THE WAY OF A GIPSY

Evening Star, Issue 22596, 13 March 1937, Page 7

THE WAY OF A GIPSY

Rumania is probably the only country in Europe where gipsies continue to lead a free and easy nomadic life. They definitely refuse to settle down and become “ professional gipsies ” for the benefit of tourists in search of local colour. Instead, they move from place to place in ox-driven carts, their pigs, goats, ducks, and dogs faithfully following them. They talk their own language and cling to their strange; pagan customs which often bring them in conflict with the authorities. The following case is a striking illustration of the laws prevailing among the Rumanian gipsies;—Alexander Varga cut o 5 with a kitchen knife the nose of his pretty, black-eyed wife. Brought before the court a few weeks ago, he explained that it is the custom of his tribe to punish in this manner unfaithful spouses. _ The noseless wife, who was the principal witness for the prosecution, not only confirmed Varga’s statements, but also astonished the court by declaring that she willingly submitted to the painful operation. “ Without my nose I shall no longer tempt men and will remain a good wife for the rest of my life.” she repentingly told the judge. Nevertheless Varga was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment,,