The Great Eagle Book Two

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PAGE 1 SUMMARY
OF BOOK ONE
PAGE 4 CHAPTER ONE WHERE IT
ALL BEGAN
PAGE 17 CHAPTER TWO LEAVING
THE VILLAGE

PAGE 27 CHAPTER THREE LIVES
TREASURES
PAGE 41 CHAPTER FOUR SPECIAL
GUESTS
PAGE 60 CHAPTER FIVE ACCEPTED
BY THE PAIUTE
PAGE 70 CHAPTER SIX LIFE IN
THE PAIUTE VILLAGE
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Before we can resume our journey, we must first take
account of where we have been. Dan became our focus, or
we could say or guide for our travels and through his eyes
we left Boston He had previously owned and operated a
photo shop and selling it to friends he took the money to
the bank and while depositing it had an offer from the
banker for his family farm. Having lost his mother and
father he took the money and sold the farm.
Not knowing that others were aware of the large
amounts of cash he had received he took what he needed to
travel and deposited the rest in a different bank. After
purchasing those things and without hast left within a few
days on a journey which would take him into a world he
had not experienced or expected.
His travels were interrupted by those wanting his
possessions and cash. After being confronted with fighting
or running he threw a guy down the town water well.
Leaving from there he was forced to kill two more when
crossing a bridge heading out of town, he had been faced
by a large number on horses intending to stop him. They
had not expected the resistance he offered when they faced
him in such overpowering numbers. He forced two riders
on their mounts over the edge to death.
Later in a small town in Kansas they again met him in
a local bar and tried kill him and he was forced to confront
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two while the others were outside waiting for him to be
escorted out by those that would teach Dan that they were
an imposing force to be dealt with. Dan had shot two while
trying to drink a beer and while the Sheriff was outside
questioning the others had allowed Dan to leave unnoticed.
Trying to overtake him and get even for losing
members of this group they had forced him to climb to the
top of a mountain West of Denver where he had laid in wait
hoping to end this confrontation. Having covered himself
with his ground cloth he had tied it down with small
branches along the edges, enabling him to tie his rope
beneath the ground cloth and lay on the rope leaving his
hands free and giving him relaxation from holding the
cover down. The wind was violent when he fell asleep. He
awoke floating out over the valley the ground cloth had
become a kite that he was hanging from. He watched those
chasing him raise riffles to shoot him become ashes after
lightning had cremated them. At this unfortunate act he
asks God why he had not just run them over with a herd of
turtles and not hit them with a bolt of lightning which
would be hard to explain sense there was only one small
cloud in the sky.
Traveling on he lands safely and meets an Indian
warrior, his wife and daughter. Having watched him come
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from the sky figured he was a God and became friends
whereby the took him to their village to meet their family
and friends. While talking with the villagers the villains
that had chased him all the way from home now to get even
shot him. While spending weeks recovering, he spends
time outside the teepee he is living in and is set in a
makeshift chair allowing him to comfortably visit and meet
members of the Ute Tribe who are helping him to recover.
During this time, he teaches them of his God and the ways
of his people. The friends he meets are curious about how
he came from the sky and how it was possible to do such
things as this. They felt for sure he must be a God for this
to have happened.
Dan meets many friends, and he gives them names in
English the same as they gave him the name of Great Eagle
in their language. They accept his names as tokens of love
and affection and many meet with him just to receive this
new name. One of those he meets is Mary whom he later
marries, and they spend their honeymoon in a special
teepee prepared for them by the villagers. During his
honeymoon with Mary, he finds that she has a gift whereby
she can see the future and tells him about three sons and
two daughters that will arrive during their lives together.
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CHAPTER ONE WHERE IT BEGAN
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On our first morning after of our wedding I said Mary,
before we leave our village, I would like to offer a prayer
to my God and to your creator for our journey through life
together. Well Dan, Mary says to begin with I would like to
join my creator and your God and agree that from now on
it shall be just one and the same your God shall forever be
my God, and we will not speak of them separately. So may
it be Mary, as our lives become one our God is one and our
children shall know of this God.
As we have vowed in our wedding ritual, I pray our
journey through life shall be blessed and guided by our
God, and I would like to offer that we call him Father also.
Let our father be at our sides and in our hearts together
always and forever. May we and our children always be
healthy, safe, and have food and shelter. Amen
We must plan our departure together and rather Tom,
your brother wants to go with us or not. Nuzzle our wolf
will not allow us to leave him and we will also need to take
Shadow my horse and friend along with Dusty the mule
and we will need to choose another one for you.
Mary, do you remember Little Jack that lives down by
the river? Yes, I do, Dan. Well Mary every time I mention
God; he has a negative response and does not believe in a
God or a creator. I think that he is so into himself that he
cannot think someone could be greater than him. He would
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never admit to anything that could be more important than
himself. I think that if I were to go through life with only
one arm it would be easier than without my God. I have
been saved from death so many times that to believe no one
helps me would be about a self-centered as an earth worm.
Sorry to bring those bad memories to the surface but it was
on my mind so strongly I had to speak of it.
As Dan and Mary are enjoying the sun rising over the
Eastern mountains and drinking a first morning cup of
coffee. Jaw walks up and says it’s good that you are up, and
I do not have to shake your robes to get you going today.
What brings you to our honeymoon camp today, Jaw? Our
village is running out of meat, and we have been searching
for it in all directions and cannot find where the animals
are, and we have talked about having you help find them
and were worried that you could be enjoying the time in the
robes so much we would not see you till our people starved.
Jaw, we truly enjoyed our time together, but we know
we have a lifetime to spend together and if we can help our
people we would surely do so. What do you have in mind?
We were wondering if you could fly up high and travel
around and find where the large herds have gone. We have
spoken with all our leaders, and everyone feels that with
your wings you could save days of our search. I will be glad
to do this Jaw, but I feel that for me to do this we must have
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wind I do not know for sure because this is new to me but
when there is wind it seems to be easier to go where I want.
Let us prepare our breakfast and we will join you at the
chief’s fire. That will not be necessary, Great Eagle, the
village has prepared a special meal for you and many of
our family and friends will be attending, and the food is
ready and waiting for you.
On arrival at the Chiefs fire many faces, and family
smiles were shown and pats on the back and hugs not
normally expressed were shown to Mary and me, but we
accepted it gracefully. Upon receiving bowls of elk meat
and mushroom cooked in a combination of vegetables and
different herbs the meal was very good and tasty. Meals
were shared but not broken with any verbal
communications because eating was a Salome thing with
everyone in attendance.
After eating Chief Yogi stepped forward and raised his
arms over the fire and those in attendance kneeled or
moved back and became silent waiting for the Chief to
speak. Speaking to Dan he said many lodges have gone
without meat for several days and our warriors have been
all directions hunting for them and with the cold about to
overtake our village and our homes without food we have
offered our God many dances and sent many smoke signals
asking for guidance to help us in our needs. We feel that
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your wisdom and ability to join our feathered friends could
lead us to find the animal heard. I have asked that a high
mountain top be found, and the brush and vegetation be
removed so that I could begin my flight above the trees and
make my flight begin high. Has this been found? Yes, Great
Eagle, the mountain directly to the sun, has been prepared
for you and we have a good trail to the top. I will go up
with someone who will show me the way and let me look
and with the proper wind I will begin my search to see if
all is as spoken.
After looking over the valley from the mountain top
the only thing that was necessary for a successful lift-off
was to remove any of the small rocks and roots that could
cause me to stumble before reaching the edge of the
mountain. The area around the top had been cleaned with
plenty of room for my kite and someone to be on each side
to help me run to the edge for lift off. Up on top looking at
the side of the mountain Mary asks, “are you sure you want
to jump off this edge, Dan? You are maybe eating the crazy
weeds of the valley that cause the horses to stumble and
become wild.” We call that local weed, but no Mary, I have
faith and believe I have the ability of joining the Eagles in
the sky. Had I not watched you from the ground looking up
I would not believe this to be so, Dan, but I will be standing
by your side when you jump to join our feathered friends.
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We will have the kite ready before the sun sets this
afternoon so anytime you think it is wise to do so we will
be prepared. We will wait for the wind to blow and then I
will feel the strength and will ask my God to protect me
and make my flight a worthy one, Mary.
Running to the edge of the mountain and jumping off
looks stupid or a lot or belief in oneself and someone to
make sure from heaven would sure be necessary also.
Getting prepared to do this is a soul-searching experience.
If someone had done it before and could tell me not to
worry would have helped but never ever in the years of my
experience have, I ever heard of anyone being this dumb.
Having flown before makes one know that it can be but not
having left the ground by being pulled like a kite is a lot
different than this. What must I be thinking that would
create such a belief in my head? I hope I have not let the
fact that I am looked upon by my village as a great and wise
leader have influenced me to believe in something to do
with my reasoning. Before I attempt to jump off the edge,
I feel it is necessary to have a strong wind to assist me so
that is a big factor facing me for tomorrow morning’s
flight.
Here it is almost daylight, and the wind is blowing
hard now. What is my excuse? I have none and I spent most
of the night visualizing my flight over the trees and
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watching the animals run. I am excited to do this. I feel it
will be a great success that I will accomplish. Many
villagers are gathered at the mountain’s base to watch me
either make history or fail dramatically. The team of men
that I had agreed to help me at the final moments of lift off
have taken the kite to the top of the mountain and have built
a fence on each side of where I will leave the mountain to
gain flight but those holding up the tips of the wings will
run into the fence and not trip over the edge in helping me.
We have signals worked out between us telling us what I
need to convey the location of the game and the type of
animals I see. The number of animals is to be indicated by
up and down movements of my legs. I will circle over the
herds showing where they are and continue to do so till
those on the ground can find them. If I am too far away, I
will fly back to where they are then by flexing my wings
will return and circle the herds. Those on the ground will
know then to follow me. We have worked and discussed
the possible things that may be important for those on the
ground to know such as enemies or when I can find nothing
to hunt in this area I will return and land.
We have had our morning meal and are now in final
preparations for the actual lift-off so the excitement can
almost be felt in the air around us. The kite was brought out
of a protected small cave created by others to house it and
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keep it from wind and rain. Once I had stepped over the
ropes that held my seat so I was standing in front of a small
seat with a back rest and making sure my water and a few
pieces of elk jerky were where I could get to them when
hungry. I had a pistol in a holster at my side and tied a rifle
to the center of kite directly over my head so I could get to
it, if necessary, also in a bag in front of me were extra shot
and powder should I need them. I did not carry much for
fear of the weight, not knowing what my limits were and
did not want to find out. If I had too much of course I could
drop them and lighten the load.
Once in the proper position I saw I had a friend on the
left holding up the wing and turning to the right I saw
another friend waiting for my signal to carry me to the
edge. Holding and to the kite and saying a short prayer I
nodded my head (we had practiced this over and over in the
meadow below, so we all knew the routine well) and off we
went running as fast as necessary knowing I had to clear
the mountain far enough the tail did not catch and forced
me to drop.
At the last moment Jaw walked up and said Dan, if you
have any problems, I want you to know how very special
you were to us. Thanks Jaw but I really didn’t need to hear
that at this last moment. I turned and signaled to others to
run, and I ran till my legs passed the edge and I continued
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to run even though I was no longer on the ground. My
friends ran into a fence they had put on each side to prevent
their going over the edge and I noticed they had a rope
around their waste also. As I cleared the bank, I could see
the trees way below me and as I left the mountain my flight
only lowered a few feet and then it just kind of took to the
air in such a way it felt graceful but there was a moment
there where my stomach was in my mouth so to speak.
As I felt the air lifting my wings and I could hear the
movement of our soaring and swishing air movement but
was peach full and very pretty looking out over the treetops
with the many lakes providing additional coloring and
astonishing view. I just allowed the wind to carry me, and
I did not try to turn or move in any direction, but I did
notice all the people on the ground waving and could even
hear the yelling as I left that valley and flew into the next.
Making myself comfortable by sliding back onto the seat
helped a lot from other flights. I leaned one way then the
other just feeling the kite respond to my commands which
were very satisfying to say the least.
Thank you, Father, for your continued guidance and
protection. Now I have a little favor I need to ask of you.
Could you guide me to an area where our brothers, the elk,
deer and buffalo are hiding? I love this feeling of flight and
seeing what has never been seen by anyone before.
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Wouldn’t it be great if somehow, I could take a picture of
this like I did in my studio in Boston? Hey, maybe with a
little thought I may be able to figure out a way to do that.
It is clear to me that the birds do not fear me and seem to
just give me space and not crowd me as I move over the
mountains. Things look so different from up here; I had
traveled many miles on my trusty horse Shadow just so I
would be familiar with this area so when I flew over, I
could return to where I started when ready. The best way
for me to get here is to look at the lakes and I must name
them so I know where I am always just by knowing each
and naming them should help but for now, I have a good
idea because I am just following the mountain ridge and
staying on this side of the biggest mountain.
I can see a few deer in a meadow but only three or four,
but I am not sure if from up here are they deer or elk? Does
not matter I will continue to look for more before signaling
those watching from below. The Chief of the hunters was
wise when he put scouts out in different areas where they
could watch me and prepared to signal to those on other
high places so word could be spread fast as to my signals.
I can see a warrior waving at me from a high point of view
right now which makes me smile knowing he is excited
seeing me wave and return his signals. Such an adrenalin
rush to be up here and see others waving and excited just
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watching me. I have only been up here a little bit, but it is
kind of cold and next time I must remember to have a coat
with me. I do not see many animals so I must move further
down the mountain area further away from here to find
where they are. I have traveled many ground miles in the
time I have been up here.
I can see another village with many teepees. Let me
get closer and maybe I can identify who they are and see if
they are friends or not. They are all out watching and
looking at me they think I am a very large bird, and they
must be able to see my legs hanging down, so they know it
is a man up here. That is a village of Black feet for sure. I
must notify my Ute friends of this village so I will hang a
red flag under my seat as I circle the village which will
indicate as to the enemy being in this area.
I continue to travel to many hills and valleys but no
game anywhere that I have located. Maybe further East will
help as I turn and pick up an up draft taking me higher and
I can see a lot further, but I am so high I don’t’ know if I
could see a herd of buffalo from up here. I think I must get
a little lower as I go over this next hill. I can see a party of
hunters carrying something over their shoulders and by the
looks of the horses and men I would figure they had a very
successful hunt. Going in the direction, they came from I
see off in the far side of the big valley many animals so I
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have found what we have been looking for I will hang a
white and brown flag under my seat as I circle this area
letting others watch that I have found where the game is
feeding. As I continue to circle, I see movement and
looking closer I see the red and white flag showing me they
know and acknowledge my signals. Now they know where
the game is I will return to the village and enjoy a warm
meal and a little relaxation.
