is that of the Mahlemut, in Norton Sound, in which are present the
handle, thumb-groove, finger-grooves, and pegs, cavities for the
finger-tips, index finger cavity, shaft-groove, and hook for the
harpoon. In short, all the characteristics present on the rest are
combined here.

Classifications of these implements may be varied according to the organ
selected. As to the hook for the attachment of the weapon, in Greenland
this is on the shaft, in all other parts of the world it is on the
throwing-stick. As to the index finger, there is for its reception, from
Point Barrow to Greenland, an eccentric hole quite through which the
finger passes. From Kotzebue Sound to Norton Sound there is a central
pocket on the back of the weapon, directly under the groove, for the
shaft of the weapon to receive the index finger. From Cape Vancouver to
Bristol Bay an ivory or wooden peg serves this purpose. At Kadiak and
Unalashka the eccentric index-finger hole returns.

It is more than probable that further investigation will destroy some of
the types herein enumerated or merge two more of them into one; but it
will not destroy the fact that in changing from one environment to
another the hyperboreans were driven to modify their throwing-stick.

A still more interesting inquiry is that concerning the origin of the
implement. It is hardly to be supposed that the simplest type, that of
Anderson River, was invented at once in its present form, for the
Australian form is ruder still, having neither hole for the index finger
nor groove for the weapon shaft. When we recall that the chief benefit
conferred by the throwing-stick is the ability to grasp firmly and
launch truly a greasy weapon from a cold hand, we naturally ask, have
the Eskimo any other device for the same purpose? They have. On the