Note 56 — CONTENTS. (continued 6)

Whilst they were residing and keeping vigil over the deceased, when four days had elapsed since the placing of Kawelo on high, and who had begun to decompose,56 as the skin of the man was seen to burst open, they started to light a fire, because they were short of fish. They had, however, plenty of vegetable food. As to the fire they had kindled, it was obtained from one of the woods, since fire was not then commonly known. Their fire having been lighted and the kukui-nut57 having been cooked, they sat down to eat; after which they laid down to sleep. They heard the thump of the bundle, and though they thought that its occupant was dead, yet it was still living. The wife said to the husband: “Go over and examine your brother-in-law; perhaps the rope has given way.” The husband replied, “Maybe it is a ghost; I am afraid.” The wife spoke: “You just simply go and peep, and then come back.” “All right,” the husband answered.