Page:California Digital Library (IA openingwestwithl00sabirich).pdf/131

 Captain Clark made a speech.

"We have heard that the Sioux have not kept our peace talk in their hearts," he said, "but have attacked our friends, the Mandans, and have stained the prairie with blood. So we armed at once and are here to lead the Mandan warriors against the Sioux and punish them for their treachery."

"Wah!" grunted the chiefs and warriors, approving. They spoke together, in their half circle, a few minutes; and O-hee-naw, or Big Man, the Cheyenne, arose and dropped his robe, to answer.

"We see now," said Big Man, "that what you have told us before is true. When our enemies attack us, you are ready to protect us. But, father, the snow is deep, the weather is very cold, and our horses cannot travel far. The murderers have gone off. In the spring, when the snow has disappeared, if you will conduct us we will follow you to the Sioux and the 'Ricaras with all our warriors."

When the council dispersed, the Mandans were in a very good humor. Chief Big White accompanied Captain Clark back to the river, and hugged him, at parting.

"We love our white fathers," he declared. "My village has been weeping night and day for the young man slain by the Sioux; but now my people will wipe their eyes."

Across the ice Captain Clark marched his men, to the fort again.

"Huh!" grumbled York. "Dose Mandans, dey