QUICHUA  , a

South American Indian tribe and stock, the ruling people of Peru when the Spaniards arrived . The Quichuan stock then included the Quichuas proper and the many vassal tribes of the ancient empire of Peru . To-day it numbers some three millions . The modern Quichuas aver-age a height' of 5 ft. to 5 ft . 6 in . They are of slender build, but with well proportioned muscular limbs, and are capable of enduring great fatigue . Their complexions are of a fresh olive colour, the skin very smooth and soft, beardless, hair straight and black, the nose aquiline . They are skilful farmers and herdsmen .