On flying toward our village, I see many of the enemy
on the trails heading toward our village and they are
painted for war. The horses, even from this height I can see
the war paint standing out. I swing around so I am between
them and our village and drop toward them flying like I
was going to run into them, and I am making the sound of
the Raven and screaming it loud. I know for a fact that
Indians are very superstitious, and they believe the Raven
to be bad medicine and afraid it causes their Gods to turn
against them and the fact that a great big Raven was
hovering and attacking them was taken right to heart. They
turned around and without even speaking to each other just
started running back to where they had come from. They
are looking over their shoulders afraid I will follow them.
I turn and head toward my touch down point in the
meadow. I will let others know what is happening.
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Seeing the meadow below I circle the area a few times
making sure all is well even though I know it is because
now I see a large crowd of people waving at me. I fly past
the meadow and turn back and as I push myself toward the
front of the kite it tips toward the ground, and I start my
descend towards the ground not going down as fast as I
want, I pull myself forward more and the kite drops to fast
so I move back a little and let the slope of approach be even
and I descend smoothly toward the meadow. As I touch
down there are many grasping my wings keeping them
level and helping to stop me. Never have I had such a
smooth and even landing and with all the cheering and
screaming it makes for even more excitement.
As it turns out many of the warriors were after the
game we had found and had left the village unprotected
with only the old men and women left at camp. Somehow,
they knew what I had done in turning the enemy had
protected their homes and old ones. Here I thought they
were excited from finding the wild game and it turned out
the big deal was the latter. I was a hero in the eyes of all
my friends, and I wanted them to see that it was an
opportunity offered to me, and it was created by my father
to bring me to this point. There was no doubt in my mind
that this would be told repeatedly in every village and the
story would have dancing and singing to match the story.
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When I got to Mary, I asked her if she knew this was going
to happen. She told me that she did not know but she had
the feeling that my flight was going to happen, and it was
going to be a great thing.
The next morning when I spent my time with my
creator I spent time thanking him and letting him know that
it was obvious that he had taken a hand in all that had
happened and that I was thankful and humbled by all that
had happened and was also very happy that the lives spared
because of my ability to fly was turning into not only a
lifesaving thing but a belief and gathering of those who
believed in the spirits of our Gods. It is amazing to me that
by just following and not trying to force this to happen I
was almost guided to flying and helping in my trials and
worries about the whole thing. How much of what happens
in our everyday life is the same way, father is our destiny
planned for us? Do you have more of this in my future that
will offer lifesaving opportunities for me and others?
Where does my future lie? I will continue to keep praying
for your guidance and hopefully can learn to listen as
always. Amen.
The hunting party returned with ten horses loaded with
meat and the excitement was so strong that it could be felt.
Chief Yogi insisted that we have a two-day fiesta (he called
it Piatukkanana) and celebration thanking both our creator
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and Dan for guiding us to the winter’s meat and the
protection of our village. It amazed me to see that someone
could eat and dance from morning to night and then get up
and do it again. The drums sounded letting the spirits know
the people were happy for and this made me think of the
Bible and the Lord telling us to speak in tongues and let the
spirits know of our true feelings. Coming from a city in the
East and thinking how intelligent the people were and not
understanding that even though these people had no formal
education they had values taught by the family, village and
customs tying all together. These people were looked on as
barbaric and dumb when compared to what whites thought
of themselves. But the Indian has a culture that is working
for them and in their way, it held on to truth and honesty
among the families. The forest and streams are not harmed
by these people even after generations. All those I meet
have a great and powerful desire to worship and sing,
dance, and talk to their gods it was a unity to be admired.
Everyone added food and drink to the celebration and
frankly I was so tired and worn down that it was hard to
hold my head up and Nuzzle, my constant companion,
would be at my side when I attempted to imitate the others
dancing around the fire. Nuzzle seemed to have a step
sideways which was really eye drawing to see a wolf
stepping and lifting and keeping time to the drums. He had
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been at my side so much that everyone in the area accepted
him as part of the family and was looked upon as just
another member of the tribe.
As Mary and I retired to our little teepee we crashed
and hardly moved after lying in our robes. Thank full that
we didn’t have to build a fire or prepare meals we were
already stuffed and could not eat we just collapsed and
knew nothing till someone was sliding something up and
down the walls of our home and I could hear a familiar
voice saying, “Are you going to sleep past the sunrise?” To
sleep beyond the sun rise was a show of sickness or laziness
to the members of the tribe. I usually got up and had gone
to my spot of worship and was talking to my father by now
so the fact I was still in my robes showed others of my
laziness. I raised my head and told Frank you had better get
past that loneliness and accept that you have a weakness
for my company, and you will miss me terribly when I
leave for the great waters in the West. I will join you when
I can get my eyes open, and my honey is ready for us to see
the world together. Go find someone with a weakness for
your company and leave us to be. “I will be back in a little
bit with others if you have not joined our gathering at the
fire in a short time”.
Mary, as you heard before we joined them, I would like
to talk about our leaving on our trip and what is left to do
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before we leave. We have decided which animals to take
with us. Dan I have very few possessions that I want to take
with us so the packing will be mostly camp cooking and
robes and whatever we will be taking for shelter. The guns,
bows and arrows that you have will be yours to get together
and sense most of them are hanging here in our shelter it
should be easy for usto be prepared. How soon do you wish
to leave Dan? I know the longer we put it off the harder it
will be to leave but I have a great desire to see the great
ocean and I have an entering feeling that our journey will
be of great value, and we will meet other people that will
be an inspiration to our future. Somehow, I have a pulling
toward the West that has been inside of me for years and
now I have many friends to share the journey with which
makes it more exciting. What do you mean by that Great
Eagle? There is only me to side with you and I have spoken
with John, my brother, and he has not made up his mind as
to rather to join us or not he is undecided so who else do
you speak of? Well, I only had Shadow when I got here
now, I have Nuzzle, you and two other horses plus Buster
which offer me friendship and warnings of approaching
danger. If John joined us, we would have him and his horse
also and maybe with him we should consider another back
animal. Now that I think of it, we will need room for the
kite and the things necessary for my flight. So, another
pack animal is most necessary. When I traveled alone the
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kite rolled very small and took up little room. Now, I have
bamboo for the edges and a seat that was added to my
possessions. When you call me Great Eagle, I know that
you are very serious, and something is going to be said
more important than normal.
Well Dan, I have been thinking about the kite and I
know that you wanted it to look as a Raven to put fear into
our enemy’s but know that is past I would like to suggest
that the kite be made to look as you are named the Great
Eagle and it should look that way from the ski and all will
know when they see the Great Eagle that a great warrior is
looking down upon them and that can have a great impact
on the friendship and admiration they will shower upon
you. Very wise Sunshine and I will have to think about this
for a few days and ask my father for his advice. One thing
is certain the women and men who helped make the Raven
will have a great impact on a new kite toward it looking
like an Eagle. Jaw suggested that I should hang in the kite
like I would hang from a tree and not sit on ropes. It brings
another thought possible and that is the fact that maybe I
could have more freedom to swing and change the course
of my kite easier. I think I would like to try taking another
flight and seeing what the change would make. If the only
difference between the Raven and the Eagle kite is the hide
which is made to be very thin and light, it would not be
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hard to travel with both and only God would know what I
should do so I will pray about the changes.
This has been an easy time of the cold for us, and I am
happy we had friends and family to share our time with,
and I have learned the language and customs well and I am
very thankful for that. Nuzzles is growing so fast and
becoming such a valuable tool in our lives. No one can
approach us without his warning and the fact he has learned
to be quiet and still let us know will become a very valuable
thing for us. The other day without thinking I pointed to a
possum and said attack and before I could take a breath
Nuzzle had the possum by the throat and was about to kill
him, but he stopped when I said stop. So, both of us have
learned a lesson and I am impressed he listens as well as he
does. But I will not do that again unless an enemy
endangers us. Nuzzle seems to know what I want before I
even speak to him, I ask him to go get Shadow and without
further speech he took off and returned with my horse and
he was on his heels pushing him to run faster. Now I must
see if Shadow can go get Nuzzle but that is hard to do
because Nuzzle very seldom leaves us.
Mary, as we prepare for our travels toward the ocean
to the West, we must learn what is possible for us to have
as easy time in our new surroundings. On the way here I
did several things right and some wrong, but the outcome
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was perfect. Had I doubted I should do it I would be back
behind a plow horse for the rest of my life growing crops
to get by. I believed that my father would protect and guide
me, but I had doubts about myself. I did not feel that I could
overcome my enemies and that fear is what drove me to the
top of the mountain I told you about. When I was on top of
the mountain with nowhere else to go and nothing, I could
see doing that would allow me to get out of that situation.
I was far from any possible way of surviving and at that
point I asked my father for help, and I went to sleep
knowing that he was watching over me. You must
understand that when I went to sleep, I was in as deep a
trouble as I had ever been. I had allowed my doubt of
personally fighting and killing the enemy to overcome me
and I had little faith I could step away from that and live. I
turned to my father at that point and without a doubt knew
he would overcome the impossible. From that low of no
possible way, I could survive and live I found next to be the
highest point in my life. Please understand Mary because I
had no doubt, he would protect me; he not only brought me
through that to a new horizon, way beyond my wildest
dreams.
From a mountain top to an Indian village with more
friends and family than anyone would ever think possible.
Now I have not just a wonderful friend, a beautiful wife but
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a princess of my very own. From the very bottom of a depth
of survival to the top of the highest, brightest life I could
have ever imagined in a thousand years. I had lost my
mother and father and had no one left who would care if I
lived or died to a world with more friends and family than
I had ever heard of. After being snatched from the very
bowls of hell to the garden of Eden in one night, it is
beyond the realm of one’s expectations. We will tell this
story to our children and their children will hear about it
over and over and perhaps because of my faith I can teach
our children to know our father.
Mary, I am going to teach you and all our children to
read, and you will come to know my father as I do and
because you already know of the great one it will be easy
for you to accept him as I do. As we travel to the great
ocean we will be traveling through our life as a family, and
we will have the future of our children so close we can
teach them and guide them and as they go through life, they
will have what we have taught them without outside
influences. Having our friends and family is a wonderful
blessing but the more of them that are around us the less
our children will learn from us they will balance what we
say against what our friends say and even with the best of
intentions they would not be the same as ours.
26
We must teach our children to take pride in what they
do and learn that what they have they had to earn not to
expect it to be handed to them. The Buddies I had back
home had been lazy and did not want to work, they had all
been handed everything from their parents and they did not
find the true happiness that only comes from within our
hearts when we complete our own goals. We will teach our
children the value of hunting one’s own food and following
a path that has both snow and heat. Together Mary we can
build a future as bright as we want it to be, and we know
the value of letting our father influence and guide us.
We must learn what is necessary now while the
teachers are around us, that will help us to gain that
knowledge. Part of that will be for me to learn to help you
bring our children into the world because we may not have
others at that time to help. We must gather those herbs and
spices that are necessary for our health and well-being.
There is much to do and learn while it is available to us,
and we must ask for advice from all that will offer it. I must
ask for any who knows the trails we must follow to reach
the great ocean but so far no one knows what is beyond the
great salt sea. I stood on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean
and looked to the East and knew what it is like to look and
not see the other side of the water. So, it will not be a knew
thing for me but you have never looked upon such a great
27
body of water before so it will be exciting for you to see
this. The time will go by fast, and our travels will begin
before we know it so we must take advantage of the time
left.
I have taught both Nuzzle and Shadow to obey both
voice and hand signals and they can do things beyond what
would be imagined possible. I told you of the little guy who
rode the big dog and was named Trainer that taught me to
train Buster to follow us and because of his time in teaching
me to teach has allowed me to get the minds of our beast
of burden and our family wolf to move as we wish both
silently and as noisy as we would want them to. Anyone
who dares to climb on Shadow and expects him to obey
will get a surprise when he puts them in the dirt, he has
learned to only allow those he knows to ride him and that
could be a blessing for us.
Ata, Mary, and I have a wish to be taught how to bring
someone into the world if we were to have no one else
present to help deliver them. That is easy, Ata says just push
on my nose and the child will drop out the bottom. What if
there is a problem with us when it is to drop out and nothing
is there, Dan asks. Well then you have several choices, one
and the biggest is to ask the great creator for help, or you
can be the one to help receive this child. That is why we
are here for advice. If nothing goes wrong, we can handle
28
that but what are we to do if the child does not want to join
us. That cannot be known before it happens but it is
important to know that regardless when the time comes and
rather stubborn or not at the time it will come rather wanted
or not so all you can do is make sure nothing is in the way
of it happening and then do what is necessary to make right
that which could have been and it will not be what you want
but what the great one above wants. It will be what it will
be and remember you are only there to help as necessary,
and nature will determine the results.
We are only waiting for the cold to pass so we can start
our journey to the future of our life together. If you teach
the young ones to love you and have respect for you, they
will know how to do the same when it comes time for them
to do as you are doing. Teach each birth that they are here
as a gift! They are not here for anything they did but what
you did for them to be here and if they want to please you
with that gift, they must show it by the way they live their
life for you. If a child grows up and has not been taught that
someone is more important than they are, their lives will be
lived for nothing. Bringing a life into the world is a gift to
all and no one is more important than those that came first.
If taught young, wisdom will be engrained into the very
enter part of that child and they will live to please you,
which will please them also. Thank you, Ata, we are very
29
lucky to have someone wise and caring to give us this
wisdom. We will think of you often and you will always be
in our hearts. Well thank you Mary and please remember
you are among those of you in your own families and
remember to return often. It will not be till after we have
stood on the shores of the great ocean where the sun sets
each night.
Dan, John, has said he will travel with us for a few
days and then he will return to the village with his friends
and when we return, he will be grown enough to decide
what he wants to do in the future but for now he wants to
be among many. Mary, I never imagined it would be so
hard to leave and the closer we get to leaving the more
ceremonies the village seems to create. If we do not put an
end to this and get going, we will have to take part in a
ceremony celebrating the birth of our first child. For this
reason, I am telling you so all can hear we are leaving on
the morning after the first full moon. That will be soon Dan.
