[001]

Introduction 

Near the west bank of the Coneaught River there are the remains of an ancient fort. As I was walking and forming various conjectures respecting the character, situation, and numbers of those people who far exceeded the present race of Indians in works of art and ingenuity, I happened to tread on a flat stone. This was at a small distance from the fort; and it lay on the top of a small mound of earth exactly horizontal. The face of it had a singular appearance. I discovered a number of characters which appeared to me to be letters, but so much effaced by the ravages of time that I could not read the inscription. With the assistance of a lever I raised the stone. But you may easily conjecture my astonishment when I discovered that its ends and sides rested on stones and that it was designed (( as )) a cover to an artificial cave. I found (( by )) examining that its sides were lined with (( stones )) built in a conical form with (( the point )) down -- and that it was about 
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eight feet deep. Determined to investigate (( the )) design of this extraordinary work of antiquity, I prepared myself with necessary requisites for that purpose and descended to the bottom of the cave. Observing one side to be perpendicular nearly three feet from the bottom, I began to inspect that part with accuracy. Here I noticed a big, flat stone fixed in the form of a door. I immediately tore it down and lo, a cavity within the wall presented itself; it being about three feet in diameter from side to side and about two feet high. Within this cavity I found an earthen box with a cover which shut it perfectly tight. The box was two feet in length one and half in breadth and one and three inches in diameter. My mind filled with awful sensations which crowded fast upon me (( and )) would hardly permit my hands to remove this venerable deposit, but curiosity soon gained the ascendancy (( and )) the box was taken and raised to open (( its cover. )) When I had removed the cover I found that it contained twenty-eight (( rolls )) of parchment; and that when (( examined )) 
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appeared to be manuscripts written in elegant hand with ROMAN letters and in the Latin Language. They were written on a variety of subjects. But the roll which principally attracted my attention contained a history of the author's life and that part of America which extends along the Great Lakes and the waters of the Mississippi.  Extracts of the most interesting and important matters contained in this roll I take the liberty to publish.  Gentle Reader, tread lightly on the ashes of the venerable dead. Thou must know that this country was once inhabited by great and powerful nations, considerably civilized and skilled in the arts of war; and that on ground where thou (( now )) treadest many a bloody 
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battle hath been fought, and heroes by thousands have been made to bite the dust. In the history given of these nations by my author you will find nothing but what will correspond with the natural sentiments we should form on viewing the innumerable remains of antiquity which are scattered over an extensive country. This is an evidence of the author's impartiality and veracity. But if any should pretend that the whole story is fictitious or fabulous. . . To publish a translation of every particular circumstance mentioned by our author would produce a volume too expensive for the general class of readers. But should this attempt to throw off the veil which has secluded our view from the transactions of nations who, for ages have been extinct, meet the approbation of the public, I shall then be happy to gratify the more inquisitive and learned part of my readers by a more minute publication. Apprehensive, that skeptical, illiberal, or superstitious minds may censure this performance with great acrimony, I have only to remark that they will be deprived of a great fund of entertainment (( which those )) 
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of a contrary disposition will obtain. My compassion will be excited more than my resentment and there the contest will end. Now, Gentle Reader, the Translator who wishes well to thy present and thy future existence entreats thee to peruse this volume with a clear head, a pure heart, and a candid mind. If thou shalt then find that thy head and thy heart are both improved it will afford him more satisfaction than the approbation of ten thousand who have received no benefit. And now permit me to admonish thee, that if thou shouldst reside in or travel through any part of the country 

Chapter I 
An Epitome of Some Part of the Author's Life and of His Arrival in America. 

As it is possible that in some future age this part of the Earth will be inhabited by Europeans and a history of its present inhabitants would be a valuable acquisition, I ((proceed )) to write one and deposit it in a box secured so that the ravages of time will have (( no )) 
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effect upon it. That you may know the author I will give a succinct account of his life and of the cause of his arrival, which I have extracted from a manuscript which will be deposited with this history. The family name I sustain is Fabius, being descended from the illustrious general of that name. I was born at Rome and received my education under the tuition of a very learned Master. At the time that Constantine arrived at that city and had overcome his enemies and was firmly seated on the throne of the Roman Empire, I was introduced to him as a young gentleman of genius and learning and as being worthy of the favorable notice of his Imperial Majesty. He gave me the appointment of one of his secretaries, and such were the gracious intimations which he frequently gave me of his high approbation of my conduct that I was happy in my stations. One day he says to me, "Fabius, you must go to Britain and carry an important (( letter )) to the general of our army there. 
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Sail in a vessel and return when she returns."  Preparation was made instantly and we sailed. The vessel, laden with provisions for the army, clothing, knives and other implements for their use, had now arrived near the coasts of Britain when a tremendous storm arose and drove us into the midst of the boundless ocean. Soon the whole crew became lost and bewildered. They knew not the direction to the rising sun or polar star; for the heavens were covered with clouds and darkness had spread her sable mantle over the face of the raging deep. Their minds were filled with consternation and despair. What could we do? How (( to )) be extricated from the insatiable jaws of a watery tomb? Then it was that we felt our absolute dependence on that Almighty and Gracious Being who holds the winds and storms in His hands. From Him alone could we expect deliverance. To Him our most fervent desires ascended. Prostrate and on 
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bended knees we poured forth incessant supplication; and even Old Ocean appeared to sympathize in our distress by returning the echo of our vociferous cries and lamentations. After being driven five days with incredible velocity before the furious wind, the storm abated in its violence; but still the wind blew strong in the same direction. Doubtful whether the wind had not changed her point we gave the ship full sail and let her drive. On the sixth day after, the storm wholly subsided, the sun rose clear and the heavens once more appeared to smile. Inexpressible was the consternation of all the crew. They found themselves in the midst of a vast ocean. No prospect of returning. All was lost. The wind blowing westwardly and the presumption was that it had been blowing in that direction during the whole of the storm. No pen can paint the dolorous cries and lamentations of the poor mariners; for the loss of friends; for the loss of every thing they held most (( dear. )) At length a mariner stept forward (( into )) 
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the midst and proclaimed: "Attend O friends and listen to my words. A voice from on high hath penetrated my soul and the inspiration of The Almighty hath bid me proclaim, 'Let your sails be wide-spread and the gentle winds will soon waft you into a safe harbor. A country where you will find hospitality.'" Quick as the lightning's flash joy sparkled in every countenance. A hymn of thanksgiving spontaneously burst forth from their lips. In full confidence that the divine prediction would be accomplished, they extolled the loving-kindness and tender mercies of their God and promised, by the assistance of his grace, to make ample return of gratitude. On the fifth day after this we came in sight of land. We entered a spacious river and continued sailing up the (( river )) many leagues until we came 
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in view of a town. Every heart now palpitated with joy and loud shouts of gladness expressed the enthusiastic transports of our souls. We anchored within a small distance from shore. Immediately the natives ran with apparent signs of surprise and astonishment to the bank of the river. After viewing us for some time, and receiving signs of friendship, they appeared to hold a council for a few minutes. Their king then stept forward to the edge of the bank and proffered us the hand of friendship. And by significant gestures invited us to land, promising us protection and hospitality. We now found ourselves once more on terra firma and were conducted by the King and four chiefs into the town whilst the multitude followed after, shouting and performing many odd gesticulations. The King ordered an entertainment to be prepared for his new friends which consisted of fish, boiled beans and samp. 
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The whole was placed under a wide-spreading oak in wooden dishes. A large clam shell and a stone knife were provided for each one. The King then came forward with about twenty of his principal subjects and seated us -- being twenty in number -- by the side of our repast. He and his company then took seats in front. After waving his hand and bowing all fell to eating, and a more delicious repast we never enjoyed. The repast being finished, our attention was called to a collection of about one thousand men and women who had formed a ring and invited our company to come forward into the midst. After gazing upon us for some time with surprise, we were permitted to withdraw and to take our stand in the ring . About forty in number then walked into the middle of the ring and began a song with such a discordant and hideous modifications of sounds and such frantic gesticulations of body, that it seemed that Chaos had brought 
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her Furies to set the world in an uproar. And an uproar it was, in a short time. For the whole company fell to shouting, whooping, and screaming; then dancing, jumping, and tumbling with many indescribable distortions in their countenance and indelicate gestures. In fact they appeared more like a company of devils than human beings. This lasted about one hour. They then took their places in a circle and, at a signal given, gave three most tremendous whoops; they then instantly dispersed, playing many antic capers and making such a confused medley of sound by screaming, whooping screeching like owls, barking like dogs and wolves, and croaking like bull-frogs, that my brains seemed to be turned topsy-turvy. And for some time I could scarce believe that they belonged to the human species.   
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 Chapter II 
An Account of the Settlement of the Ship's Company and Many Particulars Respecting the Natives. 
As no alternative now remained, but either to make the desperate attempt to return across the wide, boisterous ocean or to take up our residence in a country inhabited by savages and wild, ferocious beasts, we did not long hesitate. We held a solemn treaty with the King and all the chiefs of his nation. They agreed to cede to us a tract of excellent land on the north part of the town on which was six wigwams, and engaged perpetual amity and hospitality and the protection of our lives and property. In consideration of this grant we gave them fifty yards of scarlet cloth and fifty knives; with this present they were highly pleased.  Arrangements must now be made for our settlement. Vessel and cargo had suffered no material damage, and by 
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stripping the vessel of its plank we could erect a house in which we could deposit the whole cargo in safety. All hands were immediately employed; some in procuring timber, which was hewed on two sides and then locked together; some in procuring shingles; and some in striping the vessel of its plank. And having a large quantity of nails on board, in ten days we finished a very convenient storehouse, sufficiently spacious to receive the whole cargo. We also built a small house adjoining which was to be the habitation of the Captain and myself. Having secured all our property, we then found it necessary to establish some regulations for the government of our little society. The Captain, whose name was Lucian, and myself were appointed judges in all matters of controversy and managers of the public property, to make bargains with 
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the natives, and barter such articles as we did not need for necessaries. As we all professed to believe in the religion of Jesus Christ, we unanimously chose Trojanus, the Mate of the ship, a pious good man, to be our minister to lead our devotions every morning and evening and on the Lord's day. But now a most singular and delicate subject presented itself for consideration. Seven young women we had on board, as passengers, to visit certain friends they had in Britain. Three of them were ladies of rank and the rest were healthy, buxom lasses. Whilst deliberating on this subject a mariner arose whom we called droll Tom. "Hark, ye shipmates." says he, "Whilst tossed on the foaming billows what brave son of Neptune had any more regard for a woman than a sturgeon? But now we are all safely anchored on terra firma, our sails furled, and ship keeled up, I have a huge longing for some of those rosy dames. But willing to take 
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my chance with my shipmates, I propose that they should make their choice of husbands." The plan was instantly adopted. As the choice fell on the young women, they held a consultation on the subject, and in a short time made known the result. Droll Tom was rewarded for his benevolent proposal with one of the most sprightly rosy dames in the company. Three other of the most cheerful, resolute mariners were chosen by the other three buxom lasses. The three young ladies of rank fixed their choice on the Captain, the Mate, and myself. Happy indeed in my partner I had formed an high esteem for the excellent qualities of her mind. The young lady who chose me for a partner was possessed of every attractive charm both of body and mind. We united heart and hand with the fairest prospect of enjoying every delight and satisfaction which are attendant on the connubial state. Thus ended the affair. 
