nanimous nation, of the position of the women or umpire; that a weak people in such a position would have no influence, but a power like the Lenapes, celebrated for its bravery and above all suspicion of pusillanimity, might properly take the therefore, the Aquinoshioni besought them to lay aside their arms, devote themselves to pacific employments, and

step ; that,

act as mediators among the tribes, thus putting a stop forever to

the fratricidal wars of the Indians.

To this proposition the Lenapes listened cheerfully, and trust fully consented ;

for they believed it to be dictated by exalted

patriotism, and to constitute the language of genuine sincerity.

They were, moreover, themselves very anxious to preserve the Indian race.

At a great feast, prepared for the representatives

of the two nations, and amid many ceremonies, they were accord ingly made women, and a broad belt of peace entrusted to their The Dutch, so the tradition continues, were present keeping.

on this occasion, and had instigated the plot.

That it was de

signed to break the strength of the Lenapes soon became evident.

They woke up from their magnanimous dream, to find them From that time they were

selves in the power of the Iroquois.

the cousins of the Iroquois, and these were their uncle. 1

While this tradition bears the impress of theory upon a sub ject in regard to which

little

was known, and while it is much

water, unfortunately landed at each end of this long house of our grandfathers,