POLYNESIAN RESEARCHES. 
499 
feathers, tastefully arranged, and above these a line of 
the long slender tail-feathers of the tropic, or man-of- 
war bird, is fixed on a wicker frame; the hinder part of 
the cap is covered with long flowing human hair, of a 
light brown or tawny colour, said to be human beard; 
this is fastened to a slight net-work attached to the 
crown of the helmet, and, being detached from any other 
part, often floats wildly in the wind, and increases the 
agitated appearance of the wearer 
On each side, immediately above the ears, numerous 
pieces of mother-of-pearl, and other shells, are fastened, 
not as plates, or scales, but depending in a bunch, and 
attached to the helmet by a small strong cord, similar to 
those passing under the chin, by which the helmet is 
fastened to the head. These shells, when shaken by the 
movements of the wearer’s head, produce a rattling- 
noise, which heightens the din of savage warfare. 
The Rurutuan helmet, though more complete and 
useful, was far less imposing than the fau worn by the 
Georgian and Society Islanders. This was also a cap 
fitted closely to the head, surrounded by a cylindrical 
structure of cane-work, ornamented with the dark glossy 
feathers of aquatic birds. The hollow crown frequently 
towered two or three feet above the head, and, being 
curved at the top, appeared to nod or bend with every 
movement of the wearer. 
This was a head-dress in high esteem, and worn only 
by distinguished men, who were generally sought out 
by the warriors in the opposing army. To subdue or 
kill a man who wore a fau, was one of the greatest feats. 
I have been often told, by a gigantic man who resided 
some time in my house, and was one of the warriors of 
Eimeo, that when the army of the enemy has come in 