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You may well conceive our singular situation. The six poor fellows who were doomed to live in a state of celibacy or accept of savage dames, discovered a little chagrin and anxiety. However they consoled themselves with the idea of living in families where they could enjoy the company of the fair sex and be relieved from the work which belongs to the department of women.  Our community might be said to be one family, though we lived in separate houses, situated near each other. The property was common stock. What was produced by our labor was likewise to be common. All subject to the distribution of the judges; who were to attend to each family and see that proper industry and economy were practiced by all. The Captain and myself, attended with our fair partners and two mariners, repaired to our new habitation which consisted of 
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two convenient apartments. After having partaken of an elegant dinner and drunk a bottle of excellent wine, our spirits were exhilarated and the deep gloom which beclouded our minds evaporated. The Captain, assuming his wonted cheerfulness, made the following address: 
"My sweet good, soul'd fellows, we have now commenced a new voyage. Not such as brought us over mountain billows to this butt end of the world. No, no, our voyage is on dry land and now we must take care that we have sufficient ballast for the rigging. Every hand on board this ship must clasp hands and condescend to each other's humor; this will promote good cheer and smooth the raging billows of life. Surrounded by innumerable hordes of human beings, who resemble in manners the orangutan, let us keep aloof from them and not embark in the same matrimonial ship. At the same time we will treat them with good cheer and enlighten their dark souls with good instruction. By continuing a distinct people and preserving our customs, manners, religion, arts, and sciences another 
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Italy will grow up in this wilderness and we shall be celebrated as the fathers of a great and happy nation." "May God bless your soul," says one of our mariners, "what would you have us do who have had the woeful luck not to get mates to cheer our poor souls and warm our bodies? Methinks I could pick out a healthy, plum lass from the copper colored tribe, (( and )) that by washing and scrubbing her fore and aft and upon the larboard and starboard sides, she would become a wholesome bedfellow. And I think, may it please Your Honor, I could gradually pump my notions into her head and make her a good shipmate for the cupboard and as good-hearted a Christian as any of your white damsels. And upon my soul, I warrant you, if we have children, by feeding them with good fare and keeping them clean, they will be as plump and as fair and nearly as white as Your Honor's children." Upon this I filled the bottle with wine, and observing to honest Crito that he was at liberty to make the experiment if he could find a fair (( lass )) to his liking, I then expressed the 
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great pleasure I received from the addresses of the speakers and drank success to the new voyage. All drank plentifully and the exhilaration produced the greatest cheerfulness and hilarity. By this time the Sun had hid his head below the horizon and darkness invited all the animal creation to sleep and rest. We retired two and two, hand-in-hand, ladies' heads (( a )) little awry, blushing like the morn and -- But I forgot to mention that our society passed a resolution to build a church in the midst of our village. 
Chapter III 
Many Particulars Respecting the Natives 
Interest as well as curiosity invited an acquaintance with our new neighbors. They were called in their language Deliwans. They were tall: bodies well proportioned, straight limbs, complexions of a brownish hue, broad cheek bones, black wild rolling eyes, and hair black and course. To strangers they were hospitable; 
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true to their engagements; ardent in their friendship. But to enemies, implacable, cruel, and barbarous in the extreme. Innumerable hordes of this description of people were scattered over an extensive country, who gained their living by hunting the elk, the deer, and a great variety of other wild animals; by fishing and fowling, and by raising corn, beans, and squashes. Shooting the arrow, slinging stones, wrestling, jumping, hopping, and running were their principal amusements; and prizes would often be staked as a reward to the conqueror. Their clothing consisted of skins dressed with the hair on; but in warm weather, only the middle part of their bodies were encumbered with any covering . The one half of the head of the men was shaved and painted with red and the one half of the face was painted with black. The head was adorned with feathers of various kinds and their ears and noses were ornamented with rings formed from the sinews of certain animals, on which were suspended smooth stones of different colors. Thus clothed, thus painted, thus ornamented a Deliwan made a most terrific appearance. 
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 They held festivals at stated times, which varied in the manner of conducting them, according (( to ))  the object they had in view. At one of their annual festivals their ceremonies were peculiarly singular and different from any that were ever practiced by any nation. Here a description would give us some idea of their religion and would gratify the curiosity of an ingenious mind. When the time arrives, which is in September, the whole tribe assemble. They are dressed and ornamented in the highest fashion. The women in particular have their garments and heads so adorned with feathers, shells, and wampum that they make a very brilliant and grotesque appearance. They form a circle; their countenances are solemn. A speaker mounts a stage in the midst. At this moment two black dogs led by two boys, and two white dogs led by two young damsels enter the circle and are tied (( with ropes. )) 
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The speaker then extended his hands and spoke. "Hail ye favorite children of the Great and Good Spirit, Who resides in the Sun, Who is the Father of all living creatures, and Whose arms encircle us all around, Who defends us from the malicious designs of that Great Malignant Spirit that pours upon us all the evils we endure. He gives us all our meat and our fish, and causes the corn and the fruits to spring up, and makes us to rejoice in His goodness. He hath prepared a delightful country to receive us, if we are valiant in battle or are benevolent and good. There we can pick all kinds of delicious fruit and have game and fish in abundance and our women, being improved in beauty and sprightliness, will cause our hearts to dance with delight. But woe unto you wicked, malicious, mischievous mortals; your lot will be cast in a dark, miry swamp, where the Malignant Spirit will torment you with mosquitoes and serpents and will give you nothing to eat but toads, frogs, and snails. 
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But O my dear friends, all hail. Here is a custom which is sanctioned by time immemorial. Look steadfastly on the black dogs and let not your eyes be turned away when they are thrown on the sacred pile and the flames are furiously consuming their bodies. Then let your earnest prayers ascend for pardon and your transgressions will flee away like shadows and your sins will be carried by the smoke into the shades of oblivion. When this solemn expiatory sacrifice is ended then prepare your souls to partake of the holy festival. Each one will receive a precious morsel from these immaculate, snow colored dogs in token that your offenses have all evaporated in the smoke of the holy sacrifice, and that you are thankful to the Benevolent Spirit for the abundance of good things that you enjoy, and that you humbly anticipate the continuance of His blessings and that He will defend you against the evil designs of that Malignant Spirit, who gives us gall and wormwood, and fills our bosoms with pain and our eyes with tears." 
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He then proclaimed, "Let the sacred pile be erected and the solemn sacrifice performed." Instantly about one hundred men came forward with small dry wood and bundles of dry sticks and having thrown them in one pile within the circle they sat the pile on fire. The black dogs were knocked on the head and thrown on the top. In a moment all was in ablaze and the flame ascended in curls to heaven. The whole company assumed the most devout attitude and muttered in sounds almost inarticulate their humble confessions and earnest requests.  When the dogs were consumed and the fire nearly extinguished, the ceremonies of their sacred festival began. The white dogs, which were very plump and fat, were knocked on the head and their throats cut. Their hair was then singed off, having first their entrails taken out, and being suspended by the nose before a hot fire, they were soon roasted, thrown upon a long table, and dissected into as many pieces as there were persons to swallow them. The company immediately formed a procession, one rank of men, the other of women. The men marching to the left and the women to the right of the table, each one took a piece and devoured it with as good a (( relish )) as if it had been the most delicious morsel. 
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Having completed these sacred ceremonies with great solemnity, the whole company formed themselves into a compact circle 'round the stage. Ten musicians immediately mounted and facing the multitude on every side sang a song. The tune and the musical voices of the singers pleased the ear, whilst the imagination was delighted with the poetic ingenuity of the composition. The multitude all joined in the chorus, with voice so loud and multifarious that the atmosphere quaked with terror and the woods and neighboring hills, by way of mockery, sent back the sound of their voices improved by tenfold confusion. Perhaps, Reader, you have the curiosity to hear the song. I can give you only the last stanza and the chorus. 

For us the Sun emits his rays, 
The Moon shines forth for our delight. 
The stars extol our heroes praise, 
And warriors flee before our sight. 
Chorus 
Deliwan to chahee poloo, 
Manegango farwah teloo. 
Chanepanh, lawango chapah, 
Quinebogan hamboo gowah. 
The solemnities are ended and in their opinion their poor souls are completely whitewashed and every stain entirely effaced. A little diversion 
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will now dissipate the solemnity and inspire them with cheerfulness and merriment.  The whole tribe repair to the top of an hill. At one place there is a gradual slope a small distance and then it descends about twenty-five feet in an almost perpendicular direction, at the bottom of which is a quagmire, which is about ten feet in length and the soft mud is about three feet deep. At each end the ground is soft but not miry. Down this declivity twenty pair of very supple and sprightly young men and women are to descend. If by their agility and dexterity they escape the quagmire, a piece of wampum will be the reward of each fortunate champion; but if they plunge in, their recompense will be the ridicule and laughter of the multitude. In making this decent, six young women and five young men by a surprising dexterity in whirling their bodies as they descended, cleared themselves from the quagmire. The rest as their turns came plunged in and came out most woefully muddied, to the great diversion of the spectators. The incident which excited the most merriment happened when the last pair descended. By an unlucky spring (( he failed )) to 
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clear himself from the quagmire. He brought his body along side of the declivity and rolled his whole length into the midst of the quagmire where he lay, neither heels up or head up, but horizontally, soft and easy. But alas, when one unlucky event happens another follows close on the heel. The fair, plump, corpulent damsel, his affectionate sweetheart, came instantly, sliding with great velocity. She saw the woeful position of her beloved. She wished him no harm; she raised her feet (( and )) this brought the center of gravity directly over the center of his head. Here she rested a moment. His head sunk; she sunk after him. His heels kicked against the wind like Jeshuran waxed fat, but not a word from his lips. But his ideas came in quick succession. Thought he, "What a disgrace to die here in the mud under the pressure of my sweetheart." However his time for such reflections (( was )) short. The tender-hearted maid, collecting all her agility in one effort, dismounted and found herself on dry land in an instant. 
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Not a moment to be lost; she seized her lover by one leg and dragged him from the mud; a curious figure, extending about six feet six inches, on the ground, all besmeared from head to foot, spitting, puffing, panting, and struggling for breath. Poor man, the whole multitude laughing at thy calamity, shouting, ridiculing. None to give thee consolation but thy loving and sympathetic partner in misfortune. "Upon my soul!" exclaims Droll Tom. "Stern foremost! That bouncing lass ought to have the highest prize for dragging her ship from the mud." She was cleaning the filth from his face. 
Chapter IV 
A Journey to the Northwestward and Removal. 
Gracious God! How deplorable our situation! Are we doomed to dwell among hoards of savages and be deprived of all social intercourse with friends and the civilized world? And what will be the situation of our offspring? Will they preserve our customs and manners, cultivate the arts and sciences, and maintain our holy religion; or will they not rather degenerate into savages, and by mingling with them become the most awful race of beings in existence? 
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Who can endure such reflections, such heart-rending anticipations? They pour upon my soul like a flood and bear me down with the weight of a millstone. O that my head were waters and my eyes a fountain of tears; then my intolerable burthen should be poured forth in a torrentand my  soul set at liberty. But behold, the Light springs up and beams upon my soul. She brings in her train Hope, that celestial goddess; that sure and strong anchor; that dispenser of comfort and pleasing anticipation; and that dispeller of corroding grief and black despair. She bids me review the exploded reasoning of a great philosopher and compare it with my own observations. Perhaps the result will point out a safe road to the land of our nativity. Thus I reasoned respecting the solar system of which the Earth is a part. Provided the Earth is stationary, according to the present system of philosophy, then the Sun, the Moon, and the planets, being at an immense distance from the Earth, must perform their revolutions 'round her with inconceivable velocity. Whereas, if according to the Platonic System, the Earth is a globe and the Sun is stationary, then the Earth by a moderate velocity can 
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perform her revolutions. This scheme will represent the solar system as displaying the transcendent wisdom of its Almighty Architect. For in this, we behold the sun suspended by Omnipotence and all the planets moving 'round him as their common center in exact order and harmony. In this we can easily account for days and nights and the different seasons of the year. When the Earth presents one part of her face to the Sun it is day; when that part is turned from his beams it is night. When she varies to the south, the Sun shines upon us in a more perpendicular direction. The Sun beams become more dense and the heat increases. As she returns back the heat decreases in proportion as this part of Earth loses its perpendicular direction to the Sun and the cold becomes more intense in the same proportion. This accounts for the various seasons of the year; appears correct and consistent; and highly honorable to the divine perfections. But behold the other system. The Earth firmly fixed on a firm foundation; perhaps as some say, on a giant's back who stands on a prodigious rock. Its surface widely extended, nearly horizontal, 
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and its sides cut down straight or perpendicular to the very bottom; below which is a fathomless abyss. Pray, Mr. Philosopher, what man was ever there and looked down? And what prevents the ocean, unless it is dammed with earth and rocks, from pouring down and losing itself in this horrible abyss? But how extensive is this terra-aqueous surface? Indeed I am of opinion, if this system is true, I am nearly at one end of it. But the hypothesis is too absurd and inconsistent. The earth must be of a spherical form and a westerly course will lead us to the land of our nativity. Perhaps this is a part of the eastern continent, or perhaps only a narrow strip of the ocean intervenes? On no other principle can we account for the emigration of the ancestors of those innumerable hoards of human beings that possess this continent. Their tradition is that their ancestors came from the west; and they agree in their information that at the distance of fifteen days' journey in a westerly direction, there are nations vastly more numerous, powerful and civilized than themselves. 
