WOMEN UNDER POLYGAMY
of lovers is not a matter about which friends and neighbours are curious, as in the Western races. Burmese betrothed couples choose privacy rather than publicity, and weddings are very quiet affairs. There is no public show, such as we love in England. The bride and bridegroom enter into the civil contract, with but little ceremonial. Parade at such a time as this seems to them indecorous.
These fascinating people seem to me a race of artists. They esteem beauty, savour joy of life, and value love beyond riches. They hold revels and dances in the sunlight and open air. They toil industriously, but they play heartily and often. Have they not solved the secret of how to live?
The prosperity and the tranquillity of the Burmans are founded on sane social custom. I am inclined to attribute most of their well-being to the following excellent institutions and conventions:—
Freedom of selection, on the part of women, as well as men, in marriage.
The same standard of morality for both sexes.
Sharing of occupations and trades by men and women. There are very few idle women, as among the Western people, and in most parts of the East where polygamy prevails.
Fairly free social intercourse between the sexes.
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