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307 penciled at top A little before night the priest proceeded to offer the sacrifice of first fruits. He took the end of the deer's tongue between the thumb & finger of one hand, and seven kernels of corn, from the seven ears in the other hand, and held them up as a thank offering to God. He then repeated a form of thanksgiving and prayer, handed down from generation to generation. This form was not to be altered or laid aside. In this, the priest gave thanks for the fruits of the earth which had been brought forward, and which they had been permitted to see. He prayed also that the lord would bless the corn and meat during the year, and make them healthful and nourishing food; and also bless and take care of them during their future years. Having concluded his thanksgiving and prayer, the priest put the meat and corn on the fire, and then sprinkled on a powder of old tobacco leaves. The priest, - his right hand man, and seven counsellors payed strict attention to the burning of the meat. If the smoke ascended directly, and the meat burnt in a still quiet manner, or threw small pieces in a certain direction, all would be well. But if the smoke settled over the altar, forming a bluish cloud, and the meat popped, throwing pieces toward the west, it was to be a sickly year. The sacrifice being ended, the priests right hand man ordered the victuals, (previously prepared) to be brought forward, and placed in such a manner that all might sit by it, and be ready to eat when directed. The right hand man then gave orders for eating and all commenced the same instant to partake of the new food. The priest, however, his right hand man and seven counsellors, ate nothing till after sunset, nor then of new fruit. That night also must be spent in entire wakefulness, and wholly occupied in a religious dance performed by women. As observed above, the priest, and his right hand man and seven counsellors, did not partake of the green fruit at this time. They therefore continued in the council