SAMOA: NAVIGATORS ISLANDS 



217 



however, is not carried on at these fireplaces, but, save in the 

 worst of weather, is always performed at some distance from the 

 dwelling-house. An entire village often lends a hand in the erec- 

 tion of a house for a newly married couple. 



The Samoans are physically well formed; they have straight 

 hair and regular features, and are very much like Europeans in 



"*-.Z 





f ".«t 



SAMOAN CHIEF 



expression. Their natural disposition is open and amiable, and 

 the absence of a thieving propensity is a most marked charac- 

 teristic. In war they have proved themselves brave and hardy, 

 and in victory disposed to lean toward mercy. They possess 

 great mental ability, and are capable under favorable circum- 

 stances of great improvement. 



