Eager to come to a conference, and
yet afraid of giving offence, we advanced with caution towards them,
nor would they, at first approach nearer to us than the distance of
some paces. Both parties were armed; yet an attack seemed as unlikely on
their part, as we knew it to be on our own.
I had at this time a little boy, of not more than seven years of age, in
my hand. The child seemed to attract their attention very much, for they
frequently pointed to him and spoke to each other; and as he was not
frightened, I advanced with him towards them, at the same time baring
his bosom and, shewing the whiteness of the skin. On the cloaths being
removed, they gave a loud exclamation, and one of the party, an old man,
with a long beard, hideously ugly, came close to us. I bade my little
charge not to be afraid, and introduced him to the acquaintance of this
uncouth personage. The Indian, with great gentleness, laid his hand on
the child's hat, and afterwards felt his cloaths, muttering to himself
all the while. I found it necessary, however, by this time to send away
the child, as such a close connection rather alarmed him; and in this,
as the conclusion verified, I gave no offence to the old gentleman.
Pages:
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58