MODERN PUEBLOS. 



109 



denials to absolute abstinence of four days duration 

 according to the seriousness of the people's need. He 

 is the mouthpiece of the divinities whom he is called 

 upon by the tribe or by individuals to consult. Because 

 he is believed to speak by divine authority his influence 

 is very great. He names his successor and nominates 

 the civil officers of the village. He is not supposed, 

 however, to enter into petty quarrels nor to take part 

 in minor discussions in the council. That he mav be 



Hopi Prayer Offerings. 



free to devote himself to such a life his wants are 

 provided for by his people who supply him with wood 

 and cultivate a field for his benefit. He has one or two 

 assistants from whom his successor is chosen. 



There are many societies more or less secret, which 

 have the knowledge of certain prayers, songs, and rites, 

 which they are expected to use for the public benefit. 

 The most important was a group of societies which 



