The Murderers resolve to return to the Habition of St. Lewis.The 8th, three Men came to me, one of which was the French Man of Provence, with each of them a Horse, sent by our People to carry away all the Provisions I had got together, having taken a Resolution, as those Persons they had sent told us, to return to the Dwelling of St. Lewis, about the Bay of the same Name, from whence we came; designing, as they pretended, to build a Boat there, to carry them over to the Islands of America; an impracticable Notion, for all our Carpenters were dead, and tho’ they had been alive, they were so ignorant, that none of them would have known which Way to go about that Work; besides that, we were destitute of all Necessaries for that Effect. However we must obey, and set out with our Provisions. The Rain having detain’d us the 9th on the Way, we could not come up to them till the next Day, being the Tenth.

Father Anastasius gave me the Confirmation of that Design, and farther told me how roughly they had been treated by those Murderers since my Departure. I know not what it was that mov’d them to it, but they had resolved to separate themselves from those Villains, and that we should eat apart, viz. Monsieur Cavelier the Priest, F. Anastasius, young Cavelier and I, which was very agreeable to us, because at least we could talk freely, which we durst not do before; but at the same Time they allow’d us no more Provisions than would suffice to keep us from starving, without giving us Share of any Flesh, tho’ they often kill’d.

The Author and others resolve to part from the Murderers.Our Tyrants still holding their Resolution to return to their former Habitation, thought they had not Horses enough, and therefore deputed four of their Number, one of which was the French Man half turn’d Indian, to return to the Village of the Cenis and endeavour to barter for some. At the same Time we agreed together to let those Gentlemen know, that we were too much fatigued to return with them to the said Habitation, and were resolved to remain in the Village of the Cenis. Monsieur Cavelier undertook to be our Speaker, and to desire Duhaut, who was Master of all, to give us some Axes, Knives and Strings of Beads, Powder and Shot, offering to give him a Note of his Hand for the same.

Design of the Murderers.To conclude, Monsieur Cavelier made the Proposal to Duhaut, disguis’d it the best he was able, and Duhaut took till the next Day to return his answer. He consulted with his Companions, and acquainted us, that they would deal handsomely by us, and give us half the Effects and all the Axes, intending to make the most Speed they could, to get to our former Dwelling, and to put in Execution what they had before design’d, as to the Building of a Bark. But in Case they could not succeed, for want of Necessaries, they would immediately return to us and bring F. Zenobius along with them, who would be serviceable to us, because, having been with Monsieur de la Sale upon his first Discovery, he understood the Language of the Nations about the Missisipi River. That whilst they were upon that Journey, we should take Care to gather a Stock of Provisions, and that if they succeeded in building the Bark, they would send us Word, that we might repair to them. Monsieur Cavelier approv’d of all they said, tho’ we had other Designs. However it prov’d we were all Mistaken, for Providence had order’d Affairs otherwise.

We stay’d there some Time, expecting those who were gone to the Cenis, they staying longer than was requisite for that Journey. The overflowing of the River was their Pretence, but the true Reason was the Women, who as I have said, are not so forward as to offer themselves, but on the other Hand will not be over difficult in complying for some little Present, and those who were sent did not grudge their Time. In the mean while the Posture of our Affairs changed, as follows.

May 1687 Murderers change their Mind. One of our half Savage French Men, whom I had acquainted with our Design to go find the Missisipi, communicated it to Hautot,[106] telling him all the particulars he had before acquainted me with; whereupon Duhaut chang’d his Mind, as to the Design of going to the Habitation of St. Lewis, resolving to follow our intended Way and execute our Project. He imparted his Thoughts to his Companions, who were of the same Opinion, and all of them acquainted us, that they were ready to put in Execution the Enterprize we had form’d.

This Change troubled us very much, there being nothing we coveted more than to part with those Miscreants, from whom we could at a long Run expect no better Usage than they had afforded our Commander and his Friends. However, it was still requisite to dissemble, there being no other Remedy at that Time: But God’s Justice provided for and rescued us. We continued in that Camp all the remaining part of April, expecting the Persons that had been sent to the Cenis, and Duhaut intending to begin to put in Execution his Design of going to find out the Missisipi, with us, made us advance towards the River that was near, in order to pass it as soon as fallen, and repair to the Village of the Cenis.

Murderers differ in Opinion.We staid three Days longer in that Post, at the End whereof, he we call’d Larcheveque, one of those that had been sent out, cross’d the River. He was Duhaut’s Creature, and an Accomplice in the Murder of Monsieur de la Sale. He inform’d[107] Duhaut, that one they call’d Hiens, who was also one of our Messengers, and had stayed on the other Side of the River, had heard of Duhaut and the rest altering their Resolution, and that he was not of their Mind. Hiens was a Buccanier, and by Birth a German. Monsieur de la Sale had brought him from Petit Gouave, and he was also accessory to the late Murders.

After we had been some Days longer in the same Place, Hiens arriv’d with the two half Savage French Men and about twenty Natives. He went immediately to Duhaut, and after some Discourse, told him, he was not for going towards the Missisipi, because it would be of dangerous Consequence for them, and therefore demanded his Share of the Effects he had seiz’d upon. Duhaut refusing to comply, and affirming, that all the Axes were his own; Hiens,Hiens kills Duhaut, and Ruter Liotot. who it is likely had laid the Design before to kill him, immediately drew his Pistol, and fired it upon Duhaut, who stagger’d about four Paces from the Place and fell down dead. At the same Time Ruter, who had been with Hiens, fired his Piece upon Liotot, the Surgeon, and shot him thro’ with three Balls.

These Murders committed before us, put me into a terrible Consternation; for believing the same was design’d for me, I laid hold of my Fire-Lock to defend my self; but Hiens cry’d out to me, to fear nothing, to lay down my Arms, and assur’d me he had no Design against me; but that he had reveng’d his Master’s Death. He also satisfy’d Monsieur Cavelier and Father Anastasius, who were as much frighted as my self, declaring he meant them no Harm, and that tho’ he had been in the Conspiracy, yet had he been present at the Time when Monsieur de la Sale was kill’d, he would not have consented, but rather have obstructed it.

Liotot liv’d some Hours after, and had the good Fortune to make his Confession; after which, the same Ruter, put him out of his Pain, with a Pistol-Shot. We dug a Hole in the Earth, and bury’d him in it with Duhaut, doing them more Honour than they had done to Monsieur de la Sale and his Nephew Moranget, whom they left to be devour’d by wild Beasts. Thus those Murderers met with what they had deserv’d, dying the same Death they had put others to.

