The chief, his father, was standing above him with arms outstretched as he said these words:
“My son, the time is at hand when you must go into the forest for your long fast. You must prove to your people that you are brave and strong and ready to try the test of fasting.
“My son must show that he is strong and courageous. You need have no fear, for the Great Spirit will protect you.”
Then the Indians danced around Mewanee singing in a solemn chant.
THE CHIEF WAS STANDING WITH ARMS OUTSTRETCHED
This was their way of saying, “Be brave. O chief’s son, be brave!”
Then the chief led his son into the dense forest and left him lying upon the ground.
Mewanee had no fear, for was he not the chief’s son?
Each day his father went to him with words of cheer.