FREQUENCY OF WAR. 
27 5 
CHAP. XL 
Frequency of war in the South Sea Islands—Polynesian 
war-god—Religious ceremonies and human sacrifices, 
prior to the commencement of hostilities—National 
councils—Mustering of forces—Emblems of the gods 
taken to the war—Strength of their fleets or armies— 
The battle of Hooroto—Women engaging in battle— 
Tahitian banners—Martial music—Modes of attack— 
Single combats, challenges, &c.—The rauti, or orators 
of battle—Sacrifice of the first prisoner—Manifestation 
of affection, and motives to revenge—Auguries of the 
•war—^Use of the sling—Singular custom of the chiefs 
in marching to battle—Sanguinary and exterminating 
character of their engagements—Desolation of the 
country. 
War among uncivilized nations is often an 
object of the highest ambition, the road to most 
envied distinction, and the source of most ardent 
delight. It was so among the South Sea 
Islanders. They appear to have been greatly 
addicted to it from the earliest periods of their 
history. It occurred very frequently, prior to the 
introduction of Christianity. During the fifteen 
years Mr. Nott spent in the islands, while the 
people were pagans, the island of Tahiti was 
involved in actual war ten different times. The Mis¬ 
sionaries were painfully familiar with it. It sur¬ 
rounded their dwelling; and the wounded in 
battle have often, with their wounds fresh 
bleeding, sought their houses for relief. 
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