Note 139 — Chapter II · [34] MODES OF OBTAINING WIVES
Reading edition
Compare Trans. R.S.V., p. 118. Howitt says that in all South-Eastern tribes elopement was in use; especially if there was any difficulty in finding a relative for exchange, or if two people fell in love with each other. It was considered a breach of custom and law, but it was a valid, recognized form of marriage if legalized subsequently. Practically the same may be said of all tribes of the continent.