The dead-house was small, and contained only one room, in which were four bare bedsteads.

The dying person is brought here by his relations, and either placed upon one of the bedsteads, or, if these are all full, on the floor, or, at a push, even before the house in the burning sun.

At the period of my arrival, there were five persons in the house and two outside.

The latter were completely wrapped up in straw and woollen counterpanes, and I thought they were already dead.

On my asking whether or no this was the case, my guide threw off the clothes, and I saw the poor wretches move.