1892-93.] NOTES ON THE WESTERN DEN^S. 77 



shavinc^s-like cambium thereby obtained is much reHshed by the natives, 



Fig. 64. y^ size- 



who even collect it at times for the purpose of drying and keeping for 

 use during the winter months. 



Fig. 65. Yz size. 



If from the indispensable or useful we pass to the agreeable, the 

 gambling sticks formerly used among our aborigines may claim our 

 attention. Here, again, we find the elegantly-carved gambling sticks of 

 the West Coast tribes replaced by simple polished pieces of lynx or 

 other animal's bones without any^particular design, and with the mere 

 addition to one of the pair of the sinew wrapping necessary to determine 



the winning stick. The Babine specimens 

 (fig. 66) are rather large and must prove 

 awkward in the hand of the gambler. But 

 they have the reputation of being preven- 

 tive of dishonesty, if distinctions between 

 the honest and the dishonest can be estab- 

 lished in connection with such a pastime as 

 gambling. Such of these trinkets as are 

 Fig. 66. Yz size. hoUow have generally both ends shut with 



a piece of wood, and contain minute pebbles and"gravel which produce 

 a gentle rattling sound in the hand of the native, much to his own satis- 

 faction. 