The Natives, Hiens had brought with him, having been Spectators of that Murder, were in a Consternation, and that Affair was of dangerous Consequence to us, who stood in Need of them. More Mischief prevented. It was therefore requisite to make the best of it, giving them to understand, that there had been Reason for so punishing those dead Persons, because they had all the Powder and Ball, and would not give any to the rest. They remain’d satisfy’d with that Excuse, and he who was called Larcheveque, and who was entirely devoted to Duhaut, being Abroad a hunting since the Morning, and not knowing what Misfortune had hapned his Protector, and Hiens being resolv’d to make away with him, Father Anastasius and Monsieur Cavelier took so much Pains, that they disswaded him from it, and I went out and met Larcheveque, to give him Notice of that Disaster, and to inform him, how he was to behave himself. Thus I requited him for having come to give me Notice of Monsieur de la Sale’s Death. I brought him to Hiens, who declar’d he design’d him no Harm, and Larcheveque gave him the same Assurances on his Part. Thus all Things are again compos’d, and nothing remain’d, but for us to set out, but first to know what we were to do, and which Way to direct our Course.

Hereupon, Hiens took upon him to speak, and said, he had promis’d the Natives to go to the War with them, and design’d to be as good as his Word; that if we would expect his Return, we might by that Time consider which Way he would move,[108] and that in the mean Time we might stay in the Village among the Cenis. This was resolv’d on; we loaded all our Effects on our Horses, and repair’d to the same Place and the same Cottage, where we had been before, the Chief of it assigning us the one Half to lodge and lay up our Baggage.

Six French Men go to the Wars with the Natives. When the Day for setting out for the War was come, Hiens departed with the Natives, four of our Comrades and the two half Savage French Men going along with him; so that there were six of them, and each took a Horse. Hiens left us all the Effects, and desir’d we would stay for him, which we promis’d, not knowing how to avoid it, considering, that the Indians might have done us Harm, and even have obstructed our Departure. Thus we resign’d ourselves to Providence, and remain’d six of us together, viz. Father Anastasius, Monsieur Cavelier, his Nephew young Cavelier, young Talon, another Youth of Paris, and I. There also remain’d some old Men, who could not go to the War, and the Women. We were also join’d by two other French Men, who had been left on the other Side the River, being the Provencal and one Teissier.

During our Stay, and our Warriors being abroad upon that Expedition, the old Men often visited us, and told us News from the Army by Signs, which we understood nothing of. We were from Time to Time alarm’d, seeing the Women weep, without any visible cause. The late Monsieur de la Sale had often told us,Bewailing the Memory of Men kill’d. that the Women bewail’d those that were to be kill’d; but we were inform’d, that they did so, when they call’d to Mind some who had been slain in the former Wars; which dispell’d our Apprehensions. However we were uneasy, because those old Men and Women examined us every Morning and Evening when we perform’d our Devotions.

We laid hold of that Opportunity to give them to understand, that we paid our Duty to one God, the only Supreme Sovereign of all Things, pointing to Heaven, and endeavouring in the best Manner we were able, to signify to them that he was Almighty, that he had made all Things, that he caus’d the Earth to produce, it’s Fruits to prosper, and the Growth of it, which maintain’d them to thrive; but this being only by Signs, they did not understand us, and we labour’d in vain.

Women rejoice at Victory.The 18th, we were surpriz’d to see several Women come into our Cottage, their Faces all besmear’d with Earth, and they set up their Throats, singing several Songs as loud as they were able,[109] whereof we understood not one Word. That done, they fell a Dancing in a Ring, and we could not tell, what to think of that Rejoicing, which lasted full three Hours; after which we were inform’d, they had receiv’d Advice of the Victory obtain’d by their Warriors over their Enemies. The Dance concluded, those in the Cottage gave some Bits of Tobacco to those without.

The same Day, about Noon, we saw him that had brought the News, who affirm’d they had kill’d at least Forty of their Enemies. After the Rejoicing, all the Women apply’d themselves to make ready their Provisions, some to pound Indian Corn, others to boil Meal, which they call Grouller, and others to bake Bread, to carry to the Warriors. They all set out the 19th to meet them, and we thought it in policy convenient to send Meat to our Men which was done by the French Man of Provence, who went with the Women.

Account of the Battle fought by the Cenis. That same Day, at Night, the Victorious Army returned, and we were informed, that their Enemies whom they call Cannohatinno, had expected them boldly, but that having heard the Noise, and felt the Effects of our Mens Fire Arms, they all fled, so that the Cenis had either kill’d or taken Forty Eight Men and Women. They had slain several of the latter, who fled to the Tops of Trees, for want of Time to make their Escape otherwise; so that many more Women had perish’d than Men.

Barbarity of the Men towards a Woman taken. They brought Home two of those Women alive, one of whom had her Head flead for the Sake of her Hair and Skin. They gave that wretched Creature a Charge of Powder and a Ball, and sent Her home, bidding her carry that Present to her Nation, and to assure them, they should be again treated after the same Manner, that is, kill’d with Fire Arms.

Of the Women.The other Woman was kept to fall a Sacrifice to the Rage and Vengeance of the Women and Maids; who having arm’d themselves with thick Stakes, sharp Pointed at the End, Conducted that Wretch to a By-Place, where each of those Furies began to torment her, sometimes with the Point of their Staff, and sometimes laying on her with all their Might. One tore off her Hair, another cut off her Finger, and every one of those outrageous Women endeavour’d to put her to some exquisite Torture, to revenge the Death of their Husbands and Kinsmen, who had been kill’d in the former Wars; so that the unfortunate Creature expected her Death Stroke, as Mercy.

Inhumanity.At last, one of them gave her a Stroke with a heavy Club on the Head, and another run her Stake several Times into her Body, with which she fell down Dead on the Spot. Then they cut that Miserable Victim into Morsels, and oblig’d some Slaves of that Nation, they had been long possess’d of to eat them.

Cruel Trophies.Thus our Warriors return’d Triumphant from that Expedition. They spar’d none of the Prisoners they had taken, except two little Boys, and brought Home all the Skins of their Heads, with the Hair, to be kept as Trophies and glorious Memorials of their Victory.

The next Day all those Savages met in their Chief’s Cottage, whither all the abovemention’d Heads of Hair were carry’d in State. Then they made extraordinary Rejoicings in that Cottage, whence they went to the Huts of the other Prime Men, to perform the same Ceremony. This Rejoicing lasted three Days, our French Companions, who had been the Cause of their Victory, being call’d to it, and highly entertain’d, after their Manner. It will not be disagreeable to the Reader, that I here particularly describe that Ceremony, which after having been perform’d in the Cottages of the Chief Men, was repeated in ours.

Ceremony of Rejoicing.In the first Place, the Cottage was made very clean, adorn’d, and abundant of Mats laid on the Floor, on which the Elders, and the most considerable Persons sate; after which, one of them, who is in the Nature of an Orator, or Master of the Ceremonies stood up and made a Speech, of which we understood not a Word. Soon after that Discourse was ended, the Warriors arriv’d, who had slain any in Battle, marching in their proper Order, each of them carrying a Bow and two Arrows, and before every one of them went his Wife, carrying the Enemies Head of Hair. Two little Boys, whose Lives they had spar’d, as has been said before, one of them who was wounded being a Horseback, clos’d the procession; at the Head whereof, was a Woman carrying a large Reed, or Cane in her Hand.

