most formidable enemies of the Blackfeet, and continually encroaches upon the territory of its adversaries. The preceding year they carried off more than 6oo horses. The actual [presents limit of the country they traverse extends from the bases of the Rocky Mountains, between the Wvo forks of the Saskatchewan, some distance beyond the Red river. Their turbulent and warlike spirit and rapacity for plunder, especially for horses, are among the great obstacles hick retard the conversion of the larger portion of this
e example of their brethren, who listen with docility the exhortations of their zealous and indefatigable missionary will, we trust, produce fruit in due time and be imitated by the entire nation.
To give you an idea of their military discipline, and o: the profound superstition in which these unfortunate people are still immersed, I will relate to you some of their proceedings.
The Creel were meditating a deadly stroke upon the Blackfeet, and for this purpose they collected all their ready forces, amounting to more than goo warriors. Before seting out in quest of the enemy, every species of juggling and witchcraft imaginable was resorted to in order to secure
success of the expedition. It was decided that a young girl, with a bandage over her eyes, should be placed at the head of the Indian army, and thus blindfold serve as a guide to the combatants. In case of success the heroine was tined to become the bride of the most valiant. According to the oracle, none but the great chief himself had the privilege of shoeing or unshoeing her.
This concluded, they began their march, intoxicated with confidence and presumption, following this extraordinary guide over hills and valleys, ravines, marshes and swamps. One day she would direct her steps toward the north, the next to the south or west - the point of the compass matteted nought -the manhole of war was supposed to guide her, and (Jay after day the infatuated Creel continued to