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The snake dance of the Hopi is given by two orders of priests, the snake men and the antelope 

 men. These two orders are shown drawn up ready for the singing which precedes the carrying of 

 the snakes on the ninth day of the ceremony 



The most spectacular part of the snake ceremony is the carrying of the snakes in the mouths 

 of the priests. A large rattlesnake is firmly held near the middle by the lips. The priest who 

 follows closely carries a snake whip of feathers with which he distracts the attention of the snake 

 when necessary 



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