.MTA1NA.NzA3MTg
34 Warfare 543 fourth day of their march, and the seventh of their fasting, they take at night four spoons full of thin drink and then forward eating & drinking as others. When the priest wishes the soldiers to halt, he blows a kind of pipe or flute. He gives directions with regard to the various movements. Previous to engaging in battle they halt, when certain addresses are made to the warriors, but I cannot learn what is the substance of them. On their return, the speaker directs with regard to their encampments, -- where to spread their blankets, and when to lie down. Before arriving at their own town, a runner is sent forward to notify the people of their approach. The men of the town then go out some distance to meet them, and take their burdens and carry them for them to the town house, where all unite in a dance. No women however are allowed to come near them. The next morning all are dismissed, yet no one must sleep with his wife under twelve nights; and the priest, his assistant, and the seven men selected to fast, must not sleep with their wives under four months. Also those of the warriors who had enlisted for a longer term than they had fulfilled could not sleep with their wives till that term had expired.