saw a large
band of savages in the distance. Their attitude was somewhat menacing.
When they caught sight of the little cluster of strangers, they
separated into two parties, and advanced on the right and left, as if
to surround them. When the two bands had come within musket-shot, La
Salle ordered a halt. The savages halted also. For a few moments they
attentively regarded each other, no movement being made on either side.

Then La Salle, laying aside his arms, walked slowly forward toward the
party where the head chief seemed to be, making signs for the chief to
come and meet him. The chief was a tall man of powerful frame, and
richly decorated. He came cautiously forward, while the rest of his
party followed slowly at a little distance behind. As soon as it was
seen that the two chiefs met cordially, all came running together in
the interchange of caresses and every mark of friendly greeting.

Fires were built, food was cooked, pipes were smoked. There was
feasting and dancing and shouting. It was a marvellous spectacle which
was then and there presented of semi-civilized and full barbarian
jollification.

The savages were evidently delighted with their reception. They
examined their presents with astonishment. With unfeigned joy they
learned that La Salle intended to return and settle in their country;
and that he would bring an abundance of his treasures, which he would
exchange with them for such articles as they had to part with. It was
now the hour of evening twilight. The two parties separated, each going
its own way. About a mile and a half in advance, there was a beautiful
grove and a running stream. La Salle encamped there. With his customary
prudence he threw up intrenchments, and established sentinels as if he
were in the enemy's country.

They had but just established their camp, when they saw six savages
approaching, following each other in single file. They came forward
without any hesitation, as if visiting old friends. By signs they said
that they had heard of the kind treatment their fellow countrymen had
met with, and that they were brothers, not enemies. After a short and
pleasant visit they retired, and the camp was left to undisturbed
repose.

In the morning, at an early hour, the march was resumed. There was
before them a stream too deep to be forded. Not wishing to lose time in
constructing a raft, they followed up the west bank of the stream for
several miles. Their route led through an