56 THE DIAMOND MINES OF SOUTH AFRICA
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needs of the natives. Besides these stores there is a hospital and
dispensary, where any needed medical attention is promptly given, and a
church for religious services, conducted by missionaries delegated by
the various church denominations. During week days this church is also
used as a school for the instruction of the natives. Compartments,
with entrances opening through the walls, are set apart for latrines,
and cared for with strict attention to sanitation. In the centre of the
enclosure there is a large concrete swimming bath, in which most of the
natives are at times found diving and swimming, as is vividly shown in
the accompanying illustrations (see also page 440). If any fail to show
the necessary regard to cleanliness, they are compelled to keep
themselves clean.
A
competent manager is in charge of the compound, and his assistants are
intrusted with the charge of preserving order and enforcing the
compound regulations. The natives look upon the manager as their great
white chief. He settles any disputes which may arise among them, and in
conjunction with the mine manager investigates any complaints in
reference to the amount of pay which has been allowed them, or any
punishment or ill treatment by their white " baases," which, needless
to say, is contrary to the regulations.
The
compound is lighted by electricity, arc lights being hung within and
without the enclosure. When a newcomer or a number of natives, for they
usually come in little troops, apply at the gate of the compound for
employment, the applicants are admitted into the compound only by the
immediate direction of the manager or his assistants. As soon as they
enter, their clothes are searched to prevent the smuggling in of
liquor, playing cards, or other forbidden articles; then the officer in
charge of the dispensary examines each separately and carefully. No
diseased man is given work, and any suffering from contagious diseases
are sent at once to a quarantine building outside the compound, where
a temporary provision for such cases has been made. Within twenty-four
hours, a second examination of every one admitted who shows any symptoms
