DISINFECTION 



413 



inches deep at the centre, where the two meet, becoming 

 shallower as they rise to the surface of the ground (Fig. 172) . 

 The earth is thrown into the angles formed by the trench 

 (Fig. 171, aa), and on this is placed two stout pieces of iron. 

 In our field cremation work, where we have had several fires 

 going at a time, two pieces of ordinary railroad rail 3 feet 



Fig. 171.^ — Groxind-plau of Trench. 



long were used, and these prevented the body falling into 

 the trench. The use of the trench is to provide the needful 

 draught. 



Bodies can be burned whole, but it takes more fuel, and 

 occupies about twelve hours. The quickest method is to 

 eviscerate and remove the limbs ; a layer of stout wood is 

 now made as a base, and on this is placed the trunk. 



Fig. 172.— Section in the length of the Trench. 



followed by more wood, on which the Hmbs are placed, then 

 another layer of wood with the viscera on top (Fig. 178). 

 The pile is lighted with straw, and the wood, if damp may 

 require assistance with parafiin. The animal is readily 

 consumed in five or six hours. The ashes may from time 

 to time be raked out of the trench to keep the air passage 

 clear. 



Digitized by Microsoft® 



