This was
soon done, for the natives, when shown our simple methods, very quickly
began to understand what was required of them, and they became so
interested in the cookery that for the time being all other business on
the island was suspended. Soon the whole tribe took part in the
cooking, and fires burned all along the shore at which fish and clams
prepared as Melannie directed were converted into luscious banquets for
the astonished islanders. Nothing else was thought of but cooking and
eating, and the natives often gorged themselves to such an extent that
they were unable for hours to stir from the spot.
This soon gave rise to disagreements and led to quarrels, until at
length Ackbau, who in his own way was a born organizer, called the
council together and enacted laws for the regulation of the cookery.
By these laws cooks were appointed, of whom I was made chief, and it
became an offence, punishable by death, for any except those duly
qualified to indulge in cooking. Regulations were also made for the
distribution of food, and each day, at stated hours, the tribe
assembled round the fires, when they were served with their portions,
which they greedily devoured.
Pages:
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120