332 
Proceedings of the Royal Society 
It is usual for young persons to travel over the surrounding 
country often to considerable distances, and thus they acquire a 
practical knowledge of the country, and without the help of mile- 
stones, sign-posts, or other landmarks (all of which are unknown), 
they become expert in finding the way from place to place. 
Salutations . — The modes of salutation coincide almost exactly 
with our own — greeting being expressed by shaking of the hand 
and kissing. Members of a family kiss, but the boys shake hands 
with their father and each other. Husbands kiss their wives and 
female relations, and friends kiss each other. Matutinal greetings 
are usual. Great joy is manifested at the return of a member of a 
family from a long absence, the brothers and sisters running out to 
welcome him ; and frequently a lamb is killed as an expression of 
joy, and great virtue is believed to be in the blood, some of which 
is put upon the returned traveller. 
Swimming . — Swimming is practised by both men and women in 
the Madi tribe, and the art is acquired very early in life. It is put 
to practical use by crossing rivers, fishing, &c. They do not take a 
header into the water, but simply walk or jump in. Diving is not 
practised. They swim as a rule hand over hand, and splash about 
and make as much noise as possible to frighten away crocodiles. 
Sometimes they carry children on their backs when in the water. 
They have a habit of taking in mouthfuls of water and spitting 
it out forcibly when in the act of making a stroke. On coming out 
of the water they rub themselves all over with their hands, to get 
rid of as much water as possible. If near home they rub themselves 
with oil after bathing. 
Bathing and Cleanliness . — The Madis bathe each day in a river 
or other water near their homes ; small children wash themselves at 
home in large earthenware jars. Ho soap is used or any substitute 
for it. They have no sponges. They always rub oil over their 
bodies after each bath. When they cut their nails, they bury the 
parings in the ground. 
Division of Labour . — In the division of labour the woman’s 
sphere is at home. She may help at times in the lighter field work 
in the cool of the morning, but must return home before the middle 
of the day, the men continuing at work. If, however, a woman has 
a family of young children to look after, she seldom leaves home at 
