This is supposed to bring success in war and hunting, and may be kindled
by a band of Scouts on the eve of a long hike, or any important
undertaking, or as a ceremony of initiation of new members.
The one appointed to act as Leader or Medicine-man lays in a convenient
place a pile of dry wood for the ceremonial fire, to which the Scouts
are summoned by a herald. He goes the rounds with a camp horn, bidding
all come to the Ay'-chay-tee when the sun is at a certain height in the
heavens, preferably near sunset. The Medicine-man should be attired in
full Indian costume, and prepared to act the part of a man full of years
and wisdom. As fire is the symbol of enthusiasm, energy, and devotion,
and is with the Indians a strictly masculine emblem, it is fit that the
young men gather about it before going upon a journey or "war-path."
When all have assembled in the usual circle, dressed either in Indian
costume or Scout's uniform, the Leader, standing in the center of the
ring beside the prepared wood, kindles a "new fire" by means of the bow
and drill, flint and steel, or "rubbing sticks."
He then takes up the long-handled calumet or peace-pipe, which has
previously been filled with dried sumach leaves, red willow bark, or
other aromatic herb, kindles it with a coal from the "sacred fire," and
reverently holding it before him in both hands, with the stem pointing
upward and forward, exclaims:
"To the Great Spirit (or Great Mystery) who is over all!"