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The Earth therefore must be of a spherical form, a globe, and a westerly course will lead us to the land of our nativity. On what principle can we account for the emigration of the ancestors of those innumerable hordes of human beings that possess this continent? Their tradition tells them that they emigrated from the westward. From this I draw the conclusion that the sea, if any, which intervenes between the two continents at the westward is not so extensive, but that it may be safely navigated. We are also informed by some of the natives, that at the distance of about fifteen days' journey in a northwesterly course, there is a great river which runs in a westerly direction, they cannot tell how far, and that along the banks of this river there are great towns and mighty kings and a people who live in a state of civilization. From all these considerations I am determined to remove; pursue a westerly course; and seek the delightful country of my ancestors. I immediately communicated my determination and the reasons on which it was founded to our little society, who joyfully acquiesced. It was thought to be the most prudential to find out the disposition and character of the inhabitants who were 
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settled along the Great River, lest we should fall into the hands of robbers. For this purpose my man Crito, and myself, and a Deliwan for an interpreter, set off. We passed through a country interspersed with villages, inhabited by the same kind of people as the Deliwans, until we came to a great mountain. Having passed over this, we had not traveled far before we came to the confluence of two great rivers, which in conjunction produced a river which was called OHIO, deep enough for the navigation of ships. Here was a large town or city inhabited by a distinct race of people from any we had seen before. We were immediately conducted to the king and were received very graciously. And having asked a number of very pertinent questions and received answers to his satisfaction, I then made known to him our business and had all my requests granted. As we proposed to move into his territory he offered to furnish us, for our 
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convenience, with four mammoons and four men to manage them. These were an animal of prodigious magnitude, even bigger than the elephant, which the natives had tamed and domesticated. They were very sagacious and docile and were employed in carrying burthens, and in drawing timber, and in plowing their land. Their hair at the Spring season was about seven inches in length 
and was of a fine woolly consistence. And being sheared off at the proper season, was manufactured into coarse cloth. And the milk of the females, which they produced in abundance, afforded a very wholesome nutriment. Having thus succeeded beyond our expectation, we made as much expedition to return as possible. We arrived in safety without any material accidents. The little society I had left were greatly rejoiced on our return and highly pleased with the account we gave of the country we had visited and at the sight of the 
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extraordinary and prodigious mammoons which we had brought to convey our baggage. No time was lost to make preparation for the journey. The Captain, Mate, and myself went to the King and held a conference with him and the chiefs and obtained leave to depart, though with apparent regret and reluctance. 
Sacks were provided from coarse cloth to receive the most valuable part of our goods and furniture. These were thrown across three of the mammoons. The other was caparisoned, in a manner too tedious to describe, for the accommodation of our women and children. They were all mounted upon him and rode with great convenience and safety. Being thus prepared and ready; thus having resided among the Deliwans two years; and being prepared to take our departure, the king and his chiefs and many of his principal subjects came forward to take an affectionate farewell. This was done on both sides, with mutual expressions of the most ardent and sincere friendship and the most earnest wishes and prayers for future prosperity and happiness. 
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Having taken our final adieu, I observed honest Crito shedding tears very plentifully. "You seem to be affected," said I. "God bless Your Honor," said he, "when I think how kind and generous these poor Deliwans have been to us, I cannot help feeling an affection and friendship for them. We were obliged to anchor amongst them. We were strangers and helpless and they were ignorant savages; yet they held out the hand of kindness and treated us as brothers and sisters. Have they not fulfilled the law of Christian charity? O that they were good Christians. May God forgive their ignorance and unbelief and reward them for their kindness and generosity. We passed on. No obstacles impeded our journey until we came to the Great River Suscowah, which runs between the Deliwah River and the Great 
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Mountain. The water being too deep for fording, we built a small boat and with this at several times we conveyed the whole of the baggage and company across, except the manager of the mammoons, who mounted them and forded and swam them across. We then proceeded on by slow marches.  But in crossing the Great Mountain we had some difficulties to encounter. (( We )) received no material damage, but finally arrived safely at the great city Owhahon on the twenty-fifth day after our departure from Deliwan. Fatigued with a long and difficult journey, great joy and gladness were visible in every countenance, and all were disposed to establish our residence here until further information could be obtained and further measures concerted to prosecute our journey to Europe. 
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The King and his principal officers proffered us every assistance necessary to make our situation agreeable. They assigned us, in compliance with our request, a number of houses on the bank of the river at a little distance from the city. We made him some valuable presents in return, which he received as a token of friendship but not as a compensation. For such was the high sense of honor which this prince sustained, that when he made a present, he would take it as an insult to offer him anything as a compensation. Having now once more become settled, our little community continued the same regulations which they had established at Deliwan and all things proceeded in peace and our affairs prospered. 
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 Chapter V 
A Description of the Ohians and Manner of Procuring a Living
I am now to describe a nation who have but little resemblance to those innumerable tribes of savages who live along the coasts of the Atlantic. Their complexion, the form and construction of their bodies, their customs, manners, laws, government and religion all demonstrate that they must have originated from some other nation and have but a very distant affinity with their savage neighbors. As to their persons, they were taller on an average than I had ever seen in any nation. Their bones were large, limbs straight, and shoulders broad; their eyes rather small and sunk deep in the head. Their foreheads were prominent and the face below tapering in such a manner that the chin was formed nearly to a point. 
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As to their complexion, it was bordering on an olive, though of a lighter shade. Their eyes were generally of a dark brown or black. Their hair of the same color, though I have sometimes seen persons whose hair was of a reddish hue.  They clothed themselves in cloth which was manufactured among themselves from the hair of the mammoons and from cotton which was transported from the southwestward. The men wore shoes and long stockings, wide trousers, a waistcoat, and a garment with wide short sleeves which came down to their knees, and in cold weather a cloak over the whole. The covering for the head was generally a kind of a cap which ran up high and tapered to a point. This was generally made of fur skins and was ornamented with feathers. It had a small brim in the shape of an half moon to project over the forehead. 
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The women, besides stockings and shoes, wore a short petticoat, a shirt of cotton, a loose garment with sleeves which they girded 'round them with belts, and a cloak. They had various ornaments such as ribbons made from cotton and colored with different colors, the most beautiful feathers that could be obtained, and shells of various kinds. Indeed the higher class of women were extremely fond of ornament and placed a large share of their happiness in the brilliancy and gaudy appearance of their garments. The people obtained their living generally by the cultivation of the land and by tending and managing certain animals which had been so long domesticated that they had lost their wild nature and become tame. Corn, wheat, beans, and squashes and carrots they raised in great abundance. The ground was plowed 
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by horses and generally made very mellow for the reception of the seed. It was the occupation of a certain part of the men to tend upon the tame animals, to drive them to pasture, and keep them from straying, and feed them when the snow was on the ground. Two men would tend twenty mammoth, which were indifferent whether they fed on grass or cropt the bushes. When these animals were fat, their flesh was highly esteemed. They had droves of elk, which they had so tamed and tutored that they could manage them as they pleased. Tenders would (( lead )) and they would follow them like a flock of sheep. And it was but seldom that any left their companions. The elk constituted a considerable part of their animal food. The horses were managed in the same way and the people thought their meat to be a savory dish. 
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They had large numbers of turkeys and geese, which though originally wild; yet, by treating them with great familiarity, by cropping their wings, and feeding them frequently, they discovered no disposition to ramble off, but propagated their species and laid eggs in abundance. Hunting and fishing were the employments of some; others followed mechanical business; and others carried on a bartering trade to the southwestward, in order to furnish the people with cotton and other articles whose production was not congenial to their climate. By pursuing these various employments they generally had a plenty of provision at all seasons and were comfortably clothed. And here I would remark as one striking characteristic of this people, that they observed great neatness in their dress, in their cookery, and in their houses. 
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The manufacture of iron and lead was understood but was not carried on to that extent and perfection as in Europe. A small quantity of iron in proportion to the number of inhabitants served to supply them with all the implements which custom had made necessary for their use. By hammering and hardening their iron they would convert it nearly into the consistency of steel and fit it for the purpose of edged tools. The pottery business was conducted with great ingenuity, and great quantities of stone and earthen-ware consisting of vessels of every construction which were needed for family use, were manufactured in every part of this extensive country. These vessels they 
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ornamented with pictures with the likenesses of various kinds of animals and trees and impressed upon them such colors as would strike the fancy with delight. The females of the most wealthy class would often have a large and superfluous quantity of this brittle furniture to decorate one apartment of the house. The vessels they arranged in such order as to make a display of taste and impress the mind with the agreeable sensation of beauty. In architecture there can be no comparison with the civilized nations of Europe. In their most wealthy and populous cities their houses and public buildings exhibit no elegance, no appearance of wealth and grandeur; all is plain and 
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nothing superfluous. But convenience appears to be the whole object they had in view in the construction of their buildings of every kind.  Their houses were generally but one storey high, built of wood, being framed and covered with split clapboards or shingles and in the inside the walls were formed of clay, which was plastered over with a thin coat of lime. Their houses seldom consisted of more than three apartments. As to their chimneys, they construct a wall of stone about five feet high against which they build their fires. From the top of this wall they construct their chimney with thin pieces of split timber, on the inside of which they plaster wet dirt or clay which completely covers and adheres to the timber and prevents the 
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fire from having any operation upon it. The inside of their houses, as the women generally practice neatness, makes a much better appearance than the outside. "It is my opinion," says Trojanus, "that this people display a taste in building which is formed upon the true principles of reason. Their houses are sufficiently spacious for convenience. No expense or labor (( is )) thrown away in building useless apartments or in erecting their houses higher than what convenience requires. The whole catalogue of ornamental trumpery is neglected. This in Rome produces more than half the labor and expense in building." "Yes," says Lucian, "and without this, these laboring people must starve for the want of employment and the citizens of the Roman Empire would be deprived of the honor
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of possessing a splendid capital and of the exquisite pleasure of beholding the greatest exhibition of human ingenuity in the elegance, the splendor, the symmetry and beauty of their houses, their palaces and public edifices." "True indeed," replies Trojanus, "men may be dazzled and delighted with such objects for a moment. But could not wealth be better bestowed upon to promote the interest of the community and for charitable purposes, and these artists better employ their strength and ingenuity in producing some substantial benefits to themselves and others?" Rejoins Lucian, "The course reason dictates is to avoid extremes. A slab-colored world would tire the senses by its uniformity and too much ornament and splendor would cease to please by its frequency. Besides, lofty houses can more easily be overthrown by tornadoes or tumbled 
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down upon our heads by earthquakes." "The course" says Lucian, "that reason dictates is to avoid extremes. A slab-colored world by its uniformity would tire the senses and by its possessing too much ornament and splendor cease to please." 
