In these manufactures, as in the ordinary work of the house, the instrument most in use is a knife, or rather a dagger.

The handle of it is small, and has a strong loop of twine for the thumb, to prevent its being wrested from the band.
On each side is a blade, double-edged and pointed; the longer from nine to ten inches, the shorter from four to five.

This knife is carried habitually in the hand, sometimes exposed, but mostly, when in company with strangers, is put under the robe." Naturally, all of the Columbia River Indians were found to be expert in the building and handling of canoes.

Here their greatest skill was employed.

And, it may be added, the Indians of the North Pacific coast to-day are equally adept and skilful.