been conferred upon old Chankpee-yuhah,
or "Keeps the Club," while every other man of his profession was
disappointed. He was a powerful man physically, who had apparently won
the confidence of the people by his fine personal appearance and by
working upon superstitious minds.

Towards evening he appeared in the circle, leading by the hand a boy
about four years old. Closely the little fellow observed every motion
of the man; nothing escaped his vigilant black eyes, which seemed
constantly to grow brighter and larger, while his exuberant glossy black
hair was plaited and wound around his head like that of a Celestial. He
wore a bit of swan's down in each ear, which formed a striking contrast
with the child's complexion. Further than this, the boy was painted
according to the fashion of the age. He held in his hands a miniature
bow and arrows.

The medicine man drew himself up in an admirable attitude, and proceeded
to make his short speech:

"Wahpetonwans, you boast that you run down the elk; you can outrun the
Ojibways. Before you all, I dedicate to you this red ball. Kaposias, you
claim that no one has a lighter foot than you; you declare that you can
endure running a whole day without water. To you I dedicate this black
ball. Either you or the Leaf-Dwellers will have to drop your eyes and
bow your head when the game is over. I wish to announce that if the
Wahpetonwans should win, this little warrior shall bear the name Ohiyesa
(winner) through life; but if the Light Lodges should win, let the name
be given to any child appointed by them."

The ground selected for the great final game was on a narrow strip of
land between a lake and the river. It was about three quarters of a mile
long and a quarter of a mile in width. The spectators had already ranged
themselves all along the two sides, as well as at the two ends, which
were somewhat higher than the middle. The soldiers appointed to keep
order furnished much of the entertainment of the day. They painted
artistically and tastefully, according to the Indian fashion, not only
their bodies but also their ponies and clubs. They were so strict in
enforcing the laws that no one could venture with safety within a few
feet of the limits of the field.

Now all of the minor events and feasts, occupying several days' time,
had been observed. Heralds on ponies' backs announced that all who
intended to participate in the final game were requested to repair to
the ground; als