Chapter VI 
Description of the Learning, Customs (( and )) Religion of the Ohians 
Learning appears to be so consonant to the nature of man and a convenient share of it so easy to obtain, that some may wonder why it is not universally defused through the world. But the wonder would cease when it is considered that mankind with but few exceptions (( are taught )) to walk in the track of their fathers and to pursue the road marked out by their education. If we can place any reliance on the dark annals of ancient history, it is a certain fact that letters are indebted for their existence to the inventive genius of certain extraordinary characters. Egypt and Chaldea contended for the honor 
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of being the first who invented letters. Perhaps they were invented in each nation nearly at the same time. Though the most probable conjecture is that they were communicated from one nation to the other. Let this be as it may -- could no other nation in the world produce as great geniuses as Egypt or Chaldea? Is there any natural obstacle to prevent their production in America as well as in Asia? Whatever may be the reasonings of some on this subject, the fact is that I found some share of learning, though in a very imperfect state, among this people. At present I shall wave the account of its introduction and shall merely describe the state of learning as it existed among the Ohians. They had characters which represent words, and all compound words had each part represented by its appropriate character. The variation of cases, moods, and tenses was designated by certain marks placed under the character. They generally wrote on parchment; and beginning at the right, wrote from the top to the bottom, placing 
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each character directly under the preceding one. And having finished one column or line, they write the next on the left of that and so continue on until they cover the parchment if the subject requires it. It is of considerable labor and time to obtain such a knowledge of their characters and the application as to be able to read with fluency and to write with ease and accuracy . In their principal cities and towns the government appoints learned men to instruct the sons of the higher class of citizens, and in the course of four or five years, they will make such proficiency as to become tolerable scholars. The works of the learned are not very voluminous. Records are kept of the transactions of their governments. Their constitutions and laws are committed to writing . . . (A Sacred Roll in manuscript is preserved among the records 
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of their emperors and kings.) . . . and are dispersed through the empire. And much pains is taken to defuse the knowledge of them among the people. In all their large towns and cities they have deposited under the care of a priest a Sacred Roll which contains the tenets of their theology and a description of their religious ceremonies. This order of men publish comments upon these sacred writings; they publish some tracts on moral philosophy and some containing a collection of proverbs and the wise sayings of their sages.  But the kind of composition in which they most excel is poetry. In poetic numbers they describe the great events which take place and the exploits and mighty achievements of their heroes. In soft elegies they paint the amours of lovers, and in pathetic strains they delineate the calamities and sorrows of the unfortunate. In their assemblies it is very common for a certain class of the learned to entertain the company with a repertoire 
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of poetic pieces describing the battles and exploits of their warriors; or to sing some amorous or witty ballad. As for theaters they have none. But as a kind of substitute there are actors, who entertain the people by pronouncing dialogues or plays, in which they display all the arts of mimicry and express in their countenance, their gesture, and the tone of their voices, the different passions of the human mind. As only a small proportion of the people are instructed in the arts of reading and writing, of consequence the great mass must possess a large share of ignorance, but not so great a share as savages who have no learning among them. They hear the conversation and the lectures of their sages. They are entertained with. . . Their poetic orators entertain them with the productions of their poets, containing the history of great events and mighty achievements. Their actors divert and please them by exciting the various passions. . . At the same time communicating instruction and correcting the natural savageness 
of manners by. . . and as the epics they rehearse contain many ideas and 
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sentiments tending to expose the deformity of vice, the folly of superstition, and the disgustfulness of rude and clownish manners, the people of consequence are improved and considerably refined. Add to this their living in compact towns or cities in which there is a constant and reciprocal communication of ideas; which of course would have no small effect to inform their minds.  To all these causes combined the great mass of the people are indebted for possessing a considerable share of knowledge and civilization. 
(( Chapter )) VII 
Religion 
In every nation there is some kind of religion. And in every religion, however adulterated and corrupted there are some things which are commendable, some things which serve to improve the morals and influence mankind to conduct better than what they would do, provided they pursued the natural dictates of their depraved minds without any restraint. As this sentiment is an established maxim, which has been believed in every nation, from the earliest ages of time, 
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hence it has been the policy of all governments to encourage and protect some kind of religion.  In examining the religious system, sentiments, and precepts which are believed and practiced throughout this extensive empire and which are encouraged and protected by the government, I found some things which are common to the various systems of theology in Europe and Asia and some things which have no resemblance to either. From the Sacred Roll, as it is denominated, I shall extract the tenets of their theology and a description of their religious ceremonies. It expresses them to this effect: "There is an Intelligent Omnipotent Being, who is self-existent and infinitely good and benevolent. Matter eternally existed. He put forth his hand and formed it into such bodies as he pleased. He presides over the universe and has a perfect knowledge of all things. From his own spiritual substance he formed seven sons. These are his principal agents to manage the affairs of his empire. He formed the bodies of men from matter. Into each body he infused a particle of his own spiritual substance, in consequence of which man in his first formation was inclined to benevolence and goodness. There is also another great, intelligent 
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Being who is self-existent and possessed of great power but not of omnipotence. He is filled with infinite malice against the Good Being and exerts all his subtlety and power to ruin His works. Seeing the happy situation of man, he approached so near as to touch his soul with his deleterious hand. The poison was immediately defused and contaminated his passions and appetites. His reason and understanding received no injury. The Good Being, looking upon his unhappy offspring with infinite love and compassion, made a decree that if mankind would reduce their passions and appetites under the government of reason he should enjoy blessings in this world and be completely happy after his soul quits his body. Death dissolves the connection. Ethereal bodies are prepared for the souls of the righteous. These bodies can pass through any part of the universe and are invisible to mortal eyes. Their place of residence is on a vast plain which is beautified with magnificent buildings, with trees, fruits, and flowers. Here they enjoy every delight which. . . No imagination can paint the delights, the felicity of the righteous. But the wicked are denied ethereal bodies. Their souls naked and incapable of seeing light, dwell in darkness and are tormented with the keenest anguish. Ages roll away and the Good Being has compassion upon 
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them. He permits them to take possession of ethereal bodies and they arise quick to the abodes of delight and glory. Now, O man, attend to thy duty and thou shalt escape the portion of the wicked and enjoy the delights of the righteous. Avoid all acts of cruelty to man and beast. No crime is so horrid as maliciously to destroy the life of man. Defraud not thy neighbor, nor suffer thy hands secretly to convey his property from him. Preserve thy body from the contamination of lust. And remember that the seduction of thy neighbor's wife would be a great crime. Let thy citizens be numbered once in two years and if the young women, who are fit for marriage are more numerous than the young men, then wealthy men, who are young and who have but one wife, shall have the privilege, with the permission of the King, to marry another until the numbers of the single young men and the single young women are made equal. But he that hath two wives shall have a house provided for each and he shall spend his time equally with each one. Be grateful for all favors and forsake not thy friend in adversity. Treat with kindness and reverence thy parents. Forsake them not in old age, nor let their cheeks be furrowed with tears for the want of bread. Bow down thy head before the aged, treat thy superiors 
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with respect, and place thy rulers and thy teachers in the most honorable seat. Let rulers consult the welfare of the people and not aggrandize themselves by oppression and base bribes. Let religious teachers walk in the road which leads to celestial happiness and lead the people after them. Let parents restrain the vices of their children and instruct their minds in useful knowledge. Contention and strife is the bane of families and the destruction of domestic happiness. Being yoked together the husband and wife ought to draw in the same direction. Their countenances will then appear beautiful -- shine with the effulgent beams of friendship and love. Peace and harmony will attend their habitation and their affairs will prosper.  Hold out the hand of kindness and friendship to thy neighbor; consider him when reduced to indigence and distress. He is as dear to the Great and Good Being as what thou art. To afford him relief will be pleasing to thy Maker and an expression of thy gratitude. Envious and malicious souls are almost incurably contaminated with that hellish poison which first disordered the soul of man. 
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Partake not of their guilt by joining them in the malignant work of slander and detraction. Their intended mischief returns upon their own heads and the slandered character of the innocent and just shines forth with increasing luster. Let the stranger find an hospitable resting place under thy roof. Give him to eat from thy portion, that when he departs he may bless thee and go on his way rejoicing. Say not to thyself, 'I will indulge in inactivity and idleness and lie upon the bed of sloth and slumber away the precious moments of time.' For in this thou art unwise. For disease will attend thee, hunger will torment thee, and rags will be thy clothing . Let industry and economy fill up the measure of thy waking moments; so shall thy countenance display health and sprightliness. Plenty shall supply the wants of thy family and thy reputation shall be respectable. But I behold a being in human form, from whom I turn away with disgust and abhorrence. He is covered with so much dirt and filth, that no ethereal body is provided for him nor can he be received into the abodes of the blessed. 
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Suffer not thy bodies or thy garments to remain long besmeared with dirt and filth. Cleanliness prevents many diseases and is pleasant to the sight. But from a dirty, filthy mortal we turn with disgust and abhorrence. As the Great Author of our existence is benevolent to all his offspring, so it becomes us to be benevolent to our fellow beings around us. Our country is one body and we are part of its members. We are therefore bound to maintain the rights and privileges and the honor and dignity of our country at the risk of our lives. Great rewards attend the brave and their exploits and achievements in contending against tyrants and in defending the rights of their country will be celebrated on the plains of glory. 
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But the vision now expands and directs our contemplation to fix on His attributes, Whose spiritual substance is commensurate with infinity. As only a single particle from His substance constitutes our souls, how small, how diminutive, must we appear in the view of Omniscience. We must therefore contemplate His attributes through the medium of His works and admire with profound reverence and adoration His wisdom, goodness, and power which are visible in the formation and arrangement of all material bodies and spiritual beings. He requires us to supplicate His favors and when received, to express our gratitude. As our passions and appetites often get the ascendance of reason, we are 
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therefore bound to confess our faults and implore forgiveness. Now that you may know and keep all these things which were made known by divine inspiration, it is ordained that on every eighth day ye lay aside all unnecessary labor; that ye meet in convenient numbers and form assemblies. That in each assembly a learned holy man shall preside, who shall lead your devotions and explain this Sacred Roll and give you such instruction as shall promote your happiness in this life and in the life to come. Once in three months ye shall hold a great festival in every city and town and your priests shall sacrifice an elk as a token that your sins deserve punishment, but that the Divine Mercy has banished them into shades of forgetfulness. Be attentive, O man, to the words of truth which have been recorded and 
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pay respect to all the commandments which have been written for your observance. Your Maker will then be pleased to see you rejoice in the participation of his favors and to behold your faces brighten with the benign beams of cheerfulness." 
Chapter VIII 
An Account of Baska:
Among the great and illustrious characters who have appeared in the world in different ages as instructors and reformers of mankind, Baska is entitled to a conspicuous place. The place of his nativity is not recorded, but the first notice which is given of him is his appearance at the great city of Tolanga, which is situated on the banks of the Sciota River. He was attended by his wife and two little sons. The fashion of their garments was different from the natives. Their complexion likewise was a little whiter. Baska was grave, solemn, and sedate; reserved in his conversation, But when he spoke wisdom proceeded from his lips and all were astonished at his eloquence. His fame spread 
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rapidly through city and country and he was celebrated as a man of the most brilliant and extraordinary talents. He was conducted to the King and introduced to him. The King asked him from what country he came. His reply was at a great distance from the westward. He then asked him induced him to come into his country. He replied. . . 
Chapter VIII 
Perhaps, Reader, before we describe the government of the Ohians, it might be proper to relax our minds with a few sketches of biography. The character which will best connect with the history of the learning, religion, and government of the Ohians is that of the great and illustrious Lobaska. He is the man who first introduced their present method of writing; who first presented them the Sacred Roll which contains the tenets and precepts of their religion; and who formed their political constitution as it respects the connection of various kingdoms or tribes under one government. 
