3-078-001 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Mompunga, a Lushai chief, and Mr. Murray, Political Agent, taking the Oath of Friendship, 1890. '...the hostile tribes on both sides have made their submission, and Haka will he held as a permanent British military station. Our correspondent, Lieutenant H. W. G. Cole, of the 2nd Goorkhas, contributes another Sketch, which shows a curious and interesting ceremony performed on the banks of the Klang River...Mompunga came down to take an oath of friendship with Mr. Murray...A clear space was made in the jungle, and plantain-leaves strewn on the ground. The chief, his brother, and attendants seated themselves in a row, facing a young pig and a gyal or tame bison, which were tied to a tree. After a short parley the chief rose and, taking a spear, handed it to Mr. Murray, and they both plunged it into the pig. The chief then smeared some of the pig's blood on Mr. Murray's forehead, and Mr. Murray returned the compliment...The chief then said: "Until the sun ceases to shine in the heavens, and until yonder stream runs backwards, I will be your true and faithful friend." Potations of rice-beer and rum concluded the ceremony. An oath taken in this manner is considered by the Lushais most binding, and they are seldom known to break it'. From "Illustrated London News", 1890.