One of these is
known as a Man-catcher, and was invented by the natives of Hood Bay, but
all over the vast island this loop of rattan cane is the constant
companion of head-hunters. The peculiarity of the weapon is the deadly
spike inserted in the handle.
The _modus operandi_ is as follows:--The loop is thrown over the unhappy
wretch who is in retreat, and a vigorous pull from the brawny arm of the
vengeful captor jerks the victim upon the spike, which (if the weapon be
deftly handled) penetrates the body at the base of the brain, or, if
lower down, in the spine, in either case inflicting a death-wound.
All these things are changed, or in process of change. For several years
there have been no cannibal ovens, no desire for skulls. Tribes that
could not formerly meet but to fight, now meet as friends, and sit side
by side in the same house worshipping the true God. Men and women who,
on the arrival of the mission, sought the missionaries' lives, are only
anxious now to do what they can to assist them, even to the washing of
their feet.
Pages:
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239