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There are many anecdotes, which tradition has handed down respecting this extraordinary man, which have the complexion of fables. . . the miraculous and hence I conclude they must be fabulous. As for instance, he is represented as forming a curious machine and having seated himself upon it, he mounted into the atmosphere and ascended a great height. And having sailed a considerable distance through the air, he descended slowly and received no damage. That multitudes of astonished spectators had a number of times seen him perform this miraculous exploit. And that he declared that when he took these excursions his extraordinary wisdom and knowledge was communicated to him. If he did in fact perform such exploits, no wonder that he managed an ignorant people as he pleased. But as it is not my intention to amuse my readers by a splendid relation of fables I shall confine myself to facts which cannot be contested. The place of his nativity is not recorded. The first account given of him was his appearance in the great city of Tolanga which is situated on the banks of the Sciota River. When he entered that city he was attended by his wife and four sons, the 
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eldest of whom was about eighteen years of age. He himself appeared to be about forty. His personal appearance was commanding, being of middling stature, of a bold frank countenance, and eyes lively and penetrating. In his general deportment he was cheerful, yet displayed much sedateness and gravity. He was affable and familiar in conversation but not loquacious. He never would converse long on trifling subjects, had a wonderful facility to intermix some wise sayings and remarks, and of turning with dignity and gracefulness the attention of the company to subjects that were important and interesting. None could then withstand the energy of his reasoning and all were astonished at the ingenuity of his arguments and the great knowledge and wisdom which he displayed. His fame spread through the city and country and multitudes frequently assembled and importuned him to give them instruction. Always cheerful to gratify the curiosity and comply with the reasonable requests of the multitude he entertained them by conversing with them familiarly and by exhibiting public discourses. All were charmed with his wisdom and eloquence and all united in pronouncing him to be the 
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most extraordinary man in existence and generally believed that he held conversation with celestial beings, and always acted under the influence of divine inspiration. The people were very liberal in their donations, which enabled him to support his family in affluence. Having thus in a short time established a character superior with respect to wisdom and eloquence to any man who had ever appeared before him in the nation, he then, at an interview which he held with the King and the chiefs, told them that he had invented the art of expressing ideas by certain marks or characters. And having explained the nature of the subject to their full satisfaction, he then proposed to establish a school, for the instruction of the sons of the principal subjects of the King. The proposal was received and accepted with much gratitude and cheerfulness. A house was immediately prepared for the accommodation of scholars; and in a short time the numbers amounted to nearly two hundred. But here it must be observed that the art of making and applying the characters to the words which they represented was taught principally by his sons. They had all received an education from their father and even the youngest, who was but about eleven years old, could read and write with great correctness and facility. He superintended their instruction and very frequently gave them lectures on scientific and moral 
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subjects. His scholars made great progress in learning and delighted their parents with the improvements they had made in literature, civilization, and refinement. He still continued to associate among the people and was indefatigable in his labors to dispel their ignorance; correct their superstition and vices; to excite their industry; and to defuse a more accurate knowledge of the mechanical arts. The manufacture of iron in particular was not known; this he taught a number by showing them how to build a small furnace and to cast iron-ware; and then how to build a small forge and refine pigs and convert them into iron . He had resided among the Sciotans about three years and the happy effects of his labors were visible to all observers. A great reformation had taken place in the morals and manners of the people. Industry had increased; agriculture and the mechanical arts had received great improvement; 
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and houses were built on a more commodious and elegant construction. But not willing to stop here, the benevolent mind of the great Lobaska meditated a more important revolution. Now the propitious era had arrived and the way was prepared for the introduction of that system of theology which is comprised in the Sacred Roll. In the first place he read and explained the whole system to the King and the chiefs of the nation, who cordially gave it their approbation and gave permission to propagate it among the people. Under a pretense that this system was revealed to him in several interviews which he had been permitted to have with the second son of the Great and Good Being, the people did not long hesitate, but received as sacred and divine truth every word which he taught them. They forsook their old religion which was a confused and absurd medley of idolatry and superstitious nonsense and embraced a religion more sublime and consistent, and more fraught with sentiments 
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which would promote the happiness of mankind in this world.  Whilst the Sciotans were thus rapidly progressing in their improvements they were unhappily disturbed by the certain prospect of war. Bombal, the King of the Kentucks, a nation which lived on the south side of the Great River Ohio, had taken great umbrage against Hadokam the King of Sciota. This Bombal was the most haughty and powerful prince, who reigned in this part of the western continent. It had been the custom for several ages for the King and chiefs of the Kentucks to have the exclusive right to wear, in their caps, a bunch of blue feathers, which designated their preeminence over every nation. The Sciotan princes, envying them this distinguished 
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honor and considering themselves as being at least their equals, assumed the liberty to place bunches of blue feathers upon their caps. This in the opinion of the Kentucks, was an unpardonable offense, if persisted in, and a most daring insult upon their super-eminent dignity. After a solemn council was held with his chiefs, Bombal, with their unanimous consent, dispatched a messenger to Hadokam, who thus proclaimed: 
"Thus saith Bombal, the King of Kings and the most mighty prince on Earth: 'Ye have insulted our honor and dignity in assuming blue feathers, which was the badge of our preeminence. Know ye that unless ye tear them from your caps, ye shall feel the weight of our vengeance.'" 
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Hadokam replied, "Tell your master that a great company of wolves made an attack upon a city to rob the citizens of their deer and elk; and they let forth their dogs upon them, which attacked them with such fury and courage that they fled, mangled and torn, to a most dreary swamp. Here by the most plaintive howling, they lamented their sad disaster and disgrace."
An answer so shrewd and insulting, it was expected, would soon be followed by an invasion. Measures must immediately be taken for the defence of the kingdom. Lobaska was invited to sit in council. All were unanimously of (( the )) opinion that to comply with the haughty demand of Bombal, by tearing the blue feathers from their caps, would be degrading the honor of the nation and a relinquishment of their natural right. They were likewise sensible that the most vigorous exertions were necessary to save the country from ruin. The opinion and advice of Lobaska was requested. "It is my opinion," says he, "that by using a little stratagem this war might be brought to a conclusion
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which will be honorable to this kingdom." "We will pursue," says the king, "your advice and directions." "I shall be happy," says Lobaska, "to assist you with my best advice. Call immediately into the field an army of three thousand men. Provide two thousand shovels, five hundred mattocks, one thousand wheelbarrows, and one hundred axes. I will give directions how to make them." 
Not a moment was lost; the army was assembled and implements (( were )) provided with the utmost expedition. And they marched down the river to a certain place where the army of the enemy must pass in order to arrive at the city of Tolanga. At this place the hill or mountain came within less than a mile of the river and flat or level land intervened. Here Lobaska directed that a canal should be dug from the river to the hill. That it should be eight feet wide and eight deep and that the dirt which they dug should be thrown into the river, except what should be wanting to lay over thin pieces of split timber, which should be extended across the canal, and so weak and slender that the weight of a man would break them down. This novel invention was soon carried into effect and the work completely finished. Every precaution 
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was used to prevent any intelligence of these transactions from getting to the enemy. In the meantime Hadokam brought into the field seven thousand more of his warriors, men of brave hearts and valiant for the battle. The indignant King of the Kentucks by this time, had assembled an army of thirty thousand men who were ready, at the risk of their lives, to vindicate the preeminence of their nation and the transcendent dignity of their King and his chiefs. At the head of this army, Bombal began his march to execute his threatened vengeance on the Sciotans. As he entered their country he found the villages deserted and all the movable property conveyed away. Not a man to be seen until he came in view of the army of Hadokam, who was encamped within a small distance of the canal. Bombal halted and formed his men in two ranks extending from the river to the hill. He had a reserved corps, who were placed in the rear of the main body. Having thus arranged them for battle, he went from one wing to the other proclaiming aloud, "We have been insulted, brave soldiers, by these cowardly Sciotans. They 
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have assumed the blue feather, the badge of our preeminence and exalted dignity. Behold it flying in their caps. Will your high-born souls submit to behold such dastards place themselves on equal ground with you? No, my valiant warriors, let us revenge the insult by the destruction of their puny army and the conflagration of their city. Make a furious charge upon them and the victory is ours. Let your motto be 'The Blue Feather' and you will fight like wolves robbed of their puppies." 
Hadokam had by this time, formed his army in order of battle close to the edge of the canal and extended them only in one rank from the river to the hill. As the Kentucks approached within a small distance, the Sciotans gave back and began a retreat with apparent confusion, notwithstanding the pretended exertions of the King and his officers to prevent their retreating. Bombal, observing this, commanded (( his men)) to rush forward on the full run, but to keep their ranks in order. This they instantly obeyed as one man; and as soon 
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as their feet stept on the slender covering of the canal, it gave way and they fell to the bottom, some in one position and some in another. A disaster so novel and unexpected must have appalled the stoutest heart and filled their minds with amazement and terror. Nor did this complete the misfortune of the army of Bombal. An ambush of the Sciotans, who lay on the side of the hill opposite to the reserved corps of the Kentucks, rushed down upon them in an instant. Surprise and terror prevented resistance; they threw down their arms and surrendered. The retreating army of Hadokam immediately returned with shouting to the edge of the canal. Their enemies, who but a moment before thought themselves invincible and certain of victory, were now defenseless and wholly in their power. Lobaska was present and saw the success of his stratagem. His great soul disdained revenge on an 
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helpless and prostrate enemy. He conjured the Sciotans  not to shed one drop of blood, but to be generous and merciful. Bombal had now recovered from his surprise and seeing the deplorable situation of his army, his haughty soul felt the keenest anguish. "Where" says he, "is the King of the Sciotans?" 
"Here I am." says Hadokam. "What is your request, my brother?" "Reduced" says he, "by a stratagem, the most ingenious and artful, to a situation which subjects us wholly under your power, and in which you can take ample revenge, I now implore your generosity and compassion for my army. Spare their lives and then name your terms; and if I can comply with them, without degrading the honor of my crown, it shall be done." 
"Your request" says Hadokam, " is granted. Surrender your arms and let your army return in peace. As for Your Majesty and the chiefs of your nation who are present, you will give us the pleasure of your company in our return to the city of Tolanga, and there we will execute a treaty of peace and amity that shall be advantageous and honorable to both nations." These terms were accepted 
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and the Kentucks returned in peace to their own country, not to describe exploits and bloody victories but the curious stratagem of Lobaska. The two kings and their splendid retinue of princes, having arrived at Tolanga. . .  every attention was paid by Hadokam and his chiefs to their honorable visitors. Hadokam made a sumptuous entertainment at which all were present. The next day both parties met for the purpose of agreeing to terms of peace and perpetual amity. "What are your terms?" says Bombal. 
"Lobaska" says Hadokam, "shall be our arbitrator. He shall name the terms. His wisdom will dictate nothing which will be dishonorable for either party." "Your proposal, says Bombal, is generous. Lobaska shall be our arbitrator." Lobaska then rose. "Attend" says he, "to my words, ye Princes of Sciota and Kentuck. You have all derived your existence from the Great Father of Spirits; you are His children and belong to his great family. Why then have you thirsted for each other's blood, for the blood of brothers? 
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And what has produced this mighty war? A blue feather, may it please Your Majesties, a blue feather, a badge of preeminence. It is pride; it is cursed ambition and avarice which devastate the world and produce rivers of human blood. And the wars which take place among nations generally originate from as trifling causes as the blue feather. Let this be the first article of your treaty: that any person may wear a blue feather in his cap, or any other feather that he pleases.  Let this be the second: that the individuals of each nation may carry on a commerce with each other and that they shall be protected in their persons and property.  Let this be the third: that I shall be at liberty to establish schools in any part of the dominions of Kentuck and furnish them with instructors as I please; that none shall be restrained from hearing our instructions; and that we shall be patronized and protected by the King and his chiefs.  Let this be the fourth: that perpetual peace and amity shall remain  between both nations. 
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And as a pledge for the fulfillment of these articles, on the part of the princes of Kentuck, that the eldest son of the King and four sons of the principal chiefs shall be left as hostages in this city for the term of three years."  
These terms met the cordial approbation of both parties and were ratified in the most solemn manner. Thus happy was the termination of the war about the blue feather! (( It )) having taken place, Lobaska proceeded with indefatigable industry and perseverance in his benevolent schemes of enlightening and reforming mankind. and how happy would it be for mankind, if all wars about as trifling causes as this, might terminate in the same way. The benevolent mind of Lobaska soared above trifles. Viewing all mankind as brothers and sisters he wished the happiness of all. Hence he made provision in the treaty with the Kentucks for the introduction of schools among them. This was the first step, which 
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he foresaw would introduce improvements in agriculture and the mechanical arts; produce a reformation in their morals and religious principals; and a happy revolution in some part of their political institutions. Bombal had become so captivated with Lobaska that he solicited him to bear him company to his own dominions. He consented, and when he had arrived at the royal city of Gamba, which is situated on the River Kentuck, he there pursued the same course which he had done at Tolanga and his success answered his most sanguine expectations. The people were now prepared for the introduction of a school. He returned back to Tolanga and sent his second son and three of the most forward scholars of the Sciotans to establish a school at Gamba. In the meantime his intention was to make some amendments in the government of Sciota. But as there were several cities and a great number of villages that acknowledged the jurisdiction of the Sciotan King, which still were ignorant of the principles 
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and doctrines which he taught, he found it necessary to visit them and to introduce instructors amongst them. In this work he was engaged about two years. And the happy effect of his labors were now visible in various kinds of improvements and in the reformation of manners, morals, and religion. The way was now prepared to introduce his system of government. The chiefs of the nation were invited to attend a grand council at Tolanga. When they were met, Lobaska rose and presented them with the following constitution of government: "The king of Sciota shall be styled the Emperor of Ohian and the King of Sciota. His crown shall be hereditary in the oldest male heir of his family. The cities and villages which now acknowledge his jurisdiction, or who may hereafter do it, shall be entitled to protection from the Emperor. If invaded by an enemy he shall defend them with the force of the Empire. Once every year the chiefs shall meet at Tolanga to make laws for the good of the nation." 
