BRITISH POLICY 457 mentioned by the High Commissioner as calling for attention. These pagans, who had entirely refused to have any dealings with the British, on hearing of the fall of Kano, came at once in a strong deputation to the Resident, and brought presents, saying that the white man was now stronger than Sokoto.

At a later period it was thought well to assimilate the system of appointment, and the emirs and chiefs of the Protectorate have been divided into chiefs of the first and second grade, and minor chiefs of the third and fourth grades. The rank of a chief of the first grade is reserved for the Shehu of Bornu and the great Fulani emirs, such as Sokoto, Kano, Gando, &c. ; the rank of chief of the second grade is for the lesser emirs, such as Katagum, Hadeija, Lapai, &c., and the chiefs of the principal pagan communities, such as Argungu, Kiama, Boussa, &c. The ranks of third and fourth grade are for district headmen and pagan chiefs of less importance, but having executive authority. The formal recognition of all chiefs, whatever their grade, is accompanied by the presentation of a ** staff of office," and the staff varies according to the importance of the office conferred. Chiefs of the first grade have a long staff surmounted by a silver headpiece, chiefs of the second grade have also a long staff, but it is surmounted by a brass headpiece. In the case of the third and fourth grades the staves are short and of plainer design. For the Shehu of Bornu and the Emir of Sokoto special staves have been designed as a mark of honour in recognition of their ancient positions of supreme importance. There are only these four symbols of executive authority. Below the rank of fourth grade chief, certificates of office are given, but without a staff, to certain graded headmen, &c.

The oath of allegiance, which is taken on receiving the staff of office, has also been brought into regular form, and for Moslems is as follows : — *' I swear, in the name of Allah and of Mohammed his prophet, to serve well and truly his Majesty King Edward VII., and his representa-