CHAPTER VIII
THE FIRST BLOODSHED
When Lewis and Clark returned down the Missouri, they induced Big White, a chief of the Mandan tribe, with his wife and children, to accompany them to Washington. René Jesseaume, a Frenchman
A Mandan Chief
long known on the frontier, and his Mandan wife went along as interpreters. These Indians were taken to Washington, where the appearance of Big White created a great sensation. He was an extraordinarily large man, nearly seven feet high, and as white as an albino. He was received by President Jefferson and made much of by Washington society.
In the spring of 1807 Big White was to return to his people, and Lewis and Clark had pledged the faith of the United States government that he should have safe conduct to his home. Captain Clark came back to St.
48