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These young men, having imbibed the spirit and principles of their great preceptor, spared no exertions to instruct their scholars and to defuse useful knowledge among the people. The happy effects of their labors were visible in a short time. The people embraced the religion of Lobaska and became more industrious and civilized. In their various improvements in agriculture, the mechanical arts, and literature they even rivaled the Sciotans and appeared to be as prosperous and flourishing. Even Bombal himself declared that the termination of the war about the blue feather, which at first appeared unfortunate; yet, as it occasioned such happy effects among his people, it gave him more satisfaction and pleasure than what he could have received from the reputation of being a great conqueror. 
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 Chapter IX 
Government and Money 
The people who were denominated Ohians were settled on both sides of the River Ohio and along the various branches of the river. The settlements extended a great distance in the time of Lobaska, but how far it is not mentioned. They lived in compact villages or towns. We might except the cities, Tolanga on the River Sciota and Gamba on the River Kentuck. These various villages or towns formed independent sovereignties and were governed by their respective chiefs.
Excepting the cities of Tolanga and Gamba, whose kings claimed jurisdiction over an extent of country about one hundred and fifty miles along the River Ohio and about the same distance back from the river, the remaining part of this extensive country was settled in compact villages or towns. These formed independent sovereignties and were governed by their respective chiefs. Frequent bickerings, contentions and wars took place among these chiefs, which were often attended with pernicious consequences. To remedy these evils and to facilitate and accomplish the great and benevolent plan
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of reforming and civilizing the Ohians, Lobaska had formed a system of government, with a design of establishing two great empires, one on each side of the River Ohio. Their constitutions were on the same plan and were presented by the hand of Lobaska to the respective kings of Sciota and Kentuck. The Sciotan constitution was comprised in (( these )) words: "The country east of the Great River Ohio shall form the Empire of Sciota. At the head of this empire shall be placed, with the title of Emperor, Labamack, the oldest son of Lobaska. The office shall be hereditary in the eldest male of his family. He and his sons successively shall marry natives of the Kingdom of Sciota: and all their daughters shall marry within their own dominions. He shall have four councilors. He, with the advice of his councilors, shall have the exclusive right of making war and peace and of forming treaties with other nations. He shall be the commander-in-chief of all the forces. And the King of Sciota shall be next to him. All controversies between the rulers or chiefs of the different tribes shall be referred to the decision of him and his councilors and he is authorized to compel a compliance. He shall hold his settings annually in four different parts of the Empire. The King of Sciota and the chiefs of the different tribes shall hold their offices and exercise the same authority in civil matters that they have done. They shall
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be amenable to the Emperor and his councilors, whose duty it shall be to inquire into all complaints against them from their subjects and to redress grievances and punish for oppressions and injustice by fines. He and his councilors shall have the exclusive privilege of coining money. They may likewise lay taxes for the support of government and for the defence of the nation. They shall coin no more money than what is necessary for the convenience of the people and in such quantity only that the value shall not depreciate. In time of war he shall appoint the officers of his army, except where the chiefs choose to command their own subjects; in that case they shall be subject to the command of the Emperor. The people in every city, town, or village shall respectively choose one or more censors, whose duty it shall be to inquire into all malconduct of rulers and all vicious and improper conduct of the priests and the people. And they shall pursue such measures to obtain justice and to produce a reformation of morals in the offenders as the laws shall direct.  In order that the priests and instructors of learning may know and perform their duty for the benefit of civilization, morality, and religion, Lambon, the third son of Lobaska, shall preside over them and shall have the title of High Priest. And the office shall be hereditary in the eldest males of his family successively. There shall be associated with him four priests as his assistants. They shall exercise a jurisdiction over all the priests of the Empire and shall see that they faithfully perform the duties of their office. They shall attend to the instructors of learning and shall direct that a suitable number are provided throughout the Empire. It shall likewise be their duty at all suitable times and places to instruct rulers and people in the duties of their respective 
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stations and to labor incessantly to persuade mankind to subject their passions and appetites under the government of reason, that they may secure happiness to themselves in this life and immortal happiness beyond the grave. The people shall make contributions, in proportion to their wealth, for the support of their priests. If any refuse, they shall be denied the privilege of their instructions and shall be subjected to the ridicule and contempt of the people.  For the convenience of the people and for the easy support of the government, it is necessary that there should be something which shall represent propertyand which is of small weight. It is therefore provided that certain small pieces of iron, stamped in a peculiar manner, shall be this circulating medium, to represent property. Each piece according to its particular stamp shall have a certain value fixed upon it. It shall be the peculiar prerogative of the Emperor and his councilors to direct the coining of these pieces, which shall be denominated money. No more money shall be coined than what will be for the benefit of the Empire. Nor shall the Emperor or his councilors receive any more of it than (( is )) an adequate compensation for their services. They shall keep an account of the amount of money coined annually and the 
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manner in which it has been distributed and expended. This account shall be submitted to the examination of the King of Sciota and the chiefs of the Empire. The Emperor shall always be ready to receive the petitions and complaints of his subjects. He shall consult the welfare of his people and save them from oppression and tyranny; and by his beneficent acts shall gain their affection and obtain the appellation of a just, a good, and gracious prince."  When Hadokam, King of Sciota, had received this plan of government, he immediately assembled all the chiefs or princes within his kingdom. Lobaska pointed out the defects of the existing governments and the excellencies of that form which he presented for their acceptance. His reasons could not be resisted; they unanimously agreed to establish it as their constitution of government. Labamack accepted the office of Emperor and his four councilors were appointed. Lambon was ordained High Priest and his four assistants chosen. The new government was now put in operation. The various tribes living contiguous to the Empire, seeing its prosperity, 
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solicited the privilege of being received as parts of the Empire. Their requests were granted. Improvement and prosperity attended them. This induced other contiguous tribes to request the same privilege; and others still adjoining them came forward with their petitions. All were granted and the same regulations established in every part. Within about three years from the first establishment of the Empire Lobaska had the pleasure of seeing his son reign over a territory of more than four hundred miles in length along the River Ohio; and of beholding a nation rapidly progressing from a state of barbarism, ignorance, and wretchedness to a state of civilization, knowledge, and prosperity. Having now beheld the happy success of his experiment at Sciota, Lobaska made a second visit to Bombal, King of Kentuck. His second son, whose name was Hamback, was present at the city of Gamba. 
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His youngest son, Kalo, attended him. he made known his plan of revolution to Bombal who cordially acquiesced. And, calling together his princes, they unanimously agreed to place Hamback on the throne of the Empire south of the Ohio River and to ordain Kalo as their High Priest. With the exception of names and places, the constitution of government was the same as that which the Sciotans adopted. The same measures were pursued to ensure it success. A great and flourishing empire arose and barbarous tribes connecting themselves with the empire and under the fostering care of the government became civilized, wealthy, and prosperous. Thus, within the term of twelve years from the arrival of Lobaska at Tolanga, he had the satisfaction of beholding the great and benevolent objects which he had in view accomplished. He still continued his useful labors and was the Great Oracle of both empires. His advise and sentiments were taken upon all important subjects and no one ventured to controvert his opinions. He lived to behold the successful experiment of his institutions and to see them acquire that strength and firmness as not easily to be overthrown. 
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Having acquired that renown and glory which are beyond the reach of envy and which aspiring ambition would despair of attaining, at the age of eighty, he bid an affectionate adieu to two empires and left them to lament in tears his exit. These two empires continued to progress in their improvements and population and to rival each other in prosperity during the reign of ten successive Emperors on the throne of Sciota. Peace and harmony and a friendly intercourse existed between them. No wars took place to disturb their tranquillity except what arose from the surrounding savages, who sometimes disturbed the frontiers in a hostile manner for the sake of gaining plunder. But these attacks were generally repelled and defeated without much loss of blood. They were in fact of such trifling consequence as to make no perceptible impediment to prevent the population, improvements, and prosperity of both empires. And happy, thrice happy, would it have been for them if they had still continued to have pursued the amicable and benevolent principles which first marked the commencement and progress of their institutions. 
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Chapter X 
Military, Forts, Arrangement, Amusements, Customs. Extent of the Empires. 
The customs and amusements of a nation evince the state of society which exists among the people. When the two Empires of Sciota and Kentuck had commenced their new career on the plan which was formed by Lobaska, they adopted this as a true maxim: 'That to avoid war it was necessary to be in constant preparation for it.' It was the wise policy of the two governments to make such military arrangements as (( to )) never to be surprised by an enemy unprepared. In every city, town, and village the people were required to provide military implements and to deposit them in a secure place. These magazines were to contain a sufficient quantity of arms, of warlike implements, to furnish every man who should be destitute (( but )) was able to bear arms. In order that every man might have sufficient skill to use them to advantage, great pains were taken to prepare him by teaching him the art of war. The knowledge of military tactics, as it was then attainable, was likewise defused among the people. Young men from sixteen to twenty years old were required to take the field four times in each year and to spend sixteen days during each time in learning the military art and in building fortifications. And every able-bodied man was required to spend eight  days in each year in the same employment. 
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In consequence of these regulations, a rivalship existed among the different sections of the empires to exceed each other in skill and dexterity in military maneuvers. Hence it was a general custom in every part of the country for different bodies of men to meet, once every year, in order to make a display of their improvements in the art of war. . . to engage in feigned battles. Premiums were given to those who were the most expert in shooting the arrow or in managing the spear and the sword. Their amusements were generally of the athletic kind, calculated to improve their agility and strength, and prepare them for warriors. Wrestling, slinging and throwing stones at marks, leaping ditches and fences, and climbing trees and precipices were some of their most favorite diversions. And, as they took great pains to perfect themselves in these exercises, it would astonish spectators of other nations to observe the improvement they had made and the extraordinary feats of agility and strength which they 
exhibited. Other diversions, which had not (( a )) tendency to fit them for war, they seldom practiced, except when in the company of women. Being taught by their religion the social virtues, they manifested a great regard for the rights of the other sex and always treated them with attention, civility, and tenderness. Hence, when in company of the fair sex, it was curious to observe that they easily exchanged the rugged attitude of the bold warrior for the complacent and tender deportment of the affectionate gallant. The amusements which were pleasing to 
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the female mind were equally pleasing to the men whenever they held their social meetings for recreation. These meetings were frequent among the younger class of citizens, whether married or single. Various kinds of amusements would frequently be introduced at such times for their mutual entertainment. but that which held the most conspicuous place was dancing . But their manner of dancing was different from that of the polished Europeans. Gracefulness and easy attitude were not so much studied in their movements as sprightliness and agility and those tunes which admitted the greatest display of activity and sprightliness were generally the most fashionable. Hence, those whose bodies were formed for the quickest movements, if they kept time with the music, were the most admired. In small assemblies it was fashionable to amuse themselves at playing with pieces of parchment. This they denominated the 'bird play.' Each piece is of an oval form and of convenient length and width, and on each is portrayed the likeness of a bird. All the birds of prey that came within their knowledge have the honor of being represented on these pieces of parchment. On the other pieces are portrayed other birds of different kinds. The whole number of the pieces amount to about sixty. These are promiscuously placed in a pack and dealt of to the company of players 
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whose number does not exceed six. The person then, who has the greatest number of carnivorous birds, by a dexterous management, may catch the greatest number of the other birds and thus obtain the victory. During these interviews of the different sexes, and even in their common intercourse with each other, they are always very cheerful and sociable and often display that fondness and familiarity which in Europe would be considered as indicative of a lascivious character, but in this country are considered as harmless, as what good manners required. Nothing rude, nothing indecent, or immodest, according to their ideas of the meaning of these terms, is admissible in company and absolute lasciviousness would meet the most severe reprehension. When a young man wishes to settle himself in a family state he proclaims it by wearing a red feather in his cap. This is considered as an admonition to the young women, who would not receive him for a husband, to avoid his company, whereas those whose inclinations towards him are more favorable admit his attention. From this number he selects one as the object of his addresses. He obtains an interview and proposes a courtship. If the proposition accords with her wishes, they then agree on a time when he shall make known the affair to her parents, whose approbation being obtained, he is then permitted to visit her ten times in sixty days. At the expiration of this time, the bargain for matrimony must be finished. Otherwise there must be a final termination or a postponement of the courtship for the term of one year. . . The parties are 
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at liberty during the postponement to. . . But if the parties are pleased with each other, the contract is made and the time for the performance of the nuptial ceremonies is appointed. An entertainment is provided; friends are invited; and the bridegroom and bride present themselves in their best apparel. The company form a circle and they take their stand in the center. The father of the bride speaks. "For what purpose do you present yourselves?" They answer, "To join hands in wedlock. Our hearts are already joined and we have made a solemn covenant to be true and faithful to each other." The company then all exclaim: "Blessings will attend you, if ye fulfill; but curses, if ye transgress." They are then conducted to a log 'round which a rope is tied. The bridegroom takes hold of one end of the rope and the bride the other; and being commanded to draw the log into the house, they pull in opposite directions with all their might. Having worried themselves for some time to no purpose, to the great diversion of the company, the parents of both parties step forward; and giving them a severe reprimand, command them to draw in the same direction. They instantly obey and the log is easily drawn to its destined place. The rest of the time is spent with great cheerfulness and merriment. They partake of the entertainment and conclude with customary amusements.
