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Across the Plains 1858 Dec and boiled till they were thoroughly cooked. Thile the process of cooking was going on, the Indians wiled the passing hours till the dawn of the morning, with talking and smoking, not being interested in their conversation, we sought the sweet influence of balmy slumber. 25th Saturday. - At the early tint of morn, we were aroused by that villainous cow-bell, and admonished that it was time for prayers. The Indians, both great and small, old and young, having been assembles, prayers were said and hymns sang as usual. After prayers, we became all seated, and the Sacrament (so we inferred) was administered in this manner: The priest's attendant filling a cup with the liquor of the berries, and a small piece of venison, giving it to the acting priest, who pronounced a blessing, and having partook, passed it to the attendant, who in turn passed to each one present, that had arrived unclear the years of discretion. After the Sacrament was administered, the squaws and children, who had been dressed in their best style, took their departure, the males remaining and seating themselves in a circle. Each one now armed himself with a large pan, kettle, or basket capable of containing fluid, (the squaws make baskets capable of holding from a pint to several gallons, without leaking, without the aid of pitch, tar, or any such substance,) and we were told to do so likewise. An Indian now stepped forward and distributed the venison and berries, reserving for the priest and ourselves, the largest and choicest portions. After eating a moments, smoking and chatting was the order. Our