Yes, and that is why I picked that time.
30
CHAPTER TWO
LEAVING THE VILLAGE
31
Here we are on our first day of travel and I do believe
we have so many traveling with us that the village will be
empty. I am hoping many will return every day since we
have departed, they will only stay till they know we are on
our way and have no need for anything. We have been
offered everything we could possibly want or need for our
travels by those from our village just to show their love and
care. Nuzzle my friendly wolf has grown and seems to
understand what is going on but regardless he will not leave
our side and stays very close. He has turned out to be a big
part of our lives and we just love to find him under our feet
even with the problems it causes Shadow or Buster when
he gets in the way.
Jaw and Sunshine were so very sweet and caring to
name their first-born boy after you Dan. I was a little
surprised when he did but the boy has turned out to be a
blessing to them and though they call him Dan he may want
to use he is known in the village as a little wolf. I will miss
him he will be something I will think of often.
Over half of those following us dropped out of our
group and returned to the village but we still had many to
help us on the last few days of travel. We are getting far
enough away that those with us are dropping after hugs,
smiles and hand signals. We have found a spot for our camp
and with the trees surrounding us and the small stream it
32
will be enjoyable to stop early and take advantage of such
a good location. Those that hung on till the last are finally
gone and without a doubt we will miss them but being
alone really is satisfying.
This is our first week and we have adjusted to the trail
and found that if I am out in front watching for the best
route and any campgrounds, we want to take advantage of
like I had a hard time deciding rather to stop at the small
lake that was close to our traveling but decided we should
take advantage of the easy trials and warm weather so I
continued on. We are dropping to a lower elevation, and the
trees are getting further and further apart. Nuzzle has
stayed out in front of us most of the time and he returns
during the day, but he seems to be watching out for us, and
he has a bark that has a howl to it, so we know he is in front
of us, and he lets us know. After making camp and Mary
has prepared us a warm meal which Nuzzle seems to smell
from wherever he is because he shows up when it is done,
and he will sit and just wait for Mary to throw his meal to
him. After feeding him Mary looks up and says Dan, have
you noticed that Nuzzle stays out front and I really believe
he is watching for us and is it not strange that he has that
bark to let us know where he is and that there is no danger
in front of us, did you train him to do that? No Mary, I did
not, he just seems to know what we need, and he does it on
33
his own. I wondered what he would do if someone were to
be out there, and we didn’t know what would happen then?
Are we giving him too much credit for something that he
maybe is not doing what we think he is, but we will know
after a few days of travel. He does help with the meals
because it is unusual when he does not return with a rabbit
or something to add to our meal.
After these many days of travel Mary, are you getting
sore from so much riding? Well Dan, I have never had to
ride a horse every day like we have been doing and my
bottom is starting to let me know it is ready to stop but you
seem to know when that is happening, and we have had a
few breaks, but I think I would like to find a place we could
spend a few days and just rest. I will look for the next river
where we can catch a few fish, do a little swimming and it
should be cooler next to the water so I will keep an eye out
for it.
How is this spot Mary it is like God built this just for
us and heard our wishes and has prepared it for us. We will
be here for a few days so let’s make a good fire pit and I
will build a small area where we can get out of the sunshine
in the day and if it rain, we will be comfortable. I have been
trying to remember what was told to me about our direction
to travel and they have warned me of the great salt in this
lake we are passing, and I am told on the other side we will
34
have four or five days without water if we do not go far
enough to the North to miss it. Before we are away from
this lake I would like to go jump into the water and see if it
is as they have told me. What have you heard Dan? Well, I
was told you cannot sink because it has so much salt you
float without trying to. Do the fish float on top? Laughing
Dan tells Mary that he was told there are not any fish in the
lake, but they do have some shrimp they call brine that are
very small. Let’s go to the lake tomorrow and see if it is so.
Watch this Mary I say and while getting Nuzzles attention
I raise my arm over my head and make a circle with my
finger in the air and Nuzzle takes off and leaves in a run.
What is he doing Dan? I have told him to circle the camp
and make sure no one or anything of danger is in our area.
How does he know this, Dan? I have been teaching him as
we travel. When he returns to us, I have had him circle us
then I have taught him to go further and further and now he
knows with only hand signals. Also notice Mary that when
he gets out so far, he barks and gives us that howl again as
he circles us. He is such a smart puppy that I am amazed
by his understanding. Also, Dan, when we sleep, I notice
he watches the horses, and he even gets up and wonders
around our area like he is doing guard duty. I have been
told that the old men of the mountains that had a dog would
make a backpack put extra footwear on the dog so if they
35
needed a change the dog would have it. So, dogs have been
used for as long as men have been able to get them.
The last one in the water is the looser Dan. Mary says
as she runs laughing and splashing into the lake and down,
she goes face first into the water. Oh! Dan came to help.
She says I can’t see the salt has gotten into my eyes and
they burn bad. We should have known better and taken
more time when entering the water, I had not thought of
that, but it should have been obvious to us. Notice that
Nuzzle had not entered the water. He stayed on the bank
and was barking all the time we were running toward the
lake. Do you think he smelled it, or something warned him
about the lake. I have brought water to drink so I will wash
your eyes, and we can see if you float. After washing out
Mary’s eyes she found that by lying on her back she could
keep her head above the water and her body did not even
try to sink. We are like children laughing and playing in the
water. Now that we had tired of the newness of the salt
water we stepped out and our skins were drawn and shrank
to us like the skin had grown smaller and it was not very
uncomfortable feeling the salt all over our bodies. We used
what water was in the blader we had with us but ran to the
river on returning to camp and dove into the clear stream.
That was fun and different than anything I had ever
imagined but I would not do that again after what it felt like
36
when I got out. Yes, Dan, I will stay far away from that in
the future and not want to try that again.
Returning to camp, we were so tired from the swim
and washing that we found some beef jerky and that was
our supper for now washed down with cold clear water
seemed to satisfy us for the day. We were too tired to even
build a fire, and it was not cold anyway, so we just crashed
and let the stars twinkle overhead making our wishes come
true and thanking our father we were again safe and sound.
I don’t know how long Nuzzle had been at my side
pushing me and whining trying to get my attention when I
finally came around and realized he was wanting my
attention. Suddenly, I was not a bit tired, and the sleep left
at once as he turned from me and gave a low growl as he
looked toward the horses. I could hear Shadow pawing the
ground and knew Buster would be at her side, but it was
still too dark to see anything clearly. Mary rolled over so
she could put her mouth next to my ear, and she asked what
was out there. I shook my head to let her know I knew
nothing. I did not know but was glad she was awake. We
had made a practice of always having a gun by our side, so
I slipped on my moccasins, picked up my rifle and as quiet
as possible I jacked a shell into the barrel, so I was ready
for whatever was out there. Staying close to the ground so
I could put whatever was out there against the night sky for
37
any possible way I could see what it was. Nuzzle stayed at
my side as I moved forward toward Shadow and together,
we crawled very slowly advancing only when I knew I was
not stepping on something that would snap or break afraid
of making any unnecessary noise. Shadow was standing on
his hind legs, pawing with his front legs at the air before
him that I could see. Buster was braying and showing his
ability to warn him that he was going to fight right along
with Shadow. The noise from the other horses added to the
noise and the stamping and running around back and forth
had caused me to get excited also and up till now I had no
idea what the problem was. I was sure it had to be a cat or
something of that nature, but I could not see it and Nuzzle
took off from my side and growled and running into what
appeared to be something of his size. Now I could hear the
cat screaming and briefly saw it rare back and swipe at
Nuzzle which scared me for fear he would be hurt. I could
not shoot with all the animals and commotion going on, all
I could do was bring my rifle to my shoulder and wait for
an opportunity of a shot. All at once I could see the eyes
shining and without a moment’s hesitation brought up the
barrel and fired. Only God could have guided my bullet that
found the area directly between those eyes in the dark of
the night. Nuzzle was at the throat of the big cat in a
heartbeat and I could barely make out the cat laying there
38
on its side and knew for a fact it was dead. Stop Nuzzle it
is dead, good boy.
I went to the cat and felt behind its front shoulder with
the barrel of my gun and if it were alive, I am sure it would
have moved. I turned to the horses they had ran away and
I found no reason to chase after them tonight, so I just
called Nuzzle back and we returned to the camp and Mary
had built up the fire, so we had a cup of coffee and I told
Mary what had happened and after talking it over we went
back to bed and didn’t know anything till just before the
sun came up.
As Mary was preparing our morning meal, I could not
resist walking out and looking at the cat we had killed the
night before. Nuzzle was running back and forth from the
cat to me and back to the cat all excited like he was the only
one who knew of the cat. As I looked, I could immediately
see that the back right foot of the cat was gone, and it was
a horrible looking thing which must have been painful for
the cat which I also noticed was wet. She had been nursing
babies because the nipples were large, and they were all
obvious. The cat had to have been Hungary and with the
bad foot would not have been able to hunt so to feed those
young ones that she must have had somewhere would have
been hard to do. I felt bad looking down on that mother and
had no pleasure in what I had done.
39
Joining Mary as she placed a plate of food in front of
me, I was not as jovial as normal, which she picked up on
right away. What is it that bothers you, Dan? The cat I
killed last night had a foot missing and she had to have been
in real pain and desperate to try to attack the horses. I also
noticed that Nuzzle had cuts on his chest where the cat had
made a swipe and only touched his chest, but he left blood,
and he was very lucky to have been fast enough to avoid
really getting cut up. How did you know it was the cat you
were shooting and not Nuzzle Mary ask. I had saw Shadow
when she raised up trying to stamp on the cat so I knew
where she was on my left and the cat had made a swipe at
Nuzzle which I could barely see but nuzzle had moved
away and to my right and when the cat looked at me, I saw
the eyes shining and didn’t hesitate when shooting. The
amazing thing was I had the gun part way to my shoulder
and only took a second to finish aligning to those eyes and
looking this morning the bullet hit her right between the
eyes. She could not hunt because of the lost leg and that
crippling would limit her, but she had no choice, and I feel
bad for what I had done but it in the past so I can do nothing
about that.
Maybe we can find babies and help them, do you think
that is possible Dan? Nuzzle can you find those babies?
Nuzzle jumped up barked as if he knew and off, he ran.
40
Mary watched him leave and said, “you don’t think he
knows what you said do you?” God works in many ways
of which I cannot or will not attempt to figure out so all I
can do is wait and watch what the future brings. Nuzzle has
already proven to me to be way beyond anything I would
have expected an animal to know or understand. Let’s
enjoy our meal and we will see what Nuzzle does. We know
that he has a nose for smelling cats and if he understands
what we wanted he would be able to follow the cat back to
where she had been so yes, it is possible he can do it.
We had not even finished breakfast when Nuzzle came
running back and sat before us growling and whining and
looking back and forth between Mary and me. The turning
and running a little way stopped and turned back to us,
indicating that we were to follow him. He wants us to
follow him, but I have no idea how far that may be Mary.
Nuzzle go get the horses and just as well bring Buster while
at it. We must be close because otherwise the cat would not
have been able to get to us but close to an animal could be
a long way to go for us.
After saddling and putting a few things together we
told Nuzzle we were ready, so he ran out and sure enough
took off. Not over a mile later we came to a small
outcropping of stone and one large rock was just behind
others but larger by far and under it as we looked and as
41
Nuzzle showed us was a small opening and getting down
on my knees and looking into the hollow, I could see kittens
and hear the fussing. They were not beyond my arms reach
but I was hesitant to reach in for fear of them attacking me
even with their eyes closed. Mary, I am not sure if I should
reach in, or not my scent maybe an unpleasant odor to
them? Perhaps Dan, you should wrap something around
your hand to protect you, and it may make it easier for them
to accept you. How many are there? I cannot tell but more
than one.
Taking off my jacket and slipping my arm into the
sleeve then into the pocket and holding it with my other
arm I reached in, and the first kitten put the nose against
the jacket probably smelling and as it did, I took ahold of
it which was hard to do because the jacket keeps me from
feeling it as gentle as I wanted to be. Bringing out the first
kitten, Mary was waiting at my side with her arms
outstretched asking for the kitten. Oh, Dan, have you ever
seen such a pretty little thing in your life? Look, its eyes
are barley open, and she is looking around like where is
mom.
Having passed the first kitten to Mary I turned and
reached back into the hole and another kitten came into my
hand maybe because the first kitten had been there and left
the scent. Turning, I handed the second kitten to Mary and
42
Nuzzle was smelling and growling at the kittens, so I had
to tell him to stop scaring them. Just like he understood he
stopped and just put his nose as close as I would allow, he
wanted to smell that kitten. Turning back and looking in I
could see one more who had pushed itself against the wall
trying to hide from me or maybe just the bashful one of the
kittens. But as I scratched the ground in front of it, she
made the forward movement which allowed me to get
ahold and bring it out of the small cave. Again, Nuzzle had
to smell it before I was allowed to hand this one to Mary.
Turning back, I looked but could see no more kittens.
The first thing Mary said is how are we going to feed
them? They will need milk because they are not old enough
to eat meat yet. As I rose to my feet, I explained to Mary
that the God who took me from the mountain and danger,
the God who delivered me from death when I was shot at
the village meeting, the God who delivered a princess to
me is the same God who delivered these kittens to us to
survive will answer that as sure as he meets all our other
needs.
When bringing the kittens to Shadow he pulled away
and did not want the kittens brought to him. As he pulled
away, I spoke reassuring words to him and held one of the
kittens high in the air so Shadow could see the small thing
and get a good look. As I held it toward him, I said are you
43
afraid of such a little thing just because of the smell?
Shadow raised her head and lowered it then raised it again
as if to say yes, I do not like the smell take it away. I refused
to accept that, so I kept the kitten in his face and walked
closer and kept talking and holding the kitten in front of
him. Finally, after several minutes of his stamping,
snorting, and pulling away with Mary holding the rope
around his neck, he finally calmed down and allowed us to
bring the cat within smelling distance, which he did but the
hesitation was obvious.
Nuzzle had accepted them after his smelling and
growling and smelling and barking at the small kittens but
he finally calmed down, but he also didn’t like the cats but
then they were a natural enemy to him as they were to
Shadow. Where they could possibly fit into our world was
beyond my imagination but if they were put into my care,
I had no choice but to accept responsibility and go with it.
