Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1888 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XXI. Departure of Otoes for the Hunting-Grounds, and our Departure for the Pawnee Villages. EVERAL days had elapsed, and the growing coldness of the weather warned us that it was time for the expedition to be on its move towards the Pawnee villages. The Otoes had consumed their supply of provisions, and were preparing to leave their town for the hunting-grounds. The Iotan offered to accompany us, with about twenty of his principal warriors, that he might exert his influence with the Pawnees, to prevent any hostility towards us. Although the chief of a different and but a small tribe, still his influence with these wild hordes was equal to that of any of their own leaders. His desperate courage had rendered him popular with the chiefs and older warriors, and his sociable manners, though tinged with a dash of grimness, had made him a favorite with the less distinguished of the nation. In addition to this, the reputation of the Otoe tribe for courage and pre-eminent skill with the rifle gave great consequence to their chieftain. For this reason the offer of the Iotan was gladly acceded to, and our preparations for departure were forthwith commenced. In the meantime a change took place in the village. Every family was making ready for its departure to the distant haunts of the buffalo. Large droves of horses were driven in from their feeding-grounds, and the town rang with noises of all descriptions. Squaws were scolding; children squalling; papooses, too young to shift for themselves, like so many little mummies, were suspended in baskets round the inside of the lodges, where they would be out of harm's way, while their mothers were engaged in packing up. The dogs had probably learned from painful experience that this was one of the...