As they came up to the Orator, the Warrior took the Head of Hair his Wife had brought, and presented it to him, which the said Orator receiv’d with both his Hands, and after having held it out towards the four Quarters of the World, he laid it down on the Ground, and then took the next, performing the same Ceremony, till he had gone over them all.

When the Ceremony was ended, they serv’d up the Sagamite, in the Nature of Hasty Pudding, which those Women had provided, and before any one touch’d it, the Master of the Ceremonies took some in a Vessel, which he carry’d as an Offering to those Heads of Hair. Then he lighted a Pipe of Tabacco, and blow’d the Smoke upon them. That being perform’d, they all fell to the Meat, Bits of the Woman that had been sacrific’d were served up to the two Boys of her Nation. They also serv’d up dry’d Tongues of their Enemies, and the whole concluded with Dancing and Singing after their Manner: After which, they went to other Cottages to repeat the same Ceremony.

There was no talk of our Design till those Rejoycings were over, and I began to conceive good Hopes of our Success. The two Murderers, Teissier and Larcheveque, who had both a Hand in the Death of Monsr. de la Sale, had promis’d to go along with us, provided Monsr. Cavelier would pardon them, and he had given them his Word so to do. In this Expectation we continu’d till the 25th, when our French Men, who had been at the War, repair’d to our Cottage, and we consulted about our Business.

Hiens and others of his Gang, disapproving of our Design, represented to us such Difficulties as they look’d upon to be unsurmountable, under which we must inevitably perish, or at least be oblig’d to return to the same Place. Hiens told us, that for his own Part, he would not hazard his Life to return into France, only to have his Head chopp’d off, and perceiving we answer’d Nothing to that, but that we persisted in our Resolution, It is requisite then, said he, to divide what Effects remain.

Hiens gives the others what he pleases, and seizes the rest of the Effects.Accordingly he laid aside, for F. Anastasius, Messieurs Cavelier, the Uncle and the Nephew,[110] thirty Axes, four or five Dozens of Knives, about thirty Pounds of Powder and the like Quantity of Ball. He gave each of the others two Axes, two Knives, two or three Pounds of Powder, with as much Ball, and kept the rest. As for the Horses, he kept the best and left us the three least. Monsieur Cavelier ask’d him for some Strings of Beads, which he granted, and seiz’d upon all the late Monsr. de la Sale’s Cloaths, Baggage and other Effects, besides above a thousand Livres in Money, which belong’d to the late Monsr. le Gros, who dy’d at our Dwelling of St. Lewis. Before our Departure, it was a sensible Affliction to us, to see that Villain walk about, in a scarlet Coat, with Gold Galons, which had belong’d to the late Monsr. de la Sale, and which, as I have said, he had seiz’d.

Mr. Cavelier and his Company part from the others.After that, Hiens and his Companions withdrew to their own Cottage, and we resolv’d not to put off our Departure any longer. Accordingly, we made ready our Horses, which much alarm’d the Natives, and especially the Chief of them, who said and did all he could to obstruct our Journey, promising us Wives, Plenty of Provisions, representing to us the immense Dangers, as well from Enemies, who surrounded them, as from the bad and impassable Ways and the many Woods and Rivers we were to pass. However, we were not to be moved, and only ask’d one Kindness of him, in obtaining of which, there were many difficulties, and it was, that he would give us Guides to conduct us to Cappa; but at length, after much Trouble and many Promises of a good Reward, one was granted, and two others went along with him.

All Things being thus order’d for our Departure, we took Leave of our Hosts, pass’d by Heins’s Cottage and embrac’d him and his Companions. We ask’d him for another Horse, which he granted. He desired an Attestation in Latin of Monsieur Cavelier, that he had not been concern’d in the Murder of Monsieur de la Sale, which was given him, because there was no refusing of it; and we set forward without Larcheveque and Meunier,French Men stay with the Indians. who did not keep their Word with us, but remain’d among those Barbarians, being infatuated with that Course of Libertinism they had run themselves into. Thus there were only seven of usOnly seven set out for Canada. that stuck together to return to Canada, viz. Father Anastasius, Messieurs Cavelier the Uncle and the Nephew, the Sieur de Marle, one Teissier, a young Man born at Paris, whose Name was Bartholomew and I, with six horses and the three Indians, who were to be our Guides; a very small Number for so great an Enterprize, but we put ourselves entirely into the Hands of Divine Providence, confiding in God’s Mercy, which did not forsake us.

After the first Day’s Journey we incamp’d on the Bank of the River, we had left not long before, lay there that Night, and the next Day, cut down Trees to make a Sort of Bridge or Planks to pass over it; handing over our Goods from one to another, and swimming over our Horses; which Work we were frequently oblig’d to repeat, and as often as we had afterwards Occasion to pass Rivers on our Way, which we held on till the 29th, every Day meeting with some Cottage, and at last, a Hamlet or Village, into which we went, and the Indian Inhabitants told us, they were call’d Nahordikhe,[111] and that they were Allies to the Cenis.

We barter’d with them for some Provisions, and their Chief offer’d to go with us as far as the Assonys,Nahordikhes and Assony. who were not farther off than about three Leagues, which he accordingly did; but it happening to rain when we came thither, and the Assonys having had no Notice before hand, we found but indifferent Reception.

However, we were conducted to the Chief’s Cottage; the Elders had Notice given them, they resorted thither, and when our Horses were unloaded, and our Goods plac’d in a Corner of the Cottage, which the Chief had allotted us, we gave them to understand, that our Intention was to go farther, to fetch Commodities to trade with them, at which they were pleas’d. They gave us to eat, and the Elders stay’d some Part of the Evening with us, which made us somewhat Uneasy, and oblig’d us to be upon our Guard; however the Night pass’d without any Disturbance.

The next Morning the Elders came to us again. They had provided Mats without the Cottage, and made Signs to us to go thither and sit down upon them, as we did, leaving two of our Company to guard the Baggage. We repeated to them what we had said the Night before, and made them some Presents of Axes, Knives, Strings of Beads and Rings. They signify’d they were sorry we would go away, and endeavour’d the best they could, to make us sensible of the same Obstacles the others had signify’d to us; but it was all in Vain; however, we stay’d till the first of June, all the while bartering and gathering the best stock of Provisions we could.

June 1687The Second, we remov’d from that Cottage, where we had some Jealousy, and went to another, a Quarter of a League from it, where the Chief of it gave us a very good Reception.Good Entertainment. An old Woman, who was either his Mother, or Governess of the Cottage, took particular Care of us: We were first serv’d at eating, and to keep her in that good Mind, we now and then made her some little Presents, whilst she, by her Care and Kindness, spar’d our Provisions, which were necessary for our Journey.

A continual Rain oblig’d us to stay there till the 13th. During our Stay, the Natives made several Feasts, to which we were always invited; and at length the Rain ceasing, we resolv’d to set out, notwithstanding all Monsieur Cavelier the Priest’s Apprehensions, which we surmounted, and directed our Course towards the N. E. with two Indians, who were to conduct us only a small Way, and who accordingly soon left us, whatsoever Promises we could make them. They departed to return Home, promising they would come to us again. We encamp’d that Night on the Bank of a Rivulet.

