this, As I had understood from our Great Father that
the Mississippi was to be the dividing line between his red and white
children, and he did not wish either to cross it. I was much pleased
with this talk, and I knew it would be much better for both parties. I
have since found the country much settled by the whites further down,
and near to our people, on the west side of the river. I am very much
afraid that in a few years they will begin to drive and abuse our
people, as they have formerly done. I may not live to see it, but I feel
certain the day is not far distant.

When we arrived at Rock Island, Keokuk and the other chiefs were sent
for. They arrived the next day with a great number of their young
men, and came over to see me. I was pleased to see them, and they all
appeared glad to see me. Among them were some who had lost relations the
year before. When we met, I perceived the tear of sorrow gush from their
eyes at the recollection of their loss, yet they exhibited a smiling
countenance, from the joy they felt at seeing me alive and well.

The next morning, the war chief, our guide, convened a council at Fort
Armstrong. Keokuk and his party went to the fort; but, in consequence
of the war chief not having called for me to accompany him, I concluded
that I would wait until I was sent for. Consequently, the interpreter
came and said, "they were ready, and had been waiting for me to come
to the fort." I told him I was ready and would accompany him. On our
arrival there the council commenced. The war chief said that the object
of this council was to deliver me up to Keokuk. He then read a paper,
and directed me to follow Keokuk's advice, and be governed by his
counsel in all things! In this speech he said much that was mortifying
to my feelings, and I made an indignant reply.

I do not know what object the war chief had in making such a speech;
or whether he intended what he said; but I do know that it was uncalled
for, and did not become him. I have addressed many war chiefs and
listened to their speeches with pleasure, but never had my feelings of
pride and honor insulted on any other occasion. But I am sorry I was
so hasty in reply to this chief, because I said that which I did not
intend.

In this council I met my old friend (Col. Wm. Davenport,) whom I had
known about eighteen years. He is a good and brave chief. He always
treated me well, and gave me good advice. He made me a speech on this
occasion, ve