In _Australia_ where large animals are scarce, certain tribes of an extremely degraded type have been known to feed on flesh. There is a story of an Englishman who several years ago went to New Caledonia to raise cattle for the market of Noumea. While journeying from one ranch to another, by reason of the bushes and low shrubbery he lost his way, and after wandering about till near nightfall, finally came upon a large village of natives. He was hospitably entertained, well fed and by the great chief Atai was treated with much attention. Atai was very courteous to his white guest, and when night had fully come conducted him in state to the hut set apart for his repose. Fortunately the visitor was acquainted with the customs of the country, and knew the common method for putting an end to travelers preparatory to feasting upon them. It is as follows: The guest is kindly received and allotted a cabin by himself for rest and sleep. The native huts have visually but one opening, which serves as a door and window. When the guest is supposed to be well settled in his cabin, this single entrance is fired; and as it is constructed of light twigs it not only burns very rapidly but the occupant within is killed and roasted; now the feast begins. As the Englishman was familiar with this custom of New Caledonian life, and feeling that the cabin which the venerable Atai had so courteously provided might become for him perhaps a tomb as well as a cooking stove, unless he were very watchful, manifested however no distrust. Accordingly he entered the cabin of the chief, meeting courtesy with courtesy, until both were fairly housed. As he was in the prime of life and quite an athlete, he regarded himself more than a match for the aged cannibal, should he now be disposed to exhibit violence. Closing, therefore, the door and planting his back firmly against it, laying his hand on his revolver and displaying at the same time other weapons, he determined to remain in his chosen position the entire night. It was a terrible night for the traveler; but none the less for the cunning chief who again and again from his detainer requested permission to withdraw. He was made to understand, however, that his company could not be dispensed with, and that they must not think of parting until morning. When daylight was fully come, the Englishman now felt assured that Atai would not venture to allow his people openly to attack him, as he was well known in the settlement, and both issuing forth together from the hut, he gladly accepted the escort of a native guide, and was safely conducted to the borders of the same.