g past events. Lieutenant Tonti had
stationed six men at that post. They were to remain there until they
should receive tidings of La Salle's landing at the mouth of the
Mississippi. As the months passed away, and they heard nothing of his
expedition, four of the party went to fort St. Louis on the Illinois
River, leaving but two behind. It was decided that it was best to
conceal the death of La Salle until it could be communicated by his
brother, Chevalier, to the court in France. In the meantime the
impression was to be left that he was still superintending the affairs
of the settlement at the bay of St. Louis.

At a little distance from the log-cabin of the French there was quite a
group of Indian wigwams. The chief soon came and invited the newly
arrived strangers to dine with him and his chief men. Mats were spread
in the large cabin of the chief, and an ample feast provided. At the
close of the entertainment M. Cavalier addressed them, in substance as
follows:

"We accompanied the Chevalier La Salle from France, to establish a
settlement at the mouth of the Mississippi River. We left our colony on
the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and are on our way to Canada. We have
passed through the territories of very many tribes, who have all
treated us in the kindest manner. It is our intention to return from
Canada to the mouth of the river, with a large supply of merchandise.
The people, through whose countries we have passed, have furnished us
with guides. We ask the same favor of you, with canoes to ascend the
river, and with a supply of food. The guides shall be well rewarded,
and we will pay you for all the supplies with which you may furnish
us."

All this was very easily said, through an interpreter. The chief
expressed his surprise that they could have passed through so many
tribes without having been either killed or robbed. He said that he
would immediately send couriers to the other villages of his tribe, to
inform them of the wishes of the Frenchmen and to decide what could be
done to aid them in their object.

M. Joutel gives a very alluring account of the situation and structure
of this village. It was delightfully situated on an elevated plain
commanding an extensive view of the river and of the adjacent country.
The wigwams were substantially built, presenting very comfortable
interiors. The region around was almost crowded with buffaloes, deer,
antelopes, and a vast variety of prairie and water-fowls.