212 NATURAL AND CIVIL 



pose. The art of spinning, knitting, and weav- 

 ing, were wholly unknown to the northern In- 

 dians. They had no other materials to cover 

 and clothe their bodies, than what were derived 

 from hunting. Architecture of some kind and 

 form, must unavoidably engage the attention of 

 men, in every climate and country. The at- 

 tainments of the Indians in this art, were the 

 lowest that can be conceived. Their buildings 

 were nothing more than a fevv^ temporary and 

 wretched huts, put together without order, 

 strength, or convenience; Some crotched 

 stakes were thrust into the ground : these were 

 connected by poles, laid from the one to the oth- 

 er ; and the whole v/as covered with the bark, 

 limbs, and leaves of the trees. An aperture 

 Was left at the top, for the conveyance of smoke ; 

 and the fire was kindled in the middle. This 

 was called a cabin or wigwam, and was without 

 windows, doors, or any division of apartments. 

 This was the highest elegance and convenience, 

 the house of the Indian had attained* 



The progress ®f the arts, depends very much 

 on the instruments and tools, with which the 

 artificers are furnished. Most of these among 

 civilized nations are derived from the applica- 

 tion, and use of the metals ; particularly that of 

 iron. From this metal is formed almost every 

 instrument, that is employed in peace or in war. 

 Civilized nations have availed themselves of the 

 discovery and use of this metal, in every kind 

 of art that they pursue. The Indian was in no 

 capacity to arrive to such an improvement. 

 Copper, silver, and gold, have been found in 

 theii- perfect state, in the rocks, mountains, and 



