then have a swim
For a regular
Indian Powwow
letter you must do as the red man does and write in Indian signs, which are usually rudely drawn figures meaning much to our copper-colored brother, but often requiring ingenuity on the part of the white man to translate. Some of the best examples are to be seen on sandstone in Dakota County,
Neb., where there are hundreds of sketches. One of the most distinguished of Indian artists or historians is said to have been Lone Dog, of Yankton, Dak., who made most of his pictures on skins. Neither stones nor skins will answer your purpose; ordinary paper is more convenient and will be as fully appreciated if you use thought and care in drawing and composing your message. Make simple, rude pictures of different objects, borrowing the Indian’s idea but adapting it to your needs. Fig. 573 gives an example of a girl’s powwow letter. You may invent as many designs as you choose, that will be part of the fun of Indian writing. Fig. 574 shows some of the signs needed.
A Letter of Colors
is something entirely new; it should be composed of thoughts embodied in colors, without alphabet, words, or pictures—nothing but brush strokes of delicate pinks, tender greens, soft grays, deep orange, rich purples, and all the many and varied tones, tints, shades, and hues known to man. The following example, being fully interpreted, will initiate you in color meanings and composition:
| Light Scarlet. My Dear Friend: | |||
| Light tone of yellow. I am glad | Drab. you have thought out | Blue. the truth | Red brown. My interest in |
| Scarlet red. and friendship for | Myrtle green. Nature | Orange. is gaining strength. | Different tones of yellow. I travel miles |
| Variety of color flecks in rows. for the flowers. | |||
| Yellow pink. Your enthusiastic | |||
| Scarlet. Friend. | |||
The name signed at the close of the letter need be the only writing. A list is given of the meaning of some of the colors, but you will probably need more; work out the extra combinations for yourself. The system being once understood it will not be a difficult task.
Rich red—Love or loved one.