Part 5 (2/2)

But you will bring a blessing on the battle? Oh, Chisera, they do not tell us women, but we hear it whispered about the camp that the men of Castac are five and twenty, and even with the youths who go to their first battle we cannot make a score of ours. It is the Friend of the Soul of Man must make good our numbers.

THE CHISERA

Even now I go to prepare strong medicine.

WACOBA

Come away, then, and leave the Chisera to her work. (_Going._)

SEEGOOCHE

May the G.o.ds befriend you. If we have your blessing, we care little for another's curse. (_Going._)

THE CHISERA

Stay. After all, we are but women together, and if a woman may give counsel, women may hear it.

TIAWA

Would we might hear yours to-day!

THE CHISERA

When the smoke of the medicine fire arises, so as to be seen from the spring, do you come up along the creek as far as the black rock.

WOMEN

Yes, yes!

THE CHISERA

When you hear the medicine rattles, stand off by the toyon.

WOMEN

By the toyon--yes!

THE CHISERA

But when the rattles are stopped, and the singing falls off, come up very softly, not to disturb the Council, and hear what the G.o.ds have said. If the men speak against it, I will stand for you.

SEEGOOCHE

Our thanks to you, Chisera, for this kindness.

TIAWA

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