332 The Natural Historic 



But to returne to their Feasts, in these State-Houses, the 

 King being come, and seated invites the Europeans, if there 

 be any amongst them at that time, who are always placed 

 next the King, with his War Captains on each side; being 

 thus seated, there is a circular Fire made of split Canes in 

 the middle of the House, which otherwise would be as dark 

 as a Dungeon, and is as hot as a Dutch Stove. One Man is 

 constantly employed to supply split Canes as the others are 

 consumed. The Guests being all seated on Benches or Mats 

 on the Ground, they bring in several pieces of Bears-flesh 

 and Venison, roasted and boiled ; Wild Turkeys in great 

 plenty, dressed after their manner; various kinds of other 

 Wild Beasts and Fowl, Fish, and several kinds of Medlies 

 made of Maiz, stewed Peaches, dried Peaches, and variety 

 of other Fruits. Every one of the Indians bringing some- 

 thing with him, to enlarge their Banquet, according to their 

 Degree and Quality. 



When all their Dainties are brought in, the first Enter- 

 tainment begins with kicking out the Dogs, which are like 

 the Wolves in these parts ; for it is supposed that they are a 

 Species of them, made tame by beating and starving. They 

 are the worst Dog-masters in the World, for you shall never 

 see an Indian Dog that is fat amongst them; neither do I 

 find that they make any use of them, for they never bring 

 them to their Hunting-matches. 



They are of a quite contrary Disposition to their Horses, 

 to whom they are the best of Masters, for they are continually 

 feeding them with Maze, or whatever he will eat, until ho is 

 as fat as a Hog, yet they never ride or make any manner of 

 use of him, except only to carry a Deer home that they have 

 killed near the Plantations ; or Firewood for their Houses. 



As 



