The man who got it--the sword-bearer of yesterday--had been trembling with anxiety for some time back, holding Mr.Brady by the arm and watching the promised axe with eager eye.

When he obtained possession of it he became quite wild with joy, laughing and screaming, and flourishing the axe over his head.

After this commencement the bartering went on briskly amidst a good deal of uproar, the men passing between the village and the beach at full speed, with basketfuls of yams, and too intent upon getting the kiram kelumai (iron-axes) to think of anything else.

Meanwhile Mr.Huxley and myself walked about unheeded by almost anyone.

The women kept themselves in the bush at a little distance, making a great noise, but avoided showing themselves.