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The bridegroom and bride are now desirous to form a family by themselves. If their parents are of sufficient ability they furnish them with a convenient house and such furniture as will be required for family use and such other property as they need to enable them to obtain a comfortable living. But if their parents are poor they receive assistance and contributions from relation and neighbors and are placed in such a situation that with proper industry and economy, they can live above indigence and enjoy life agreeably. At the time they enter their new habitation they are attended by a priest and by their relation and friends. They kneel in the center of the room and the priest places his right hand on the head of the bridegroom and his left on the head of the bride. After explaining and enjoining, in the most solemn manner, the various duties of the marriage state, he concludes his injunctions with these words: "My dear children, I conjure you, as you regard your own peace and felicity, as you would wish to acquire wealth and respectability, and set an example worthy of imitation, that as you are now yoked together, to draw in the same direction. They then rise and he presents each with a piece of parchment on which is written: 'Draw in the same direction.' All the duties of the conjugal state, in their opinion, are comprised in this injunction (( or )) command.  As the priests and the censors were vigilant and careful to require that parents restrained the vices of their children and instructed them in the knowledge of their religious principles, the effects were very conspicuous. Having been early taught to govern their passions and to regard the practice of virtue as their greatest good, it was generally the case that love, friendship and 
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harmony existed in families. . . . and when parents were treated by their children with great tenderness and respect. . . Parents manifested an anxious solicitude for the future welfare and respectability of their children. And, in their turn, children treated their parents with respect and reverence. Nor did they forsake them in old age, but provided liberally for their support. But we are not to suppose that in the most virtuous age of the nation, all were virtuous. Far from this. But with such punctual exactness were the laws executed, in the most prosperous state of the nation, that vice and impiety had but few advocates and the wicked were ashamed of their own characters. Though every vice was prohibited by law, yet the penalties were not severe. Murder alone was punished with death. With respect to other laws, they were calculated to wound the pride and ambition of the transgressor, and produce shame and regret. Adultery is punished by obliging the culprit to wear a pair of elk horns on his shoulders six days and to walk through the city or village once each day, at which times the boys are at liberty to pelt him with rotten eggs. The thief is compelled to make ample restitution. For the third offense he is covered with tar and feathers and exhibited as a spectacle for laughter and ridicule. Pugilists or boxers, if they are equally to blame for fighting, are yoked together at least one day. And in this situation are presented to the view of the multitude. They must wear the yoke until the quarrel is settled. 
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Such being the nature of their penal laws and such the punctuality of executing the penalties on offenders, that crimes were far less frequent in this country, than in Europe where the laws are more severe and offenders more often escape punishment. Though learning, civilization, and refinement had not arrived to that state of perfection in which they exist in a great part of the Roman Empire, yet the two Empires of Sciota and Kentuck, during their long period of peace and prosperity, were not less happy. As luxury and extravagance were scarcely known to exist, especially among the common people, hence, there was a great similarity in their manner of  living, their dress, their habits and manners. Pride was not bloated and puffed up with enormous wealth; nor had Envy fuel to inflame her hatred and malice. As the two empires were not displeased with each other's prosperity and happiness, nor jealous of each other's power; and, as the governments were not infected with thirst for conquest, Peace of consequence waved her olive branch and the malignant passions lay dormant.  As avarice and corruption did not contaminate the ruling powers nor bribery infect the seats of justice, the people felt secure in the enjoyment of their rights, and desirous to raise up families to partake of the same blessings which they enjoyed.  We can now trace the causes of their increase and prosperity: 
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To a religion which presented powerful motives to restrain vice and impiety and encourage virtue. To the diffusion of a competent share of learning and knowledge to enable the people to understand their rights and enjoy the pleasures of social intercourse. To the establishment of political institutions which guarded property and life against oppression injustice and tyranny. to the knowledge which the people obtained of agriculture and the mechanical arts and their habits of industry and economy, to the mild nature of their laws, and the certainty of executing the penalties upon transgressors. And to such an equality of property as to prevent the pride of wealth and the extravagance of luxury. To such causes may be ascribed the rapid increase of population and the apparent contentment and felicity which extended through every part of the country. We might add likewise the long peace that continued and the friendly intercourse that existed between the two rival empires. A peace which had no interruption for the term of near five hundred years. During this time their villages and cities were greatly enlarged; new settlements were formed in every part of the country which had not been inhabited; and a vast number of towns were built which rivaled as to number of inhabitants, those which existed at the time their imperial governments were founded. Their settlements extended the whole length of the Great River Ohio to its confluence with the Mississippi and over the whole country on both sides of the Ohio River, which are watered by streams which empty into it, and also along the Great Lakes of Erie and Michigan 
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and even some settlements were formed in some part of the country which borders on Lake Ontario. Such was the vast extent of the country which they inhabited, and such the fertility of the soil, that many millions were easily fed and supported with such a plenty and competence of provision, as was necessary for their comfort and happiness. During the time of their rising greatness and tranquillity, their policy led them to fortify their country in every part, the interior as well as the frontiers. This they did partly for their own safety, provided a war should take place and they should be invaded by an enemy, and partly to keep alive and improve a warlike spirit and the knowledge of military tactics. Near every village or city they constructed forts or fortifications. These were generally of an oval form and of different dimensions according to the number of inhabitants who lived in the town. The ramparts or walls were formed of dirt which was taken in front of the fort. A deep canal or trench would likewise be formed. This would still increase the difficulty of surmounting the walls in front. In addition to this they inserted pieces of timber on the top of the ramparts. These pieces were about seven feet in length from the ground to top which was sharpened. The distance between each piece was about six inches, through which they could shoot their arrows against an enemy. Some of their fortifications 
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have two ramparts which run parallel with each other; built in the same manner, with a distance between of about two or three perches. Their gates are strong and well constructed for defence. Within these forts are likewise a number of small houses for the accommodation of the army and inhabitants in case of an invasion, and likewise a storehouse for the reception of provision and arms. A country thus fortified, containing so many million of inhabitants, hardy and robust and with habits formed for war, might well be supposed as able to defend themselves against an invading enemy. If they were beat from the frontier, they could still retreat back to the fortifications in the interior and there make a successful stand. But what avails all the wisdom, the art, and the works of men; what avails their valor, their strength, and numbers, when the Almighty is provoked to chastise them and to execute His vengeance in their overthrow and destruction? 
Chapter XI  
As the SCIOTANS and Kentucks had maintained with each other an uninterrupted peace and friendly intercourse, for the space of four hundred and eighty years, it seems almost incredible that a cause, which was of no great importance to either nation should excite their resentment against each other and produce all the horrors of war. But such were the unhappy effects of an affair which had no regard to a single person, except the imperial families of the two empires and the King of Sciota. 
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 As these families were descended from the great Lobaska, they had, during the reigns of all their Emperors, been in the habit of visiting each other; but as each Emperor and his children were required not to marry out of their respective dominions, no intermarriages had taken place. They however claimed relationship and still continued to each other the appellation of 'our dearest and best beloved cousin.' A cousin of this description, who was the eldest son of Hamboon, the Emperor of Kentuck, arrived at the city of Tolanga with a small but splendid retinue of friends. At that time RAMBOCK, who was the fourteenth Emperor, was sitting on the throne of Sciota. He received the young Prince with apparent sensations of the highest pleasure and spared no pains to manifest towards him by his treatment, the greatest esteem and friendship. The Emperor had an only son, whose name was Moonrod. He ordered him to attend the young Prince and to treat him with every token of affection and honor. They spent their time in receiving visits from the officers of the government; in viewing curiosities; and in the assemblies of the first class of young citizens who met for recreation. Elseon, for this was the name of the young Prince, was, soon after his arrival, introduced to Lamesa, the eldest daughter of the Emperor.  She was a young lady of a very fair and beautiful countenance. Her features and the construction of her person were formed to please the fancy, whilst the ease, the gracefulness, and modesty of her deportment were very pleasing to all her acquaintance. Her mind was replenished with the principles of knowledge and virtue. And such was her vivacity and the ease with which she expressed her ideas that all were delighted with her conversation. 
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No wonder that this fair imperial damsel attracted the attention of Elseon; and at their first interview enkindled a spark in his bosom which he could hardly prevent from being  discovered through his blushing countenance and the embarrassment he felt in conversation. He strove to erase those tender impressions which she had made on his heart, but in vain. Every renewed interview only served to fix her image deeper in his mind and to make the flame of love more difficult to extinguish. He reasoned on the obstacles in the way of obtaining this young lady for his partner. But instead of cooling, it only increased the ardor of his passion and produced a resolution that with the consent of Lamesa, nothing should prevent the attainment of his wishes. To a mind thus ardent, which possessed the native courage, resolution, and perseverance of Elseon, the most gigantic obstacles would vanish into vapor. Nor was it long before he found that a correspondent passion was excited in her breast. The moment she first saw him her heart palpitated; her face was covered with crimson. She turned her eyes and attempted to speak; her tongue stopt its motion in the middle of a period. She hemmed, sat down, and observed that she was not well. A description of this scene is painted by a Sciotan bard in poetic numbers. He represents the young lady as recovering in a short time from this state of agitation and confusion and as being afterwards composed, and of having a better command of her passions. To follow this poet in the description which he gives of Elseon, to whom he attaches a countenance and figure superior to other mortals and qualities which produced universal esteem and admiration, would not comport with the faithful page of history. Suffice it say that Lamesa was captivated with his person, and was impressed with those ideas and sentiments that her happiness fled, except when she either enjoyed or anticipated 
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his company. After Elseon had firmly determined to marry Lamesa he was impatient for a private interview with her to disclose his sentiments. This occurred in a short time. They were together in one of (( the )) apartments of the Emperor's palace; the company had all retired. "I have" said he in a low voice to Lamesa, "conceived that opinion of you, that I hope you will not be displeased if I express my feelings with frankness and sincerity." "You must" she replied, "be the best judge of what is proper for you to express. I am always pleased with sincerity." 
"As the sun," says he "my dear Lamesa, when he rises with his radiant beams, dispels the darkness of night; so it is in your power to dispel the clouds of anxiety which rest upon my soul. The crown of Kentuck will be like a rock on my head, unless you will condescend to share with me the glory and felicity of my reign. Will you consent to be my dearest friend and companion for life?" "There is nothing" she replies, "would give me more pleasure than a compliance with your request, provided it shall meet the approbation of my father. But how can he consent, when our constitution requires that his daughters should marry in his own dominions? Besides, my father intends that I shall receive the King of Sciota for my husband." 
