The largest, which we entered, belonged to the Chief, who was absent, but came in on learning our arrival.

The old man (about sixty) welcomed us with a hearty shake of the hand, and the customary salutation of "What cheer!" an expression which they have gained from the traders.

As we had been expected, they had caused the tent to be neatly arranged, fresh grass was spread on the ground, buffalo robes were placed on the side opposite the door for us to sit on, and a kettle was on the fire to boil meat for us.
After a few minutes' conversation, an invitation was given to the Chief and his hunters to smoke the calumet with us, as a token of our friendship: this was loudly announced through the camp, and ten men from the other tents immediately joined our party.

On their entrance the women and children withdrew, their presence on such occasions being contrary to etiquette.

The calumet having been prepared and lighted by Mr.Prudens's clerk, was presented to the Chief, who performed the following ceremony before he commenced smoking:--He first pointed the stem to the south, then to the west, north, and east, and afterwards to the heavens, the earth, and the fire, as an offering to the presiding spirits:--he took three whiffs only, and then passed the pipe to his next companion, who took the same number of whiffs, and so did each person as it went round.