[452.] The native word literally means, “One—it one’s word uses to make,” i.e., “One uses it to make one’s word”; briefly, it is one’s pledge, the token of a vow.
[453.] The imitative sounds or utterances which certain activities were thought to emit are no small part of the interest these stories have for the students of the origin of words and sentences. The recorder was at all times careful to write down these very naïve but most expressive sounds.
[454.] The remainder of this incident belongs to the story of Sʻhodieonskon; this version, however, is much longer.
[455.] This circumstance gave rise to the name of this hero, Hahadodagwatʻha, i.e., “He who pulls out the branch customarily.”
[456.] This name signifies “Standing Rock” or “Projecting Rock.”
[457.] This native word is usually rendered variously in popular translations as “Stone Coat,” “Stone Shirt,” “Stone Giant,” “Giant,” “Monster Man.” [[813]]Its real significance and correct translation has been given in the introduction to these stories.
[458.] As explained in the introduction, this represents poetic license, i.e., the use of the word for flint or chert for ice.
[459.] The foregoing recital details certain customs pertaining to ambassadors to hostile tribes, which are of marked interest.
[460.] The matter of this symbol is fully carried out in the dedicatory language of the League or Federation of the Iroquois.
[461.] The following incident on the island is found in other stories, especially in that of Hayanoweh.