"By Aeroplane to Pygmyland" Accounts of the 1926 Smithsonian-Dutch Expedition to New Guinea

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Journal of Matthew Stirling
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September 13, 1926 : Explorators Camp/Tombe Village


September 13th

This morning the Dyaks continued the work of enlarging the clearing and put up bars around our storehouse, this being their day of rest. The Pygmies as usual gathered early and stayed late. Now that I have no cowries to offer them, they are especially anxious for them and the exchange has again gone up to par. The Dyaks enjoy nothing more than to "show off" with their knives before an admiring group of natives. Rain began earlier than usual this afternoon, which probably presages a fine day for tomorrow.




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