N.B. These two days are called von-prā, i. e., Dies Domini, the days of the Pra.
7. Vi ka la po chana, ham-mi hai kin khong nōek vela.
You shall not eat after mid-day.
8. Oocha se jana, ham mi hai nōn nūa thiang an vi chit ang gnam.
It is not becoming to sleep on costly, soft, rich, and elevated beds. You shall sleep on a clean mat.
There are, as has been already observed, set days, on which it is proper to worship at the temples, as on the 8th and 15th of the moon. There are also other days that are held sacred, and they are pointed out as such by persons who profess to be acquainted with judicial astrology. This sort of divination, however, is not cultivated by the priests, who affect to consider it as profane and improper. Yet when the astrologers have pointed out particular days as proper for devotion, or as being lucky or the contrary, the priests observe them.
It is customary for every Siamese to enter the rank of priests in the course of his life. He may remain in it or leave it at pleasure.
PROVINCE OF CHANTIBOONA, or CHANTIBOND.
The reverses of fortune which this province has undergone, within a comparatively short period, have been remarkable. It for a long time belonged to the ancient kingdom of Cambodia, but on the partition of that admired and beautiful, but unfortunate country, was seized upon by the Cochin-Chinese. It has since passed into the hands of the king of Siam, and has constituted an integral part of his dominions since the reign of the Chinese king.
Chantibond is a mountainous country, forming the eastern boundary of the kingdom of Siam, dividing it from Cambodia, and situated at the head of the Gulf of Siam. It is said to be one of the richest and most valuable provinces of the king of Siam. It is singularly beautiful and picturesque, diversified by lofty mountains, extensive forests, and fertile vallies and plains. The passage thence to Cambodia is of short distance, a ridge of mountains dividing the two countries. It possesses a good and convenient harbour, well protected by numerous beautiful islands in front. The river is obstructed in a great measure at its mouth, but affords convenient and safe navigation to small vessels and boats. It once possessed an extensive and profitable commerce, which has been upon the decline since the place fell into the hands of the Siamese. The produce of the country is annually removed to Bankok, and the commerce with foreign ships is prohibited.