The pipe-bearer stepped within the circle, lighted the pipe, held it towards the sun, then towards the different points of the compass, after which he handed it to the principal chief.

The latter smoked a few whiffs, then, holding the head of the pipe in his hand, offered the other end to Mr.Hunt, and to each one successively in the circle.

When all had smoked, it was considered that an assurance of good faith and amity had been interchanged.

Mr.Hunt now made a speech in French, which was interpreted as he proceeded by Pierre Dorion.

He informed the Sioux of the real object of the expedition of himself and his companions, which was, not to trade with any of the tribes up the river, but to cross the mountains to the great salt lake in the west, in search of some of their brothers, whom they had not seen for eleven months.