The following examples will be sufficient to give an idea of the metaphorical language of the Indians.
1. “The sky is overcast with dark blustering clouds.”—We shall have troublesome times; we shall have war.
2. “A black cloud has arisen yonder.”—War is threatened from that quarter, or from that nation.
3. “Two black clouds are drawing towards each other.”—Two powerful enemies are in march against each other!
4. “The path is already shut up!”—Hostilities have commenced. The war is begun.
5. “The rivers run with blood!”—War rages in the country.
6. “To bury the hatchet.”—To make, or conclude a peace.
7. “To lay down the hatchet, or to slip the hatchet under the bedstead.”—To cease fighting for a while, during a truce; or, to place the hatchet at hand, so that it may be taken up again at a moment’s warning.
8. “The hatchet you gave me to strike your enemies, proved to be very dull, or not to be sharp; my arm was wearied to little purpose!”—You supplied me so scantily with the articles I stood in need of, that I wanted strength to execute your orders. The presents you gave me were not sufficient for the task you imposed upon me, therefore I did little!
9. “The hatchet you gave me was very sharp!”—As you have satisfied me, I have done the same for you; I have killed many of your enemies.