166 



INJURIES WARFARE. 



some cacique, according to their law of nations ; and if any of 

 them attempted to do so, they would undoubtedly be killed, 

 or carried away as slaves, as soon as they were discovered. 



" In case of any injury, notwithstanding the authority of 

 the cacique, the party aggrieved often endeavours to do him- 

 self justice to the best of his power. They know of no punish- 

 ment or satisfaction, but that of paying or redeeming the injury 

 or damage done with something of value. If the offence is not 

 very great, and the offender is poor, the injured party perhaps 

 beats him with his balls on the back and ribs ; but, in general, 

 they do not chastise, except by death. When the offender is 

 too powerful, they let him alone ; unless the cacique interferes, 

 and obliges him to make satisfaction." 



A curious plant is found in Patagonia (and at the Falkland 

 Islands), somewhat like a very large and very solid cauli- 

 flower. It is greenish, or yellowish-green, tough, and very 

 abundant. It grows upon and close to the ground, forming a 

 lump like a large ant-hill overgrown with moss and grass. 

 From the succulent stalks of this plant a balsamic juice or sap 

 exudes, which is particularly good for healing wounds. 



Battles between tribes are carried on similarly to their wars 

 against a nation ; but, of course, on a smaller scale. The attack- 

 ing party halts at a great distance from the enemy, and sends 

 out scouts to reconnoitre. These emissaries hide during the 

 day, but at night examine every detail most minutely, and 

 return to the camp with a full account of their opponent''s 

 strength and position. When the moon is near, or a little past 

 the full, showing good light for their work, they advance to 

 the attack. A few hours after midnight they make the assault, 

 kill all the men who resist, and carry away the women and 

 children for slaves. 



Sometimes the Indian women follow their husbands, and 

 share in the booty. Laden with plunder, they all retreat as 

 hastily as possible, resting neither night nor day, till they are 

 at a great distance, and out of the reach of their enemies. 

 Sometimes they ride more than a hundred leagues from the 

 place of attack before stopping to rest, and divide the booty. 



