whose turbulent humor has only been repressed by the example of the Flatheads. At this second separation, the Flatheads evince the same affection for us as at the first. Their chiefs are the last to leave the camp, that everything may go off amicably and in order. That evening, the Blackfeet gather around our fire and we all busy ourselves in
composing a chant. The subject of this composition is the consecration of their persons to him who has alone given being to all that exists.
Here is the first strophe and the refrain, which will serve at the same time as a sample of their language.
Sept. 17th. Nothing very'noteworthy happened. After dinner, a visit from two Blackfeet (Bloods?) of those who pass for the worst of all. They inform us that their people will be enchanted to see us; that we need not have a shadow of a fear for our persons; that already some sixty children, who have been baptized by a Black-robe who came
s As probably the first bit of verse composed in the language of the Blackfeet, this stanza may have some little literary interest. Competent authorities declare it to be very good Blackfoot, except that the last word should more properly be " ka-mo-tan-i " It is said to mean something like this
God Almighty;
Piegans are all his children.
He is going to help us on earth;
If you are good, he will save your soul.
Father De Smet gave the following rhymed version, which he called a " traduction litterale : "
O Grand Esprit l notre Pere, Regarde en pitie tes enfants; Its seront saints sur la terre,
Si to soutiens leurs pas tremblants.
Apistotokie Nina Pikannie to-kanakos; Akwa spemoki tzagkoma Agziewa ziekamotos s