1844.] PLACES OF SEPULTURE. 95 



neighbour Koo-kien-san, is very striking. The light 

 glaucous foliage of a species of Spondias, mingled with 

 the leaves of the Pandanus and broad fronds of the 

 Palmyra Palm, varied with masses of the dark green 

 Cycas, and here and there the feathery sprays of elegant 

 Acacias, with large-flowered Hibisci, Convolvuli, Climbing 

 plants and Creepers, interspersed with broad patches of 

 Norwegian Pines, rising from beds of tall grass and 

 gigantic reeds, formed together a scene of singular bota- 

 nical interest. 



" For places of sepulture, they most frequently select 

 the more picturesque and beautiful spots in the island, 

 in sunny glades, or shady dells, or by the side of some 

 tall tree. Often the tombs are single, but more frequently 

 they are placed in groups. They are mostly long, low 

 domes, surrounded by rude walls of old and moss-grown 

 stones, arched over, and terminating in a loose pile ; 

 in front there is a small recess, before which are placed 

 two tiles or tablets to record the name and virtues of the 

 deceased. Oblations, in the form of flowers and vessels of 

 water, are offered at the tombs, and, among other curious 

 items to assist the departed on their pilgrimage, I have 

 even seen an old umbrella carefully deposited by the side 

 of the grave. They likewise bury their dead in caves and 

 caverns near the sea, conveying the body to the spot in 

 covered hand-barrows; and, carefully closing up the 

 entrance, they place the memorials of the dead man on 

 tiles against the rock. 



" With reference to their modes of religious belief I 

 am unable to offer anything of a satisfactory nature, but 

 am of opinion that they are perfect idolaters. Their 



