A CHINESE FUNERAL.

The Grey Bivef Argus gives the following account of a funeral at Greymouth, which took plac9 recently:— •" "The person interred was a poor fellow named Lung Luna Lao, aged 47 jears. He came to Grey mouth on Friday laafc, afflicted with lung disease, which terminated fatally on Sunday last at 5 a.m. Deceased was a native of Canton, and although there are nearly one thousand CHioeae in West- Saud, only five of them (those belonging to the firm of Kum Sing Tie, of thia town) contributed to his interment, Upon the arrival of the followers at the Hospital,- where ibe deceased Jay, the body was clothed in a costly suit, and shoes were also placed upon his feet, after having the leather part of the soles:., taken off; the body was then placed in the coffin, and the bands, filled with cards, sft by lin., inscribed with Chinese characters, many more of the same < description beiog placed on the body; these were passports entitling him to accommodation at the various castles in the air. After the departure of the funeral cortege from the Hospital the coffin was: literally covered with slips of paper, similar pieces being scattered on the- road to the burial ground. On the arrival the coffin was lowered. at the foot of the grave on the surface; a quantity of provisions, consisting of boiled egga, bacon and rice, preserved lemons and nuts, ' chopsticks are also provided, and, lest be become faint on his way, h bottle of Chinese brandy, and these diminutive cups will be found useful. An illumination was then made from lighted Chinese painted candles and sandalwood matches, to light him on his way and keep away the evil one; a fire was made at the foot of the grave, in which they burnt a large (quantity of golden paper, and while' this was being consumed, a final adieu was taken, by oaehof the mournera placing his two hands together, and in a stooping position lifting them to his head and letting them drop to his feet. Chinese brandy, fruit, and cakes were then, served round to the spectators, of which all partook freely. Strips of pink caiico, about 2ft 6in long, enclosing a silver coin (English money), were then distributed to the public, this latter an emblem of 'good will to all ' men by the deceased. The whole proceeding waa a great novelty to the Europeans,,, and a Maori or two who I ' kapaied' it, the latter part of the ceremoDy especially." Nelson Evening Mail, Volume X, Issue 208, 19 August 1875, Page 4