Volume 1

376 IN HOLLOW SQUARE TO THE CHEYENNE CAMP.
were observed to make some signs which our party understood,
and orders were instantly given to proceed.
We passed down the hill to the little river, which appeared
muddy and dangerous to cross. The perpetual
crossing of buffalo here, and the ravages they have made in
fording, rendered it doubtful whether we could get through.
But no time was to be lost ; we dashed in pell-mell, and got
over as best we could, in mud and mire up to the horses'
bellies. Many stuck fast until their friends helped them
out ; and those who got over waited until the last had
crossed.
Here we met our young men, who informed us
they had discovered the Schian camp at no great distance
beyond a hill to the S. This information put everything
in order again. These people are superstitious in many
things, and so suspicious that the least sign of failure to
keep a promise made by a stranger is instantly attributed
to treachery, and puts them on their guard accordingly.
All having safely crossed the river and adjusted themselves
afresh, orders were given to form and proceed in the following
manner : In the front was Le Borgne's brother,
attended by Two Crows on his left, holding out the stem,
and a war chief on his right, supporting an American flag
on a long pole. These three great men advanced ten
paces ; 40 Big Bellies immediately followed and formed
abreast, singing and shaking their rattles. To the right
and left of these, and somewhat in the rear, two parties, of
30 men each, filed off, singing in the same manner. In the
rear of those, again, but in the middle line, was formed
another party of 40 young men, also singing. The center
of these four squads was a vacant space, into which we
were desired to form abreast, in company with some of
the
most respectable old men. The four squads kept in perfect
order, closing and extending their ranks as the very
rugged ground required.
Behind them and us came small
parties of tens, twenties, and thirties, singing and shouting
The women brought up the rear.
Matters being thus adjusted according to the plans and
at intervals.