88 ISLAND OF UPOLU. 



chiefs of the first class. Their meetings are called " Fonos," 

 which signifies in English, a General Assembly. The eldest 

 chief present presides, and they are conducted with much 

 ceremony. The person who wishes to speak must first obtain 

 the permission to do so from the presiding chief. The common 

 people are required to stand at a respectful distance from the 

 chiefs, nor can an inferior chief stand or lie down before a 

 superior one. It is the custom, before the Fono proceeds to 

 business, to compliment the presiding chief, and to invoke 

 blessings on him that his life may be prolonged and pros- 

 perous. 



The most usual forms of punishment for crimes, are cutting 

 off the nose and ears of the offender, flogging, exposure of the 

 naked body to the sun, confiscation of property and banish- 

 ment. Adultery is punishable with death. The punishment 

 for murder is not specified by law, but is left for the relatives 

 of the person slain to demand the atonement. Most gene- 

 rally, however, pardon is purchased for the murderer by his 

 friends, who, like himself, are liable to be revenged on by the 

 aggrieved party, so long as the affair remains unsettled. 



There are several missionary stations* on Upolu, and many 

 of the inhabitants have embraced Christianity. Those who 

 still adhere to their ancient religionf are called Devils. They 

 may be distinguished from the Christians by their hair,J 

 which they allow to grow luxuriantly all over the head ; they 



* The first missionaries to these islands belonged to the Wesleyan denomination, 

 but they were soon after succeeded by those of the English Board, the. Wesley ans 

 abandoning the field for that of the Fejee Group. They are much respected by 

 the natives, and their labors have been attended with beneficial results. 



t It very much resembles the religion of most heathen nations. Its divinities are 

 the ofl'prings of fear. The Priesthood is hereditary. The priests are the men of 

 Bcience, and to their care are intrusted all the sick, whom they attempt to cure by 

 ridiculous ceremonies and enchantments. 



J The Christians cut their hair short, and have abandoned their old dances. 



