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fish dust eating,” to commemorate his having been fed with the dust of Hikatutu’s fish basket.

While the plan of attack was under discussion, Moki, the commander-in-chief, suddenly called out to Turangipo, a noted veteran, famed for deeds of valour performed on many a battle-field in the North Island. Turangipo asked what Moki wanted. “You may eat,” he replied, “the head of your Lady Paramount.” Turangipo remained silent for some time, pondering over what was meant by this strange speech. He felt convinced that Moki was employing some spell to paralyse his energies, and rob him of any chance of gaining distinction in the coming encounter with Ngatimamoe. He conjectured that Moki, annoyed at the failure of his attempt to secure for himself the karaka groves at Okain’s Bay, was now bent on making sure of better success at Parakakariki, and that, in order to gain his end, he was endeavoring to cast a spell over the man most likely to defeat his purpose. Turangipo was, however, equal to the occasion, and, having exhausted every means he could think of to break the spell and neutralise its ill effects, he resolved to try its potency on Moki himself. “Moki,” he cried. “What?” replied he. “You may eat the head of your Lady Paramount.” Moki made no reply, and, from the course of subsequent events, it became evident that he neglected to employ any precautions to neutralise the spell. While these two chiefs were exchanging these questionable civilities, the bulk of the warriors were wondering what their object could be in bandying such shocking expressions, for such allusions to the sacred head of a person of rank were regarded as blasphemous. Their speculations were interrupted by Moki suddenly calling out, “Who is for us?” (meaning who will act as scout). Whakuku instantly replied, “I am; I will act as scout.” “How will you proceed?” “I will get above the pa, and, if you