NARRATIVE OF THE EXPEDITION. 161 



around tliein ; they were engaged in singing a measured chant 

 in the Indian manner, accompanied by the Sioux cancega or drum 

 and rattles ; the utmost solemnity was depicted on every coun- 

 tenance. "When the music paused, there were certain gesticula- 

 tions made, as if a mysterious power were invoked. In the course 

 of these ceremonies, a young man and his sister, joining hands, 

 came forward to be received into the green corn society, of whom 

 questions were asked by the presiding official. At the conclusion 

 of these, the voice of each member was taken as to their admission, 

 which was unanimous. At the termination of the ceremonies, an 

 elderly man came forward and ladled out the contents of the 

 kettles into separate wooden dishes for each head of a family 

 present. As these dishes were received, the persons retired from 

 the lodge by a backward movement, still keeping their faces di- 

 rected to the kettles, till they had passed out. 



11 



