At first sight it appears incredible; but a minute examination shows the wonderful perseverance of years in producing what must be highly inconvenient.

The thick, crisp wool is woven with fine twine, formed from the bark of a tree, until it presents a thick network of felt.

As the hair grows through this matted substance it is subjected to the same process, until, in the course of years, a compact substance is formed like a strong felt, about an inch and a half thick, that has been trained into the shape of a helmet.

A strong rim about two inches deep is formed by sewing it together with thread, and the front part of the helmet is protected by a piece of polished copper, while a piece of the same metal, shaped like the half of a bishop's mitre and about a foot in length, forms the crest.

The framework of the helmet being at length completed, it must be perfected by an arrangement of beads, should the owner of the bead be sufficiently rich to indulge in the coveted distinction.