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Yaingangpokpi to Lumbui; Luikai asks to leave |
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Lumbui, March 10th 16-18 miles |
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Left Yaingangpokpi about 8a.m., reached Thoubal 11.30 and waited for coolies. In middle of hill met Churachandpur (Lushai border) men, trading beads, the red amber or cornelian ones, I don't know which. At top of hill Luikai suddenly announced he wanted to stay in his bhasti when we got to Nungbi, and do his cultivation. I was furious (the top of Lumbui hill, of all the tactless places) and ramped into Lumbui in a frightful temper, Luikai, whom I had well and truly sworn at, trotting meekly after me. In the basha I couldn't trust myself within reach of him, so stayed in the verandah while he made beds, etc., as a peace-offering. Eventually his scared face and anxious patting of the sheets were so funny I couldn't help grinning, and went in to look. Abung came and I told him. He jollied Luikai in a fatherly way, Luikai clutched a sheet to his bosom and said in a terrified voice he wouldn't go till the mem. gave him leave. He was too frightened to serve dinner, so Abung officiated. Khullakpa called. Showed Jangsang photos of Pongsay, and lectured Luikai again; and so to bed. |