Bad Ways.The 14th and 15th, we held on our Way, frequently meeting with Sloughs, which very much fatigued us, because we were oblig’d to unload our Horses for them to pass, and prevent their sticking in the Mire and fat Soil, whence we could not have drawn them out, and consequently we were fain to carry all our Luggage on our own Backs.

Whilst we halted about Noon, that our Horses might graze, as was usually done by us, we discover’d our two Assony Indians returning towards us, at which we were much rejoiced, because they had a better Notion than ourselves of the Way we were to go. We made them eat and smoke, and then set out again.

The 16th, we came to a great River, which we pass’d as we had done the first, and after that, met with very bad Ways.

The 17th, one of our Company being indispos’d, we could not set out till Noon, and held on till the 21st, crossing several Sloughs and Rivers, and then one of our Indians being out of Order, it oblig’d us to stay on the Bank of a River we had pass’d. The other Indian seeing his comrade sick, went a Hunting, and brought a wild Goat; for there are many in that Country. The Indians have the Art to Kill Goats and Wild Fowl. Art of dressing the Heads of those Creatures, which they put upon their own, and imitate them so exactly, that they can come very near to them, and then seldom fail of killing. The same Method they use for Turkeys and other wild Fowl, and so draw them close to themselves.

Fine Meadows.The 22d, our Indian being somewhat recover’d we decamp’d and proceeded along a better Way and Pleasanter Country, than that we had left behind, and as we enquir’d the best we could of those our Indians, concerning the Neighbouring Nations and those we were going towards, among others they nam’d to us, that they call’d Cappa. M. Cavelier told us, he remember’d he had heard his late Brother Monsieur de la Sale name that Nation, and say he had seen it as he went from Canada towards the Missisipi. This put us in Hopes, that we should succeed in our Discovery.

The 23d, being near a Village, we had been in Search of, one of our Indians went before, to give Notice of our Arrival. In the mean Time we cross’d most lovely Plains and Meadows, border’d with fine Groves of beautiful Trees, where the Grass was so high, that it hinder’d our Horses going, and were oblig’d to clear the Passage for them.

When we were within Half a League of the Village, we saw an Indian, mounted on a large grey Mare, coming along with our Native, to meet us, and were told, that Horseman was the Chief of the Village, attended by some others of the same Place. As soon as that Chief came up to us, he express’d very much Kindness and Affection; we gave him to understand, that we did no Body any Harm, unless we were first attack’d. Then we made him smoke, and when that was done, he made Signs to us to follow him, which we did, till we came to the Bank of a River, where he again desir’d us to stay, whilst he went to give Notice to the Elders.

M. Cavelier and the rest carry’d on the Backs of Indians.Soon after, a Number of them came, and having join’d us, signify’d, that they were come to carry us to their Village. Our Indians made Signs, that it was the Custom of the Country, and we must submit, and let them do as they thought fit. Tho’ we were much out of Countenance at that Ceremony, seven of the prime Men among them would have us mount on their Backs or Shoulders. Monsieur Cavelier being our Chief, mounted first, and then the rest did the same.

As for my own Part, being of a pretty large Size and loaded with Cloaths, a Firelock, a Case of Pistols, Powder and Ball, a Kettle and other Implements, there is no Doubt but I made a sufficient Burden for him that carry’d me, and because I was taller than he and my Feet would have hung upon the Ground, two other Indians held them up for me; so that I had three to carry me. Other Indians took hold of our Horses to lead them, and in that ridiculous Equipage we arriv’d at the Village. Our Carriers, who had gone a long Quarter of a League, had need enough to rest, and we to be set down, that we might laugh in private, for it behov’d us to take Care not to do it before them.

Ceremonies at their Reception. As soon as we were come to the Chief’s Cottage, where we found above two hundred Persons, who were come to see us, and that our Horses were unloaded, the Elders gave us to understand, that it was their Custom to wash Strangers at their first Coming; but that we being clad, they would only wash our Faces; which one of those elders did, with fair Water they had in a Sort of Earthen Vessel, and he only wash’d our Forehead.

Speeches made to them. After this second Ceremony, the Chief made Signs to us, to sit down on a Sort of little Scaffold, rais’d about 4 Foot above the Ground, and made of Wood and Canes, where when we were plac’d, the Chiefs of the Villages being four in Number, came and made Speeches to us, one after another. We listened to them with Patience, tho’ we understood not one Word of what they said to us; being tir’d with the Length of their Harangues, and much more with the violent Heat of the Sun, which was just over our Heads.

When the Speeches were ended, the Purport whereof, as near as we could guess, was only to assure us, that we were very welcome; we gave them to understand, that we were going into our own Country, designing to return speedily, to bring them several Sorts of Commodities and such Things as they should stand in need of.

Next, we made them the usual Presents of Axes, Knives, Strings of Beads, Needles and Pins, for their Wives, telling them, that when we return’d we would give them more.

Their Entertainment. We farther signify’d to them, that if they would afford us some Corn or Meal, we would give them other Things in Exchange, which they agreed to. After this they made us eat Sagamite, or Hasty-pudding, Bread, Beans, Pompions and other Things, which we had sufficient Need of. Most of us having scarce eaten any Thing all that Day, some for Want, and others out of Devotion, as Monsr. Cavelier, who would observe the Fast of St. John Baptist’s Eve, whose Name he bore. It is to be observ’d, that the Pompions are incomparably better there, than with us.

The 24th, the Elders met again in our Cottage. We gave them to understand, they would oblige us,[112] in furnishing Guides to conduct us to the Village of Cappa, which was in our Way; but instead of granting it, they earnestly intreated us, to stay with them and go to the Wars against their Enemies, having been told Wonders of our Firelocks, which we promis’d to do when we return’d, and that it should be shortly, and they seem’d to rest satisfy’d.

Thus our Hopes increas’d, but the Joy it occasion’d was allay’d by a dismal Accident that befell us.Mr. de Marle drown’d. Monsieur de Marle, one of the prime Men of our Company, having Breakfasted, would needs go Bath himself in the River we had pass’d the Day before, and not knowing how to swim, he went too far and step’d into a Hole, whence he could not recover himself, but was unfortunately drowned. Young Monsieur Cavelier, having been told that Monsieur de Marle was going to Bath himself, ran after him, and coming to the River, saw he was drowning, he ran back to acquaint us: We hasted thither with a Number of Indians, who were there before us; but all too late, some of them div’d, and brought him up dead from the Bottom of the Water.

His Funeral. We carry’d him to the Cottage, shedding many Tears, the Indians bore Part in our Sorrow, and we paid him the last Duties, offering up the usual Prayers; after which he was buryed in a small Field, behind the Cottage; and whereas, during that doleful Ceremony, we pray’d, reading in our Books, particularly Monsieur Cavelier, the Priest and Father Anastasius, the Indians gaz’d on us with Amazement, because we talk’d, looking upon the Leaves, and we endeavour’d to give them to understand, that we pray’d to God for the dead Man, pointing up to Heaven.

