MEN OF THE TREES 



a celebration of which it was my good fortune to wit- 

 ness. 



A sacred tree — a cotton tree in this case — is kept for 

 the scene of this annual ceremony. It is situated about 

 a quarter of a mile from the residential part of the 

 present Oba's palace and before it is a clear expanse of 

 grass upon which the multitude assemble each year to 

 witness the significant performance. 



The Oba himself plays a leading part in the ceremony 

 and it is one of the few occasions during the whole year 

 when this great Ju-ju Chieftain openly shows himself 

 to his people. 



For the actual performance of the Amofi ceremony 

 only two young men are employed though they have 

 understudies who are ready to take the place of either 

 who for any reason whatever may be indisposed. These 

 Amofi performers are carefully trained for months be- 

 fore by head men and they all receive sustenance from 

 the Palace and allowance, generally in kind, for their 

 keep. 



On the occasion of this year's performance I was 

 early on the scene and noted that the tree had been pre- 

 pared with fine ropes made from local fibres. These were 

 hanging from two of the upper branches and separated 

 from each other by several feet. The grass on the open 

 expanse in front of the tree had been cut and although 

 there were groups of young people scattered about, the 

 main crowd had not yet gathered. 



I had work which needed my attention for an hour 



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