and movables of every description. Those
who have already cleared their houses in this way, and yet have not
satisfied the demands upon them, post off to their relations and
friends, to borrow something or other, which they vow shall be
returned immediately, but which immediately takes its way to the
_tang-pon_ or pawnbroker's. This species of anarchy continues till
midnight, then calm resumes its sway. No one, after the twelfth hour
has struck, can claim a debt, or even make the slightest allusion to
it. You now only hear the words of peace and good-will; everybody
fraternises with everybody. Those who were just before on the point of
twisting their neighbour's neck, now twine their friendly arms about
it.'

Tartar warriors and Tartar robbers are also peculiar of their kind.
The warrior presents a curious combination of the national simplicity
with the spirit of the ancient Gascon. Two of those military gentlemen
gave a singular account of the war with the _Rebels of the South_, as
the English are designated. They belonged to the Eight Banners, or
army of reserve--and stated, that when at war the grand-master (the
emperor of China) first sent the Kitats against the enemy; next the
banners of the Solon country are set in motion; and if they fail, then
'we (the Tchakars) take the field, and the mere sound of our march
suffices to reduce the rebels to subjection!' In the English war, the
first two classes availed not, and then came the turn of the sacred
order. 'The Kitats told us everywhere that we were marching upon
certain and unavailing death. "What can you do against sea-monsters?
They live in the water like fish: when you least expect them, they
appear on the surface, and hurl the fire-bombs at you; while the
instant your bow is bent to shoot them, down they dive like frogs."'
The third class was not to be intimidated; the lamas had opened the
_Book of Celestial Secrets_, and predicted victory; and on they
marched, till met with the intelligence that the rebels, hearing of
the approach of this invincible legion, had sued for and obtained
peace!

The robbers of this extraordinary territory are also entitled to claim
credit for their share of eccentricity. 'They are extremely polite;
they do not rudely clap a pistol to your ear, and bawl at you: "Your
money or your life!" No; they mildly advance with a courteous
salutation: "Venerable elder brother, I am on foot; pray lend me your
horse. I've got no money; be good