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dragon or bon plays a prominent part in the procession of a Triad Society; while a theatrical performance goes by the name of "tai ping shan hsi pany;".
A "kart" goes by the name of "liu cha shan hui".
A society whose members offer sacrifices to certain deities is called a "t'ong hsiang hui".
Societies of the last named type had their origin in the following way viz: from twenty persons used to meet together. Any one from new to old might join them, and each and severally contribute towards the expenses of the society. On the birthday of a particular deity, they would go in a body to offer their congratulations at the shrine, and after the ceremony was over they would sit down together drinking. Members of this society share their joys and sorrows with each other, and on every occasion protect and assist one another. The slightest affront offered to one of their number, will evoke the united strength of his associates.
Such is the confidence that the membership of this association inspires in its possessors that there is practically no limit to the lengths to which they will go in breaking the law. Some of them are known to keep gambling houses, or commit robberies with violence, the proceeds of which are divided amongst them. They provide themselves with all sorts of weapons; and at the funerals of members of the Society, escort the coffin in martial array, inspiring terror by the display of swords, spears, and small arms. This ceremony is called "pai yeh tau" (marshalling the leaves).
These unlawful proceedings are bad enough, but there are others of a still more serious nature, actuated by a spirit of Vengeance.
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