"By performing" says he, "the ceremonies of marriage at Tolanga, we shall literally comply with the imperial constitution, as Tolanga is within the dominions of your father. But as for this King of Sciota, do you sincerely wish to have him for a husband?" "No." she quickly speaks. Anger sparkled in her eyes. "No! The King of Sciota for my husband! His pride, his haughtiness, the pomposity of all his movements, excite my perfect disgust. I should as leave be yoked to a porcupine." These lovers, as you may well conjecture, said many things too tender and endearing to please the taste of the common class of lovers. in this interview, which 
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lasted about four hours, they exchanged the most transporting expressions of love; made the most solemn vows of sincerity and perpetual friendship; and finally agreed that Elseon should make known to the Emperor their mutual desire to be joined in wedlock. The next day he wrote to the Emperor as follows: "May it please Your Most Excellent Majesty: Permit me to express my most sincere gratitude for the high favors and honor which, through the beneficence of Your Majesty, I have enjoyed in your dominions. I am likewise impelled to request a favor, which to me would be the most precious gift that is in the power of Your Majesty to bestow. Having contracted an acquaintance with your most amiable daughter Lamesa, and finding that a correspondent affection and esteem exist in our hearts towards each other, and a mutual desire to be united by the solemn covenant of marriage, I would therefore solicit Your Majesty's 
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permission, that such a connection may be formed. Such a connection, I conceive, may in its effects be very salutary and beneficial to both empires. It will unite the two imperial families nearer in the bond of consanguinity and fix upon them an additional obligation to cultivate friendship, peace and amicable intercourse. It will strengthen the sinews of both governments and promote an happy interchange of friendly offices. As to the objection which might arise from the constitution requiring that the Emperor's daughters should marry in his own dominions: this, according to its literal meaning, can have respect only to the place where the Emperor's daughters shall marry. If by Your Majesty's permission, I should marry your daughter Lamesa, in your dominions,
it will be a literal fulfillment of the constitution. From this ground therefore I conceive no objection of any weight can arise.  Will Your Majesty please to vouchsafe an answer to my request. Signed, Elseon, Prince of Kentuck." This letter was presented to the Emperor by Helicon, an intimate friend of Elseon. The Emperor read it, assumed the aspect of deep consideration, walked the room a few moments; then took a seat and told Helicon that he might inform the young Prince that he should receive an answer within ten days.  But why ten days, a long time for two ardent lovers to remain in suspense? But the Emperor must consult his councilors, his priests, and the last and most fatal councilor of all, this King of Sciota, who presumed to claim the hand of the fair Lamesa. The affair became public. The popular sentiment at first favored the connection. The Emperor's councilors and his priests were at first inclined to recommend an affirmative answer. But the interest of the Sciotan King soon prevailed. This produced a different view of the subject. The councilors perceived that such a connection would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning and spirit of the constitution and the priests considered that it would be an act of the greatest impiety, as it would transgress an explicit injunction of the great founder of their government and religion. This opinion had vast weight on the minds of a great majority of the people. The more liberal sort vindicated the cause of Elseon. This produced great debate, altercation and confusion through the city. All were anxious to know the Emperor's decision.
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On the tenth day the Emperor transmitted to the Prince the following answer to his letter: "To our Best Beloved Cousin Elseon, Prince of Kentuck: The letter we received from Your Highness has impressed our hearts with a deep sense of the honor and benefits which you intended our family and Empire. At first we were inclined to accept of the alliance you proposed. But, having considered the subject with great seriousness and attention, we find that to admit Your Highness, who is not a citizen of our Empire, to marry into our family would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning and spirit of our constitution and an impious outrage on the sacred memory of its founder. For these reasons we must solicit Your Highness not to insist on our compliance with your request. Signed, Rambock, Emperor of Sciota" As Elseon had been informed of the complexion which his affair had assumed in the court and through the city he was prepared for the answer which he received. Without manifesting the least chagrin or resentment, he appeared to acquiesce in the decision of the Emperor. He displayed in his countenance, his conversation, and deportment his usual cheerfulness and vivacity. He continued his amusements and associated with company with the same ease, gracefulness, and dignified conduct which he had done before. At the same time his determination was fixed to transport the fair Lamesa into his father's dominions. (( In )) the first interview which he had with her after he received the Emperor's letter, he informed her 
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of its contents. She trembled; paleness began to cover her face; and had not Elseon received her into his arms, perhaps she would have fallen from her seat. However, by a few soothing words and caresses, she was restored to her former composure and recollection. "Believe me," quoth he, " my dearest Lamesa, you shall be mine. This heart shall be torn from my bosom and these limbs from my body; nothing else shall prevent our union and complete enjoyment of happiness. Can the ancient scribbling of a great sage or the decree of an Emperor prevent the streams from uniting with the ocean? with the same ease and propriety can they prevent the union of our hands, since our hearts are united? With your consent, you shall be mine!" "Is it possible," she replies, "is it possible, O Elseon, to disregard the authority of an indulgent and beloved parent and disobey his command? This I never did." 
"What if he should command you" says Elseon, "to marry the King of Sciota; would you obey?" "He might" she replies, "with more regard to my happiness, command me to plunge a dagger into my heart. I cannot endure that supercilious bundle of pride and affectation." At this moment her maid entered the room and gave her a letter. "I received this letter" she says, "from your brother, who told me it was from the Emperor." Lamesa opened the letter and read: "My Dearest and Best Beloved Daughter: Having the most tender and affectionate regard for your future welfare and felicity we have concluded a treaty of marriage between you and Sambal, the King of Sciota. This alliance will be honorable to our family, and (( will )) be productive of many benefits to the Empire. On the tenth day from this time the nuptial ceremonies will be consummated in our palace. You will be in readiness and yield a cheerful compliance with our will. Signed, RAMBOCK, Emperor of Sciota." Had the lightning flashed from the clouds and pierced her heart, it could not have produced a more instantaneous effect. She fell into the arms of Elseon; the maid ran for a cordial. Elseon rubbed her temples and hands and loosened the girdle about her waist. Within about 
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an hour the blood began to circulate. Elseon to his inexpressible joy, felt her pulse beginning to beat and perceived flashes of color in her face.  With a plaintive groan she opened her eyes once more to the beams of day and in a kind of wild destraction exclaimed: "Ah, cruel, cruel Father, why have you doomed your daughter to a situation the most odious and disgustful? As well might you have thrown her into a den of porcupines, opossums and serpents. With such animals I could enjoy life with less disgust and torment than with this mighty King of Sciota. An alliance with him an honor to our family; an honor to the descendants of the great Lobaska! What wicked councilors have deceived my father and induced him to throw me into the arms of this hateful monster? Ah whither shall I fly and escape my barbarous destiny?" 
"I am your protector." says Elseon. "I am your friend and will conduct you beyond the loving and gigantic grasp of Sambal. His loathsome arms shall never encircle my dear Lamesa. Consent to my request and we will be within ten days at the city of Gamba. There you will be esteemed as the brightest ornament of my father's empire." 
"No longer," she replies, "O Elseon, can I refuse my consent to your proposal. When a compliance with my father's command will entail wretchedness and misery through life, Heaven will pardon my disobedience. Yes, Elseon, I will go with you and place my happiness in your power. I would share with you the worst of fortune rather than fall into the hands of this haughty Sambal."
What could she say more to express the feelings of a heart struggling under the operation of different passions and opposite motives? She has taken her resolution. Love has gained the preeminence over every obstacle.  At this resolution Elseon was transported with joy. He now proceeds to form his plans for their flight. On the fourth day after, he called upon the Emperor and requested his permission to depart to his own country. The Emperor importuned him to tarry and be one of the guests at Lamesa's wedding. But he declined by urging as his apology the anxiety and impatience of his father for his return. Permission was granted and the Emperor added that he should do himself the honor to furnish the Prince with an escort when he left the city. Elseon replied that he was not fond of much parade; he would wish the escort might consist of the Emperor's children. 
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 his only friend and his daughter, and with each of them a friend. "These" says he, "are my dearest and best beloved cousins, for whom I shall ever retain the most sincere friendship." "Nothing can afford me more pleasure" says the Emperor, "than to comply with your request." Elseon took an affectionate leave of the Emperor and on the second day after, being prepared for his journey, he set off with his three friends and their servants. Moonrod, Prince of the Empire and Lamesa, with her two sisters, with each of them a friend attended him on his journey about twenty miles. They all tarried at a village over-night. Imagination alone can paint the pleasant and happy scene. Elseon was transported with joy. He prest her to his bosom with all the ardor of enthusiasm and she yielded to all his tender and innocent embraces with a grateful sensibility and modest resignation. The invention and ingenuity of Elseon must now be employed in forming a plan of their flight to his father's dominions. As he appeared to acquiesce in the decision of the Emperor and had maintained the same cheerful deportment, none were suspicious of his design. The Emperor and the whole court still manifested towards him every token of high respect and sincere friendship. Without any hesitation the Emperor cheerfully complied with his request, that his dear cousins, the son and the three daughters of the Emperor, with each of them a friend, should accompany him about twenty miles, on his return to Kentuck. The retinue of the young Prince consisted of four of his most intimate friends and their servants. He took care to send their baggage on by two servants one day before they set out. The morning arrived; the Sun shone with radiant splendor. Not a cloud intervened or was seen to float in the atmosphere. It was the fourth day after Lamesa 
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had received the letter which doomed her to the embraces of Sambal. The Emperor, his councilors, his priests and principal officers assembled; and, having invited the young prince and his friends to meet them, they entered the circle with great ceremony. The Emperor then addressed the young Prince, thanked him for the honor of his visit, and expressed his firm determination to maintain a sincere friendship and an inviolable peace with the Government of Kentuck. Elseon replied that those sentiments would meet the cordial approbation of his father, who retained the same sentiments of friendship and peace towards the  Government of Sciota. He then thanked the Emperor and whole assembly for the high respect they had shewn him. This was done with that frankness and apparent sincerity that the whole assembly were highly pleased. The Emperor then embraced him and gave him his blessing. Customary ceremonies were mutually exchanged by the whole company, and even tears were seen to drop from every eye. As the whole of this parade indicates no flight of Elseon and Lamesa, we must now view them, with their select company of friends, setting out on a short journey. All mounted on horses, they rode about twenty miles to a village where they halted. An elegant supper was provided. They were cheerful and sociable; none appeared more so than Elseon and Lamesa. The next day Elseon requested the company of his dear cousins a short distance on his journey. When they had ridden about two miles they halted and proposed to take their leave of each other. Lamesa and her friend, without being perceived by the company, rode on. It was a place where the road turned and by riding one rod they could not be seen. The rest of the company entered into a short conversation and passed invitations for reciprocal visits and friendly offices. They then clasped each other's hands, and bowing very low, took an affectionate farewell. But where are
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Lamesa and her friend? During these ceremonies their horses move with uncommon swiftness. Her heart palpitates with an apprehension that she might be overtaken by her brother. But now a friend more dear, her beloved Elseon, with his companions, outstrip the wind in their speed. And within one hour and half they overtake these fearful damsels. They all precipitate their course, casting their eyes back every moment to her pursuers. But (( the )) pursuers had not sufficient time to overtake them. They safely arrive on the bank of the Great River. Elseon and Lamesa were the first that entered the boat; the rest follow. And such was Elseon's engagedness and anxiety to secure his fair prize, that he even seized an oar and used it with great strength and dexterity. As their feet stepped on the opposite shore, Elseon clapped his hands and spoke aloud. "Lamesa is mine; she is now beyond the grasp of a pompous tyrant and the control of a father, whose mind is blinded by the sordid advice of a menial junta of councilors and priests. She is mine and shall soon be the Princess of Kentuck. Their movement is slow through the remaining part of the journey. They at length arrive at the great city of Gamba. We may now contemplate them as having new scenes to pass through. Not to delineate the parade which was made at the court of Hamboon, for the reception of his son, Lamesa, and their friends, nor to describe the joy that was exhibited in every part of the city on their arrival, and the universal surprise occasioned by the story of the flight of these two lovers. Suffice it to say that those who beheld Lamesa did not blame Elseon. As Hamboon was not very punctilious in his regard to the constitution, being possessed of very liberal sentiments, Elseon found no difficulty in obtaining his consent to marry Lamesa. On the fourth day after their arrival, Elseon and Lamesa with each of them a friend appeared on a stage which was erected on the public square of the city. The Emperor and Empress, with his councilors, his priests, his officers 
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and all his relation, with the principal ladies of the city, formed a procession and surrounded the stage. The common citizens being a great multitude took their stand as they pleased. The Emperor and Empress then mounted the stage and united Elseon and Lamesa in the bond of wedlock according to custom. And, as pulling the log was an indispensable ceremony, one was provided with a rope 'round it on the stage. The bridegroom and bride played their parts in pulling the rope with such dexterity and gracefulness that the whole assembly were most pleasingly entertained. When all was ended the whole assembly clapped their hands and cried, "Long live Elseon and Lamesa!" And, giving three huzzahs, the common citizens dispersed. The rest repaired to a sumptuous entertainment and spent the remaining part of the day and evening in conversation, singing and recreation. 
Chapter XII 
The Reader will recollect that Elseon and his friends left Moonrod and his friends in a very pleasant mood without the least suspicion that Lamesa and her friend had deserted them. When they had arrived at the village, what was their surprise when they found Lamesa and her friend were not in company; nor had any one any recollection of her being in company after they had stopped to take their leave of Elseon. Moonrod and the other gentlemen immediately rode back with the greatest speed to the plac