Humanity of the Indians. We must do this Right to those good People, as to declare, that they express’d singular Humanity upon that doleful Accident, as appear’d by the sensible Testimony of their Actions, and all the Methods they us’d to let us understand how great a Share they bore in our Sorrow; which we should not have found in several Parts of Europe.

Indian Ceremony to the Dead. During our short Stay in that Place, we observ’d a Ceremony that was perform’d by the Chief’s Wife, viz. that every Morning she went to Monsieur de Marle’s Grave, and carry’d a little Basket of parch’d Ears of Corn to lay on it, the meaning whereof we could not understand. Before our Departure, we were inform’d, that the Villages belonging to our Hosts, being four in Number, all ally’d together were call’d,Indian Nations. Assony, Natsohsos, Nachitos and Cadodaquio.

On the 27th, having been inform’d by the Natives, that we should find Canoes, to pass a River that was on our Way, Father Anastasius and I went to see whether, what they told us was true. We found that River was a Branch of the same we had already pass’d, the Channel of it being pleasant and navigable, and saw some Canoes, in one of which the Indians carry’d us over to the other Side, whether we went to see what convenient Place there was for our Horses to come ashore. We found a very proper Place, and returning, made our Report to Monsieur Cavelier, who being then much out of Order with Pains in his Feet, we were oblig’d to stay there, till the 30th.

During that Time, we were frequently visited by the Indians, both Old and Young, and of both Sexes, and even the Chiefs of the Nation, call’d Janiquo,Janiquo Nation. came to see us, and with them we often convers’d in dumb Show, and every Evening the Women, attended by the Warriors, with their Bows and Arrows, resorted to our Cottage, to sing a dolefulDoleful Entertainment. Sort of Song, shedding Tears at the same Time. This would have given us some Uneasiness, had we not before seen the same Ceremony, and been inform’d, that those Women repair in that Manner to the Chief’s Cottage, to intreat him, singing and weeping, to take Revenge on those, who have kill’d their Husbands, or Relations, in former Wars, as I have observ’d before. In all other Respects, the Manners and Customs of this Nation, being much the same as those of the Cenis, I shall add no more concerning them.

The 29th, at Night, we gave Notice to the Chief, that we would set out the next Day, we made him some Presents in particular, and the like to his Wife, because she had taken special Care of us, and departed on the 30th. The Chief, attended by many other Indians, whom we found in the Cottages on our Way, went to Conduct us as far as the River, which we cross’d in Canoes, and swam over our Horses. There we took Leave of our Conductors, to whom we gave some Strings of Beads for their Wives, and their Chief would needs Conduct us to the next Village.

By the Way we came to a Cottage, where our Guide made us halt, and there they gave us to eat. Then we held on our Journey to a Village call’d Cadodaquio, and were conducted to the Chief’s Cottage, Cadodaquio Village. who receiv’d us courtiously, being a Friend to him that went with us. It was requisite to unload our Horses to lie there, and we signified to the Chief, that we stood in Need of Provisions. He spoke to the Women, who brought us some Meal, which we purchased with Strings of Beads, and the Chief, who conducted us thither, took his Leave.

Having no Design to stay there any Time, we had desired the Chief to appoint some Person to guide us to the Village call’d Cahainihoüa, which was in our Way. It happen’d by good Fortune, that there were then in that Place some Men and Women of the said Village, who were come to fetch some Wood, fit to make Bows, there being Plenty of that Sort of Trees they make them of, about the Village we were in. We signify’d our Design to them and they gave us to understand they would be glad to bear us Company. In the Conversation we had with them, they made us comprehend, that they had seen People like us, who had Firelocks and a House, and that they were acquainted with the Cappa’s, which was very pleasing to us. Because they were not to depart till two Days after, we resolv’d to stay for them.

Peculiar Custom. We observ’d, that there was a Difference between the Language of those People and the Inhabitants of the Village we were in, from that of the Cenis, and that they had some peculiar Ceremonies, one whereof is, that when the Women have their Terms, they leave the Company of their Husbands and withdraw into other Cottages appointed for that Purpose, which no Person is to come near, upon Pain of being reputed unclean.

July 1687 Ornaments of Women. Those Women have their Faces still more disfigur’d, than the others we had seen before; for they make several Streaks, or Scores on them, whereas the others had but one. They adorn themselves with little Locks of fine red Hair; which they make fast to their Ears in the Nature of Pendants. In other Respects they are not disagreeable, and neither Women nor Maids are so ill-natur’d as to make their Lovers pine for them. They are not difficult of Access, and they soon make a Return for a small Present.

The Men. The Men wear their Hair short, like our Capucins, they anoint it with a sort of Oyl, or Grease, and curl it like snails, after which they strew on it a Sort of Down, or Lint, died red, as we do Powder, which is done when they design to be very fine, in order to appear in their Assemblies. They are very fond of their Children, and all the Way of chastising them they use, is to throw Water at them, without ever beating or giving them ill Words.

The Indians that were of the Village of Cohainihoua[113] and to conduct us thither, not being ready to set out on Wednesday the 2d of July, as they had promis’d, a young Indian offer’d himself, saying, he would conduct us safe thither, and we set out with him, still directing our Course towards the N. E. We kept close along the same River we had cross’d, and found it very pleasant and navigable, the Banks of it cover’d with fine Trees of several Sorts.

We had not travell’d above a League, before our Guide gave us to understand, that he had forgot a Piece of hard dry’d Skin he had to make him Shoes, which he would go fetch and return to us, pointing to us with his Hand, which Way we were to go, and telling us we should soon come to a River.

This sudden Change in the Indian was somewhat surprizing and very much perplex’d us; however we held on our Way, and soon came to the River he had mention’d to us, which was very pleasant and deep. We cross’d it the next Day, on a Sort of Float, which we made with much Toil and Labour, and our Horses swam over. Some Time after we were passed, we saw the Indians coming, who had promised to bear us Company, and were glad to find our Float, to cross the same River, as they did, and proceeded on our Journey all together.

The 4th, 5th and 6th, we did the same, crossing a very fine Country, but water’d by many Brooks, Streams and Rivers.Plenty of Game. We found Abundance of wild Goats, Turkeys and other wild Fowl, whereof our Indians kill’d many.

On the 6th, whilst we halted on the Bank of a River to eat, we heard the Tingling of some small Bells; which making us look about, we spy’d an Indian with a naked Sword-Blade in his Hand, adorned with Feathers of several Colours, and two large Hawks Bells, that occasion’d the Noise we had heard.

He made Signs for us to come to him, and gave us to understand, that he was sent by the Elders of the Village, whither we were going, to meet us, caressing us after an extraordinary Manner. I observ’d that it was a Spanish Blade he had, and that he took Pleasure in ringing the Hawks Bells.

