[71] From the Algonquin JEEGUN, an instrument, an implement,
or any artificial contrivance, or invention.
Under this class are grouped a great variety of implements and
instruments of utility, war, hunting and diversion. The material
is chiefly stone. Without plates, however, it is impossible to
give that exactitude to the description of this numerous class of
antiquarian remains which is desired. But a single figure has been
prepared—ATTAJEGUNA DEOSEOWA. This relic of Indian art was
pointed out to me by Mr. Wright, missionary on the Seneca reservation,
near the city of Buffalo. It consists of a block of limestone, having
two spherical basin-shaped depressions. It is the tradition of this
people that in this ancient mortar, the female potters of olden time
pounded the stone material with which they tempered the clay for the
ancient akeek or cooking vessel. The original stone had been broken.
From the portion of which the annexed is a figure, the entire mass must
have been one of considerable weight.
[Illustration: AMERICAN ANTIQUITIES.—Plate VII.]