Mary took a small blanket she had been wearing over
her shoulder and placed the three kittens into it and then
brought the ends up and tied them together which made it
look like a large sack with three little kittens sticking their
heads out and the eyes were partway open. And as she
approached her horse it stepped back not wanting her to get
into the saddle. I took the sack of kittens, and she climbed
onto the back of Dawn, and I held them as Mary settled in
44
then she forced Dawn to advance to me, and I held the
package toward the horse and stood still while she
reluctantly smelled and finally calmed down enough to
allow me to hand the kittens to Mary. I hope we don’t have
to go through this every morning with all our friends.
As we were returning to our camp site with the little
kittens, we noticed several vultures circling and decided to
investigate. We switched direction a small amount and
turned toward the area where we could see where they were
circling and landing. As we neared the edge of the lake and
next to a small growth of willows, we could see what was
left of the body of a small deer it was not very big must
have been caught by the cat I had killed the night before.
As we got upon the area I could plainly see where the cat
had attacked the fawn and must have stayed a day or two
by the looks of the amount of activity directly around the
fawn. Nuzzle kept looking toward the lake and tried to
follow the tracks of another deer heading toward the lake
but the mud and water were such that he barked and howled
but would not go any further. I could see the deer out
toward the lake but as I watched I could see it was buried
to the front shoulders in the muck and was just standing
there maybe twenty yards beyond us. Nuzzle could smell it
but could not see it because of the willows but me setting
on Shadow was high enough I could see the deer and knew
45
immediately that she had to have been the mother of the
one who had been eaten by the wounded cougar.
Mary, can you see that deer out there? She is stuck in
the mud and must have fought it to the point where she is
not able to move any further and has given up struggling
any more. If Nuzzle is afraid to go any further, then I would
not attempt either. It is so clear to me that she is a wet doe
and has been placed in this swamp for our needs so I must
figure out a way of rescuing her to feed the kittens. Let me
find a place out of the mud and we will have to get down
and find the way to accomplish this.
After building a small fire that seems to bring comfort
and rest, we are passing ideal moments when it finally
comes to me, I will approach the deer in snowshoes which
will hold me up and enable me to approach her. Mary, if
you return to the camp and get the ropes, the ones we use
to raise the kite into the air, we can use those to pull the
deer out of the mud. I will build the snowshoes out of the
willows we have available and tie them on my shoes with
the pigpen strings I always carry. We will have to tie the
rope around the deer not just tie it around her neck for fear
of choking her.
When Mary returned, I had the snowshoes complete
and asked her what she had done with the kittens. She told
me she had put them in our bed and told Nuzzle to protect
46
them and not let anyone near them till we returned. And
upon telling him he barked twice as he did and immediately
sat down as if to say to her, I should not worry. Dan, it is
not a wonder that Nuzzle seems to understand what we
want even before we tell him. No wonder it is so hard to
hunt wolves when they seem to read what we are thinking.
I have brought all the ropes and there should be more than
enough to even double them.
Putting the ropes over my shoulder I advance toward
the deer and as I do I use my knife to cut away several of
the willows so that I make a straight path toward the deer.
As I draw near to her, she throws her head back and forth
trying to frighten me away, but she cannot do any more
than that because she is down into the mud so far, her legs
are useless and obviously very tired from already fighting
the most obvious ending, she would have to face. Trying to
get away from the big cat that she knew would be death she
took the only route she had and ran till she could go no
further.
Before getting close I cut a willow that had a fork at
the bottom and was the biggest one I could find. I tied a
knot in the rope and placed it over the fork at the bottom of
the stick then very slowly I approached her and talking very
gently I told her I was going to help her not to be afraid and
I walked right up and pushed the stick down in the mud
47
behind her till I knew it was lower than her belly. So, the
rope was over her back and down in the back now I had
another willow with a fork like the first one and I stood
back and by judging the angle to the first stick I very slowly
and carefully pushed the second stick towards the other
one. By twisting the stick, I rolled it till I felt it hit the first
stick then pulling very gently I brought the rope under her
belly and up till I had a hold of the end of the rope. Now I
had the rope all the way around the deer’s belly but had to
tie the head so that when we pulled on the rope, she would
be forced to turn the direction we wanted her to go. After
tying it off on her to not put extra strain on her neck I
backed away from her and that seemed to calm her down
some, I turned and walked back to the sold ground feeding
the rope out as I went.
After reaching Shadow I tied the rope to the saddle
horn and then asked Shadow to back up and as we did the
rope tightened and when it became almost to the breaking
point I was about to stop and double the line when all at
once the deer started to move in our direction very slowly.
Shadow could see what was happening and keep a tight
rope backing slowly as the deer came out of the mud, she
tried to use her feet, but they just raised her a very small
amount, but she wanted the freedom and seeing it possibly
caused her to thrash around and try to get out on her own.
48
The further she got the more freedom she felt and the more
she rose above the mud the faster she threw her feet and
had she had more strength she would have made it by
herself, but she was so worn out she finally just allowed us
to drag her to us.
After finally reaching sold ground, the deer stood on
wobbly legs and just looked at us. She was so worn out she
didn’t attempt to do any more than just look at us. She was
covered in mud from head to tail and it was so thick it was
hard to imagine she would ever come clean. I knew better
than to release her from the rope for fear she would run
away and that would have been a disaster to say the least.
After all our efforts were over and we finally calmed
her down to the point of accepting us we had completed
our job. Mary started to laugh and the more she laughed I
finally started to laugh and did not even know why. Mary,
why are we laughing? She said have you looked at what we
have in our world now? We have a wolf, three coughers,
and now a deer where will it end? That is an easy question
for me, you have not counted the little bambino’s we will
eventually be receiving.
49
CHAPTER THREE LIVES TREASURES
50
Then she really started to laugh, what will our family
think when they come to visit? When we return with half
the forest creatures you will not have to fly to get their
attention, the family will get their attention for you. Mary’s
laughter caused me to laugh and as we laughed and enjoyed
the moment it came to me as maybe it was meant to. I was
brought from death several times and each time something
happened that was better than I had before. Mary, I was just
thinking that every time we have a change, that is obvious
to us, it turns out to be better afterword.
A natural enemy of ours is the wolf and we have a great
friend now because the fear of the wolf caused a woman to
give me Nuzzle. Now we have three baby kittens, cute as
ever and a natural enemy to the wolf and to us what will
the outcome be from sharing our knowledge, or food and
our love to a natural enemy? Interestingly, these little
kittens are known by various names: Puma, Mountain
Lion, and Cougar—all referring to the same animal.
The deeper I think and the more I talk the more I
believe that we are handed a gift as great as we have ever
had and for us to doubt how wonderful it would be a big
mistake, so I want us together to take a few minutes before
continuing our journey and thank our father for giving us
the opportunity of growth and the responsibility handed to
51
us. Getting down on their knees Dan and Mary gave thanks
for the wolf, the three kittens, the deer, and the horses.
Returning to camp, Nuzzle was beside the blanket
watching the three kittens and it was so amazing to see that
one had to stop and admire the scene. Well Mary said we
must find a name for the three little ones. I can see it now
we have Eeny, Meeny and Miny and hopefully there is no
Moe. Let us clean up the doe and see how hard it will be to
milk her and feed our new friends.
Taking the deer by the rope, I led her to the river and
just walked in, but she did not want to follow right from the
start and going into the water was no different. I had to pull
hard and even then, had Nuzzle not got behind her and
growled she would never have taken those steps that
allowed me to wash and clean her but upon leaving the
water she followed me ashore just like a trained horse
would do. Walking up to Mary I said well I named the
kittens you name the deer. Let me think about that for a
little bit and I will find something to put the milk in.
Trapping the deer between a tree and holding tight on the
rope she allowed us to get one bowl full, but we had tipped
it and spilled it several times, but we finally were rewarded
for our efforts.
The bowl we had received as a wedding gift was a
perfect answer for capturing the milk. Mary had turned to
52
a plant beside the camp area and pulled a leaf from it and
coming over with the bowl of milk rolled the leaf into a
funnel shape and I held that while she poured milk into it,
and I held it over a kitten, and it immediately knew and
started to lick the milk. The other kittens started fussing and
wanting their turn, so I changed from one kitten to the next
and as I did, I asked Mary how we would be able to tell one
from the other. As you pointed out when bringing them
from the den, Miny held back and was bashful so look now
at them. Sure enough, one kitten was laying back not
pushing as the other two fought to get to the milk. Knowing
she is hungry but still holds back from the others I wonder
how long that will last. Did you notice that bashful Miny is
a female? No, I did not but you are right Dan, let’s look at
the others. We have two females and one male that is
interesting.
Nuzzle sat and watched just like a proud father and at
that moment I happened to notice all the horses had joined
us and were watching as we fed the little ones. I had to
comment that nature has a strange way sometimes. Look at
all these who are enemies and the attention they are giving
to the little ones, even the deer seems to understand what is
happening and looking on like a proud mother. Where all
this was going in the future was not for me to know but as
I watched the kittens suck in the milk, I had deep
53
satisfaction and felt a love for those little kittens that one
day could be a danger to us all.
After feeding each till, they were no longer hungry,
they lay down and went right to sleep. Each kitten was
laying either on the next or right next to each other but there
was no space between any of them. The deer wondered
over as much as she could with the rope attached and
started to eat the green grass around the tree. I had an idea
that it may work so getting up I went to the deer and untied
the rope from the tree and tied it around her neck and
undone that which went around the body. This allowed the
deer the same movements the horses had. Taking the other
end of the rope giving her about twenty feet of slack I cut
the rope and tied it around Shadows neck. The deer could
not run off because Shadow would not allow that, so I just
watched them eat together and went back to add wood to
the fire pit.
You know Mary we have a lot of different animals here
and I will not mention ones that we could add to our family
because I know that God is listening, and he would have us
feeding strange fowls and other things not normal, but I
know he hears and acts just like he had a right to. Careful
what you say Dan he may decide we need a bigger family.
We will not be able to travel for a few days will we, Dan?
Well, we do have a few problems to solve first, but we do
54
not have to wait till we can figure out how to pass the days
across the desert we are told we face. It may be easier to
travel with small kittens than if they were allowed to grow
bigger. Can we teach the deer to carry a few things such as
water or food even if it were only enough for her? It would
help. We know it will take over three days and maybe as
many as five to get beyond the dry area.
The next few days went by fast as we were teaching
the deer to accept us and not show fear every time we
neared her. Mary had been calling her Te-ah because that
was the word in her language for deer. As the days went by,
I found myself saying Teyah do this or that and before long
the name was so much a part of her that she becomes Teyah
forever. It was hard to say how old Teyah was, but my best
guess was two years old, so she adjusted to our presence
fast which helped our workload a bunch. Also not knowing
if there was a supreme being involved here, helping her to
adjust and be a part of our family.
Eating together and spending a lot of time around the
kittens and the family of enemy’s brought together and
becoming a family of understanding and love. How can one
express the unity that was created between all of us. Can
one train a cat? I have heard from Trainer that anything that
eats can be trained so I must accept that it can be done but
for how long and how much can they retain? It is so much
55
fun, and time consuming to just sit and watch the kittens
play and roll around teasing each other, hissing, and
swatting at one another. They took to both Mary and I as if
we were their natural parents. They climb on us they sleep
on us they want us to be right in their every movement
night and day. We have never seen any animal that has as
much love and affection toward us as these three. Even
Nuzzle didn’t have to have us as close as these three keep
us.
In the morning Mary, we should be ready to leave so
the meat we have prepared should be on one place and I
will fill all the water bladders in the morning so we will
have fresh water on the trip I believe we can start early but
we will have to find a place to stop and rest so we can
change our traveling from day to night. For us to cross the
desert even though we will be going North and West to
avoid what we can do, night travel will allow less heat and
more mileage per day. I would like to try and maintain at
least 25 miles a day so that four days should find us on the
other side of the hard part. This should be an interesting
group to see if anyone should come across us on our
travels, they would have a hard time adjusting to our
family.
Finding a few small trees and a shallow stream turned
our first night into a blessing and a good campsite we will
56
be lucky to have such again. After the sun dropped and the
temperature did the same, we packed up and headed out
having made 25 miles the first day. I felt we should be able
to do that again and were moving along with no one saying
anything and even Nuzzle accepted the travel speed to be
agreeable with him. Having stopped often to check the
packs on the horses so that they did not get sores and we
also checked often for stone bruises making sure all we
travel without being hurt. Because of the heat we tried to
put something on Nuzzles feet, but he would have no part
of that.
This being our second day I felt when reaching 30
miles we could have gone further but that was enough
knowing that once one was tired the chances of an accident
would be greater. We stopped and found no place we could
have shaded and luckily, we had no wind but rather that
would stay calm was not for me to know but being prepared
to use our ground clothes and some bamboo we built an
area that all could get beneath even the horses were
protected from the coming sun rise. We shared a few hands
full of corn with the horses and Teyah even enjoyed that,
which should not have surprised me because a deer eats
that kind of stuff whenever it is found. Sleep came slowly
for all accept Nuzzle which dropped down and put his head
on its front feet and never moved again for several hours.
57
Mary and I shared a few pieces of jerky we had prepared
for the trip and drank a little water which was shared with
all. We had a bucket tied to the side of our pack horse which
allowed us to get it without a lot of trouble. We unpacked
all the animals and laid another ground cloth over the packs
to protect them from the sun. We knew that each day we
would have to do this to keep the sun from destroying
everything, so we had figured out the easiest way to unload
and lay in an order of such that made for easy loading when
the time came. Tipping the side of the shelter on the side of
the sun allowed us to stay out of the direct sunshine and we
never got much sleep because of the heat but we did get
rest and that was helpful. Even the kittens seemed to rest
more than normal, which eased the burden on all of us.
As we started out as the sun went below the horizon
we loaded up and without many comments, we started
knowing we had another day of this to contend with and as
such there was no sense in wasted talking. When the moon
finally came out, we were all thankful and appreciative of
it because it did allow us to see any rocks or holes in the
trail we were following. We stopped this night every two
hours just to have a short break to drink a little bit of water
and check for any possible problems on the backs of the
horses and we even had a small sack on Tayah that she had
traveled with and did not seem to mind. The terrane
58
changed tonight, and we found that we had mountains on
the horizon as it became lighter, and we could see further
in front of us. I figured we had maybe four of five hours of
travel left to get into the hills and others could see the same
thing, so the pace picked up a little bit without my
encouragement.
