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Observer, Volume 7, Issue 334, 2 May 1885, Page 16

A Nation of Smokers. — Perhaps the most, prominent national custom among the Burmese is smoking-. Everyman, woman, and J child, from the King downwards, may be* said to smoke immense cheroots four oft. five inches long, made of a coase leaf rolled" upand filled with wood chips, raw sugar, and adash of tobacco, according to taste. One of these cheroots once lit frequently passesround the entire family circle, not forgeting the smallest members of it. The practice of tattooing the body from the waist to the knees prevails. to such an extent among themale population that it may almost be said to be universal with them. The operation of tattooing as practised by the Burmese is extremely painful, and in most cases it is executed by instalments, but some with stronger nerves, or by the aid of opium, have it all done at one time. The absence of tattoomarks is regarded as : not very creditable, and those without them are disposed to wear their dress in such a way that the fact shall not be too evident.. They are fond to . a surprising degree $f gambling, amusements, and sports, or of anything that will excite them. Boat-racing is a national sport, while boxing,, foot-racing, and wrestling afford them an endless fund of amusement.