only differ from us because they are ignorant, poor, and unfortunate. But their hearts are so good 1 There are some who have much natural ability, and what is more valuable,
a great deal of faith and virtue! " Is not the close of my
letter a confirmation of what I said to you? What grati tude! What desire to know God! If, therefore, there is question of civilization of souls for heaven, oh! we have no need of European civilizers. Cause prayers to be offered that God may send us missionaries, and we will make them happy!
I commend all these dear savages, our brethren in Jesus Christ, redeemed by the same blood, arid inclosed in the same Sacred Heart - I commend them all most earnestly to your holy sacrifices, and to your kind prayers.
Deign to believe me, with the most profound respect, Reverend Father,
Rae. Vae. servus in Christo,
P. J. DE SMET, S. J.
Great Medicine Dance among the Senecas.la
(As related to me by the Chief of the Six Nations.)
When one is sick among the Senecas, or when an epidemic rages in their camp or village, in ordinary times, the medicine band or jugglers are applied to by the family of the sick patient, or by the village. They implore their assistance, from the relief of the evil spirits who have taken possession, or entered the body or bodies of their relatives. In the first case, should the family be rich in horses, and have plenty of other worldly goods, it pays abundantly for the operation. In an epidemic or general calamity, the performance is always gratis.
The chief of the medicine band calls on his devotees and
13 From the Linton Album.