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Chapter One. The Material Background |
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description of Wakching ; wood huts, springs, platforms |
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All the approaches to Wakching entailed a long stiff ascent, and the paths climbing the lower slopes of Wakching land passed through areas under cultivation and stretches occupied by the type of secondary jungle that grows on abandoned hill fields. On an open space at the edge of the cultivable land, yet still far below the village, stood long rows of low huts. These were used for storing the firewood collected during the winter months so that in the summer, when field work was pressing, sufficient wood was available for domestic purposes. Close by in the shadow of high trees, spring water collected in a deep hole; and at the top of a flight of stone steps stood a bamboo platform where, during the agricultural season, the girls rested on their way from the fields, singing songs and flirting with their boyfriends. |
