SW_GH1804_156

the Plains of Sandusky, the following relation of the interview between the Friends and theWyandot Chiefs is preserved: After Evan Thomas had concluded his dis-course, which was delivered by paragraphs through an interpreter, Tarhie, (the Crane,) the principal chief, took into his hand four strings of wampum, and began his speech. As he proceeded, he continually kept the strings of wampum moving, and spoke in a methodical way, and with the force and manner of an orator. I make no doubt, if the interpreter had been able to do justice to the sentiments expressed, we should have pronounced a verdict highly in favor of the eloquence of this son of the forest. After he had finished his speech, he desired his wife (who occupied an apartment above the council room, so situated that she could hear what passed), to hand down to him the papers, which he had; which she did. We read them, and found among them Wayne's treaty, and a long paper containing much good advice from the Secretary of War. When the Indians hold a council, they have some of their principal women placed in a little room, either adjourning or overhead, where they can hear perfectly all that passes. This they treasure up in their minds, and as they are apt to have retentive memories, their traditions are faithfully preserved. The manuscripts in my possession furnish no