PORTABLE HOUSES. 217 



all tight, is bound another frame of split reeds or 

 canes, bound closely together with strong cords, 

 the pieces being straight up and down. This is 

 itself secured by a broad band of woven hair stuff 

 passed around the whole structure and united at the 

 ends. 



The large opening at the top can be closed, if 

 needful, with a piece of felt, which is drawn on or off 

 by a strong cord, like a curtain. If there is danger 

 from the wind, a stick is placed on the side opposite 

 from which it blows, which supports the fabric. 



Sometimes the house is divided into two apart- 

 ments by means of a screen of split reeds; but if 

 more rooms are needed, separate houses are generally 

 put up. 



Upon the black tops of these houses may be seen 

 large white masses of sour curd pressed out of butter- 

 milk and put there to dry, to be set aside for future 

 use. This, broken up and mixed with water, forms a 

 very refreshing drink. 



Carpets of felt are spread inside the house. These 

 are sometimes made in the shape of a horseshoe, vsdth 

 a hole cut in the center for a fireplace, and the two 

 ends cut off, so that those who do not wish to take off 

 their boots may have a place to sit withoiit soiling the 

 carpet with their muddy soles. 



There is no furniture except the trappings of the 

 camels, the saddles and bridles of the horses, and the 

 bags in which things are packed ; but swords, guns, 

 bows, spears, and arrows, with odds and ends of all 

 kinds, may be seen hung on the ends of the wooden 

 16 



