On that morning the lake was like a great mirror or a sea of glass, not
a ripple stirred its surface and the beautiful trees were reflected on
every side, hanging branches everywhere full of song birds, and swimming
about near the shore were broods of ducks with their little ones among
them. None seemed to be afraid of us. There were many young fawns
wandering about and drinking from the lake. Mossy banks and many
flowers. No one was allowed to harm the birds, fawns or ducks. The place
seemed rightly named "The Lake of Enchantment." I remember being carried
into a wigwam and laid on a bed of skins and furs. I was so sleepy after
my ride. When I awoke I found myself alone and being frightened began to
cry. Very soon Bob came bounding in. I took him by the collar and when
we were out of doors I saw a lot of Indian children with brother Lewis
and Toney running and jumping with them. I saw mother and grandpa, with
little brother, going into a large wigwam. I ran over to them. In the
middle of this lodge was a great fire with many kettles hanging in which
the dinner was being cooked for the feast. The lodge had been made on
purpose for the (chemokamon) white man's cooking to be done. Grandpa and
mother had full charge of this part. Father soon came and took little
brother and me where many young Indians and the white men were playing
a game of ball. There were many squaws and children all gaily dressed
with many colored ribbons. Dogs were running about everywhere, and young
pet cub bears which the children seemed to be taking care of. The squaws
had been to our house and knew us children. They came to us, giving us
little cakes of maple sugar.