Several came again to-day seeking wood; some even wanted the galvanized iron for my roof.

At graves this afternoon saw that they had made a shelf in a grave to hold body and prevent ground falling directly upon it; made me think of catacombs Rome.

Seven buried this afternoon; stood right in front of Lena’s grave.

It was Mr. Becker’s turn, but he was hindered from coming; rather glad, for wanted to be there myself to-day; “En palmtakken waren in hunne handen” (And palms were in their hands).

Mrs. Steyn found the lost kinderharp (hymn book) I had given Lena few days ago; found under her pillow in morgue tent this afternoon.  When I gave it to her she said, “Maar, minheer, moet tog nie vergeet om mij naam in te schrijve” (Sir, you must be sure to write my name in it).  So I must remember to do it still.  Poor Mrs. Steyn, how resignedly she bears her cross!  Sang “Voor eeuwig met den Heere” at grave.

Visits to-day on other side—­269, 268, 487, 379, 178, 171, 262.

Called at 329, and found it was same tent where I heard such groans last night; imbecile woman, 53 years; very sick; great suffering; spoke to her, and she actually called me by my name; glad I found tent again; old father of 86; always so keen and hearty at wood-chopping.

Weeping woman came to me after funeral; “Minheer, zal minheer nie zoo goed wees nie om vir Mrs. Engelbrecht in die hospitaal te vertel dat haar kindje dood is, zij word nou begrave?” (Sir, will you be good enough to tell Mrs. Engelbrecht in the hospital that her child has died; she is to be buried now).  So another painful task is in store for me.

Received short note from Assistant Superintendent requesting me to discontinue briefies for foodstuffs, “I have now three medical officers who are well able to attend to the sick and needy.”  And this man (Superintendent) himself requested and authorised me to issue such notes but four days ago.  Comment on whole matter superfluous.  O for a little more logic and consistency with some people!  However, I suppose I can interpret these things in my own way.

Held woman’s prayer meeting this afternoon; good audience; “Viel aan de voeten van Jezus en vertelde Him al de waarheid” (Fell at the feet, of Jesus and told Him all the truth); six prayers; but O! such long and wearying ones; thought men could drag it out, but let me be silent about the women.

House 3 feet high; doorway up; grandish.

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Sunday, September 29.—­No diary yesterday; too tired and listless; eager for bed.

What a grand thing to rest after work!  Sleep, glorious, blessed sleep; feel like writing an ode to extol its virtues.  Yesterday scorcher of a day.

Spent morning in old quarter; work most wearisome.

So many who call me in and pour out all their sorrows, and it is so terribly hard always to be ready and willing to listen and sympathise.  One actually grows “dof” (dull) from sheer weakness.  O the monotony of sorrows and troubles!