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. Whena 
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 bioodshed ; 
or if it ended without open hostility, the chieftains 
returned to their respective districts, to assemble 
their tenantry, and prepare for war. 
