old
man spoke, commanding it to stand some distance from the fire; "Nosis,"
said he, "feed yourself," and he handed him a dish and ladle made out of
the same metal as the pot. The young man helped himself to all that was
in the pot; he felt ashamed to think of his having done so, but before
he could speak, the old man said, "Nosis, eat, eat;" and soon after he
again said, "Help yourself from the pot." Odjibwa was surprised on
looking into it to see it full; he kept on taking _all out_, and as
soon as it was done, it was again filled, till he had amply satisfied
his hunger. The magician then spoke, and the pot occupied its accustomed
place in one part of the lodge. The young man then leisurely reclined
back, and listened to the predictions of his entertainer, who told him
to keep on, and he would obtain his object. "To tell you more," said he,
"I am not permitted; but go on as you have commenced, and you will not
be disappointed; to-morrow you will again reach one of my fellow old
men; but the one you will see after him will tell you all, and the
manner in which you will proceed to accomplish your journey. Often has
this Red Swan passed, and those who have followed it have never
returned: but you must be firm in your resolution, and be prepared for
all events." "So will it be," answered Odjibwa, and they both laid down
to sleep. Early in the morning, the old man had his magic kettle
prepared, so that his guest should eat before leaving. When leaving, the
old man gave him his parting advice.

Odjibwa set out in better spirits than he had done since leaving home.
Night again found him in company with an old man, who received him
kindly, and directed him on his way in the morning. He travelled with a
light heart, expecting to meet the one who was to give him directions
how to proceed to get the Red Swan. Toward nightfall, he reached the
third old man's lodge. Before coming to the door, he heard him saying,
"Nosis, come in," and going in immediately, he felt quite at home. The
old man prepared him something to eat, acting as the other magicians
had done, and his kettle was of the same dimensions and material. The
old man waited till he had done eating, when he commenced addressing
him. "Young man, the errand you are on is very difficult. Numbers of
young men have passed with the same purpose, but never returned. Be
careful, and if your guardian spirits are powerful, you may succeed.
This Red Swan you are following, is the d