Meer Hassan Ali, B.: Observations on the Mussulmauns of India: descriptive of their manners, customs, habits, and religious opinions ; made during a twelve years residence in their immediate Society (Band 2) (London, 1832)

370 NATIVE SUPERSTITION.

urged and entreated my second visit. I went
accompanied by several friends who were
curious to witness the effect expected to be
produced by my prayer. It appeared the poor
woman was more calm on my first entrance,
than when I had previously visited her; but
after repeating my form of prayer, the most
violent ravings followed every question I put
to her.

" Many hours were spent in this way. The
replies to my questions were remarkable ; she
always answered, as if by the spirit with which
she was possessed. I demanded, ' Why have
you dared to return to this poor creature ? do
you doubt my ability to destroy you ?' The
reply was, ' I had no power to fix myself again
on the woman, until you entered the house, but
I have hovered over her.'—I said, ' I do not
believe that you are the soul of a deceased
old woman as you represent yourself to be;
perhaps you may wish to convince me, by
answering the questions that will be made by
me and my friends.' The several questions