We have commented elsewhere on the singular serenity and cheerfulness
with which the Japanese are bearing the strain of this long trial, heightened as it is by sharp and wet weather. The survivors live mostly in tents, and when they remain in those parts of the houses which have not yet fallen, they are ready to rush out whenever the booming beneath the surface warns them of new shocks. They show- nothing of the panic-struck paralysis which generally charm. terses the South American inhabitants of earthquake regions when serious shocks are felt,—in deed, the Times' correspondent found them indulging in peals of laughter at their own sadden rushes from the house when a new tremor was felt. Yet death and ruin were all round them. The mistress of a half-ruined inn was as anxious as ever to pro- vide for the wants of the travellers, and her servants prepared the meals with the greatest promptitude and composure, though occasionally rushing out in a body when a new shock came. There appears to be no demoralisation, though between four and five hundred thousand people are turned out of their homes.
Previous page
