Chap. 11. 
INDIAN FESTIVALS. 
135 
of the Amazons are so numerous and striking, that, 
notwithstanding the equally striking points of difference 
which some of them exhibit, we must conclude that not 
only the Mundurucus and Mauhes, but all the various 
peoples had a common origin — that is, they are de- 
rived by immigration from one quarter and one stock, 
the separate tribes subsequently acquiring their pecu- 
liarities by long isolation. 
I bought of the Tushaiia two beautiful feather sceptres, 
with their bamboo cases. These are of cylindrical shape, 
about three feet in length and three inches in diameter, 
and are made by gluing with wax the fine white and 
yellow feathers from the breast of the toucan on stout 
rods, the tops being ornamented with long plumes from 
the tails of parrots, trogons, and other birds. The 
Mundurucus are considered to be the most expert 
workers in feathers of all the South American tribes. 
It is very difficult, however, to get them to part with 
the articles, as they seem to have a sort of super- 
stitious regard for them. They manufacture head- 
dresses, sashes and tunics, besides sceptres ; the feathers 
being assorted with a good eye to the proper contrast 
of colours, and the quills worked into strong cotton 
webs, woven with knitting sticks in the required 
shape. The dresses are worn only during their festi- 
vals, which are celebrated, not at stated times, but 
whenever the Tushaua thinks fit. Dancing, singing, 
sports, and drinking, appear to be the sole objects of 
these occasional holidays. When a day is fixed upon, 
the women prepare a great quantity of taroba, and the 
monotonous jingle is kept up, with little intermission 
