The women my age flock like mother hens around me, apologizing for the conditions on the train. The people sleeping on the lower bunks don't stir. The women look anxious, and I tell them not to worry. They wonder whether I want an aisle space or the upper bunk of the compartment. I choose the latter .
Luggage is stowed on the floor.
Although somewhat aged and worn, the coach is fairly clean, and there are no signs of graffiti. There is a pillow and thin mattress rolled up on the ledge. Someone goes for sheets, a pillow case, and thin towel, and they arrange it for me. I'm very sleepy. The train sways a little from side to side, to rhythm of wheels turning against the rails.