Note 23 — Chapter I · EXPOSITION OF THE PROBLEM AND METHOD

See Wheeler, p. 122, where it is said that offences like murder by magic, breaches of the marriage regulations, and the revealing of ceremonial secrets are dealt with by the elders and headmen. The legislative powers of old and influential men is mentioned: Howitt, Nat. Tr., pp. 89 sqq. (new norms introduced by individuals under alleged supernatural command or vision). Spencer and Gillen, Nat. Tr., pp. 12 sqq. (important changes in custom, law, organization by individual initiative), idem, Nat. Tr., p. 324. Nor. Tr., pp. 26 sqq. (a kind of tribunal formed by old and influential men). Spencer and Gillen, Nat. Tr., p. 477 (old men in council assembled decide); p. 490 (Atninga, avenging party, despatched by old men, whenever vengeance is to be taken); pp. 491 (old men discuss and settle matters with an Atninga party). Howitt, Nat. Tr., pp. 297, 298 (Council of Pinnaru described); pp. 320 sqq. (deliberating in all important matters).