They were wearing kikwembe (a shawl worn by Congolese women) over their uniforms, and women's headscarves.

One had a halfro and a Kobe Bryant Jersey that appeared to be unaccompanied by pants, toddler-sized Nikes peaked out from the bottom.

I was walking up and down, putting her to sleep one evening, when I found myself treading on something most repulsively soft; and as I did so, the reptile uncoiled itself and quietly glided off the verandah.

I do not intend to be thus put off with an old song.