to mischief – by making him a respectable character they gain his confidence and friendship, while he keeps the rest in awe[.] Their Government resembles that of the Patriarchs of old, each family making a distinct community, and their Elders have only the right of advising but not of dictating[.] [H]owever in affairs of consequence the Old men of the whole camp assemble, and deliberate on the subjects which have caused their meeting; when once assembled the principal Calumet is brought out, which they pass round as they are seated circularly, not forgetting his holiness in the medicine Bag who is looked upon as supreme of the party; during this time all is quietness; as the Women and children have been previously turned out; at last after few groans and pious ejaculations from the Old men, which are answered by the young with great readiness, all this ceremony being done, Quaker like, the spirit moves one of the Elders who gets up and makes a long harangue. This young men are permitted to be of the council and even frequently interfere in their debates; which they do with with great asperity particularly when they regard the Europeans or the neighbouring nations of whom they

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