OF THE BUREAU OF ETHNOLOGY. LVII 



was to Cumberland sound and Davis strait. The grand di- 

 vision of the Eskimauan linguistic famil}', inhabiting nearly 

 the whole range of the Arctic-American coast, which has been 

 classed as Central Eskimo, occupies the northeastern part of 

 the continent and the eastern islands of the Arctic- American 

 archipelago. It inhabits, at Smith sound, the most northern 

 counti'ies in which man has been known to dwell. Its southern 

 and western boundaries are about Fort Churchill, the middle 

 part of Back river, and the coast west of Adelaide peninsula. 



Dr. Boas gives an admirable account of the topography of 

 the region and of the distribution, tribal divisions, and num- 

 bers of the inhabitants. His work is replete with valuable 

 statements in minute detail and with acute suggestions regard- 

 ing their habits and customs. Their peculiar and ingenious 

 weapons, implements, and utensils are fully described and 

 illustrated. His account of their religious practices and be- 

 liefs, supplemented by translations of their myths and legends, 

 is equally entertaining and instructive. 



In connection with his observations made through original 

 research, Dr. Boas presents the result of a close study and 

 analysis of the work of former explorers in this field, by which 

 his contribution to the study of this interesting hyperborean 

 people will command additional attention. 