Kind Reception. Having travell’d about half a League with him, we discover’d a Dozen of other Indians coming towards us, who made very much of and conducted us the Village, to the Chief’s Cottage, where we found dry’d Bear-Skins laid on the Ground, and they made us sit on them, where we were treated with Eatables, as were the Elders after us, and a Throng of Women came to see us.

Presents. The 7th, the Elders came to give us a Visit, bringing us two Bullocks Hides, four Otters Skins, one white Wild-Goat’s Skin, all of them well dry’d, and 4 Bows, in Return for the Present we had before made them. The Chief and another came again some Time after, bringing two Loaves, the finest and the best we had yet seen. They look’d as if they had been bak’d in an Oven, and yet we had not observ’d, that there were Ovens among any of them. That Chief stay’d with us some Hours, he seem’d to be very ingenious and discreet, and easily understood our Signs, which were most of the Language we had. Having order’d a little Boy to bring us all we had Occasion for, he withdrew.

The Ceremony of the Pipe. Towards the Evening, we were entertain’d with a Ceremony we had not seen before. A Company of Elders, attended by some young Men and Women came to our Cottage in a Body, singing as loud as they could roar. The foremost of them had a Calumet, so they call a very long Sort of Tabacco Pipe, adorn’d with several Sorts of Feathers. When they had sung a while, before our Cottage, they enter’d it, still singing on, for about a Quarter of an Hour. After that, they took Monsieur Cavelier the Priest, as being our Chief, led him in solemn Manner out of the Cottage, supporting him under the Arms. When they were come to a Place they had prepared, one of them laid a great Handful of Grass under his feet, two others brought fair Water in an Earthen Dish, with which they wash’d his Face, and then made him sit down on a Skin, provided for that Purpose.

When Monsieur Cavelier was seated, the Elders took their Places, sitting round about him, and the Master of the Ceremonies fix’d in the Ground two little wooden Forks, and having laid a Stick across them, all being painted red, he placed on them a Bullock’s Hide, dryed, a Goat’s Skin over that, and then laid the Pipe thereon.

The Song was begun again, the Women mixing in the Chorus, and the Concert was heightned by great hollow Calabashes or Gourds, in which there were large Gravel Stones, to make a Noise, the Indians striking on them by Measure, to answer the Tone of the Choir; and the pleasantest of all was, that one of the Indians plac’d himself behind Monsieur Cavelier to hold him up, whilst at the same Time he shook and dandled him from Side to Side, the Motion answering to the Musick.

That Concert was scarce ended, when the Master of the Ceremonies brought two Maids, the one having in her Hand a Sort of Collar, and the other an Otter’s Skin, which they plac’d on the wooden Forks abovemention’d, at the Ends of the Pipe. Then he made them sit down, on each Side of Monsieur Cavelier, in such a Posture, that they look’d one upon the other, their Legs extended and intermix’d, on which the same Master of the Ceremonies laid Monsieur Cavelier’s Legs, in such Manner, that they lay uppermost and across those of the two Maids.

Whilst this Action was performing, one of the Elders made fast a dy’d Feather to the back Part of Monsieur Cavelier’s Head, tying it to his Hair. The Singing still continu’d all that Time, so that Monsieur Cavelier grown weary of its Tediousness, and asham’d to see himself in that Posture between two Maids, without knowing to what Purpose, made Signs to us to signify the same to the Chief, and having given him to understand, that he was not well, two of the Indians immediately took hold of him under the Arms, conducted him back to the Cottage and made Signs to him to take his Rest. This was about Nine in the Evening, and the Indians spent all the Night in Singing, insomuch that some of them could hold out no longer.

In the Morning they return’d to Monsieur Cavelier, conducted him again out of the Cottage, with the same Ceremony and made him sit down, still singing on. Then the Master of the Ceremonies took the Pipe, which he fill’d with Tabacco, lighted and offered it to Monsieur Cavelier, but drawing back and advancing six Times before he gave it him. Having at last put it into his Hands, Monsieur Cavelier made as if he had smok’d and return’d it to them. Then they made us all smoke round, and every one of them whiff’d in his Turn, the Musick still continuing.

About Nine in the Morning, the Sun growing very hot, and Monsieur Cavelier being bare Headed, made Signs that it did him Harm. Then at last they gave over singing, and conducted him back into the Cottage, took the Pipe, put it into a Case, made of a Wild-Goat’s Skin, with the two wooden Forks and the red Stick that lay across them, all which one of the Elders offer’d to Monsieur Cavelier, assuring him that he might pass thro’ all the Nations that were ally’d to them by Virtue of that Token of Peace, and should be every where well receiv’d.Cahaynohoua Nation. This was the first Place where we saw the Calumet, or Pipe of Peace, having no Knowledge of it before, as some have writ. This Nation is call’d Cahaynohoua.

Indians expect Presents. This Sort of Ceremonies being never perform’d among the Indians without the Expectation of receiving some Present, and we having besides observ’d, that some of them had withdrawn themselves, with Tokens of Dissatisfaction, perhaps because we had interrupted their Ceremony, we thought it convenient to give them something more, and I was appointed to carry them an Ax, four Knives and some Strings of Beads, with which they were satisfied.

We afterwards shew’d them an Experiment of our Arms, the Noise and Fire whereof frighted them. They earnestly press’d us to stay with them, offering us Wives and whatsoever else we should want. To be the better quit of them, we promis’d to return, saying we were going to fetch Commodities, Arms and Tools, which we stood in Need of, that we might afterwards stay with them.

The 9th and 10th were spent in Visits, and we were inform’d by one of the Indians that we were not far from a great River, which he describ’d with a Stick on the Sand, and shew’d it had two Branches, at the same Time pronouncing the word Cappa, which, as I have said, is a Nation near the Missisipi. We then made no longer Question, that we were near what we had been so long looking after. We entreated the Elders to appoint some men to conduct us, promising to reward them well, which they granted, and we set out the 11th, to the great Sorrow of those good People, who had entertain’d us so courteously.

The Journey prosecuted. We travell’d several different Ways, which we could never have found, had we wanted Guides, and so proceeded till on the 12th, one of our Guides pretended to be sick, and made Signs that he would go back; but observing, that we seem’d to be no Way concern’d, which we did on Purpose, he consulted with his Companion, and then came to tell us, he was recover’d. We made him eat and smoke, and continued our Journey the 13th, finding the Way very bad and difficult.

The 14th, our Indians, having seen the Track of Bullocks, signify’d they would go kill some, to eat the Flesh, which made us halt for two or three Hours. Whilst we stay’d for our Hunters, we prepar’d some Sagamite, or their Sort of Hasty-Pudding. They return’d loaded with Flesh, Part whereof we dress’d, and eat it with very good Stomachs. Then we proceeded on our Journey till the 18th, and by the Way kill’d three Bullocks and two Cows, which oblig’d us to halt, that we might use of our Flesh, drying it.

