1900, Kalimpong.
The Kazi at Kalimpong.
'The day after our arrival we were informed that the Kazi, or headman, had come to pay us a visit. He was invited into the room where we were sitting, and shook hands in orthodox fashion when presented to us. He was a Bhutanese and of most handsome appearance. Tall, good-looking, with high aquiline nose and clear, dark complexion ; dressed in a long garment of rich claret coloured silk, with a turban-shaped hat of black felt, and English patent leather boots that creaked with every step in a most imposing manner.
The Kazi preferred a request that we would take his photograph. It was easy to see that our friend was not without a sufficiently good opinion of his personal appearance. He would like to be taken seated on his pony in state and dressed for the occasion. We agreed to do our best, provided he would wear native costume entirely, eschewing English boots.
He was quite willing, and the next day turned up at the Manse at the appointed hour. Smarter than ever in another silk robe striped in various colours, long boots, and handsome inlaid sword and Tibetan fire pouch ; seated on a fidgety grey pony, gorgeously caparisoned with scarlet trappings, and led by a smart syce; followed by an equally grand attendant carrying the pan box, he looked and felt a very superior person indeed, and I was delighted at the opportunity of seeing and photographing the Kazi of Kalimpong thus dressed in gala array.'
Lepcha land, or, Six weeks in the Sikhim Himalayas by Florence Donaldson. 1900.
University of Toronto.
