458 TKIBES OF THE UPPER MISSOURI [eth. ANN. «., 



the Hudson's Bay Co. have received the title of honorable from the 

 way in which they conduct it ; but it is only because they are alone 

 that they are able to conduct it in this orderly manner. 1 -" The Indian 

 trade does not admit of competition. The effects of strong rival 

 companies have been more injurious and demoralizing to the Indians 

 than any other circumstance that has come within our knowledge, 

 not even excepting the sale of ardent spirits among them. This we 

 could easily prove, but as no monopoly can be allowed by the nature 

 of our government it is useless. When the American Fur Co. were 

 alone in the country a trader's word or promise to the Indians was 

 sacred, the Indians loved and respected their traders, and still do 

 some of the old stock, but since corruption has been carried on we 

 look in vain for that reliance on and good feeling toward traders 

 which was once the pride of both Indian and white. 



The manner in which the trade is conducted in its operations is 

 this: 



A party of Indians, many or few, leave their camp for the trading 

 post, packing on dogs and horses all their buffalo robes and other 

 skins. When within a mile or two of the houses, they stop and send 

 a few persons to the trader with an account of how many persons 

 their party is composed of, how many skins, etc., they have, and all 

 general news. These are furnished with tobacco and sent back with 

 an invitation for the party to come to the house or fort. If a leading 

 chief is then with a large party, the American flag is raised in the 

 fort and cannon fired when he arrives. On arrival they are received 

 at the fort gate by the interpreter, who conducts them to a large 

 reception room. The dogs, horses, etc., are unpacked and each 

 Indian takes charge of his own skins in the same room. They 

 are then smoked (with the pipe), feasted on coffee, bread, corn, 

 etc., after which the principal men and chiefs are called into the 

 public office, when they are counciled with by the gentleman in 

 charge. Speeches on both sides are made, and if the Indians have 

 any complaints to make they now state them. The general situation 

 of the camp and trade is adverted to, prospects mentioned, and prices 

 of goods stated, with all other matters relating to their affairs. When 

 this is finished the store is opened and the trade commenced. Several 

 Indians can trade at the same time with different traders, handing 

 their robes and skins over the counter, and receiving immediate pay- 

 ment in such articles as they wish. When all are done, a small pres- 

 ent of ammunition and tobacco is given them and in a day or two 

 they leave for their camp. 



The place of outfit being in St. Louis, all returns of buffalo robes 

 and other furs are taken there also every spring and summer in 



"» Perhaps this title has beea bought, but at all events they deserve it. 



