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reference to dislike of job on census; description of North Lakhimpur |
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I know well what you think of me, but honestly I could not have stuck the Census. I shouldn't have minded the work so much as the people in Shillong. I was there for a week only, but I felt no- one wanted me there - also three years office work with no chance of the N.Hs. at the end of it would have been pretty bloody. When this job is over I go, if I don't get Naga Hills. Anyhow don't bear any malice over it. |
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North Lakhimpur is, apart from the Naga Hills, the best place in Assam. I like the Khamptis best of the people I've seen so far. They were doing a Bihu yesterday, and had all their images beautifully decorated with flowers, and water sprayed on to them by a very clever fountain which revolved when filled up by the boys and girls from outside, the water being poured along a wooden channel. The Khamptis are Konyaks really. Language sounds the same, and names are the same. I know you would have looted their idols - brought from Burma, and some of them carved in stone, some in brass, and some covered in gold leaf. They go in for wonderful colour schemes. |
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I can't make out the Deoris at all. They are most takrari of the lot, and loathe the Assamese. They say straight out that if we went they would do in the Assamese, Upnensingleas and Nepalis straight away. In fact they're useful, as they invariably give the Mondols away. I haven't seen the Daflas much yet, nor the Miris. |
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We've had a few fine days, and I'm going to see if the Subansiri is fit to fish. What about coming and having a look at the Sadiya ruins some time or other - I'm sure Gov. of India will spare you. |
