(3) To propitiate the local spirits and induce the tin-ore to show itself, when the
tin-bearing stratum is reached, by means of the charm quoted above.
(4) To induce the spirits to partake of a banquet which is spread for them in a
receptacle intended to be the model of a royal audience-chamber.
This, the “spirits’ audience-chamber” (as it is called), is usually from two to
three feet square, and is filled with offerings similar in character to those usually
deposited on the sacrificial tray (anchak), with the addition, however, of certain
articles which are considered to be specially representative of the miners’ food.
These articles are sugar-cane, plantains, yams, sweet potatoes, and fish, etc.; all
of which should be placed together with the customary offerings in the “spirits’
audience-chamber.” Outside the “audience-hall,” at each of the two front
corners, should be placed a red and a white flag and a wax taper; and at each of
the two back corners should be placed a taper, making in all four flags and seven
tapers.
A standard censer (pĕrasapan) must be erected in front of the “audience-
chamber,” and a second small censer must also be obtained, so that burning
incense may be “waved” to and fro underneath the floor of the audience-
chamber in order to fumigate it before the offerings are deposited inside it.
During the fumigation a charm is recited, in which the assistance of the spirits of
certain canonized Muhammadan worthies is invoked, concluding thus:—
“Peace be with you, O White Sheikh, wizard of the virgin jungle,
Wizards old, and wizards young,
Come hither and share the banquet I have prepared for you.
I crave pardon for all mistakes,
For all shortcomings I beg pardon in every particular.”Then when the tapers are all lighted and the offerings ready, a further charm is
recited, which begins as follows:—
“Ho, White Sheikh, king of the virgin jungle,
It is you to whom belong all people of the jungle and virgin forest,
Do you, whose back is turned towards heaven,
Give your orders to all the Elders of the earth and Princes who are here,