When I stopped the group for a break it was not
appreciated as I would have expected all wanted to
continue and get over it with even buster the mule did not
want to stop, he could see what all could see and did not
want to stop. The sun had come up and it was starting to
heat up, so it was a hard decision on my part as to rather to
continue in the heat or stop and take shelter. The horses
seemed to want to travel faster and Nuzzle took off in front
of us and ran ahead. Finally, I could tell the horses could
smell water and that is where Nuzzle went without a doubt.
That took the decision away from me. I could not have
stopped the group if I had tried, I was lucky to just slow
them down to a fast walk. All I could think of was an
accident could be really bad on us out here away from
everything, but the thought of water eased my mind
considerably.
As we passed a few short trees and low brush I could
see what the horses could smell, and it was a pond of clear
water and as we approached all ran to the edge and began
59
to drink. I had to grab the horses to keep them from rolling
in the water with their packs on so as fast as possible Mary
and I unloaded everything right on the bank and never
worried about order of or location, just get the animals free
of the burden. We just dropped the packs and let the horse
wade into the water and did as they pleased. After enjoying
the swim in which we had all joined in frolicking and
splashing on each other we finally joined all our friends on
the shore laughing and laying out like we had just
conquered the world.
Having drank all we could hold and enjoyed a restful
swim we just dropped on the edge of the water and laid out
letting the sun warm our tired and weary bodies. The
kittens wanted milk, and they did not care rather we were
resting or not. Teyah seems to know when it is time, and
she willingly stands and allows us to milk her and
truthfully, I believe the milk builds up in her and she is glad
to get rid of it maybe it hurts inside to be carrying it. I had
taken a branch I had found and worked till there were three
holes in the branch big enough to slide the leaves into them
and each kitten could be fed when holding the feeder over
the kittens. They all had their eyes open now and could see
but they had not the strength to do much more than get their
little noses up to the dripping milk. Mary would hold the
60
branch, and I would pour the milk into each one and the
kittens had no trouble emptying them.
After feeding the kittens I had fallen off to sleep and
woke up with this furry feeling about my neck and when
finally coming fully awake realized Miny had crawled up
on my neck and was snuggling under my chin and on
opening my eyes just laid and could feel the heartbeat of
the little thing. May said she had been having problems
sleeping for fear of hurting one of the kittens because every
night they had been crawling under her chin and would not
leave. She was afraid of rolling over and hurting one, but
they would not accept being put aside, they wanted the
closeness of us, and it was becoming a habit with them.
Nuzzle never did get over laying at my feet and if he
was not there, I would wake up and wonder where he was.
So, after drying off from the swim and the sun started to set
making the mosquitoes start to gather, we got up and built
a fire right where we were not worrying about it spreading
to other areas because it was bare ground for a long way.
Mary started supper while I gathered the wood and made
the fire. The kittens had gone to sleep with a full belly and
Nuzzle was watching them with his head laying on both
paws, mostly sleeping also. Teyah had followed Shadow
into the tall grass and was content just eating away like no
one was around.
61
After supper and everything was put away for the
night, we built up the fire and the horses pulled in close
even though Buster was pushing in between the horses
getting as much warmth from the fire as possible and I
knew it was because the smoke forced the mosquitoes
away. So, with our family gathered around the fire pit I
offered a prayer for all and gave thanks for the full bellies,
the safe trip, and the complete and total love from our
father. Even the horses seemed to know and feel the safety
and contentment of the family unit.
The next morning after a small meal Mary had
prepared and having fed Eeny, Meeny and Miny they were
playing among themselves and not feeling we had to push
ourselves to be on the way and spent a few minutes
drinking a cup of coffee and just relaxing. I offered a
suggestion that we maybe should just find a place where
we could spend a few days and not try to push as we had
done. Mary agreed, however she wanted somewhere so that
we could get out of the sun and not have so many
mosquitoes. That sounded like a good idea so I saddled up
Shadow and taking Nuzzle (like I could stop him) we left
our camping area and heading towards the higher
mountains I just kept an eye on the horizon and let Shadow
go where he would. After finding higher ground I had
decided that there was an easier way to do this, so I turned
62
around and went back camping and told Mary. Why did I
do it the hard way when all I had to do was put the kite
together and, in a few minutes, I could see miles in each
direction, and we would know what was out there.
We unloaded the kite and strapped the bamboo to the
sides and pretty much had the kite assembled when the day
had slipped past, and the sun was setting so Mary suggested
we have something to eat and if the wind was in our favor
tomorrow morning would be a good time to take that flight.
Both Nuzzle and Shadow came in close knowing what we
were doing when we put the kite together.
The kittens had been a real problem when small
because of wetting the blankets and the necessary toilet
calls but lately they had got the idea that getting out of the
blankets and making necessary deposits in the dirt
surrounding them just seemed to become a habit with them.
Nuzzle had been a big help in this because at one time he
had picked up Eeny and carried him to the side and waited
and then by picking him up by the neck took him back to
the others. He took turns with each one and then he let them
be while he just sat and watched. Amazing to watch
knowing that he just seemed to know what to do and when
to do it.
Taking Shadow out into the top of the open area beside
our camp Mary took one side of the kite and I carried the
63
other and we set it down and would you believe Shadow
backed up to the kite and neither Mary or I had done
anything to move her there she just knew what was coming
and was looking back over her shoulder at us indicating,
“what are you waiting for”. We tied the rope to the kite with
the slip knot for easy release and I placed the water blander
for drinking beside me and a few pieces of jerky not
knowing how long I would be up there.
After getting all ready we tied the rope to Shadow, and
I just told her O.K. go slow and she did then when the rope
was tight, I yelled for her to run fast, and she took off and
I don’t think I made two steps before I was off the ground.
The wind was blowing into my face, and my eyes were
watering badly at that moment but there was nothing to do
or see so I just hung on and waited to be higher than the
trees, which happened really fast. Untying the rope, I could
hear Mary yelling at Shadow to stop so I didn’t have to
worry about that. As I climbed, I turned the kite away from
the mountain top in front of me and just followed the
mountain keeping it on my right as I just floated along.
It came to me how relaxed I was and not worrying
about anything I have been up here so many times that it is
like second nature to me. I passed over two small mountain
ridges and was looking toward the West because that was
the direction we were going to be traveling, so that is the
64
direction I wanted to find the right camping place for us.
Off in the distance, further than I was hoping to find it, I
could see a large lake which drew my attention. As I
approached the lake, I could see a small stream feeding into
the lake and on the mountain side above the lake looked
like a cave so I glided toward the cave for a closer look and
sure enough it was and if I were not above all the trees, I
would have never known it was there.
I circled the area for a few minutes looking for
anything that would make our lives easier or something I
should know but it was so inviting an area that I felt it was
perfect for our needs. Along the shore was a perfect place
to land if I wanted to but it was also green grass that
animals will take advantage of. One side of the lake had
rocks going into the water from the mountain side so for
fishing it would be nice to set on those rocks and fish and
no doubt there would be deep water there also. As I circled,
I could see small patches of timber, smaller meadows with
grass another steam going into the lake it was a beautiful
thing to see and I knew Mary would love this place so
turning back toward our camp I played close attention to
how we would travel to get here.
The deer and elk had gone to this lake so many times
the trail leading to it was clear from the air so watching and
following it I went to the first mountain ridge, and it just
65
seemed to stop but looking toward our camp I could see
how I could easily find a way to travel too here. I continued
to go directly East, and I could see Mary and Shadow out
in the meadow waving at me well maybe only Mary, but no
doubt Shadow would if she could. I flew directly over Mary
and when well downhill from her I turned around and
pulled myself toward the front of the kite and as it pointed
to the meadow, I just moved forward a little and I had a
very smooth glide right to Mary. As I came to the ground
Mary took ahold of one side of the kite and kept it from
hitting the ground.
I wish I could do that, Mary said as I climbed out from
under the kite. If you would like to do it, I will explain all
I know and there is no reason in my mind why you can’t
do that just as well as I can. We will talk about it till you
feel safe, then we will give you the opportunity to do it.
That is all good and well, but did you find us a camp site?
Mary, I have found a place so good you may never want to
leave it. I found a large lake for fish and a cave for our
home. I have no idea how deep into the mountain side goes
but it will keep us out of the wind and rain, and we can turn
our kitten loose and not worry about the great birds taking
them away from us. The only problem is the distance to the
place, I think it will take a long day to get there and maybe
two days’ travel, but it will be worth it.
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After taking the kite apart and rolling it back into a
tight bundle we tied it behind the saddle and went back to
camp. Nuzzle came running to us and ran around and
around us like we had been gone for days. The kittens were
fusing and letting us know it was time to feed them. So we
went to the tree that May had tied Teyah to and filled the
milk bowl. As friendly as Teyah was, I suspected we could
quit tying her up all the time but not being sure we did not
want to risk losing her at this point. The kittens were
getting big but not ready for solid food, yet we will
continue as we are for now.
After supper we sat back having our nightly coffee and
just enjoyed the campfire while watching the kittens roll
and play with each other and anything that they could find.
Nuzzle stood over them like a big brother and was content
to just watch. He was getting to be a big fellow now, not
old but big. He came up above my knees and when he
pushed against me would make me take steps back, he was
so powerful and yet so gentle. We will leave early in the
morning so for now we just enjoy the beauty of watching
the deer and elk moving into the meadow and as it became
darker, we could just make out the antelope that were
moving into the meadow as it got dark. With the quite time
it was so easy to just lay back and relax and enjoy Gods
peace full world.
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After giving thanks to our father in heaven and putting
away the leftover food from breakfast we fed the kittens
and gave a good-sized chunk of meat to Nuzzle and started
to pack the rest. I gathered the packs from the edge of the
trees where they had been laying and loaded Buster that
had moved right over to me and was just waiting to know
what was expected of him. Having traveled so much
everyone knew what was expected of them and we didn’t
have to chase any of the animals; they just walked right up
and waited their turn.
I started out as always being first in the line of travel
but this time it was obvious because I had seen the direction
necessary to get to the new camp site. The horses were
fresh and ready to travel and with the birds singing to us
we moved along, it was a very enjoyable trip, and it went
by fast. First thing you know was time for a break. Setting
by a stream and passing around a few pieces of jerky we
just had a quite meal and I handed Nuzzle a couple of the
larger jerky strips we had cured just for that reason. Not
wanting to spend too much time when we knew what was
in front of us, we continued and after climbing the last hill
we could look down on the lake in the distance and it was
such a beautiful site that even the horses stood and looked
as if to say they agreed.
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Passing the lake and climbing a small hill I asked
Nuzzle to go into the cave and make sure we were not
sharing it with a bear or any of the kitten’s family. It
seemed like a long time before Nuzzle came back out but
as I stood at the entrance he came out and started to growl
and show his teeth toward me. As I walked to him to find
what had made him so vicious towards me, he kind of
pulled back and the hair on the back of him stood up and
he was avoiding me, which was very unusual to say the
least. Cut that out and act decent or I will slap you. As I
got closer, he moved back against the edge of the cave wall
and started to crouch and from appearance he was about to
attack me. I scolded him again and told him it was okay to
be angry but not with me. He must have remembered that
we were friends and not let whatever was in that cave
bother him. I pointed to the trees and told him to go take a
walk and when he could get over whatever was bothering
him, he could come back. He moved sideways to me to
avoid getting close and ran into the woods. Turning to
Mary, I said maybe I had better go into the cave and see
what bothered him so much. Just before I could enter the
cave here came Nuzzle walking out and sat down in front
of me like I have checked it out for you. Wow! Mary, did
you see that if this is Nuzzle that other one must have been
a wild Wolf and no wonder, he didn’t like me I am lucky
he didn’t take my arm off. He looked exactly like Nuzzle.
69
I couldn’t tell the difference but now it is over I should have
known by his actions.
Okay Nuzzle let’s go into the cave together I think I
need you by my side in order to check it out. As I entered
and looked up the first thing, I noticed that the ceiling of
the cave was way over my head and the room we were
entering was very big. There was room for all the horses,
the mule and all our packs to be stored. In the center was a
large fire pit that had been used before but by looking
closer I could see it had been many years sense. Along the
wall on the left were spikes drove into the wall and there
was a bear skin coat hanging on one of them. There was
room for many more and it even had a shelf below it and
along the wall allowing for pots to be placed for easy
storage. I knew because there were a few bowls still setting
there and a jar with designs on it. Turning I heard Mary say
look Dan there is a spring back here with a small pool of
water. Someone has lived here before and made it very
livable for us.
Notice the torch over there and another one towards
the back of the water. We will have it nice here for a while.
So, bringing in the animals we unloaded them and set all
the packs where we could get to them, and they would be
out of the way. What was truly strange about the cave was
it was not cold or damp but a very comfortable temperature.
70
The way the fire pit had been constructed when a fire was
going on there was a place to set things so that the flames
would heat whatever was on the little shelf. Someone had
a real imagination to build such a fire pit I will remember
this for future use.
Let us give thanks for this home but remember we are
only using it for a limited time before moving on so don’t
fall in love with it too much, I told Mary. Gathering up the
fishing line I left the cave while Mary was getting the food
gathered around close, I wanted to try the fishing and
hopefully add a little fresh meat to the meal. Mary said she
wanted to check out the very back of the cave and see
where it went. Setting down my small pack I realized that
it had not been to the back and didn’t want Mary to run into
another wolf or any other strangers. As I got to the back
wall, I could see jars of something sitting on another table
that was very old and dried up. Picking up one of the jars
while looking closely at it because of how heavy it was.
Tipping it into my hand I could see what appeared to be
several small rocks, but they were very heavy. Because of
the darkness of the area, I walked towards the front where
I could see better and looking at the stones found them to
be gold. Look Mary, what I have found. Oh! She said those
yellow rocks were in the steam as we passed them, I happen
to notice. If all those jars back there are full of these, we
71
will be able to live like kings when we join the white man’s
villages.
If we were in a large city where I came from Mary, we
would not be able to rest for fear of the strangers trying to
take them from us. What makes them so valuable Dan?
Because they are so rare to find, and they can be made into
jewelry very easily. It melts and can be poured into
whatever shape one could imagine. We will have to hide
these so that anyone who may come along will not find
them and take them from us. We will do that later right now
I want to go down and try my luck at fishing and see if I
can bring back a few fish for supper. You get the kittens
comfortable, and I will make sure Teyah is available for
easy milking before I go.
