copper, which they call swasa, highly polished and carved into curious figures, some of which have the beak of a bird with the arms of a human creature, and bear a resemblance to the Egyptian Isis.  The sheath also is formed of some beautiful species of wood, hollowed out, with a neat lacing of split rattan, stained red round the lower parts; or sometimes it is plated with gold.  The value of a kris is supposed to be enhanced in proportion to the number of persons it has slain.  One that has been the instrument of much bloodshed is regarded with a degree of veneration as something sacred.  The horror or enthusiasm inspired by the contemplation of such actions is transferred to the weapon, which accordingly acquires sanctity from the principle that leads ignorant men to reverence whatever possesses the power of effecting mischief.  Other circumstances also contribute to give them celebrity, and they are distinguished by pompous names.  Some have a cushion by their bedside on which is placed their favourite weapon.  I have a manuscript treatise on krises, accompanied with drawings, describing their imaginary properties and value, estimated at the price of one or more slaves.  The abominable custom of poisoning them, though much talked of, is rarely practised I believe in modern times.  They are frequently seen rubbing the blades with lime-juice, which has been considered as a precaution against danger of this kind, but it is rather for the purpose of removing common stains or of improving the damasked appearance.

MODES OF WARFARE.

Although much parade attends their preparations for war and their marches, displaying colours of scarlet cloth, and beating drums, gongs, and chennangs, yet their operations are carried on rather in the way of ambuscade and surprise of straggling parties than open combat, firing irregularly from behind entrenchments, which the enemy takes care not to approach too near.

HORSES.

They are said to go frequently to war on horseback, but I shall not venture to give their force the name of cavalry.  The chiefs may probably avail themselves of the service of this useful animal from motives of personal indulgence or state, but on account of the ranjaus or sharp-pointed stakes so commonly planted in the passes (see the preceding journal of Lieutenant Dare’s march, where they are particularly described), it is scarcely possible that horse could be employed as an effective part of an army.  It is also to be observed that neither the natives nor even Europeans ever shoe them, the nature of the roads in general not rendering it necessary.  The breed of them is small but well made, hardy, and vigorous.  The soldiers serve without pay, but the plunder they obtain is thrown into a common stock, and divided amongst them.  Whatever might formerly have been the degree of their prowess they are not now much celebrated for it; yet the Dutch at Padang have often found them troublesome enemies from their numbers, and been obliged