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[322] in perfect rhythm, calling out and shouting as one by one pouches, knives, belts, etc., were passed to the winning side. One side hid a small metal counter under one of two moccasins, while the other side tried to find it.

This game was interrupted by a sudden shout, and across the water was seen approaching a canoe, and seated in it the missionary, ‘the black robe chief, the prophet.’ On the shore he was graciously received by Hiawatha, and led to a wigwam for refreshment and repose. Then he addressed the attentive tribes in Ojibway,—

Told his message to the people,
Told the purport of his mission.

Thereupon Hiawatha arose, greeting the missionary, took farewell of all his people, and—

On the clear and luminous water
Launched his birch canoe for sailing.

With hands uplifted he glided slowly out upon the lake, floating steadily onward across the rippling water toward the setting sun.

And the people from the margin
Watched him floating, rising, sinking,
Till the birch canoe seemed lifted
High into that sea of splendor.
And they said, “Farewell, forever!”
Said, “Farewell, O Hiawatha.”

A beautiful ending to a most unique and interesting drama of the forest, with the broad stretch of the lake in front, and the forest trees closing in the scene.

After this followed an evening of songs and dancing,


Boston and New York, Hougton, Mifflin and company, 1902.

Tufts University provided support for entering this text.

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