Bathe and fast, hear the spirits, and lay the coffin to rest. Beneath the yellow earth, the departed sleep, bound by the love of those they leave behind. After three days, raise a fresh mound; in the fourth watch, the family gathers together. Carry lamps over the hills, bringing wine and food to offer the spirits in their graves. Afraid the dead might be startled, the living hide their suspicions, claiming they too are family. Scatter blood-soaked rice to honor the mountain god, and tell the wild ghosts not to steal the offerings. The children cry aloud in anguish, unable to bear the pain of parting. A book like Liaozhai, recording strange happenings and all the supernatural events the author has seen and heard.
