A grammar of the Kwagiutl language

Description

Montreal, Dawson Brothers. 1889. — 60 p. Language: EnglishThis grammar was not originally compiled for publication, but to assist those missionaries and teachers who should succeed me, to acquire a knowledge of the Kwagiutl language. When I first came amongst these Indians in 18*78, 1 experienced great diificulty in obtaining a knowledge of the idiom of this language, and much that was then learned had subsequently to be unlearned. I had perhaps finished ninety pages of manuscript when Dr. G. M. Dawson, of the G-eological Survey, visited our neighbourhood. Finding that he took a great interest in Indian, I spoke of the work upon which I was then engaged. He strongly advised me to complete the grammar, and suggested the Transactions of the Royal Society of Canada as a medium of publication. There are doubtless many inaccuracies which are open to correction, but I trust there is something in my work which will atFord pleasure to the philologist, and I earnestly hope it may prove an assistance to those who wish to gain a knowledge of Kwagiutl, in order that they may ameliorate the condition of these Indians.