On the plain between the Assiniboine and the Saskatchewan, a half-breed community had sprung up.

From their dusky faces they took the name "Bois-Brules," or "Charcoal Faces," or referring to their mixed blood, of "Metis," or as exhibiting their importance, they sought to be called "The New Nation." The blend of French and Indian was in many respects a natural one.

Both are stalwart, active, muscular; both are excitable, imaginative, ambitious; both are easily amused and devout.

The "Bois-Brules" growing up among the Indians on the plains naturally possessed many of the features of the Indian life.

The pursuit of their fur-bearing animals was the only industry of the country.