290 



ACCOUNT OF THE INDIANS. 



clearest voice, is of course heard the most easily, 

 and, consequently, succeeds best in his argument. 

 They take great delight, also, in singing, or hum- 

 ming, or whistling a dull air. In short, whether 

 at home or abroad, they can hardly be contented 

 with their mouths shut. It was a long time be- 

 fore we could keep them still, when they came to 

 our forts. And even yet, when they visit us, 

 which is almost every day, during the whole year, 

 they will often, inadvertently, break out into a 

 song. But as soon as we check them, or they re- 

 collect of themselves what they are about, they 

 stop short ; for they are desirous of pleasing. 

 The above trait in their character, certainly evin- 

 ces much contentment with their condition, and 

 cheerfulness of spirit. 



Both sexes, of almost every age, are much ad- 

 dicted to play, or rather gambling. They pass 

 the greater part of their time, especially in the 

 winter season, and both days and nights, in some 

 kind of game ; and the men will often loose the 

 last rag of clothes, which they have about them. 

 But so far from being dejected by such ill fortune, 

 they often appear to be proud of having lost their 

 all ; and will even boastingly say, that they are as 

 naked as a dog, having not a rag with which to 

 cover themselves. Should they, in such circum- 

 stances, meet with a friend, who should lend them 



