but if so, the fact has not yet been detected. From the analogy furnished
by other languages we are justified in suspecting that this may be the
case; for whenever a number system contains digital words, we expect them
to begin with _five_, as, for example, in the Arawak scale,[72] which runs:

1. abba.
2. biama.
3. kabbuhin.
4. bibiti.
5. abbatekkábe = 1 hand.
6. abbatiman = 1 of the other.
7. biamattiman = 2 of the other.
8. kabbuhintiman = 3 of the other.
9. bibitiman = 4 of the other.
10. biamantekábbe = 2 hands.
11. abba kutihibena = 1 from the feet.
20. abba lukku = hands feet.

The four sets of numerals just given may be regarded as typifying one of
the most common forms of primitive counting; and the words they contain
serve as illustrations of the means which go to make up the number scales
of savage races. Frequently the finger and toe origin of numerals is
perfectly apparent, as in the Arawak system just given, which exhibits the
simplest and clearest possible method of formation. Another even more
interesting system is that of the Montagnais of northern Canada.[73] Here,
as in the Zuñi scale, the words are digital from the outset.

1. inl'are = the end is bent.
2. nak'e = another is bent.
3. t'are = the middle is bent.