.MTA1Mg.NzA0MDc
29 10. 31 some other man will sleep with her; now return. If any of you have left property of any kind about which you are troubled, return and take care of it. Or if any of you are fearful, and afraid of the enemy, now return. After this, all who retain the position in the army were supposed to be bold, unembarrassed, and efficient warriors, and therefore they generally engaged with great confidence and fierceness in the fight. During the contest, the priest stood back unless he saw some of the warriors giving back, and in that case, he went forward with great fury, and either conquered or died. The conflict being ended, they set their faces towards home, but not hastily, or disorderly. before arriving at the town from whence they started, a messenger was sent forward to give notice of their approach, and of their intention to be at a certain place at a given time. To that place, therefore, the people repaired at the specified time. As the warriors approached, two men, followed by the women, advanced toward them commencing a hymn, or song, in honour of their valiant & warlike deeds. But though the two men commenced this song, yet the women immediately caught it, and went forward chanting the praises of the warriors. Each warrior delivered his spoil to his wife, or nearest female relative, who took it home, while the warriors continued their march to the council house. There they were met by the resident priests and the people to express their joy in a dance, which continued during the night. After this was over, and the soldiers had returned home, they could associate with their wives as usual, but not before. Therefore no female prisoners are ever defiled by Indian warriors. The priest for the wars had a peculiar dress. His cape was red, as was also his seat in council. signature: Silversmith Nettle What musical instruments were used in war (if any) I have not understood. It is said that the priests anciently had trumpets made of long necked gourds, for their own use exclusively. The people used at dances, a kettle drum and a pipe, made of cane, three or four inches long. They had also a flute made of cane, perhaps a foot long, blown, as the pipe, at the end.
Dear Sir, I would now gladly proceed to give you some account of the feast of first fruits and other religious festivals, but in that case, the mail would pass, & I fear, I could have no opportunity to forward my communication in time to meet you in Charleston. Respectfully yours D.S. Butrick.