The hardest work in the fields falls to the men; they also strip the hemp needed in weaving, while a few of them are skilled workers in brass and copper and turn out bells and other ornaments not at all inferior to those of the coast natives.  Their methods of casting as well as their manufactures are identical with those of the Bagobo from whom they probably learned the art.  So far as could be learned no iron work is done by members of this tribe, and the few spears and knives possessed by the warriors seem to be trade articles.

The old men claim that until recent years the bow and arrow was their sole offensive weapon.  It is certain that today they have a greater variety of arrows and are more skillful in the use of this type of weapon than are any of their neighbors.  None of the weapons found on the gulf side of the divide appeared to be poisoned, but a number secured by Major Porter from the Lake Buluan region seem to have been so treated (Fig. 38).  Different types of arrows have been developed for different purposes; one for fighting, another for deer and pig, another for monkeys, and still others for fish and birds (Fig. 39).  Birds are killed also by means of reed blow guns, identical in type with those shown on page 73, Fig. 18.  As a rule such weapons are used by boys.  Pitch sticks (Fig. 40), chicken snares, and fish traps are in common use, but bird nets and wooden decoys seem to be unknown.

FIG. 38.  BOWS, ARROWS AND QUIVER FROM LAKE BULUAN REGION.

FIG. 39.  BOWS AND ARROWS IN COMMON USE.

FIG. 40.  PITCH STICK USED IN THE CAPTURE OF SMALL BIRDS.

When on a raid warriors carry beautifully carved shields, bows and arrows, spears, and fighting knives (Plates LIV-LV).  They are in bad repute with the coast natives, but are really far less warlike and troublesome than any of their neighbors.  Their isolated dwellings serve as protection against invaders, but at the same time make it difficult to gather large bodies of men for raiding purposes.  It is only when urged on by an invasion of their country, by a desire for revenge for real or fancied wrongs, or when a victim is needed for a sacrifice that great raids are planned.  Before a war party is to start against an enemy the leader takes eight pieces of betel nut and some leg bands and placing them on his shield, bids his followers lay their weapons upon them.  Addressing the guardian spirit of the warriors, he speaks as follows:  “Now listen Lamot ta Mangayo, let the person who killed my brother come to meet us even though his head does ache, for now we offer to you.  Give us good fortune in the fight.”  Upon returning from the fray they place eight whole betel nuts, together with leaves, on a plate, and having set it outside the house, one of the warriors calls to MElu saying:  “If the brother of the man we have killed in payment for my brother calls on you for aid, you must not give heed, for here we make a present to you.”