OF THE POLAR SEA. 109 
takes up his abode in the tent of his father-in-law, 
and of course hunts for the family ; but when he 
becomes a father, the families are at liberty to” 
Separate, or remain together, as their inclina- 
tions prompt them. His second wife is for the 
most part the sister of the first, but not necessa- 
rily so, for an Indian of another family often 
presses his daughter upon a hunter whom he 
knows to be capable of maintaining her well. 
The first wife always remains the mistress of the 
tent, and assumes an authority over the others, 
which is not in every case quietly submitted to. 
It may be remarked, that whilst an Indian resides 
with his wife’s family, it is extremely improper 
for his mother-in-law to speak, or even look at 
him; and when she has a communication to make, 
it is the etiquette that she should turn her back 
upon him, and address him only through the 
medium of a third person. This singular custom 
is not very creditable to the Indians, if it really 
had its origin in the cause which they at present 
assign for it, namely, that a woman’s speaking to 
her son-in-law is a sure indication of her having 
conceived a criminal affection for him. 
It appears also to have been an ancient practice 
for an Indian to avoid eating or sitting down 
in the presence of the father-in-law. We re- 
