DECLINE OF THE FANDROANA. 317 



diction, similar to that already quoted, with the "words, " Saluta- 

 tion, reached is the year." As in the case of the royal tombs, a 

 rush dipped in the blood of the ox killed at the feast is hung- 

 up over the door of the house ; this is said to be as a protection 

 of house and life, and for sanctifying the house. The hump 

 is carried to the family grave, and the headstone anointed 

 with the fat, while prayers for blessings and prosperity are 

 made to the spirits of their ancestors. A particular kind of 

 . dish is much liked at this time, and is prepared from the 

 inner portions of the oxen killed, and stewed in a special 

 kind of earthen dish. The slaves take meat and cook it out 

 of doors, and after feasting, dancing and singing together with 

 native music is kept up, the highest personages often joining 

 in the festivities. 



The oxen killed at this time have generally been fattened 

 for several months previously, and are usually very fine and 

 fat animals. Portions of the meat are sent to all friends and 

 relatives by those who kill one or more oxen. 



It will be understood that the above description applies 

 to the customs observed before the general reception of 

 Christianity nine years ago. The prayers to the ancestors 

 and offerings at their tombs are not presented at the present 

 time. 



