Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.2): between the years 1826 and 1836 : describing their examination of the southern shores of South America, and the Beagles's circumnavigation of the globe

166 INJURIES — WARFARK, some cacique, according to their law of nations ; and if any of them attempted to do so, they would undoubtedly be killed, or carried away as slaves, as soon as they were discovered. " In case of any injury, notwithstanding the authority of the cacique, the party aggrieved often endeavours to do him- self justice to the best of his power. They know of no punish- ment or satisfaction, but that of paying or redeeming the injury or damage done with something of value. If the offence is not very great, and the offender is poor, the injured party perhaps beats him with his balls on the back and ribs ; but, in general, they do not chastise, except by death. When the offender is too powerful, they let him alone ; unless the cacique interferes, and obliges him to make satisfaction." A curious plant is found in Patagonia (and at the Falkland Islands), somewhat like a very large and very solid cauli- flower. It is greenish, or yellowish-green, tough, and very abundant. It grows upon and close to the ground, forming a lump like a large ant-hill overgrown with moss and grass. From the succulent stalks of this plant a balsamic juice or sap exudes, which is particularly good for healing wounds. Battles between tribes are carried on similarly to their wars against a nation ; but, of course, on a smaller scale. The attack- ing party halts at a great distance from the enemy, and sends out scouts to reconnoitre. These emissaries hide during the day, but at night examine every detail most minutely, and return to the camp with a full account of their opponent's strength and position. When the moon is near, or a little past the full, showing good light for their work, they advance to the attack. A few hours after midnight they make the assault, kill all the men who resist, and carry away the women and children for slaves. Sometimes the Indian women follow their husbands, and share in the booty. Laden with plunder, they all retreat as hastily as possible, resting neither night nor day, till they are at a great distance, and out of the reach of their enemies. Sometimes they ride more than a hundred leagues from the place of attack before stopping to rest, and divide the booty.