SAVAGE GAMES. 



201 



the spade were generally to be seen the sword and the 

 buckler, it being very uncertain how soon defensive weapons 

 might be needed. 



The inhabitants of Smaland were more especially remark- 

 able for their savage customs. Owing to the deep forests, 

 the mountainous nature of the country, and the large lakes 

 that studded the face of it thereby separating the people 

 from the neighbouring districts, and even from one another 

 they in a great measure retained their former independence. 

 The peasant dwelling on his own little isolated domain, 

 hardly recognized a superior ; whilst his sons, wandering 

 armed throughout the day in the forest, were engaged either 

 in the chase, or in brawls, which formed their chief delight. 



THE DUEL. 



Amongst other savage games to which they were addicted, 

 two men used to fasten themselves together by means 



