Volume 1

GESTURE SPEECH—DIPLOMATIC ULTIMATUM. 335
the same manner ; they are represented as treacherous and
deceitful,
taking every advantage of their neighbors, favoring
the Sioux when they come to war this way, and frequently
mixing with them to annoy the Mandanes and Big
Bellies, as was the case last spring, when they were supposed
to be at peace. Their language is entirely different from
that of the natives of this place, and it is mainly by signs
that they communicate with each other, though there are
few of each who understand the other's language. Signlanguage
serves as interpreter in every affair
It
a
of importance.
are in communicating their ideas by signs.
is surprising how dexterous all these natives of the plains
They hold conferences
for several hours, upon different subjects, during
the whole of which time not a single word is pronounced
upon either side, and still they appear to comprehend each
other perfectly well. This mode of communication is natural
to them ;
their gestures are made with the greatest
ease, and they never seem to be at a loss for a sign to
express their meaning.
About 30 Big Bellies soon arrived on horseback, at full
speed ; they brought an interpreter with them. This party
consisted of some of the principal war chiefs, and other
great men, who did not appear well pleased, but looked on
the Pawnees with disdain.
After some private consultation
they desired the Pawnees to return immediately to their
own villages and to inform their great war chief. Red Tail,
that if he sincerely wished for peace he must come in person,
and then they would settle matters, as they were determined
to have nothing to do with a private party of young
men. They had been so repeatedly deceived by different
messages that for the future they would be more upon their
guard against such treacherous neighbors. They allowed
consider the business and per-
the Pawnees two moons to
form the journey ; if then their chief did not make his
appearance, they would immediately gather their corn, go in
a body to find him out in his own village, and convince him
what Big Bellies— or, as they call themselves. Willow In-