The language of this important nation, although early studied, has as yet no printed literature. I have found of it only the first five numerals, which do not seem to have connection with any other tongue. They are as follows:
1. Alza; 2. catuta; 3. kala; 4. ingatu; 5. aleyticlon.[437]
From a study of proper names and ethnographic traits, Dr. Hamy has expressed himself with great assurance that the Jivaros belong to the Guarani group of the Tupi stock;[438] but the above numerals do not indicate such relationship, nor do I think that his other arguments establish it. For the present they must be considered an independent stock.
JIVARO LINGUISTIC STOCK.
- Antipas, above the Pongo de Manseriche.
- Aguarunas, below the mouth of the Rio Nieva and Rio Huallaga.
- Ayulis, on the Rio Morono.
- Cherembos, left bank of Marañon.
- Chirapas.
- Huambisas, on Marañon above the Pongo de Manseriche.
- Lojanos.
- Muratos, below mouth of the Rio Pastaza.
- Pautis.
- Uambisas, south of the Marañon.
- Zamoras.
The eastern neighbors of the Jivaros are the scattered bands of the Maynas, separated by Hervas into two stocks, the Maina and the Chayavita, but so far as I can learn, without sufficient reason. The language is or was spoken at the mission of the Conception on the upper Marañon and in the uplands around Cerros de Mainas. It is singularly harsh and difficult. The natives were wild, and lived by hunting and fishing. Their earlier home was on the upper waters of the Morona and Pastaza rivers.
The following bands are embraced in the
MAINA LINGUISTIC STOCK.[439]
- Cahuapanas.
- Chapos.
- Chayavitas.
- Coronados.
- Humuranos.
- Mainas.
- Roamainas.
On the Rio Javary there seem to be several independent stocks. One of these is that of the Yameos, who are found in the lower course of the river and also further up the Marañon, near Nauta, and on the Huallaga, where they are called Llameos, Yameos, Lamas, or Lamistas. Formerly they were a numerous and warlike nation, sharply divided into gentile organizations, and carefully refraining from intermarriage in the gens. At an early date we hear of them between the Rio Tigre and the Napo. (Markham.)