September, 1913. Wild Tribes of Davao District — Cole. 143 



troublesome than any of their neighbors. Their isolated' dwellings 

 serve as protection against invaders, but at the same time make it 

 difficult to gather large bodies of men for raiding purposes. It is only 

 when urged on by an invasion of their country, by a desire for revenge 

 for real or fancied wrongs, or when a victim is needed for a sacrifice 

 that great raids are planned. Before a war party is to start against 

 an enemy the leader takes eight pieces of betel nut and some leg bands 

 and placing them on his shield, bids his followers lay their weapons 

 upon them. Addressing the guardian spirit of the warriors, he speaks 

 as follows: "Now listen I,amot ta Mangayo, let the person who killed 

 my brother come to meet us even though his head does ache, for now we 

 offer to you. Give us good fortune in the fight." Upon returning 

 from the fray they place eight whole betel nuts, together with leaves, 

 on a plate, and having set it outside the house, one of the warriors calls 

 to M£lu saying: "If the brother of the man we have killed in payment 

 for my brother calls on you for aid, you must not give heed, for here we 

 make a present to you." 



There are no restrictions placed upon a pregnant woman, who, as 

 a rule, continues her regular duties until near the time of delivery 1 . 

 When the first pains begin an old man or woman offers four pieces of 

 betel nut to M£lu, and to the spirit of the child's grandfather, if de- 

 ceased. The midwife prepares a drink which is supposed to aid in the 

 delivery, and after the birth she cuts the umbilical cord with a bamboo 

 knife. She also assists about the house for a time, and for these services 

 receives two or three Chinese plates, some small knives, rings for the 

 right arm, and some needles. The father is not under any restrictions 

 at this time, but for a day of two he will gather young patina palms and 

 from them prepare food for his wife. 



From birth until marriage the career of the child is without special 

 event. He is a welcome addition to the family, but no ceremonies 

 attend either his naming, or his arrival at the age of puberty. 



As a rule, a youth does not take a wife until he is near twenty years 

 of age, and then his mate is generally of his own choosing. Having 

 decided upon a suitable girl he informs his parents and the friends he 

 may wish to accompany him when he goes to her home to press his suit. 

 Arrived at the house, the father of the suitor expresses his belief that 

 his son wishes to reside there since he now asks the daughter for his 

 wife. In reply he is told that the family is poor, having neither agongs, 

 animals, or other things of value. The suitor at once makes an offering 



1 A woman does not work during her periods, and any food prepared by her at 

 that time would be refused by all who knew her condition. 



