1. Like a cowpat, in fact.

2. Cowpat stoves were everywhere, using the droppings of the cattle that roamed the streets as a mainstream fuel supply.

3. Each cowpat was slapped into position where it dried with its prominent hand-print, looking like a work of art.

4. It may be several hours before you realise that the cowpat is a date, and the white bit a blindfold.

5. The reporters and delegates swarmed about him like flies on a cowpat.