Introduction The fieldwork upon which this study is based was carried out in the Okaldhunga District of eastern Nepal Research centered on two sites, Okaldhunga Bazaar (population 874) and Tinglatar (population 346), both situated in the Okaldhunga District (see Figure 1). As the investigation was primarily concerned with the social system of the agricultural village of Tin glatar, a major portion of the fieldwork (May, 1971-June 1972) was conducted there. In addition, another ten months (June, 1970-April, 1971) were spent in the district capital. Okal dhonga Bazaar The latter served as the primary political and economic center for the inhs bitants of Tinglatar and, as the research was also concerned with the villagers' external social relationships, an investigation of both sites seemed necessary.

During fieldwork information was obtained primarily from observation and through in formal interviews. Except during the first four months when I stayed in Okaldhunga Bazaar, interpreters were not used and much information was gleaned from the villager's day-to-day conversations. The last chapter also includes a section pertaining to the important changes which occurred in Tinglatar between 1972 and 1977. This information was recorded during a six-week field study conducted in the fall of 1977 as well as through correspondence. Many persons and institutions have contributed toward the realization of this project.

Financial support for fieldwork was provided by the Department of Anthropology at Washington State University and the National Science Foundation (Dissertation Research Grant GS-2754). I am indebted to the members of my Doctoral Committee for their advice and encouragement. I am also grateful for the encouragement and support given to me by my wife, Tamac. Finally.

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