Page:Nattie Nesmith (1870).pdf/131

 worked on them," said the squaw, "and see to Tulip while I go out in the forest and gather some herbs that will calm her brain. I wish that she had not worked quite so long on the beads; though I think she will be better when she has taken some of my cooling drink. I would not like to have your father see her as she is now."

Nattie was sitting on her mat, slowly swaying to and fro. Black-bird took a seat near. The old squaw tied a wampum on her head and went forth.

After a short silence, Nattie asked:

"Aren't there any Indians living near here?"

"There are some families on the other side of the forest," was the answer.

"Why don't they come to visit you?"

"They do, when their chiefs are at home; but now, I suppose, the women and children are alone, and have been bidden to stay at home and work, as we have."