Two sorts of dwellings are commonly seen. Of these, the rudest rest on
the limbs of trees, and conform in size and shape to the nature of the
supporting branches. Some few houses of this kind have horizontal sides
and sloping roofs, but more frequently a roof which slopes directly from
a central ridge pole to the edges of the platform does away with the
necessity of side walls.

The second and more common type of house is shown in Plate LXXIV. Here
the top of the tree has been cut off some fifteen or twenty feet above
the ground leaving a stump to serve as a part of the foundation. Many
smaller poles help support the floor and then extend upward to form the
wall and roof stays. The upper flooring of beaten bark rests on
cross-beams which have been lashed to the uprights. Above it are
occasional horizontal poles, forming a skeleton to which the walls of
_nipa_ palm are fastened. In some houses two or three of the foundation
poles extend above the floor to such a height that they are used as the
supports for the ridge pole. In others true king posts rest on the
beams, which in turn are supported by the corner poles. From the ridge a
number of smaller rods extend to or project out over the side walls, and
on them rests the roofing of _nipa_ palm. A space of several inches
often intervenes between the roof and the side walls. The whole
structure is so firmly lashed together with rattan that it is capable of
withstanding severe storms, despite the fact that it gives and creaks
with every wind. During violent storms the house is further secured by
anchoring it with rattan lines to nearby trees.

Entrance to the dwelling is gained by means of bamboo or rattan ladders.
These are drawn up at night, and with all means of access thus removed
the inhabitants need have little fear of a surprise attack. If enemies
do attempt to dislodge them the defenders have the advantage of their
elevated position in the use of their weapons.

Generally, each house contains only one room which varies in size
according to the number of inhabitants. Frequently two or three families
are found living in one house, for it is the custom for the suitors, and
often for the husbands of the married daughters, to live with the girls'
people.

Near the door, or in one comer of the room, is a small box of earth in
which several stones are imbedded. This constitutes the hearth, about
which is found a miscellany of pots, jars, and other kitchen vessels.
Th