The relations of the deceased are bound to send two wax tapers every year, for the use of the Convent; in default of which the corpse is taken down and thrown into the charnel house. Were it not for the number of vacancies occasioned by the non-payment of this stipend, the Capuchins would be unable to find niches for the number of men who must die every year in so populous a city as this. Women are dried as well as the men, but are not exposed. Nobles are shut up in chests. I am just returned from seeing Prince Palagonia become a member of this society. The beginning of his funeral, although similar to that of every Lord in this island, struck me as being as preposterous as his palace. He was carried to the Convent in a sedan, attended by all his household. As soon as he entered the Chapel, the sedan was opened, and two pages supported him to an armed chair. Here he was seated in state, dressed in his richest clothes--his hair full powdered--a sword by his side--his hat under his arm. The Nobility of the island were assembled to meet him. They all bowed to the corpse, and after a short pause the ceremony began. The masses were interwoven in an Oratorio composed for the occasion, which, notwithstanding only two days were given to prepare it, did great credit to the composer; and the performers, both vocal and instrumental, gave him every support. The exordium beginning with "Ecco il Principe preso da Dio." "Behold the Prince whom God hath taken," was in the highest degree pathetic and affecting. The immortal Handel could not have exceeded the energy of the musick, and the corpse of the departed Prince carried the words with full force to the heart. I regret that I cannot procure this excellent piece, since, as we are preparing to sail on our second voyage to the Archipelago, I was obliged to come on board the moment the ceremony was over. But before I leave this place, I will raise your philanthropy, by mentioning a charitable institution which is here carried to a particular height. I mean a foundation, by which a number of female children are not only brought up in morality and religion, and taught some useful art, that will enable them to earn their bread; but when they arrive at a certain age, and are qualified to undertake the cares of a family, portions are assigned to those who choose to marry. When virgins have these advantages, their Guardians will never be long in search of unexceptionable husbands. LETTER XXVI. TO CAPTAIN SMITH. Smyrna, May 27th, 1788. MY DEAR FRIEND,