RELIGION ; 41

One of Azguntém’s principal functions is that of acting as
leader of the kusiut dances of the supernatural beings. As
already described, these take place in Nusmdt-a, the name of
which is changed to Nusgulxwaista for the occasion, while the
supernatural ones are awaiting d/guntam’s entry at the winter
solstice. As soon as he comes, his extreme heat causes most
of his guests to rush forth. Among those remaining is Sexsex-
kalaix, the Lawyer, his chief adviser in Ausiut matters. This
being is somewhat indefinitely regarded as a supernatural
grizzly bear. He is subordinate to 4/guntdm, and cannot him-
self initiate proposals, but he can interrupt the speeches of his
superior if he feels bold. Human singers are under his special
guidance. He is so powerful that if he turns his head in anger
at any mortal, the latter falls dead. As far as could be learnt,
Sexsexkalaix is concerned only with kusiut matters and never
visits this earth.

One of the most intangible of the Bella Coola supernatural
beings is a woman, Kdémai-ts, Aiutia, ““The Sorrow-Maker”’ or
Dji Sisnaxiti, “The Slave-Owner.”’ Boas (p.28) recorded fairly
definite information about her, but the writer could gather
only inconsequential fragments. Mortals are as slaves to her,
but she takes little interest either in their welfare or actions.
In the beginning of time, 47guntém sent her down to earth to
watch the behaviour of mortals and report to him. She needed
a central location for this purpose and accordingly chose
Restoration Bay, where she could watch the canoes as they
passed up and down the coast. At first the inhabitants of the
earth showed her great respect, but gradually she was ignored
and canoes passed her home without stopping. Moreover, she
began to fear that she might be injured by the proximity of
mankind, and especially that human footsteps might con-
taminate and mar her supernatural frame. So she fled far to
the south, whither no one knows. In fact, no one is even
absolutely certain that she went to the south. According toa
well-known Bella Coola tradition, a man once tried to climb
Mount Nusgalst and found a pleasant grassy place near