talapalli,) 

... 

.*• 

1,16 

Thec^hilusy  Bishop, 

••. 

215 

Thermometer.        ...           •.. 

»•• 

•  .. 

...   412,413,421 

Thmshes.                    ...           ,•• 

•  a. 

461 

Thuntrees. 

... 

... 

307 

Tides. 

•  .. 

•••                 •.*                 tJO 

Tigers.                   

... 

•  •• 

440,441 

Timber,               , 

1. 

,, 

534 

Time,  How  reckoned. 

•  •• 

„ 

378 

Timor          .     ... 

•  .1 

364 

Tppoo  Sultan, 

13,51,52,53,54,55,156,157,181,182 

Tirripards,  {Tir*^^)  9M  Schatriyas.    .  . 

1  11  ties                            •••                        mtf                       ... 

... 

...            ...         322 

Topa«es,  (Tt^jjpayt) 

••• 

•  •• 

125,170 

Tortmsee 

,, 

475,476 

„         ColloBsal    ...           »•• 

••. 

•  •• 

475 

Tortoise  shell                

t.a  , 

476 

Torture                     • .            ••• 

•  «. 

•  •• 

61,524,525 

Trades  |g[)d  occupations    . 

»•• 

••«            »»•         557 

Travancore  annexes  part  of  Cochin 

... 

■  *• 

47,130 

„        Disputes  with  Samorin  ... 

•••    . 

140 

„        Lines 

... 

..• 

14,49,52,53,150,157 

„        Rajah,  Origin  of 

... 

45 

„        Treaty  with  Cochin.     . . 

... 

., 

48,49 

„       Bajah  made  a  Brahman. 

.  • 

314 

TransmigratioiiB. . . 

.. 

.. 

.,       294,295,296 

XXXVl  nVDBX. 


Pages. 

Travellem'  bungalows . .            . .  • 

16,19,22,27 

Travelling. 

407 

Treaty,  Britbh  and  Cochin. 

66,68 

„        „        „        Malabar  States.  .. 

65 

„        ^       Seringapatam. 

66 

Trichoor,  {Trichcksr)          

1,16 

„        Legendary  origin  of. 

17,40 

2 

„        Legendary  origin  of 

3 

Trogona. 

470 

Trolling. 

491 

Tuchhuns,  (Tachchaiu). 

324 

Tundaans,  (TVindon*).  ... 

322 

TungeL 

..^  -33IL 

Turbans. 

399 

Turkeys. 

..474 

Turtles.                     

476 

Tuttans,  {Tcmn».) 

309 

Tuttans.       *'     ..             .. 

324 

Tweedale,  Marquis  of. 

418 

Udiamper,  {Utiya'mpMkr)  dee  Diamper. 

Ulcers.                ..            ...            ..      ^ 

430 

Umbalan,  ( Jfii5a2an.) 

306,807 

Umbalavassies,  (ilmkitoz^d^if.) 

306 

Umbatan,  {Ambatan.) 

315 

Umbrellas. 

404 

Upanishads. 

269 

Upeneus. 

, 495 

Vaccination.  • 

423,424 

Vahlans,(7«tew.)            

825 

Van  Anglebeck,  Governor.        165,158,160,160,162,173,174,244,245,246 

Vanspall,  Governor.        ...            ...•  • 

162,163,164,176 

Vaaco,  eee  Gama. 

Vaz,  Gonado,  Plunders  Moorish  vessel. 

97 

Veda,  Fifth  forged. 

234 

Vedanta. 

270 

Vedas.                     

267,268,269,270,302 

Vegetables. 

542,543 

Vellaluns,  (VeU^ans) 

315 

Vellicarturras,  ( VelaJhkdUardns) 

315 

yemch9iiard,(Velichapdiu)         

321 

'#>» 


nfn>Kx. 


xxzvu 


Pages. 

Veudoorty,  ( VenduruUi)     ... 

6 

Verapoly ,  ( For^^Aa) . . . 

2t> 

Vessels. 

...       570,671,572 

Vessels,  Government  in  Cochin.... 

125 

Vicar  Apostolic   ... 

21,54 

Viceroys,  Portuguese. 

95,96 

Videun,  ( Vaidikan). 

304 

Vishnu,  ( Vishnu). ...            274,275,276,277,278,279,280,281,282,299,316 

Viliit,  (VdiyaM)  see  PuUichan. 

Voices,  Names  of. ... 

396 

Vulture&       

466 

Vypeen,  (rci/>/n) 

5,7 

„        Church. 

208 

.Vv«?-r:^(raMV'W) 

297,313 

Wagtails 

463 

Walking  fishes.     ... 

600 

Wannears,  (Vamyan)  ... 

309 

Warriens,  ( Tdnyan) 

308 

Warrukkunchairy,  ( Vatatkanchert) 

20,26 

Wasps. 

518,519 

Water,  Drinking. 

22 

Wayerman,  Governor. 

140,141 

Weaver  birds 

463,464 

Weights 

577 

Whitehouse,  The  Revd.  T. 

194,195,350 

Winds,  Land 

...       414,416,427 

„        Sea                 

416,416 

Witchcraft 

433,434 

Women  never  executed ... 

61 

Woodapple 

554 

Wood,  Captain 

177 

Woodpeckers 

469 

World,  Hindu,  Creation  of 

274.275 

Wrede                                  

382 

Wutticaras,  {Vattakatan) 

315 

Wypeen  see  Vypeen 

Xavier,  Francisco 

...  107,220,524 

Yainamakul 

1,15 

Year,  New 

394 

Zebu                                     

451 

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