CHAPTER X

INTELLECTUAL LIFE

The relations between the development of language and social evolution--An enigmatic system of writing--Knotted cords, notches in sticks and their accessories--The evolution of literature among primitive races--Length of memory among races that have no written records--Historical value of legends transmitted by oral tradition--Nature of the more usual alterations to be met with in documentary folklore--The most general legends, fables and proverbs of the Moï _p._ 193