The author begs to tender his thanks to the several editors for permission to reproduce this collection of essays.
GLOSSARY
Bandobast. Arrangement.
Bhimraj. The racket-tailed drongo (Dissemurus paradiseus).
Chabutra. A masonry platform, erected outside the bungalow in the compound on which people sit in the evenings during the hot weather.
Chamar. The name of a low caste of Indians who skin animals and tan their skin.
Chaprassi. Lit., a badge-wearer. A servant who runs messages.
Chik. A number of thin pieces of bamboo strung together to form a curtain. Chiks are usually hung in front of doors and windows in India with the object of keeping out insects, but not air.
Chota hazri. Early morning tea.
Dak bungalow. Government rest-house.