to the smith, and the work on which I watched so closely throughout that
I am certain none of the material was stolen, there was a loss of 120
grains, or over 14 per cent.

The smiths whom I have seen working had no dividers, square, measure, or
any instrument of precision. As before stated, I have seen scissors used
as compasses, but as a rule they find approximate centers with the eye,
and cut all shapes and engrave all figures by the unaided guidance of
this unreliable organ. Often they cut out their designs in paper first
and from them mark off patterns on the metal. Even in the matter of
cutting patterns they do not seem to know the simple device of doubling
the paper in order to secure lateral uniformity.

Here ends my description of the smithcraft of a rude but docile and
progressive people. I trust that it may serve not only to illustrate
some aspects of their mental condition, their inventive and imitative
talents, but possibly to shed some light on the condition and diffusion
of the art of the metalist in the prehistoric days of our continent,
notwithstanding the fact that some elements of their craft are of recent
introduction and others of doubtful origin.

[Illustration: Pl. XX. NAVAJO INDIAN WITH SILVER ORNAMENTS.]


INDEX.

Almogen used by Navajoes in blanching silver 175
Articles made by Navajo silversmiths 171, 176
Bellows used by Navajo silversmiths 172
Blanching silver, Navajo method of 175