Papuans and Pygmies. By Alfred A. Vogel. (Arthur Barker. 16s.)
Papuans and Pygmies. By Alfred A. Vogel. (Arthur Barker. 16s.) THE Papuans and Pygmies of New Guinea are still living in the Stone, Age : they are polygamous races, superstitious and ex- tremely primitive. Australia's policy towards its mandate has been a jealous one and few people, apart from missionaries and govern- ment authorities, have been allowed entry. Captain Vogel, however, was fortunate, and at the invitation of Sir Edward Hall- strom, who financed the experimental farm at Nondugl where natives are taught improved methods of agriculture, went as a member of an expedition to search for the white bird of paradise and to study the Pygmies. The bird proved to be mythical, but the author had time to observe the customs of both these races and in this book he has recorded his impressions of his journey in their territories.
Captain Vogel is a scientist, but he has concerned himself only with recording matters of general interest. His descriptions and anecdotes of these charming and child- ish people, who still indulge in tribal wars from time to time, are varied and fascinat- ing. One of the problems implicit in the author's account of their culture is the extraordinary tact and discretion which will be necessary in civilising them. The Aus- tralian government has been very sensible in limiting itself to agricultural and hygienic improvements. The accompanying photo- graphs are novel and often humorous. This hook should be a welcome addition to the library of anyone who is at all interested in
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