104 LIFE IN JAVA.
kindness of ^frs. Z , was enabled to see and
converse with tliese Javanese houries.
In a low kind of bungalow, some distance from the main building, not, however, so far off but that we could distinctly hear the sounds of music and mirth from the joyous scene we had just left, were assembled several women, mostly very young, and all dressed in a costly native fashion. Some of the party were playing a Chinese game of cards. All looked up on our entrance, but soon resumed their occupation, alternately playing, chewing tobacco, betel, and seri leaf, and using their s])ittoons, one of which was placed by the side of each person.
Most of them were good-looking, with magnifi- cent dai'k eyes, drooping lids, and long, curling lashes. They make use of an immense quantity of powder, which, though very glaring, probably tends to heighten their charms. Their hair was dressed with care, being all drawn back from the face and
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