[20] _Musa textilis_.

FIG. 27. HEMP MACHINE.

During ceremonies and at festivals a fermented drink made of sugar cane
is served, and in anticipation of its pleasurable effects the Bagobo is
willing to expend a considerable amount of effort. The juice of the cane
is extracted by means of a press made of two logs arranged in parallel
horizontal positions, so that the end of a wooden lever can slip under
one and rest in a groove cut in the other (Fig. 28). The cane is placed
in the groove and the operator bears his weight on the lever, thus
squeezing out the juice. After being boiled with the bark of certain
trees and lime juice, the liquor is sealed in jars or bamboo tubes and
is stored away until needed.

FIG. 28. SUGAR CANE PRESS.

The sago palm is found in parts of the Bagobo territory, and in times of
need, the people make temporary camps near to the sago districts, where
they prepare the flour. This is done in the same manner as is fully
described on page 140.

The most important thing in the life of the Bagobo is the care of the
rice, for on this crop he depends for the greater part of his food
supply, and by its condition he can ascertain with what favor he is
looked upon by the spirits. So closely is the cultivation of this cereal
coupled with the religious beliefs that it is necessary, in this
relation, to describe the ceremonies connected with it.