Gathering up my fishing stuff again I strolled down to
the lake and grabbed a grasshopper that was standing there
and in no time at all he was floating out in the clear blue
water. I had not even got comfortable when I had a large
fish fighting for survival. He must have weighed 7 or 8
pounds, and he was a beauty. By the time I returned to the
camp I had a string of seven fish all over five pounds and
Nuzzle was jumping at my side wanting to share his now.
When I entered the cave, I went to the kittens and put
the fish in front of them and they only moved over to smell
them and didn’t show any signs of wanting them to eat but
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did play with them, so I knew what I had expected, to soon
eat solid food, but the day would come. We had a great
meal and after supper we sat back and watched the
reflection of the fire on the cave walls and that was fun
because even Nuzzle understood what they were after
running around like a small puppy and watching the
shadows. Laying down next to the fire, the kittens took no
time at all after being feed in crawling up onto my neck and
purring like a house cat. Meeny was a male cat, and he had
crawled under Nuzzles chin and was sound asleep before
anyone else. The kittens were so affectionate that you had
to smile every time they got close because they seemed to
live only to be close to either each other or to us.
The next day we spent walking around the area
looking at all the things that we could eat. There were red
berries, and a tree with a small apple and even a few grapes
were growing alongside the trail to the lake. We were
amazed at the things that were available to us even
mushrooms were in abundance around the trees. Mary had
found some wild onions and was gathering those for a soup
she said she was going to make. We never saw the wild
wolf again so he must have decided he wanted no part of
us. The kittens were big enough that they were starting to
climb out of the hide Mary had made for them to play in so
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we could see they were doing good and growing faster than
we had expected.
The horses were not content staying inside of the cave
and were eating grass along the trail and Teyah was making
time in the greenery that was hanging down from the apple
tree. Seems as though she liked anything that was green.
We spent a week just looking and goofing off and doing
nothing but wasting time. I went to the lake daily for my
early morning prayers with my father then a swim seemed
to just be natural and before long we had all of us gathering
at the lake and enjoying the water.
Time just floated by, and the kittens were getting
around, but we kept them away from the water for fear of
them drowning but they were not afraid of it. They did want
to be held and when I came into the cave at night, they
would pull on my pants leg wanting to be held. It was
strange in one way all these animals were natural enemies
and yet even Teyah would sniff at the kittens and watch
them play. Nuzzles would pick them up one at a time by
the neck and move them here or there if they were not
where he thought they should be.
At night we would have bats by the hundreds going
past our heads leaving the cave and we just got used to it
and it was so noisy that you could not talk at times. I knew
I had found one more item to help me build the gun powder
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and had dried out a few bladers from the deer and elk we
had killed and was storing the dung for future use. I had
taken some of the gold outside and buried it in different
locations, making sure both Mary and I could remember
and find it later if we should need it.
Somewhere in the back of my mind I knew of a trading
post that was in this area and was hoping to find it we were
just about out of coffee and there were several other things
we could use but Mary had never seen a trading post and I
wanted her to see one. We prayed that someone would stop
by, and we could learn where one was but so far, we were
the only ones and had not even saw an Indian or any other
two-legged stranger. I continued to fly looking for an
indication of someone or something in the area but had not
even seen anything out of the normal sights of the area. We
were starting to get restless and thinking of leaving the area
and travelling toward the West but giving up the comforts
of everything we had here was hard to do. I had woven
some gold into the bottom of my saddle bags in such a way
that even if you were to look you could not see it. And we
had done the same thing to other items like I had hollowed
out a knife which had a deer antler for a handle and filled
it with gold. We had gold hid in so many things we would
joke about the value of our things.
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The kittens were big enough to walk, and we had
turned Teyah loose to roam as she wanted to, but she stayed
close and never left very far. We did see a big buck come
to the edge of our camp and he knew she was there, and we
laughed at the two of them. We wondered if they would
follow us to the West or stay in this area but that would be
up to them. We had dried out fish and red meat over the fire
making jerky as we knew we would need it in the future
when traveling. Finally, we picked a day to leave and had
everything packed and ready for the sunrise to leave. We
truly loved this area and wondered if we would ever find
another place that would offer us the things this one did.
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CHAPTER FOUR SPECIAL GUESTS
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The first morning after leaving the cave we were not
in the usual habits we had before the long rest so thing were
not as smooth traveling as they should have been, so we
didn’t try to make many miles just get on the way and make
the habits return we had before the long rest. Mary had
made a special pack for Buster to hold the kittens and they
were not happy when we headed out, so they were
continually climbing up and out and falling to the ground
so we had to stop and put them back so much that I finally
found a place in front of me between the saddle horn and
my lap that I carried Eeny and she was satisfied for a while.
And Mary did the same thing with Meeny so Miny being
alone was not happy, but she did not jump out after the first
time crashing to the ground. So, after a few miles things
kind of settled into a routine and we started to make a few
miles.
I had spent much time teaching each kitten to growl
when I held up a finger. If I held up one Eeny would growl
and when I held up two Meeny would growl and the same
with Miny. I enjoyed the laughter and fun of even with a
fist I could make all stay quiet and Nuzzle learned to set on
command and growl and follow his commands so on the
tail I could have all watching me and every so often just to
keep all active I would have growl or be quiet. The games
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keep everyone doing something so that the miles past and
the time seems to fly by.
We would stop every couple of hours rather to eat or
just have a drink of water. We would try to find a stream or
lake for our night camp so we could have a warm meal and
a swim to get rid of the dust we always had to contend with.
As hard to believe as it was Teyah (the deer) had stayed
with us all the way and she had come into camp each nightand spent time shoulder to shoulder with Shadow just like
she was still tied to her.
Setting around the campfire waiting for supper to be
completed Nuzzle jumped up and was growling and
looking at the bushes. The kittens ran to Mary and jumped
for her to pick each one up and they were obviously excited
and wanting attention. At that time, I heard a voice ask if
he could come to our fire. If it would have been a mistake
for a person to enter another’s camp site without
permission. That could get someone shot if not careful in
this situation. Nuzzle would have attacked them before
they knew of the problem. I reached down and took the
strap that held my pistol and knew I could get it free in a
hurry and at the same time had Nuzzle set and not make
any noise by holding my fist he immediately quieted down
and with a signal from me just set watching the brush.
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How many of you are there, I ask. Two was the
response just me and my wife is all. Make sure your hands
are free of any weapons, and you are welcome to enter, I
said very loudly. A man with a full beard down to his chest
and part grey and part white came forward and a little gal
not much over five feet tall followed him and she was
completely clothed in buckskins. He also was wearing
buckskin, but it was so common I had not paid much
attention to him. She smiled and said her name was
Mayone and her husband was Joseph. Welcome to our
camp, Mary said and started to introduce herself when
Mayone said “I know who you are Mary. I also know
Daniel, Adam, David, Soloman Clark and I know the cats
and the wolf Nuzzle.
Dan had been kneeling next to the firepit where he had
several weapons close to his hand. Upon hearing Mayone
speak he stood and looking first at Mayone, then to Joseph
he then looked at Mary and found his thoughts running
ahead of his mouth. Mary looked at Dan, and she also could
not speak, she was dumb founded and speechless. Finally,
after what seemed like several minutes but was only a few
breaths later Dan found his thoughts and asked Joseph how
they could know all this. Perhaps both of you should sit
down and let us explain why we are here and who sent us
Joseph said.
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Mary, the gift you have of being able to see into the
future has been given to your family because of their faith
and deep devotion to values that are in the ways of the
world in which we live and teach others of this obedience
to the creator of the universe. Because of your prayers,
which you did not call prayers but were under any other
name you used to call them, we have been sent to explain
and reward you both for continually holding to those values
and not letting those of this world influence you away from
those values.
Dan, it was no secret to you that you were spared
several times when you could have lost your life and never
met Mary. You have been led by your personal spirit to this
point in time and to Mary who you have also shown, love
and affection that has been recognized. Because both of
you have lived and put forth love and affection to others,
we have been allowed to share with your certain
information not normally gave to others on this earth. You
will remember what we will teach you, but you will find
you cannot speak to others about this because your tongue
will not be allowed that privilege.
Joseph, I believe what you are telling us, but you must
know we have a little doubt about all this. How long will
you stay and what is the purpose of your visit? In answer
to your question Dan, we will stay as long as necessary to
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guide you to your intended purpose. Both of you have a
destiny that will bring happiness to many and save lives
with some that are to be brought close to death and make
them understand that a spirit watches over them also. You
have been chosen to be the ones bringing forth that light
and we will not be here continually, but we will come and
go as you ask in your prayers. You are not the only ones
that we visit, we are available to all who ask and believe.
Can you make the coughers and Nuzzle understand
what we say and give them the ability to act with this
knowledge? Have you not noticed they already do and why
else would Teyah stay and be so gentle to you. Because of
your love and caring that was given to them upon their
delivery to you. Have no worry about the future, your faith
has made them your servants. All who walk with this belief
have that same ability if they will but ask.
We will leave you now but know we are your spirits
and are available whenever you should but ask and with
that they just disappeared and both Mary and I just looked
at each other. How can this be Mary? I have never heard of
this before and now I can see why they said we will not be
able to tell others about this so we will share this secret
forever. I am glad you saw what I did so I know I am not
crazy Mary said. One thing this did was prove once again
to me that my prayers were Mary.
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We had not reached a point in our travels that we felt
the need to stop and waste time doing nothing, so we
continued traveling 25 to 35 miles a day and we camped at
those places that gave us the most facilities for the evening
like water and wind protection. We did find it valuable to
say our prayers each morning after having those special
guests and we spent many hours trying to decide if there
was something we wanted to do other than see the ocean.
The coughers had grown so much they were walking
and playing full, and they were starting to eat a little bit of
meat at least they were playing with it. Nuzzles would
bring small animals and drop them before the cats watching
and waiting to see if they would eat it. Mary had made the
pack saddle for Buster for the cats to ride in, and they were
now big enough they could climb up and get into the bag
without any help from us, in fact they would be waiting for
us to go they had got so used to traveling.
We found a small trading post when we neared the
Sierra Mountains (we learned the name of the mountains
from those running the trading post). The man who owned
the store said he had started it when he found this river and
a mountain man must have spent some time here because
he had constructed a cabin which was not in bad shape. He
had a wagon full of supplies he was heading to Sacramento
with but decided to stop here and gave up going on.
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When I first walked up to the cabin, I had Meeny on
one side of me and Nuzzle on the other walking along right
in step with me. I walked up and stopped in front of the
cabin and was just looking when Sam walked out onto the
porch and started to lift his rifle up toward us when I told
him stop, don’t make the mistake of pointing that gun at us
or you would not live to talk about it. What kind of a feller
would travel with a cougher and a timber wolf as pets? If
you set the gun down, we can talk about it but please don’t
make any attempts to show aggression towards us. My
friends are very protective, and I know they would take
exception to it.
My name is Sam he said and what do you go by? I am Dan
and this is Meeny on my left and Nuzzle on my right. Eeny,
Miny and Mary are just waiting to see if things are safe and
if I should yell, they will join us. Do you have coffee, sugar,
flour, and salt, I ask. Yes, he said I have all of that and have
another wagon load of stuff that should be here later this
month if you have cash money to pay for it. We can give
you cash or gold nuggets if you don’t want the cash. Where
would you get the nuggets, he asks? Way back there many
miles from here but have not had a place to use them in
months. Where did you leave from, he asks? I started in
Boston but that was many months ago. You crossed
through the Ute Indian territory? Yes, I said Mary is a full
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blood Ute I said as she joined us at the porch. Well, he said
I can see she is all that but have never saw such a beautiful
woman in all my life. How did you ever get such a woman
to leave her family and follow you he ask? Well marriage
helped and she is exceptionally smart for another thing.
Always admired a bashful guy he said.
We have come to a far today and would like to set up
camp, would you mind if we were to go down there under
the trees next to the river and make camp, I ask. You make
yourself right to home and I would not worry about any
visitors at night; we are left alone most of the time. Oh, I
don’t worry with the friends I keep three coughers, and a
timber wolf would make a stranger look at his hole card
awfully fast when he found us. I will make sure that I do
not sleepwalk and find myself in your camp by mistake.
Robert, my son, is out hunting. We have run out of meat so
he left this morning and should be back later today, and I
will advise him when he gets here. With that we left and
went to the river to camp.
After unloading the animals, I built a fire pit, and the
three cats lined up around the pit and were helping me to
dig it by throwing the dirt between their legs and helping
us by bringing in branches and small twigs to start the fire.
No one would believe that a wild animal could understand
but they all had watched and learned over the time we had
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been traveling. Nuzzles had been bringing in larger
branches and even stacked them alongside the fire pit.
Mary had laid out the saddle packs, so we had everything
in order in a very short time. Mary said she would like to
go up to the store and get some coffee for later and as she
stated that Nuzzle jumped up and walked right alongside
her as they left. One thing I knew is I did not have to worry
about Mary with Nuzzle to protect her no one with eyes
would dare even touch her. She later told me when she
entered the store Sam had looked at Nuzzle and was about
to say something about him coming into the store, but she
said he looked over and started to open his mouth. When
Nuzzle looked up at him Sam immediately shut his mouth.
Robert the son had come in the back door and saw Mary
and she said he couldn’t get his tongue right, he was
stammering and stuttering and jabbering and not making
any sense. Sam laughed and told him to stop and start all
over and try to be a gentleman when speaking to the lady.
Robert said I have never saw such an incredible looking
woman in all my life is she a Ute he asks? Yes, Robert Mary
said and thank you for the nice words I am sure we will be
friends, and you may enjoy coming to our fire and learning
our ways. I want you to know you are welcome to join us
anytime you should decide but know that you must speak
before waking up to our camp.
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Just before Mary entered the camp Miny the youngest
cougar jump up and ran to greet her and in an that instant a
Bald Eagle dropped from the sky and hooked onto the cat
and as hit enormous wings struck the ground to lift off with
it Nuzzle was upon the bird so fast and had the neck of the
Eagle in his mouth and feathers flue and the Eagle was dead
before I could catch my breath. Thank you, Father, for
having Nuzzle right here and protecting Miny from that
Eagle. Mary continued to tell that she would gather the
feathers to make a special head gear up and would store
them with the necklace she had made with cougar mothers’
toenails when she had passed away.
After supper we built a small fire and had just sat down
with a cup of coffee when Sam and Robert yelled, they
would like to join us and visit for a while. The three cats
sat side by side watching both men like they were someone
to protect us from. Nuzzle sat at my side as always so he
just watched Sam as he sat upon the log we had pulled up
for seating. Dan Sam said it is a little nerve racking having
these cats and a timber wolf setting around, but we will get
use to it I am sure he says.
