112 SADDLE AND CAMP 



supernatural powers, not the least of whom are 

 clan ancestors. These are known as kachinas. 

 At the ceremonial dances masked and painted 

 men represent the kachina to whom appeal for 

 favor is made, or to whom ritualistic honor is 

 done. 



To each kachina is ascribed certain indivi- 

 dual and distinctive powers and characteristics 

 and each is distinguished by a variety of sym- 

 bolic colors, numbering at least six. The cere- 

 mony which we witnessed was an appeal to the 

 kachinas holding power over the clouds to send 

 the autumn rains necessary to mature and ripen 

 the crops. 



The several clans of which the tribe is com- 

 posed work their various rituals, either in the 

 seclusion of the kiva or in the open streets of 

 the village, in accordance with the demands of 

 each particular ritual. Some, but not all, of 

 those worked in the kiva are held in darkest 

 secrecy. No visitors, and only those of the clan 

 itself who are particularly qualified, are ever 

 permitted to be present at the performance of 

 these very sacred and secret rituals. I am 

 aware that some investigators claim to have 

 witnessed all, even the most sacred of them, 

 but these men have been deceived, or have de- 

 ceived themselves. There are certain rites they 



