"Yes, indeed. It was only the other day that I watched a snake-charmer, who wound a cobra around his arm."
"Please tell us about it," cried his son. "I wish I could have seen him. Wasn't he the least bit afraid?"
"If he had been, he would probably have lost his life," was the answer. "He charmed the creature with music, while he swayed his body back and forth as he played. The serpent followed his motions as it listened to the strange sounds. Of course the man played with only one hand. He seized the cobra's neck with the other, after which he took out its teeth and venom-bag. When this was done the cobra was no more harmful than your kitten."
"How did he do it, father?"
"It was not very hard work, for he used a pair of pincers. Coolness is the most important thing. We should remember to be calm in all things, my son."
"Yes, I must remember that, for I will soon be old enough to have my hair cut, and you will call me a man."
"I hope I can afford to have a fine celebration. Chin, you will go to the temple, of course. The seven steps of the altar will be covered with fresh banana leaves, and figures of angels and animals will be placed there."
"Do I have to walk around the altar three times, holding a wax candle in my hand?"
"Yes, Chin, and then your friends will take the other candles and blow the lights out directly over your head.
"After that you will be given a fresh cocoanut and a cup containing pieces of money. Music will come next."