ABSTRACT
In this and other chapters, Muli displays characteristic behaviors that invariably lead him into unanticipated difficulties. He spends more than he can afford on a gift for a high-caste friend whom he wishes to impress. Pretending to be wealthy, he buys two white bullocks from his friend’s brother. The terms are immediate cash payment in full, but since Muli has no cash, he tricks his friend into putting up the money for the bullocks, and thus destroys their friendship.
This chapter also provides further examples of everyday discrimination against untouchables, information about the nature of oath-friendships—formalized friendships sealed with religious vows—and some idea of the relationship between Muli and his wife.
