548 TRIBES OF THE UPPER MISSOURI Cbth. ann. 46 



happens before the warrior has arrived at his own lodge, that all 

 his horses are given away, and he retains nothing but the glory of 

 the action. In this event, however, his name is sung around the 

 camp by the persons who have received these gifts, accompanied 

 with the song of thanks, and loud and prolonged praises of his 

 bravery and strength of heart. 



War parties for battle are a long time in contemplation, fre- 

 quently occupying a whole winter in preparing for the campaign, 

 and in counseling regarding it. Usually large parties are led by 

 some chief of a band, and invitations are sent by him to different 

 chiefs of other bands of the same nation and to those of another 

 nation with whom they are at peace. 



In the beginning of the summer they all assemble with their lodges 

 at the place appointed, and a great deal of debate, feasting, and 

 private consultation takes place, with sacrifices by the chiefs and 

 soldiers, and also by many of the warriors to the several super- 

 natural powers before referred to. It appears to be the misfortune 

 of these large expeditions to fail in executing anything like what is 

 anticipated at the start. Here also, the cause of their failure appears 

 to be due to their insubordination. There is no one man to lead, 

 no one source of authority in carrying out any plan decided upon. 

 The nominal leader as chief is only chief of his band, and even 

 among these there are others who are his equals in war. There 

 are several chiefs of bands, and also many other chiefs; every one's 

 advice, although asked, can not be taken, which produces dissatis- 

 faction. The soldiers of one band will not be commanded by those 

 of another, rank on every side is interfered with, old grudges renewed 

 by meeting with old delinquents, in short though all looks pretty fair 

 on starting, yet difficulties and disputes from various causes take 

 place every day after, which results in their leaving and returning 

 home in detached parties. 



When, however, the ranks have by these means become purged 

 of the most turbulent and unruly characters the others- proceed in the 

 following order: Chiefs, warriors of note and soldiers, dressed in 

 deerskin shirts and leggings trimmed with ermine, horse, or scalp 

 hair. A war eagle feather cap is on his head, a shield of bull's hide 

 covers his arm, a bow and quiver of arrows is carried on his back, 

 a short gun stuck in his belt with pouch and horn across his shoulders 

 and scalping knife in its sheath, the powder horn and ball pouch are 

 carried on the middle of the back, the connecting strap reaching 

 across his breast and the upper parts of both arms. These are the 

 mounted men, and the most distinguished for their former deeds. 

 The footmen consist of young warriors and new recruits without 

 any peculiar insignia, but well armed if possible. The soldiers are 



