Part 22 (1/2)

Was not Simwa approved of the G.o.ds through the mouth of the Chisera?

THE CHISERA

So you think.

CHIEF

Is there another Arrow-Maker so skilled between Tehachappi and Tecuya? Are any shafts better fas.h.i.+oned to fly straight to the mark?

Is there any hunter knows more surely where the herds feed, or strikes quicker the slot of a deer?

THE CHISERA

As you think.

CHIEF

Let be this talk of reasons. This is mere woman's mischief, to nod and wink and to make signs with the eyebrows. A woman would have you think reason enough for marrying if she liked or misliked it.

Chisera, this is no matter for the G.o.ds, but a plain mating of man and maid.

THE CHISERA

(_Flas.h.i.+ng._) Since when have you talked with the G.o.ds, that you think to lesson me in their business?

CHIEF

Since you have been a father, to know reasons for the bestowal of daughters.

(_Grunts of appreciation._)

THE CHISERA

(_Letting her blanket slip to her breast._) Know, then, that if these are your reasons, Rain Wind, there is no more meat in them than in the husk of acorns. If good fortune hangs on all Simwa's movements, it is by reason of the medicine I make that binds him in the favor of the Friend.

SIMWA

(_Leaning on his elbows, with the manner of being quite at ease._) You are very free with your blessing, Chisera, if it is so; for it is well known in the camp that Simwa, the Arrow-Maker, does not believe in charms, nor seek them.

INDIANS

(_Grunting in a.s.sent._) Ugh! huh!

THE CHISERA

(_Letting fall her blanket in a burst of indignation._) ”Nor seek them!”--Ah! Simwa! Simwa!

(_A short pause of embarra.s.sment and consternation ensues. Then_ PADAHOON, _in a manner meant to seem impartial--_)

PADAHOON

The medicine of the Chisera is very powerful, but one must allow a little credit to the G.o.ds. Simwa was chosen war leader by the trial of the seven sticks. As the G.o.ds willed, they made the sticks to fall. Is it not so, Chisera?