i8 



Field and Forest Rambles. 



derive lessons and apply comparisons with far greater certainty 

 than could be obtained from a mere consideration of the mute 

 records. 



Before proceeding to a consideration of a few points in 

 connection with the present condition of the native Indians of 

 the region, I may state that I made it an occupation to visit 

 their encampments wherever opportunity occurred ; moreover, 

 being frequently brought in contact with the hunting members 

 of the community, and having volunteered professional services 

 during sickness, I could at all events judge for myself as to 

 their social life and habits. It was soon apparent, however, 



NOEL MITCHELL, A HALF-BRED MELICITE HUNTER. 



that very little of their past history is to be obtained from 

 even the most intelligent ; inasmuch as, even apart from their 

 persistent indifference to treat on any subject connected 

 with either their past history or present condition, there would 

 seem to be an absolute incapacity to comprehend the meaning 

 of such inquisitiveness on the part of the interrogator. In 

 fact, there is a sort of silent and dogged bluntness of the 

 understanding, whether natural or acquired through the force 

 of unfavourable circumstances under which they have been 

 placed ; so much is this the case, that I was sometimes in- 



