The courage and cunning developed in the almost incessant tribal feuds were extraordinary.

Competent observers thought the Maoris of two generations ago the most warlike and ferocious race on earth.

Though not seldom guilty of wild cruelty to enemies, they did not make a business of cold-blooded torture after the devilish fashion of the North American Indians.

Chivalrous on occasion, they would sometimes send warning to the foe, naming the day of an intended attack, and abide thereby.

They would supply a starving garrison with provisions in order that an impending conflict might be a fair trial of strength.