Saddles[.] Most of the men had none[.] There were a great many horses for the baggage and the whole exceeding Two thousand covered a large space of ground and had the appearance of an army[.] They halted on a rising ground behind the Village – formed into a circle – the Chief addressed them[.] They then descended full speed – rode through the Village exhibiting their dexterity in horsemanship in a thousand shapes[.] I was astonished to see their agility and address and I do beleive they are the best riders in the world[.] They were dressed in leather and looked clean and neat[.] Some wore beads and rings as Ornaments[.] Their arms were Bows & arrows – Lances, and round Stones enclosed in leather & slung to a shank in the form of a whip[.] They make use of Shields and they have a few guns[.]

On the following day the Mississouri Indians dressed in their best fineries returned the compliment by a similar Exhibition[.] These having the advantage of residing in the Vicinity of Trading Establishments were better provided with necessaries and consequently had a more warlike appearance but they were inferior in the management of their horses.

In

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