The Night between the 19th and the 20th, one of our Horses breaking loose, was either taken away by the Natives, or lost in the Woods. That did not obstruct our Departure, tho’ the Loss was grievous to us, and we held on our Way till the 24th, when we met a Company of Indians, with Axes, going to fetch Barks of Trees, to cover their Cottages.Indians with Axes. They were surpriz’d to see us, but having made Signs to them to draw near, they came, caress’d and presented us with some Water Melons they had. They put off their Design of going to fetch Bark till another Time, and went along with us, and one of our Guides having gone before in the Morning to give Notice of our coming at the next Village, met with other Parcels of Indians, who were coming to meet us, and express’d extraordinary Kindness.

We halted in one of their Cottages, which they call Desert, because they are in the Midst of their Fields and Gardens. There we found several Women who had brought Bread, Gourds, Beans and Water Melons, a Sort of Fruit proper to quench Thirst, the Pulp of it being no better than Water.

We set out again to come to the Village, and by the Way, met with very pleasant Woods, in which, there were Abundance of stately Cedars. Being come to a River, that was between us and the Village, and looking over to the further Side, we discover’d a great Cross,A Cross by a River and a French built House. and at a small Distance from it, a House, built after the French Fashion.

It is easy to imagine what inward Joy we conceiv’d at the Sight of that Emblem of our Salvation. We knelt down, lifting up our Hands and Eyes to Heaven, to return Thanks to the Divine Goodness, for having conducted us so happily; for we made no Question of finding French on the other Side of the River, and of their being Catholicks, since they had Crosses.

In short, having halted some Time on the Bank of that River, we spy’d several Canoes making towards us, and two Men cloath’d, coming out of the House we had discover’d, who, the Moment they saw us, fir’d each of them a Shot to salute us. An Indian being Chief of the Village, who was with them, had done so before, and we were not backward in returning their Salute, by discharging all our Pieces.

When we had pass’d the River, and were all come together, we soon knew each other to be French Men.Dwelling of French. Those we found were the Sieurs Couture Charpantier and de Launay, both of them of Roan, whom Monsieur de Tonty, Governor of Fort St. Lewis among the Islinois, had left at that Post, when he went down the Missisipi to look after Monsr. de la Sale; and the Nation we were then with, was call’d Accancea.

It is hard to express the Joy conceiv’d on both Sides; ours was unspeakable, for having at last found, what we had so earnestly desired, and that the Hopes of returning to our dear Country, was in some Measure assured by that happy Discovery.The Travellers come to the French Habitation. The others were pleased to see such Persons as might bring them News of that Commander, from whom they expected the Performance of what he had promis’d them; but the Account we gave them of Monsr. de la Sale’s unfortunate Death, was so afflicting, that it drew Tears from them, and the dismal History of his Troubles and Disasters render’d them almost inconsolable.

We were conducted to the House, whither all our Baggage was honestly carry’d by the Indians. There was a very great Throng of those People, both Men and Women, which being over, we came to the Relation of the particular Circumstances of our Stories. Ours was deliver’d by Monsieur Cavelier, whom we honour’d as our Chief, for being Brother to him, who had been so.

Who the Frenchmen were.We were inform’d by them, that they had been Six, sent by Monsr. Tonty, when he return’d from the Voyage he had made down the Colbert or Missisipi River, pursuant to the Orders sent him by the late Monsr. de la Sale, at his Departure from France, and that the said Sieur Tonty had commanded them to build the aforesaid House. That having never since receiv’d any News from the said Monsr. de la Sale, Four of them were gone back to Monsr. Tonty, at the Fort of the Islinois.

In Conclusion, it was agreed among us, to go away as soon as possible, towards the Islinois, and conceal from the Indians, the Death of Monsieur de la Sale, to keep them still in Awe and under Submission, whilst we went away with the first Ships that should happen to sail from Canada for France, to give an Account at Court of what had happen’d, and to procure Succours. In the mean Time, the Chief of the Indians came to invite us to eat. We found Mats laid on the Ground for us to sit on, and all the Village met to see us.

We gave them to understand, that we came from Monsieur de la Sale, who had made a Settlement on the Bay of Mexico; that we had pass’d thro’ many Nations, which we nam’d, and that we were going to Canada for Commodities, and would return down the River; that we would bring MenKind Indians. to defend them against their Enemies and then settle among them; that the Nations we had pass’d through had appointed Men to guide us, and we desired the same Favour of them, with some Canoes and Provisions, and that we would reward our Guides and pay for what they furnish’d us.

The Conveniency of an Interpreter, we then had, gave us the Opportunity of making ourselves be easily understood, and the Chief answer’d to our Proposals, that he would send Men to the other Villages to acquaint them with our Demands, and to consult with them what was to be done in that Case; that as for the rest, they were amaz’d at our having pass’d thro’ so many Nations, without having been detain’d, or kill’d, considering what a small Number we were.

When the Discourse was ended, that Chief caus’d Meat to be set before us, as dry’d Flesh, Bread made of Indian Corn of several Sorts, and Water Melons; after which he made us smoke, and then we return’d to our House, where being eas’d of all those Impediments, we gave each other an Account of our Affairs, at Leisure, and were inform’d, that those People impatiently expected[114] the Return of Monsieur de la Sale, which confirm’d us in the Resolution of concealing his Death. We observ’d the Situation of that Post, and were made acquainted with the Nature of the Country and the Manners of those People, of which I shall give the following Remarks.

French House among the Acconcea’s describ’d. The House we were then in, was built of Pieces of Cedar laid one upon another, and rounded away at the Corners; its roof is of bark. It is seated on a small Eminency, half a Musket-shot from the Village, in a Country abounding in all Things. The Plains lying on one Side of it, are stor’d with Beeves, wild Goats, Deer, Turkeys, Bustards, Swans, Ducks, Teal and other Game.

Product of the Country. The Trees produce plenty of Fruit, and very good, as Peaches, Plumbs, Mulberries, Grapes, and Wallnuts. They have a Sort of Fruit they call Piaguimina, not unlike our Medlars, but much better and more delicious. Such as live near the Rivers, as that House is, do not want for Fish of all Sorts, and they have Indian Wheat, whereof they make good Bread. There are also fine Plains diversify’d with several Sorts of Trees, as I have said before.

The Nation of the Accancea’s consists of four Villages. The first is call’d Otsotchove,Nation of the Accancea’s. near which we were; the second Toriman, both of them seated on the River; the third Tonginga; and the fourth Cappa, on the Bank of the Missisipi. These Villages are built after a different Manner from the others we had seen before, in this Point, that the Cottages, which are alike as to their Materials and Rounding at the Top, are long, and cover’d with the Bark of Trees, and so very large, that several of them can hold two hundred Persons, belonging to several Families.

Household Stuff. The people are not so neat as the Cenis, or the Assonis in their Houses, for some of them lie on the Ground, without any Thing under them but some Mats, or a dress’d Hide. However, some of them have more Conveniencies, but the Generality has not.[115] All their Moveables consist in some Earthen Vessels and oval wooden Platters, which are neatly made, and with which they drive a Trade.

