178 CUSTOMS OF THE ABORIGINES. 



rank, chiefs being chosen for superior bravery, 

 being the best hunter, or having a superior mind.* 

 Thus men in a state of nature choose their lead- 

 ers ; and we may observe a similar order of 

 things among gregarious animals. 



* It is also recorded of the Coroados Indians in the interior 

 of Brazil, according to Spix and Martins, " When they carry 

 on war, their leader is the best hunter, he who has killed 

 the greatest number of Enemies, Ounces, &c., and has the 

 greatest share of cunning. At home his commands are not 

 attended to — every body commands at home, according to 

 his own pleasure." — Travels in Brazil, 8vo. Eng. Transl. 

 vol. ii. p. 245. 