Sam starts off by telling us the river is called Truckee,
and it feeds from a large lake high up in the mountains and
that lake is called Tahoe and it has commercial fisher men
up there catching some of the biggest fish you have ever
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saw. He told me the lake was surrounded by mountains, and
the water was so clear you could see the bottom hundreds
of feet down. What is downstream from us, I ask. He told
us there was another large lake known as Pyramid and it
also was a very large lake with many very big fish. He told
of the huge trout that would be traveling up this river every
year and they had to be at least fifteen pounds or bigger. He
told of a town called Genoa that was South and West of us
that had another small trading post and many Piute Indians
that had large villages close by and where they were
located. He told of the mines in the area directly West of us
and the fact that there were many white people who
traveled through this area, and it was not a bit unusually for
them to stop into the store.
After he left for home Mary turned to me and said you
do know that the Eagle that attacked Miny was no doubt
hunting for her little ones. What are you telling me Mary,
how could you know this, and you surely don’t expect us
to find and raise a baby Eagle, do you? How many babies
would an Eagle have and where would the nest be? This is
surely not our future to care for birds of prey now. Mary
said the Eagle has a large nest that they add onto every year,
and they are born in the nest and the young come back to
that nest and raise their young, so the nest gets bigger and
bigger. Young Bull my cousin climbed up the side of a
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mountain and killed an Eagle years ago and they still sing
songs about his bravery to this day. Well Mary I have news
for you this boy is not climbing no mountain to fight a live
Eagle to prove nothing to no one so forget that idea. Well
Dan, you do have something no one else has ever had. You
can fly your kite and find the nest from the air that no one
else has ever been able to do. But Mary, I can’t just stop the
kite in midair and walk over to a nest. I must stay in the
kite and then I may be able to see the nest but would not be
able to do more than just look. I think in the morning we
should prepare for another flight if I am to ever hear the
end of this.
The next morning after breakfast we took the kite that
was a copy of the bald Eagle built by our friends and
relatives, back at Mary’s home village. Sam and Robert
joined us and were amazed when we told them about our
intended fight. He thought we were joking until he saw the
large kite laid out and being assembled. This would be an
impressive flight for sure with the white eagle’s head tied
to the front, but I could see no reason to ware it, but Mary
pointed out that if there were eyes watching me from the
ground it would be better to appear as a large Eagle as much
as possible. So, agreeing and lining up Shadow we tied the
rope to Shadow and Mary handed me a small amount of
jerky and some water to allow me to be comfortable while
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looking. We had discussed this so many times on our
travels that I would let her know when I found it was not
needed to retell again.
After getting ready and having Shadow lined up and
ready, I said ok slow and easy Shadow and off she went and
when the rope got tight, I yelled hit it run and before I could
take two steps the kite rose and started to climb skyward. I
forgot to even watch to make sure there was a wind but
thinking back as I lifted there was a wind blowing and I had
just not paid attention to it. Up I went it was so easy and
because I had done it so many times I was relaxed and
knew where I wanted to go. The Eagles nest would have to
be either in the top of a tall tree or on the side of a mountain,
so I just allowed the kite to circle the area just kind of lazy
like just gliding along watching.
I had not been up ten minutes when I could see a large
nest at the top of a pine tree and the top of the tree had
broken off and the nest was Hugh, it must have been over
fifteen feet across it. As I flew over the top, I could see a
baby Eagle and it had gotten big enough I knew it could see
me as I circled just above it. I flew directly over and as I
did; I dropped a hand full of deer jerky into the nest hard to
miss when the nest was that big. A large branch stuck out
just below the nest, and it was tempting to try and land on
that branch. It came to me that if the kite caught in that nest
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I would drop like a rock. It would be prudent to recognize
that I am not equipped for flight and return to the camp.
From the nest to the camp only took me a few minutes
and I guessed the distance on the ground to only be a mile
or so from the camp. Turning past as usual and turning back
towards the camp, I don’t think it was two minutes, and I
had returned to the ground. This had happened so many
times I just took it into the habits of past experiences and
was gathering up my stuff when Nuzzle was standing at my
side wanting attention as usual. Mary was first to be at my
side, but Sam and Robert were not far behind.
Robert couldn’t get the questions out before Sam had
asked him and before I could answer Robert, they were
talking over each other. Hold on these guys, we have lots
of time to answer and before we do, I would like to gather
roll up the kite and get it put away before the wind has a
chance to destroy it. After showing them how to untie the
bamboo on the sides it took very little time, and we had
everything put away and were heading back to camp.
We saw you drop things toward the nest in fact I went
over an gathered up a few sticks of jerky that had missed
and feel to the ground below the tree, so we know there had
to be some babies in the nest. How many were there? Only
one was my answer but then it is possible there was
another, but it looked to me like one other eagle was alive
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and one dead in the nest. Did it have a white head, Mary
asks? No, it was more of a brown head but no doubt it was
an Eagle, but the feathers were not white, and nothing
showed but I just knew it was an Eagle. Did it eat the jerky
was one of the questions. Yes, I said in fact when I dropped
the first one it fell right into the mouth of that little chick. I
cannot say that it was very cute though it was not like a
baby goose, it was kind of different in that regard. How
often do you think you will have to go up there to feed it?
Whoa too many questions I don’t know much about Eagles
or their babies so we will have to learn together. I do think
I should find something besides jerky to feed the baby that
is not as hard to eat. Also, I would guess that they get water
from the meat and jerky offers none. I think it took the jerky
because it fell just right but tomorrow, I think I need to take
a rabbit or something like that up there. That will be easy,
I will just tell Nuzzle to get me something and he will.
What I wonder about is water for it. I wonder how they get
a drink up there, but I bet it is from the food like I said and
that is why the jerky is not a good idea, it is too dry.
After supper and things were put away out of the dark
came Sam and Robert and after giving notice, they joined
Mary and I for a discussion of today’s activities. You know
Sam that both of you are welcome to join us anytime for
supper. We know that and we thank you, but we have things
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to take care of at the post, so it allows us to clean up and
lock up. We do have many questions to ask about today’s
flight though. First, we both would like to know how you
figured this out. Well, that was easy God did it for me I had
no choice when it happened, and Dan went on to explain
how he had found himself floating above the treetops. After
landing and finding that I could fly and live I was forced to
do it to save a friend’s daughter and after that it became
easier and easier to do. I must admit that having a deep faith
in God helps.
As the conversation continued during the evening Sam
thought that he should mention that rumor was the Paiutes
were in the area and were not happy because the
government was trying to force them into a treaty which
they had no use for and did not trust the white man’s words.
Dan did not think that would have anything to do with him
or his family but was not sure because they had never been
to this area and had no knowledge of the Paiutes.
Sometimes just being in the wrong area at the right time
can get one killed when it comes to Indians Sam told him.
If the wind blows tomorrow, I will try to drop a rabbit
or something like that to the Eagle and hope he can eat it
without the help of the mother. I did not see another Eagle
but maybe the father will take over and watch out for it. As
I remember when an Eagle loses a mate, they will try to
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find another one to replace the first and join in raising the
young. Of course, you can read many things but rather they
are true or not is another matter. Where will you get the
rabbit to feed the bird, Sam asks? That is the easy part, I
will tell Nuzzle to go get one and he will bring it to me.
How will he know what you want and how will you keep
him from eating the rabbit when he catches it? Nuzzle was
sitting next to Dan looking at Sam and when Sam asked
Dan the question he barked and threw his head back and
forth indicating that he knew what was said and was
disagreeing. That’s incredible Dan. I think he understood
what I said and knew. Without a doubt he knows, and he
will not stop till he shows up with the rabbit. I believe the
cats are learning the same way rather it is coming from
Nuzzle or what they are becoming familiar with us and
seem to be understanding us. OK Robert let’s get to bed
and we will see you both in the morning for coffee.
The wind was blowing not hard, but Dan felt enough
he could take flight, and he had the rabbit on a shingle
waiting for the Eagle. Mary told Dan she was not going to
give him any jerky or water sense she did not think he
would be flying that long. That’s good, Dan said because I
am not taking a gun tomorrow either sense it should not
take me an hour to make the flight. Shadow was in the
meadow waiting and Dan had already put the saddle on him
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and had the rope wrapped and laying over the saddle horn
when Dan got to the meadow. Mary held one corner of the
kite, and all three kittens were side by side watching as Dan
prepared to take off. Nuzzle never missed his chance of
running alongside of Dan so it was not any different this
morning when Dan said slow and easy as Shadow took up
the loose rope and when Dan yelled hit it run Nuzzle took
off and was faster than Dan until Dan left the ground and a
few minutes later dropped the rope which Dan knew
Nuzzle would gather it and take back to Mary. That was
another thing that Mary helped with, she stopped Shadow
and brought her back to camp.
Dan lifted as normal and went directly to the Eagles nest
where he dropped the right wing to get lower to the nest
making sure that he was close enough to drop the rabbit in
exactly the right spot for the bird to feed on it. The young
Eagle looked up at Dan like he knew him and was waiting
for breakfast. Dan was so memorized by the sight he was
not looking at the wing tip as it was just over the top of the
tree. The edge of the kite hooked the top of the tree and
pulled Dan into the tree and before he could do anything
the kite ripped and crashed into the branches below and it
dropped and fell. The kite had been spinning as it fell but
after hooking one or two branches it ripped the kite, and it
fell hooking each branch on the way down. The speed of
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the drop was slow because of the ripping and taring of the
material in the kite but when the kite came to a stop it was
hanging on the very bottom branches of the tree and Dan
was tied in a knot with robe tied around him and he was
barely conscious when he raised his head to look. Blood
was running down his face and his chest was covered with
blood. He could feel his ribs hurt when he first hit the tree.
Trying to take inventory of his pains and see if he was able
to get untied from this and get out of the tree when it finally
came to him that someone was speaking and there was
more than one, but he could not see them. Dan could not
understand the language but knew there several Indians
below him and as he looked down saw so many, he could
not count them.
As Dan hung there, he could feel the rope jerking back
and forth someone was cutting the rope where it was tied
to the tree. When the rope gave free Dan dropped maybe
fifteen feet to the ground and hit on his legs, which gave
way, and he fell right on his nose in the dirt. His hands had
been tied from the rope, and he couldn’t get free fast
enough to get his arms out to slow the fall. He was jerked
to his feet by two very big Indians, and they cut the ropes
around him, but the freedom was short lived because they
tied his hands behind him. They threw him over the back
of a horse on his belly and tied him so he could not move
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and before he could get his breath, he was pounding away
on his stomach, hurting and breathing in short chunks of
air. OH, how this hurts Dan thought and he had tried to talk
to them, but no one even paid him any attention.
Nuzzle saw Dan falling from branch to branch and as
soon as it happened Nuzzle took off and never saw the
Indians that were not very far away from the base of the
tree. Nuzzle was not under the tree but was close enough
to see when Dan went crashing down the tree. Nuzzle went
as fast as he could run to let Mary know of the problem and
to let her know to come help Dan.
Hours later, after following sounds of several horses in
front of him and horses behind him Dan was finally cut free
from the horse and fell on his head in a stream of water that
allowed him to finally get a drink and catch his breath.
Forcing him to set up on the horse was a step above being
tied across it but he was in such pain from his ribs he was
going in and out of consciousness and had no idea how long
he was tied to the horse, but they stopped and built a fire
and he was tied to a tree with his hands behind him when
the sky became light enough to see. They gave him a small
piece of meat and put him back onto the horse and off they
went again. Two days later he guessed as best he could he
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was tied to a stump at the edge of a small village of maybe
twenty teepees.
Dan’s right eye was closed, and he thought it was
because of the blood that had run down into it and he
thought if it were cleaned, he would be able to see. No one
washed him or gave him any water or food and the blood
on him was not cleaned off but must have scabbed over
because he was not bleeding any longer, at least not on the
face. A warrior stood in front of Dan and tried to talk with
him, but his language was not making any sense to Dan.
Dan spoke in Shoshoni and the warrior turned and spoke to
others and finally a woman walked up and said how is it
you can speak as a Ute? Dan explained he had lived with
the Ute for several years and his woman was a Ute.
The Ute stole horses from Paiute, and they were not
enemies but were not at peace with them either. The woman
explained her name was Dawn and she had been stolen
from the Utes and had lived with the Paiutes for many years
now. Dan wanted to know why they had captured him and
what they wanted from him. She explained the white man
had been trying to force the Paiute from their rightful lands
and when he flew over, they had been watching him. When
he crashed into the tree, they figured the great spirit had
done it for them and they were going to use him as a
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sacrifice to the great spirit showing devotion to him for
delivering the big bird to them.
Dawn explained to Dan that he was not fed because he
would not be alive long enough to need food. His hands
were tied together so tight he had lost all feeling in his
fingers, and he knew he was in trouble. Dan was saying
prayers as fast as he could to put words into his mind.
Father, he said if you get me out of this one you are really
going to have an imagination the way it looks, they are
going to burn me to the stake, and I am not afraid to die but
not liking the idea of burning to death. Dan had his eyes
closed as he was praying and when he finished, he opened
his eyes and standing before him was Joseph the very man
who had shown up at his fire pit one night and dumb
founded him with information. Joseph Dan said, “is it
really you? Yes, Dan, I told you that I was your personal
guide and that all you had to do was ask and I would be
here. Can you not see the situation I am in? Dan asks. I see
you have your hands tied, does that disturb you that much?
It’s not just that it is what they have in mind that bothers
me. Have you not had your hands tied before? Of course, I
have. Then what makes this so big a deal? I have told you
they have me intended to be burnt alive. Is that what you
want Dan? No of course not. How many times must you be
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saved before you can see the power you have Dan? And
with that Joseph was no longer there.
Nuzzle ran into the camp and jumped up and down and
running around Mary, barking, howling, and raising all the
fuss he could. What is wrong with you Nuzzle what has
happened to get you so excited. Has something happened
to Dan? When she said that, Nuzzle stopped and sat in front
of her and barked twice. OH, Sam Dan has had an accident,
and he needs me, I must run. Nuzzle go get Shadow and
Dawn and I will get the weapons.
Sam said I will join you, but I must go get my horse
and tell Robert we will be leaving. I will join you as fast as
I can. Sam turned and ran toward the cabin and Mary ran
into the small shelter to get things as fast as she could.
