India was awake, and Kim was in the middle of it, more awake and more excited than anyone, chewing on a twig that he would presently use as a toothbrush; for he borrowed right- and left-handedly from all the customs of the country he knew and loved.

There was no need to worry about food--no need to spend a cowrie at the crowded stalls.

He was the disciple of a holy man annexed by a strong-willed old lady.

All things would be prepared for them, and when they were respectfully invited so to do they would sit and eat.

For the rest--Kim giggled here as he cleaned his teeth--his hostess would rather heighten the enjoyment of the road.