200 TRAITS AND CHARACTERISTICS. [1839. 



always been accustomed to receive gifts, by way of remun- 

 eration or otherwise, from the whites, ever since the first 

 discovery of the group. Their minds are susceptible of cul- 

 tivation, and a thirst for obtaining information pervades all 

 classes. They are a poetic people, and have numerous 

 beautiful legends, which they are fond of repeating. They 

 have some considerable musical talent, too, and the males 

 have clear and fine voices ; their singing is monotonous, but 

 correct in harmony. 



Pride of character is not wanting among them ; their chiefs 

 know very well how to maintain their dignity, and, while 

 thus solicitous on their own account, they hold the memory 

 and reputation of their ancestors, in great veneration and 

 esteem. A calm and dignified mien is thought to be the 

 most fitting at their public assemblages, except where amuse- 

 ment is the order of the day ; the utmost decorum is pre- 

 served ; no one stands in the presence of his superior ; and 

 all conversation is carried on in a whisper. In respect to 

 talent, they are far above mediocrity, as those will bear wit- 

 ness who have observed the shrewdness, tact, and ability, 

 displayed by the speakers at the native councils. 



Cleanliness in their personal habits is another characteristic 

 of this people. The first thing the Samoiin does in the morn- 

 ing, after he rises from his rude couch, and before going 

 to his daily occupation, is to bathe thoroughly ; and then he 

 anoints his body with cocoa-nut oil and turmeric, — both for 

 the sake of the shining appearance thereby communicated, 

 which they esteem, an ornament, and, as they allege, to pre- 

 serve their suppleness and elasticity of limb. The females 

 bathe daily, and anoint their bodies, as well as the men. All, 

 of every age and sex, practice frequent bathing, not merely 

 as a cleanly habit, but as an amusement ; and they have 

 become so much attached to it, that the missionaries havo 

 felt constrained to prohibit it altogether on the Sabbath. 

 Excessive eating, bordering on gluttony, is a common vice, 

 but they drink sparingly of wine and liquors, unless it be 



