b ETHNOLOGY. 



lively. Has the number of tlic tribe increased or diminisLed to any 

 remarkable extent; and if so, to what cause is the change owing? 



Physical constitution. — It is essential to notice the general stature 

 of the people, the form of their bodies generally, and the proportions 

 of their limbs; the form of the skull and the facial angle; the features; 

 have these anything which distinguishes them from other people? 

 What are the color and texture of their skin and hair? What beard 

 have they? What is the color of their eyes? Are they generally 

 handsome or ugly ? Have they much or but little muscular strength ? 

 Are they remarkable for the peculiar perfection of any of their organs, 

 as that of sight, of hearing, of smelling; or for any corporeal faculties, 

 as speed in running, facility of climbing, of diving and remaining long 

 under water, or for nimbleness and dexterity, or the reverse ? What 

 is the ordinary duration of life among them? It is highly desirable, 

 also, that photographs should be taken of individuals of each tribe. 



Picture-writinff, etc. — A full description is desirable of any modes 

 that the natives may practise of recording events or communicating 

 ideas by sensible signs, especially paintings or picture-writings, how- 

 ever rude, whether on pieces of bark or skin, on their dwellings or 

 implements, on rocks, &c. When the object itself containing the 

 record cannot be secured and brought away, exact drawings of the 

 figures should be taken, colored after the originals. Every circum- 

 stance respecting the locality and people among whom found should 

 be noted down, together with the interpretations of the natives 

 (endeavoring in all cases to have the independent testimony of more 

 than one), when attainable. 



Dress. — State the materials, colors, and fashion of their dresses and 

 ornaments. Do they paint themselves ; and if so, with what materials ? 

 Do they paint variously on different occasions, as on festivals and 

 before going to war? Give specimens of the figures they emplo}^, 

 especially of any that may be distinctive of the tribe or band. The 

 same of tattooing, if practised. Some tribes of the northwest make 

 large incisions in the under lip, others flatten the heads of their infants 

 by compression; all such things should be observed and accurately 

 noted respecting each tribe. 



Pood. — Describe the materials of which it consists, with the mode 

 of procuring it, as by hunting, fishing, collecting roots, berries, &c. 

 Do tbey practise agriculture at all; if so. to what extent; and what 

 grains, roots, etc., do they cultivate ? Do they rear any domestic ani- 

 mals ? Do they make any stimulating drinks of their own ; and are 

 tlioy fond of tobacco or any other narcotic ? 



