WebSadhu

Fifteen different languages are spoken in this mission.

I have found some wind instruments made of elder sticks.

Notwithstanding that the Indians in their native state hold lands according to their families, there is no necessity of agreements to sow, as there are wild fruits on them; and if something rich is produced, it causes many wars if anyone has the boldness to go to collect the crop without previously paying or notifying the legitimate owner.

There are all kinds (espiras or esleras), poor and rich, but among the rich there is in each village one to whom all look up and whose voice is respected by all such as are found living with him. To him, I do not know according to what rules, all offer tribute from their fruits, goods, and beads. Such men summon to the ceremonies all those who gather, and who are actually their friends. If by chance any one of these refuses the invitation, arms are resolved upon; and with the approval of his people the chief takes the road to avenge the injury which the other has done him by not accepting the invitation. 42 He deprives of life not only the chief but as many as are gathered with him. For all services they have no other reward than to look upon him, who has had the good fortune to kill some one, as a public person.

The Indians of each settlement or village have cemeteries marked out with boards or stones. They also have songs and ceremonies for burying the dead. They make a distribution of beads to all who have come together to assist in bringing the body to the grave. There is one, he who raises it on his back, who has for his particular duty the obligation of opening the grave. I have not been able to ascertain what their songs mean in our language.