The Esquimaux sometimes use slabs of ice for the walls of their huts,
cementing them together with snow and water. Kennels for their dogs
are also made of the same material. The late Admiral Sir W. Edward
Parry, in the course of a voyage commenced in May, 1821, the chief
object of which was the discovery of the North-West passage, availed
himself of a winter's imprisonment in the ice, to observe and record
the ways and manners of the Esquimaux, whose guest he was. His account
is on the whole satisfactory. "I can safely affirm," said he, "that,
whilst thus lodged beneath their roof, I know no people whom I would
more confidently trust, as respects either my person or my property,
than the Esquimaux."
He also described their domestic character. The affection of the
parents towards their children showed itself in a thousand ways, and
the children on their part have so much gentleness and docility as to
render any kind of chastisement unnecessary. Even from their earliest
infancy, they are said to possess that quietness of disposition,
gentleness of demeanour, and uncommon evenness of temper, for which in
more mature age they are for the most part distinguished. Disobedience
is scarcely ever known; a word or even a look from a parent is enough.
These traits, added to industry and endurance of various kinds of
difficulty, form the fair side of the picture, such as that amiable
and distinguished officer was fond of presenting. The exhibition of
these features of character was probably called forth, in a great
degree, by his own kindness and good management, whilst living among
them.