Shape. They are generally very well shap’d and active; the Women are handsome, or at least have a much better Presence than those of the other Villages we pass’d thro’ before. They make Canoes all of one Piece, which are well wrought. As for themselves they are very faithful, good natur’d, and Warriors like the rest.

The Ceremony of the Pipe perform’d to M. Cavelier. The 25th, the Elders being assembled, came to see us, and told the Sieur Couture, that they design’d to sing and dance the Calumet, or Pipe; because the others had sung it, some of them to the late Monsieur de la Sale, and the rest to Monsieur Tonty, and therefore it was but reasonable they should do the same to get a Firelock, as well as the others. Monsieur Cavelier was inform’d of it, and it was requisite to consent to it, to please those Indians, because we stood in need of them.

Ceremony of the Pipe. The Ceremony began with Monsieur Cavelier, who was led under the Arms and seated on a Hide, without the Cottage. The Forks, the Skins laid on it in Honour of the Pipe, the Singing as loud as they cou’d roar, both by Men and Women, and all the other Ceremonies were observ’d, as I have mention’d them before; so that Monsieur Cavelier being weary of them, he caus’d the Chief to be told, that he was out of Order, and desir’d his Nephew might be put in his Place, which was done accordingly, and they spent the whole Night in Singing. In the Morning they perform’d some other Ceremonies, not worth relating.

The Solemnity being ended, by every Man’s smoking of the Pipe, the Indians took it, with some Bullocks Hides, and Goats and Otters Skins, and a Collar made of Shells, all which they carry’d to our House, and we gave them a Firelock, two Axes, six Knives, one hundred Charges of Powder, as much Ball, and some Strings of Beads for their Wives. The Chief having given Notice of our coming to the other Villages, their Deputies came to see us; we entertain’d them in the House, and propos’d to them our Designs, as had been done to the Chief. They stood considering a While, then held a Sort of Consultation among themselves, which held not long without talking, and then agreed to grant us what we ask’d, which was a Canoe and a Man of each Village to conduct us, upon the promis’d Consideration, and so they went away to the Cottage of the Chief of the Village.

The 27th, the Chief and the Elders met again to consult about what we demanded of them; the Length of the Journey made them apprehensive for those, who were to conduct us; but, at Length, we having dispell’d their Fears by our Arguments, and they having again deliberated some Time, agreed to our Request. We again made them a Present, promising a good Reward to our Guides, and so we prepar’d to set forwards. Little Bartholomew the Parisian, having intimated to us, that he would willingly stay in that House, because he was none of the ablest of Body, we recommended him to the Sieur Couture. We desir’d those that remain’d there, to keep the Secret of Monsr. de la Sale’s Death, promis’d to send them Relief, left them our Horses, which were of great Use to go a Hunting, and gave them fifteen or sixteen Pounds of Powder, eight hundred Balls, three hundred Flints, twenty-six Knives, and ten Axes, two or three Pounds Weight of Beads; Monsr. Cavelier left them Part of his Linen, hoping we should soon be in a Place where we should get more; and all of them having made their Peace with God,The Journey continued. by Means of the Sacrament of Penance, we took Leave of them, excepting the Sieur Couture, who went to conduct us Part of the Way.

We imbark’d on a Canoe belonging to one of the Chiefs, being at least twenty Persons, as well Women as Men, and arriv’d safe, without any Trouble, at a Village call’d Toriman,Toriman Village. for we were going down the River. We were well received in the Chief’s wigwam, and were treated as we had been when among the others. We propos’d it to these People, or rather demanded it of them to confirm what had been granted us by the others, and they deferr’d giving us their Answer till the next Day; for they do Nothing without consulting about it, and we having brought a Sack of Indian Wheat, from the French Mens House, desir’d the Chief to cause Women to pound it, for which we would give ’em Something. Immediately he made a Sign to his Officers to go call them, and they went as readily.

Officers.There were seven or eight of those Officers always about him, stark naked and besmear’d, some after one Fashion, and others after another. Each of them had three or four Calabashes or Gourds, hanging at a Leather Girdle about their Wastes, in which there were several Pebbles, and behind them hung a Horse’s Tail, so that when they ran, the Gourds made a ratling Noise, and the Tail being born up by the Wind, stood out at its full Length, so that Nothing could be seen more ridiculous; but it behooved us to take Heed of shewing the least Smile.

The River Missisipi found at last. The remaining Part of the Day was spent in going with the Sieur Couture to see the fatal River so much sought after by us, called Colbert, when first discover’d, and Missisipi, or, Mechasipi by the Natives that were near us. It is a very fine River and deep, the Breadth of it about a Quarter of a League, and the Stream very rapid. The Sieur Couture assur’d us, that it has two Branches or Channels, which parted from each other above us, and that we had pass’d its other Branch, when we came to the first Village of the Accancea’s, with which Nation we still were.

The 28th, the Chief and the Elders being assembled, they granted our Requests. We were to part, in order to be entertain’d in several Places, where we took Notice of some particular Ceremonies,Particular Ceremonies. which we had not seen among the other Nations. One of them is, that they serve up their Meat in two or four large Dishes, which are first set down before the two principal Guests, who are at one End, and when they have eaten a little, those Dishes are shov’d down lower and others are served up in their Place, in the same Manner; so that the first Dishes are serv’d at the upper End and thrust down lower as others come in.

He who treats, does not sit down with the Company, nor does he eat, but performs the Part of a Steward, taking Care of the Dressing and of the Placing of the Meat serv’d up; and to the End he may appear the finer, he never fails to besmear himself with Clay, or some red or black Colouring they make use of.

The 29th, we set out from that Village, and imbark’d on two Canoes to cross the Missisipi.Tonningua Village. The Chief and about a Score of young Folks bore us Company to the next Village call’d Tonningua, seated on the Bank of that River, where we were receiv’d in the Chief’s Cottage, as we had been in the others. The Elders treated us in their Turns, and the Descriptions before given will serve for this Place, there being but little Difference between them and their Neighbours.

Cappa Village. The 30th, we set out for Cappa, the last Village of the Accancea’s, eight Leagues distant from the Place we had left. We were obliged to cross the River Missisipi several Times in this Way; because it winds very much, and we had some foul Weather, which made it late before we could reach Cappa. A great Number of Youth came to meet us, some of them conducted us to the Chief’s Cottage, and others took Care of our Baggage, which was restor’d to us very honestly. We found the Elders waiting for us; a great Fire was kindled to dry us, and the Cottage was lighted by several burning Reeds,[116] which they make use of instead of Flambeaus; after which we were serv’d as in other Places.

The 31st, we receiv’d Visits from the Elders. Their Discourse ran upon the War they design’d to make, thinking to ingage us in it, and we return’d the same Answer as we had done to the others, that we would soon return with all Things we stood in Need of. We ask’d a Man of them, which was granted, and the Day ended in Feasting.