1881. ] Demerara, — 943 
small gardens, stand in rows along the road. Numerous chil- 
dren, often elaborately clad in only a bead necklace, play around 
the street and garden. Old men and women seek the shade and 
enjoy their smoke, while the younger ones are at work in the 
fields or in the sugar-house. Certain clans seem to band together, 
indicating their character by hanging out a flag, and to all appear- 
ances the people are happy. On gala-days, or when a visit is 
made to the town, all available ornaments are brought into requi- 
sition for personal adornment, and great is the pride of their 
wearers. 
Beyond the estates are found tracts of “bush.” Difficult of 
access on account of intervening swamps, these remnants of 
Original forest present an almost impenetrable front. Densely 
intertwined plants, one clinging to the other in emulation of the 
traditional ivy and oak, ferm an effective barrier, and nothing but 
a long machete will be of any avail in traversing 
«Those matted woods, where birds begin to sing.”’ 
Occasional swampy clearings harbor flocks of white herons and 
other birds. 
Living along the Esequibo river and its tributaries, we encounter 
the native Indians (Plate 1). They are separated into tribes, bearing 
similar relations to each other as of our own Indians. Here they 
follow hunting and fishing, basket making, the production of pot- 
tery and netting of grass hammocks. For shelter they build rude 
huts, generally protected on one side by trees and other growing 
plants, while three sides are open. Thatched palm leaves form 
the roof, which protects the inmates from heavy dews and period- 
ical rains. Hammocks of twisted grass are swung between the poles 
which support the roof, and serve as resting places by day and night 
(Plate 11). An Indian nature requires much rest. These-ham- 
mocks have acquired a well merited reputation and are prized on 
account of their lightness and durability. Physically the Indians 
Present a strong, healthy appearance. They are of medium 
height, well knit, muscular, and rarely show any superfluous tis- 
sue. Thick black hair covers their heads and protects them 
from the rays of a trupical sun. Sometimes this is worn long, 
falling over the shoulders. Square, massive features characterize. 
the face, which would have a stupid expression were it not for the 
bright, black eyes. The men wear few or no ornaments, and 
usually no clothing except a loin-cloth. Generally the women — 
2 
