106 MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF 



One of their sports differs from any we have seen, and appears to 

 be peculiar to themselves. It is a game in which dancing, fencing, 

 and singing, are combined, which produces a very animated and 

 gay spectacle, from the numbers engaged in it, which are often 

 from one to two hundred of both sexes. This sport takes place in an 

 open space, by moonlight. Each young man chooses a partner from 

 the other sex, and they arrange themselves in two rows, the partners 

 facing each other as in our country-dances. Two couples form a set, 

 and always remain together, but are continually changing places 

 with the rest. Every one is provided with a light stick of the stalk of 

 the cocoanut-leaf. At a given signal they begin their song, and the 

 dancers strike their sticks together, as if playing at single-sticks, 

 keeping time to the song ; at stated points they change places with 

 those next below, and each in turn reaches the head. As these 

 changes all go on simultaneously, the song and clatter of sticks are 

 kept up without interruption, and in excellent time. If a person 

 misses a stroke, there is much laughter, shouting, and joking. The 

 clatter, noises, and singing may be heard for a great distance around. 



The marriage ceremony of these people is conducted somewhat 

 after our own custom. A wife is never bought, but it is generally 

 supposed that each party will contribute something towards the 

 household stock. When a young man is pleased with a girl, and his 

 addresses meet with a favourable reception, he applies for the consent 

 of her father ; if this be refused, it sometimes puts an end to the 

 affair ; but it oftentimes happens that the young couple make a 

 runaway match, and trust to a reconciliation afterwards, which 

 usually is brought about. 



It would be esteemed very indelicate for a young man to ask his 

 future father-in-law what dowry his wife was to receive ; this is never 

 made known until after the wedding, and sometimes is delayed until 

 the birth of the first child. If a separation take place, which fre- 

 quently happens, the wife takes back the land and other property 

 which she brought with her. 



A few days previous to a marriage, it is formally announced to the 

 relations and friends of both parties, who prepare mats, food, oil, and 

 many other articles, for the festival ; these are sent to the dwelling 

 of the bride's father, where the ceremony is to take place. When the 

 day arrives, all repair to the house, dressed and decorated in their gala 

 suits. When thus assembled, the young couple are seated in the midst 

 on a new mat; the priest presses their foreheads together, and pours 



