272 TRIBES AND DIALECTS OF CONNECTICUT 



[ETH. ANN. 43 



that the plants will not mature if the seeds are planted when the moon 

 is waning. Vegetables grow best on moonlight nights. This applies 

 particularly to cucumbers. White beans are planted when the 

 chestnut trees are in full bloom. 



Due to Irocjuoian influence, the corn, bean, and squash complex 

 appears in a very simple form. We find the three vegetables planted 

 close together but without the usual ceremonies which are character- 

 istic of the Iroquois planting season. When the leaves of the "shad 

 blow" or dogwood tree are the size of a squirrel's ear it is time to 

 plant corn. The seed corn is soaked overnight in warm water and 

 is then ready to be planted.- In former times the corn was planted 

 in hills with an occasional squash seed and rows of beans were planted 

 among the liills. To-day the same idea of keeping the three vege- 

 tables close together is carried out, but the Iroquois legend of the 

 "Three Sisters" is unknown. When the corn silk turns brown, it is 

 ripe. At this season, when the green corn is ripening, we hold a 

 festival which is said to be a survival of the ancient "green corn 

 dance." This is the only ceremony in connection with the cultiva- 

 tion of corn which has survived among the Mohegan. 



Signs Governing Activities 



When the top of the narrow dock turns brown, hucldeberries are 

 ripe. 



"Shad blow " and dogwood blossoms herald the shad fishing season. 



In the evening, when the whippoorwill calls, it is time for the 

 children to go to bed. 



Dig clams in the full of the moon, as they are nearer the surface of 

 the flats and are larger. 



Kill hogs and plant corn and beans also in the full of the moon. 



Luck Omens and Signs 



Spiders are not lulled, as they bring good luck. If you find a 

 spider on your dress you will soon have a new one. 



Always stop and make a wish if you see a spider weaving its web 

 near you. This is a sign of good luck and your wish will be granted. 



The cricket also brings good luck and we are pleased when one finds 

 its way into our home and chirps cheerily in some obscure corner. 



A ringing or buzzing sound in the right ear mdicates that you will 

 soon hear good news; in the left ear, bad news. If your right ear 

 burns someone is saying something good about you; the left ear, some- 

 thing bad. At night, a ringing sound m either ear brings good news. 



If the sole of the right foot itches you will soon walk on strange 

 ground; if the left foot, you will go where you are not wanted. 



If your right eye itches, you will laugh; the left eye, you will weep. 



' According to Waugh, in his study of Iroquois foods, the Iroquois had a special com medicine in which 

 the seed was soaked. 



