Page:Castes and Tribes of Southern India, Volume 7.djvu/128

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TIYAN
110
Silver edam-piri (a similar sort of string worn on the left shoulder);
Gold netti-pattam (to be tied on the forehead);
Gold bracelet;
Gold ornament for the hair.

The Kammālans sent word to the Perumāl that they would not return, unless they were given a girl in place of the carpenter's daughter, who had been abducted, and certain privileges were granted to them. At the same time, they promised the Pānan that they would share their privileges with him, if he was successful. So the Pānan returned, and appeared before the Perumāl, who asked him where the Kammālans were. The Pānan removed his gold cap, and put it under his arm, and replied that they were prosperous, and not anxious to return. Saying so, he placed before the Perumāl the rich presents given by the Kammālans, and told the king that they would not return, unless they were given a girl and certain concessions. The Perumāl told the Pānan to go back, and invite the Kammālans to return on their own terms. He said they would catch the first girl they met on the way to his palace, and all their demands were granted. The Pānan arrived again in the Izhuva country, and told the Kammālans what the Perumāl had said. They went to the Izhuva king, and obtained his permission to return to their own country. Then they caught an Izhuva boy, and confined him. The king asked them why they did so. They replied that they had lived for twelve years *[1] as his subjects,and would never recognise any other king, so they wanted the Izhuva boy to represent him. The king consented. When they started, the boy began to cry.

  1. •The number twelve, so significant in Malabar.