HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK IROQUOIS 307 



June 18 two Cayugas met Sir William '' at the place where the 

 Onondagas formerly lived," about 5 miles from their habitation 

 at that time. This was south of Jamesville, and they were now 

 on the west side of Onondaga creek. He was to send word 

 when he would enter the town, that the Cayugas, representing 

 the Younger Brothers, might meet him and join in his condolence 

 of the great Onondaga chief. Three Cayugas met him a mile 

 from the castle, halting two hours to settle all forms according 

 to ancient custom. Then Johnson marched on at the head of the 

 chiefs, part of whom sang the condoling song, containing the 

 names, laws and customs of their renowned ancestors, and asking- 

 happiness for the departed. 



When they came in sight of the castle, they found the head 

 chiefs and warriors seated '' in a half moon across the road, in 

 profound silence." In the hour's halt there, the condoling song 

 was again sung, hands were shaken and the visitors welcomed. 

 Then Sir William led the warrior?-, the sachems in the rear sing- 

 ing the same song. All in the town fired their guns as a salute, 

 and this was returned by his party. He was then taken to an 

 arbor by Red Head's house, where he was addressed by the chiefs. 

 Next day the grand ceremony was performed with 11 belts and 

 three strings, followed by an enemy's scalp to replace the dead, 

 and a glass of rum to wash away grief. This ended the cere- 

 mony, which did not include the raising of a new chief. 



June 20 Johnson encamped by the lake, 5 miles from the castle, 

 to be near his boats, provisions and presents. A long council 

 followed. An Oswegatchie Indian said the French meant to 

 build a fort at Oswego Falls and another at the west end of 

 Oneida lake. Another party would ravage German Flats and a 

 fourth attack Johnson's house, kill or take him, and ravage the 

 lower Mohawk. The Indians rejected a French belt and cast it 

 on the ground. Messengers from the Susquehanna said the 

 Nanticoke king at Otsiningo was dead. Delawares, Shawnees 

 and others came June 27, and the new Half King was present. 



June 28 the war song was sung, and Johnson promised them 

 a roasted ox at the war dance next day. July i they gave him 



