Stealing, however, is not as common as lying; for while there does not
seem to be a strong public sentiment against the latter, there is
against the former, for the protection of their property. Those who
flagrantly disregard this are branded as thieves and are sometimes
punished. I know one native who was required by his heathen neighbors to
pay ten hoes for visiting their grain bins. Generally, however, grain,
either in the gardens or in the granaries, is not disturbed by others,
and one may allow property to remain exposed year after year and it not
be disturbed. The white man's law against thieving greatly assists the
native in the enforcement of his law. We have found some very
trustworthy natives, and none who have been with us any length of time
have proven dishonest, and they are frequently sent to carry sums of
money without in any way tampering with it.