thing we do at such a long distance from our village as he resides[.] Is he a Spirit? Is he taller than the Hills? He must be like a Mountain and have eyes like the sun – he must be clothed dressed in scarlet – he has plenty of scarlet cloth – he gives scarlet cloth for Beaver – he must be dressed in scarlet cloth himself[.]" I was at a loss how to take this observation[.] I could not discern whether it was meant in Joke or in earnest[.] However the chief immediately after gave me a Young man to assist me in the journey[.] I took three of the Companys horses – one for myself one for my Young man and one loaded for the goods. Next morning at dawn I joined the Rattle Snake (for that was the name of the Young war chief) and his party at the next village[.] Passing through the village I could hear the Indians say among themselves that I had no sense – the women in particular seemed greatly concerned in my welfare; and they told me repeatedly I should never return[.]

When we assembled and were out of the village our party consisted of the Rattle Snake twelve young Scamps of his tribe ten Shayanns and some of the Mandanes; […] were in all about forty[.] Among the Mandanes was a M^r Jissaume who informed me that he was going to the Shayannes En pipe and that he was sure of being well received[.] For said he the Shayannes do not Know how to trade: therefore if You wish for success, You must follow my example. I told him no;– that I would trade regularly, or keep my property, and leave nothing to chance.

At night the Rattle Snake and his Young men were rather down in the mouth – and began to question me about my intentions – and the manner I was disposed to act in case of an attack from an enemy[.] They asked me for ammunition[.] This demand I would not satisfy for the moment – but assured them

that

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