They accustomed themselves to make long fasts, so that they might become light-headed and see visions, or hear spirit voices in a trance.

To prepare their minds for this state they would go four or five days without food, and even abstain from drinking.
Undoubtedly their "medicine men" developed great mesmeric powers, and this force, combined with rather clumsy juggling and ventriloquism, enabled them to perform a semblance of "miracles".

The Iroquois offered much opposition to Christianity, thinking it would tame their warriors too quickly and affect their national independence; but by the greater part of the Amerindians the message of the Gospel brought by the French priests was eagerly received, and the converts became many and most sincere.

Their reverence for the missionaries and belief in them was increased when they saw how effectually they were able to protect them from too-rapacious white adventurers, fierce soldiers, and unscrupulous traders.
The Miamis of Lake Michigan held the symbol of the cross in great respect.

A young Frenchman who was trading with them got into a passion and drew his sword to avenge himself for a theft committed on his goods.