118 
POLYNESIAN RESEARCHES* 
orators were the principal, but not the only 
speakers. The king often addressed the assembly. 
The warriors and the raatiras also delivered their 
sentiments with boldness and freedom. When a 
difference of opinion prevailed, and words ran 
high, the impetuosity of their passions broke 
through all restraint, and sometimes the council 
terminated in scenes of confusion and bloodshed ; 
or if it ended without open hostility, the chieftains 
returned to their respective districts, to assemble 
their tenantry, and prepare for war. 
