350 AFRICAN CAMP FIRES. 



marriage. Nor does this constitute flagrant 

 immorality, difficult as it may be for us to see that 

 fact. The institution, like all national institutions, 

 must have had its origin in a very real need 

 and a very practical expediency. The fighting 

 strength of the tribe must be kept up, and by 

 the young and vigorous stock. On the other 

 hand, every man of military age must be foot 

 free to serve in the constant wars and forays. 

 This institution is the means. And, mind you, 

 unchastity in the form of illicit intercourse 

 outside the manyatta of the El-morani, whether 

 with her own or another tribe, subjects the 

 women to instant death. 



The El-morani in full fighting rig are imposing. 

 They are, as I have explained, tall and of fine 

 physique. The cherished and prized weapon is 

 the long, narrow-bladed spear. This is five and 

 six feet long, with a blade over three feet by as 

 many inches, and with a long iron shoe. In 

 fact, only a bare hand-hold of wood is provided. 

 It is of formidable weight, but so well balanced 

 that a flip cast with the wrist will drive it clear 

 through an enemy. A short sword and a heavy- 

 headed war club complete the offensive weapons. 

 The shield is of buffalo hide, oval in shape, and 

 decorated with a genuine heraldry, based on 



