More proof that Settlers confused “hiyu” with “hias”
At least in “up Island” BC.
All three of the following examples show < hiyu > (‘many, much’ in Jargon) being used to mean ‘big’ in local English, whereas ‘big’ in Jargon is < hias >.
“[A] HIYU ROW” (noisy disturbance or quarrel) — from the Cumberland (BC) News of April 15, 1899, page 9, column 4
“A HIYU SUCCESS” — from the Cumberland (BC) News of April 15, 1899, page 4, column 1
Offensive language warning:
“[A] HIYU SUCCESS” — from the Golden (BC) Era of February 6, 1897, page 4, column 1
(The “Kickapoo concert company” were a popular performing troupe in the province at the end of the 19th century.)
What do you think?
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