420 NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM 





the circle, going north as before. Each turns fully round from 

 time to time, exposing all sides of his person to the fire. Thus they 

 warmed their mutual affection for each other, and thus the council 

 would be friendly. Then they reseat themselves, each on his own 

 robe. 



In a few moments the master, of ceremonies rises and fills and 

 lights the pipe of peace from his own fire, drawing three whiffs 

 and blowing the first toward the zenith, the second toward the 

 earth and the third toward the sun. The first returns thanks to the 

 Great Spirit, the second to the earth, his mother, and the third to 

 the sun for his benefits. This is signified by acts without words. 

 The master of ceremonies then passes the pipe of peace to the 

 sachem on his right toward the north, who repeats his acts and 

 passes it on, signifying in this way a pledge of faith, friendship 

 and honor. It is almost needless to say that history preserves no 

 trace of a council conducted in this way. It is purely ideal. 



The Jesuit Relations, the Moravian journals and our own colo- 

 nial documents preserve many incidents and details of Indian coun- 

 cils, but the customs changed from time to time. When the Iro- 

 quois subjugated other nations they were affected by them, and 

 their contact with Europeans brought in new ceremonies, like the 

 firing of significant salutes. There can be little doubt that Sir Wil- 

 liam Johnson greatly enriched council observances. 



Father Milet's account of Iroquois embassies and councils in the 

 Relation for 1673-74, is not the earliest of all, but is comprehen- 

 sive, treating of fraternal meetings. The wampum for these was 

 provided by the Agoianders or noble families. These met and made 

 their contributions formally, with speeches and a feast, each tak- 

 ing its turn in preparing the feast. Final arrangements were made 

 and word was sent of their coming, on which a welcome was pre- 

 pared. A musket was shot from the palisade, a fire was made 

 where the visitors were received by their hosts, the pipe of peace 

 being smoked and speeches made. Then they were led in single 

 file to their lodgings. A notable chief marched at the head, " and 

 he pronounces a grand suite of words which they have received 

 by tradition, and which they repeat after him." The ambassador 

 who was to speak comes last, singing until after he had entered 

 his cabin. Presents and speeches followed, ending with a feast. 



