up from the ground with every step, and scheme and manoeuvre sometimes
for a long while to get the best corner; they try to get the sun into
their adversaries eyes; they scan the appearance and every movement of
their opponent. The old wary fellows take it very coolly, and if they
can't get the desired side of the ground, they keep hopping about like
a solemn old ostrich, till the impetuosity or impatience of their foe
leads him to attack. They remind you for all the world of a pair of
game cocks, their bodies are bent, their heads almost touching. There
is a deal of light play with the hands, each trying to get the other
by the wrist or elbow, or at the back of the head round the neck. If
one gets the other by a finger even, it is a great advantage, as he
would whip nimbly round, and threaten to break the impounded finger;
this would be considered quite fair. One will often suddenly drop on
his knees and try to reach the ankles of his adversary. I have seen a
slippery customer, stoop suddenly down, grasp up a handful of dust,
and throw it into the eyes of his opponent. It was done with the
quickness of thought, but it was detected, and on an appeal by the
sufferer, the knave was well thrashed by the onlookers.

There are many professionals who follow no other calling. Wrestlers
are kept by Rajahs and wealthy men, who get up matches. Frequently one
village will challenge another, like our village cricket clubs. The
villagers often get up small subscriptions, and purchase a silver
armlet or bracelet, the prize him who shall hold his own against all
comers. The 'Champion's Belt' scarcely calls forth greater
competition, keener rivalry, or better sport. It is at once the most
manly and most scientific sport in which the native indulges. A
disputed fall sometimes terminates in a general free fight, when the
backers of the respective men lay on the stick to each other with
mutual hate and hearty lustiness.