hv_coatesi_account_1798_024

After a short conference on the weighty business,we were embarked in, we proceeded up the river, notwithout some exercise of mind, and would have beenglad, could we have sent a messenger forward to in-form the Chiefs of our coming, but this was out ofour power, for none of the Indians we met with couldtalk English: we therefore moved forward with our mindsattentive to best directions. When we came in sight of the town, many Indiansappeared in view looking toward us. Our guide turnedinto the first cabin he came to, and would go no fur-ther, but pointed to Cornplanter's house. We paid himone dollar, and moved forward, and presently saw theChiefs coming toward us: and on our riding up andalighting, they appeared to welcome us with opencountenances. We did not know Cornplanter,nor could we distinguish him by his dress, butshaking hands with one who stood foremost, weasked if he was Cornplanter. He informed usin his way that he was. After shaking handswith all, we were invited to his house, which differed from others only in being larger. We took the saddles off our horses, carried inour baggage, and being seated, Cornplanter, hisson Henry, and several others came in and sat down. This son Henry had an English education inand about Philadelphia, and interpreted for us.His father can neither speak nor understand