OF THE POLAR SEA. 



137 



together, as their inclinations prompt them. 

 His second wife is for the most part the 

 sister of the first, but not necessarily so, for 

 an Indian of another family often presses 

 his daughter upon a hunter whom he knows 

 to be capable of maintaining her well. The 

 first wife always remains the mistress of the 

 tent, and assumes an authority over the 

 others, which is not in every case quietly 

 submitted to. It may be remarked, that 

 whilst an Indian resides with his wife's 

 family, it is extremely improper for his 

 mother-in-law to speak, or even look at 

 him ; and when she has a communication to 

 make, it is the etiquette that she should 

 turn her back upon him, and address him 

 only through the medium of a third person. 

 This singular custom is not very creditable 

 to the Indians, if it really had its origin in 

 the cause which they at present assign for 

 it, namely, that a woman's speaking to her 

 son-in-law is a sure indication of her having 

 conceived a criminal affection for him. 



It appears also to have been an ancient 

 practice for an Indian to avoid eating or 



