They witnessed the peculiar ceremonies of the Misericordia, a society that has for its object the burial of the dead.
They wear long, white robes, covering their entire person, with holes cut for the eyes, nose and mouth.

They formed a grim looking procession, and as they turned those expressionless faces toward one, they sent a cold shiver down the spine.

Regardless of this uncanny feeling, Boyton and his friend followed the procession into the church and by so doing, gained the good will of the villagers, who assured them that they were in no way to blame for the accident.

The entire receipts of the entertainment, with a liberal addition, were presented to the families of the drowned men..