Wabashaw's village is sometimes called Keusca.

This word signifies to break through, or set aside; it was given in consequence of an incident which occurred some time ago, in the village.
"Sacred Wind" was a daughter of one of the most powerful families among the Dahcotahs; for although a chief lives as the meanest of his band, still there is a great difference among the families.

The number of a family constitutes its importance; where a family is small, a member of it can be injured with little fear of retaliation; but in a large family there are sure to be found some who will not let an insult pass without revenge.

Sacred Wind's father was living; a stalwart old warrior, slightly bent with the weight of years.

Though his face was literally seamed with wrinkles, he could endure fatigue, or face danger, with the youngest and hardiest of the band.
Her mother, a fearfully ugly old creature, still mended mocassins and scolded; bidding fair to keep up both trades for years to come.