CHAPTER II.

THEIR ORIGIN, OR. COURSE OF‘ MIGRATION’ ACCORDING TO THEIR. TRADITIONS.

In listening tothe traditions of Indians in their wigwams, the traveller will learn that the chiefs are the repositories of the history of their ancestors. With

_ these traditions there are rules to follow by which to

determine whether they are true or false. By these rules I have been governed in my researches.

The first is to inquire particularly into the leading points of every tradition narrated.

' The. second is to notice whether the traditions are approved by the oldest chiefs and wise men. Such are most likely to be true, and if places or persons are mentioned, additional clue is givento their origin and proof obtained of their truth or falsity.

The chiefs have generally been those who have at all times retained a general history of their nation. From the year 1834, to‘ the present time, I have