The counters are divided in half, one-half put at the eastern end of the mat, the other half at the western.

The counters at the east belong to the player sitting at the north, those at the west to the player at the south.

Two singers stand back of each player.

The spectators are grouped about the mat, but must not be too near the players.

Lots are drawn to decide which player shall "hold the reeds." The player who loses the chance to "hold the reeds" becomes the one who is to be the guesser.
All the game-reeds, including the reed with the black band painted on it, are thrown in a pile in the center of the mat or blanket.