268 
SOUTHERN AFRICA. 
off, and they are brought in their nude con- 
dition before the " inkose inkulu" He then 
anoints their bodies with grease, and handing 
to each boy a " kaross " and a bundle of "asse- 
gais" confirms him as a warrior, capable and 
competent to bear arms. Dancing, music, and 
singing, then ensue, whilst large vessels, filled 
with Kaffir beer, and pipes and tobacco are 
handed round. 
In the war-songs of the tribe are then re- 
counted, before the young warriors, the deeds 
of fame performed by their chiefs and fore- 
fathers, and they are invited to follow their 
good examples; to be obedient to their chief; 
and to enrich and enoble him and themselves, 
by the acquisition of cattle and plunder. "When 
all are supposed to be sufficiently aware of 
the dignity of their position, the "ukumkani" 
rises, and, in a moment, silence prevails through- 
out the village, and he commences an eloquent 
harangue to the young around him. 
He declares them henceforth Kaffir warriors 
in Ms army ; he pronounces them eligible for 
marriage, and he urges them to practise war, in 
order that they may acquire cattle thereby, 
wherewith to purchase wives. He extols the 
girls, as useful and pleasing, and exhorts them 
to choose well their husbands, and serve well 
those they choose. He promises them plenty 
