N^o 4

When the Corbeau tribe were upon the eve of their departure Le Borgne sent word to M^r La Rocque to make ready and join them[.] And M^r La Rocque immediately set about arranging his matters for the Journey which the Gros ventres perceiving they crowded into our quarters and threatened M^r La Rocque with the effect of their displeasure if he persisted in his design[.] At this moment the great Chief entered with a battle axe in his hand[.] He stared around him and with an imperious air asked the Indians present why so many of them were assembled there[.] They answered that they were there only to take their last farewell of the White men whom they never expected to see again. "Why," said the Chief with a sneer,– ["]If the White people have a mind to die that is nothing to us[.] You have often enough warned them of the danger. Yet they will go on." The Indians in a moment sneaked out of the way – and we accompanied the Chief to the Corbeaux's Camp M^r La Rocque leading his horse by the bridle[.] When we entered the Camp of the Corbeauxs many of the tribe signified their disapprobation of M^r La Rocques intention and we could hear them exclaim "Where are You going White people. Return – go home to Your friends. We do not wish for Your Company. Many of our Young men are without sense; and We are afraid."

Their unfavorable appearances had no effect upon M^r La Rocque[s] resolution[.] But one of the men who was to have been of the party thought he found himself indisposed and applied for leave to remain with me[.] "I see plainly your sickness" 'said M^r La R' you are an old woman – You may therefore remain[.]" This unexpected discovery of the fellows weakness threw him into a violent passion and he was very abusive[.] However M^r La R. and took no notice of this conduct – for he could not punish so much insolence before so many strange Indians without injurying to some of our engagements[.]

The principal men of the Corbeau tribe having by this

time

[7]