A PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT 249
began to fear an actual battle, when Spalding, from Lapwai, said, "Let us retire to the doctor's house for worship."
Chief Ellice rose on the back of his splendid charger, waved his hand over the dark mass, and all was still. The horses, gay with scarlet belts and head-dresses and tassels, were led away. The trampling of many feet resounded in the mission house. Like a vision Narcissa Whitman glided into the dark assembly. The fair brow, the golden hair, the clinging dress, riveted every eye. When they sang her clear soprano soared like a bird above the Nez Perce" chorus. Ever since her return there had been a constant stream of Indian women, calling with little gifts to show their love.
The next day the chiefs in paint and plume assembled at the Council.
"You have heard a talk of war," said the subagent. " We are come among you to assure you there is no war. We come to regulate your intercourse with white people. If you lay aside your quarrels, cultivate your lands, and receive good laws, you may become a great and happy people.
"Hear! hear! hear!" cried the Walla WallaCayuses.
All that day and the next the chiefs discussed the laws. "And do you accept them? "said the agent.
"Ay," said all the Indians.
At this point excitement rose to fever heat.
"Who shall be our High Chief?"
Some said Tauitau. In former time Tauitau had been head sachem of the Cayuse nation, but after his attack on Chief Factor Pambrun that officer had broken up his power, encouraged his young men to insubordination, and had advanced the influence of the younger brother,
