ms of the
Kaskaskias, on the slopes of a pine-covered hill. The camp as we drew
near did not present a very attractive appearance. The wigwams were
such as are only used in summer--a few poles, covered with buffalo
hides, or deer skins, more to afford shelter from the heat of the sun,
or from a downfall of rain, than protection from the cold. A number of
squaws were seated about, some inside the tents nursing papooses, others
tending large pots of broth boiling over fires. A few braves were
standing about, and others looking after the horses of the tribe, which
they had apparently just driven in from pasture; while a pack of dogs,
the most ill-favoured of mongrels ever seen, were squatted about,
watching for the offal which might be thrown to them, or ready to rush
in and seize any of the meat which might for a moment be left unguarded.

The women continued at their various employments, but the braves, as we
approached, advanced to meet us. The chief halted and addressed them,
but I could not follow him. I judged, however, by the intonations of
his voice, that he was telling them of his defeat, and the loss of so
many of their people. Meantime, I was looking about eagerly for signs
of Clarice, Uncle Jeff, and Manley, but nowhere could I see any. Still,
I knew it would be contrary to Indian etiquette to interrupt the chief
by inquiring for them.

On hearing of the various disasters which had occurred, the men showed
but little emotion. The chief, I observed, now pointed to his prisoner,
by which I feared the worst for poor Piomingo.

As soon as I could venture to address the braves, I inquired for Clarice
and the officer; and great was my dismay to find that they had not
arrived at the camp, nor had Uncle Jeff appeared.

The chief now asked for his daughter.

Maysotta had gone out hunting with her favourite dog Keokuk. There was
no danger of any harm befalling her while she had so good an attendant,
as Keokuk knew when a foe was within a mile or so, and would give her
ample warning; as he would were deer, buffalo, bears, or wolves within
the same distance.

The chief, seeing my disappointment, endeavoured to console me by saying
that perhaps my friends had missed the camp altogether, and had gone on,
and that probably we should soon hear of them; a party of his braves
were still out on an expedition, and they perhaps had fallen in with
Clarice or Uncle Jeff.

No news was received during the night, but,