Mary’s mind wasracing so fast she was almost in tears with
worry and excitement it was hard to pay attention to the
things she must do and take. Gathering all she could think
she would need she ran to the horses and climbing on
Dawn, she turned him and holding the rifle and sack of
bullets in one hand she yelled to Shadow let’s go and
together they took off running toward where she knew Dan
had to be.
Sam joined her just as they left the meadow and were
following her as she made her way through the tall pine
trees. As Mary arrived, she could see the kite hanging from
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the tree but could not see Dan. Dan, where are you?
Jumping down at the base of the tree Mary could see many
tracks and she was confused about what all this meant.
While she was looking Sam jumped down beside her and
he said look at the ropes on the kite, they had been cut with
a knife. Look at all these tracks Mary someone has been
here and taken Dan.
After further looking it was found where Dans feet hit
the ground when cut from the ropes but there were so many
tracks it was confusing as to what exactly had happened,
but one thing was for sure he was gone, and someone had
taken him. Walking away from the tree a line of tracks
going to the North was obviously where they had gone. The
track had no shoes, so the horses were Indian, and they had
Dan and was leaving with him.
What are we going to do Mary we can’t follow and
expect to fight this many Indians alone. Nuzzle had
returned from following the tracks and stood in front of
Mary and sat waiting for her command. Nuzzle, Mary said
you must follow and do what you can to protect Dan, and I
will return to the camp and get food and blankets and more
weapons. With that Nuzzle turned and ran off following the
trail to the North.
Mary you are not going to follow all those tracks and
expect to face all those Indians alone or you? You know
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that just the two of us could do nothing against that many
don’t you? Sam, I know that if it were me that were taken
Dan would not doubt one moment before he would follow,
and I will do no less. We will return to camp, and I will get
things necessary to follow till I am with Dan.
After returning to the camp Mary put the pack saddle
on Buster and loaded what food and blankets, she
everything she thought would be necessary to follow. She
put Dans saddle on Shadow then put his rifle in the saddle
holster. Then put her own saddle on Dawn, which she had
not done before. She had just left in a hurry without a
saddle but now, she would expect to be more than one day
following. As she turned looking for anything else that
would be necessary, she saw Mayone standing before her
and said I did not hear you approach. Smiling Mayone said
I did not walk up is the reason, but I am here to advise you
that you must take your wedding dress with you, the Eagle
feather head dress, and the Cougar claw neckless you have
made with you. Thank you, Mayone, I would never have
thought of that. Also, you must take Eeny and Meeny with
you. I will do as you say, may I ask if Dan is hurt? Dan is
not hurt bad he has small problems from falling to the
ground but not badly. I will be at your side as you need me
so fear not Mary. With that she was no longer there so Mary
turning finished loading the animals, putting the special
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saddle for the kittens on Shadow and pointing to it telling
the cats to get in and they did.
It was almost dark before Mary could get on the trail
heading out, but she wanted to get as far as fast as possible,
so she left camp and followed the trail to the Eagles Nest
and on the way past said to herself I hope Dan feed the little
one the rabbit before he had the accident. Little one, your
life is now in your own hands we can do no more till we
return. Passing the tree, Mary found it hard to continue
because of the darkness and did not want to lose the tracks
she was following. Stopping and unloading took only a few
minutes and thankful she had several bladders of water
because she did not look for a camping area she just went
as far as she could before dark.
Nuzzle had no trouble following the obvious trail left
by so many and the scent was so strong he never slowed
down till he came upon the party of Indians who had Dan.
Hiding in the trees as close as possible without being seen
by them Nuzzle crawled up close to Dan and when it got
dark, and no one could see him Nuzzle came up behind Dan
and as he had been taught untied Dans hands. Then he left
Dan and went back into the woods to rest.
After Nuzzle left Dan leaned down and untied his feet
then just stood up and walked to the open fire where the
Utes were standing around eating and talking. As they
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looked and started pointing and yelling among themselves
Dan pointed to his mouth and indicated he wanted
something to eat. Off to the side Dan saw Dawn running
through the crowd and she ran up to him, he said to her.
Would you ask these great warriors if together they should
be afraid of him. She turned to the crowd and told them
what Dan had said. He told them with that many he would
not punish them for what they had done. She said they were
not afraid of him. He then asked them why they had tied
my hands and were they afraid I would hurt them. Several
men stepped forward and one hit Dan and knocked him
down. When he got up, he told them that they would not
sleep until he was released and fed as he should be.
Dan held up his hand with four fingers to the sky and
Nuzzle started to howl and he continued to howl. Several
men grabbed Dan and took him back to the tree he was tied
to but Nuzzle must have gotten friends to help because all
around the camp the wolfs could be heard growling and
howling and barking as if the moon was out. The Chief
turned to the men about the fire and said why are the wolfs
howling without the moon? He was told what Dan had told
them, and he said do not pay attention to an enemy he
knows nothing. Put him back to the burning post and be
done with him. Chief the ropes looked like they had been
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chewed by a wolf and the area around where he was tied
has prints of a wolf having been there.
Does the prisoner have you doubting your ability as a
warrior? Why do you believe these things? The men
returned from tying Dan to the post and when they did, he
was told that when they turned Dan toward the post several
wolfs stepped forward and forced them to leave. Was he
tied up before you left? No, he was not, we had no
weapons, so we ran. Let us go back and bring your bow and
a few arrows. When they got to the post Dan was standing
beside the post but there were many wolves beside him and
as they walked up Dan stepped back into the brush and was
gone from sight. Get him, the Chief said and when they
went to step into the brush many wolves started to growl
and there were so many warriors withdrew from the attack.
Immediately all around the village the wolfs began to
howl and it was so loud that the women and children came
forward point and asking what was happening. We will talk
about this in the morning. There were so many wolves
howling that no one could talk, it was so noisy. One woman
ran up and said I tried to go into the bushes to do my duty
and the wolfs would not let me leave enter the bushes.
Another said I tried to go get water and the wolves would
not allow it.
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Mary had finally found the village and was looking
toward the village when Mayone stepped up in front of her
and Mary looked down at her from the saddle and asked
her what was to be done. Mayone told Mary that the moon
would be up in two hours and in the meantime, she wanted
Mary to go back to the creek she had crossed and bath and
wash her hair and brush it and put on her wedding dress
and then put the Eagle feather head dress she had made and
the Cougar Claw necklace and return to where they were
.Mary ask why all the wolf were howling and Mayone told
her it was Nuzzle and all his friend protecting Dan not to
worry.
The Chief had gone to his teepee to sleep and the
howling from all the wolfs were so loud he could not rest
so he returned to the center of the circle of men standing
and talking about what was to be done when the Chief
walked up. The enemy Great Eagle had told us this was to
be, but we did not believe him what kind of a man have we
bought into our village the Chief ask? I don’t know but no
one can leave the village without facing a wolf. They are
everywhere, there must be hundreds of them, they are on
all sides of the village, and we cannot get close to Great
Eagle for fear of the wolves. It will be daylight in a little
while and we will see what happens then. With all the
clouds it may not get light for a little bit longer because the
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clouds will cover the sunrise. All were voicing what they
thought should be done but all showed a fear of the
unknown.
Mary completed dressing and had only to put the Eagle
head dress on when Mayone walked up to her. Mary places
the headdress on and ask Eeny, Meeny and Miny to follow
you to the large rock at the entrance overlooking the
village. Please have one on each side of you and one in
front and ask them to set while you address the Villagers.
Mayone what will I say to the people? Do not concern
yourself Mary your Spirit will know what to say at the time.
While Mary was speaking with Mayone Joseph had
come to Dan and told Dan to walk to the side of the large
rock that overlooked the village and please take Shadow
with you and have him set beside you. I would encourage
you to hold your hand fist up as you have taught Shadow
to silence and then have him howl as you would then when
Mary appears she will have silence for her to speak. Mary
is here; Dan asks Joseph. Why do you doubt me now Dan?
I am sorry, please forgive me for my doubt.
As Marry approached the rock and just before stepping
upon it the sun found a hole in the cloud cover and a bright
light appeared from the sky illuminating Mary and in her
white dress with the Eagle Feather Head Dress, she was
breath taking to all. In all her beaty she stood in a halo of
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light and the white dress with the Eagle Feathers was such
that all who beheld her was speechless. The wolvesstopped
howling, and silence was throughout the village not a
sound was to be heard. The villagers knelt in unison,
starting from the front to the back, paying homage to Mary.
After all was silenced from any movements and May
had full attention, she held up both arms to the sky and in
a calm, but forceful voice said I am Mary Princess of the
Ute Nation daughter to the great chief Yogi and
Granddaughter to the Great Chief Bold Buffalo and Great
Eagle is my personal Warrior. The Cougars are my friends,
and the Wolfs are my guards. We have come to your lands
to make friends and share the wisdom of the creator. You
have no fear of us, we are not your enemy, we are your
friends. With that said Mary lowered her arms and the light
was dimmed as the cloud cover began to displace the sun.
As Mary spoke standing beside her was Mayone who
translated as Mary spoke. Mayone used her hands to make
jesters, and her voice was calming to all. Mayone was not
under the bright light but off to one side allowing all
attention to upon Mary. When Mary finished speaking
Mayone stepped up beside Mary and as the women came
forth with questions Mayone would translate for Mary and
then answer whatever Mary had said.
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At first there were only a few but the more that
approached Mary the more joined the group. At one point
there were so many gathered around Mary that she could
not move. Finally, after a few minutes Maylone held up her
arms to the heavens and said loud enough all could hear.
Would you please join us at the great counsel fire so all can
have room and hear Mary when she speaks? The ladies
turned and went into the area and sat on the ground and
waited for Mary to join them. When orderly and noise
lowered to a minimum level Mary stood before them and
when they all wanted to speak at the same time Mary would
point to one and with a smile ask her for her question.
Maylone explained to the group that Mary would be glad
to answer the questions, but they would have to ask one at
a time and allow Mary time to answer them. All this time
the kittens stayed at Mary’s feet and as she moved so did
the cats and when Mary finally stood in one place all three
cats joined and lay down and went to sleep.
While Mary was busy with the women of the village
the warriors had surrounded Dan from all directions and
when one would try to get to close Shadow would growl
and that brave would step back. Joseph was at Dans side
and as the warriors ask Dan questions Joseph would
translate and answer the questions for Dan. At one point
Dan thought that Joseph was answering questions that he
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had not even heard but knowing Joseph understood more
than Dan did he just smiled and let things happen as they
would. Finally, from total exhaustion, Dan had to sit down
and when he did Joseph explained to them that Dan had, as
they had known, fallen from a great height, and needed rest.
Joseph went on to explain that the next day Dan continued
the meeting if they would find him a place to rest and
something to eat for the evening. If his health would allow
it and answer more questions but they should understand
his needs now.
Immediately the Chief stepped forward and explained
to all that he Mad Calf Chief of the village offered the
teepee held for special visitors should be prepared for this
special quest and his woman. Between Joseph and Mad
Calf Dan was taken to a Teepee and to a small fire that was
prepared inside and helped to set, and food was brought to
him immediately.
As Dan was getting comfortable Mary joined him
while Maylone and Joseph stood to the side smiling at the
couple as they had obviously relaxed. We will join you in
the morning when we are needed and with that both just
disappeared. Dan had been holding Mary and when they
were alone again Dan took ahold of Mary and without any
bystanders placed her onto the robes and began to smother
her with kisses. It is so nice to have you with me, Dan said.
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Mary told him she was in wild worries until Mayone
showed up and began to organize things. I was so worried
and Mayone had explained that you were hurt but not bad
and that you would return to your normal heathy person.
Mary, I began my journey with very little guidance to me,
but I did have a knowledge of the great creator and the book
I told you about by the great creator tells the whole truth
and has been my guide. In this book are many stories and
one of those says the secret things belong to the lord our
God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and
to our children forever. We cannot explain who are where
Mayone and Joseph came to us, but we can agree they were
necessary for us to be where we are on our journey today.
We are given those from our God and because he gave them
to us, they belong to us but the secretes are his.
Dan, I was in tears and torn between thoughts when
Mayone appeared and when she did, I had a calming come
over me that was beyond words. I felt her way inside of
me, not just standing before me but from the very inside of
me I knew she was special. Mary we both know they came
from our creator to guide us and to allow us to accomplish
something we have no knowledge of and as I just told you
those things from our creator cannot be explained so we
will just accept them and know that we have something in
our future that is meant to be and as we follow this journey
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I personally know that I was on a mountain top when he
first became a reality to me but sense then the mountain
was not as high as the knowledge I have felt sense then.
From thinking I was alone when in fact I had the power
guiding me to my princess and without a doubt the future
for us has happened for a purpose.
Your people, Mary are many and spread over a large
area and we are a part of them and now we have another
people that are just as many and just as large an area of
power and we have now been allowed to become a part of
their family also and God forbid that I should boast about
it. Dan, the friends, and families we have met make my
heart swell with happiness and joy. I feel as though we have
known them forever and the brightness in the eyes, the
smiles on the faces and the words of their greetings are as
real as the sun is in the morning. Mary, I am just beginning
to see that the journey to the ocean is going to be a joining
of worlds brought together for a purpose beyond our
understanding.
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CHAPTER FIVE
ACCEPTED BY THE PAIUTE
I have yet to ask about the kite and the crashing into
the tree. All the questions have been about Shadow and the
wolves howling all night long and not letting anyone sleep.
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When I held up my hand and the wolves stopped howling
made a bigger impression on them than the kite did.
The next morning as we got ready to go Mayone and
Joseph appeared to tell us goodbye, and they would be as
always; our support and our spirit leaders should we need
them. Just a minute here I said how are we going to speak
to those waiting out there for us? Well Joseph said the first
thing I would do is open my mouth that allows the sound
to get out. Then I would engage the brain and think about
what is to be said before anything comes out. Many don’t
do that, and they say things they shouldn’t, so I caution you
on that. You have been cautioned. Before that what comes
out of the mouth should be pleasing to the lord as your
meditation should be good for the heart. For some reason
you are avoiding the most obvious problem we have at that
is they speak Numu as in Uto-Aztecan as I recall from my
talking with Sam and Robert at the trading post. When you
stand before them to speak you will find that you have both
been given the knowledge to speak and understand their
language because of your faith. Please accept that as God
has protected you in the past, he will reward you in the
future by your obedience to him. With that both Mayone
and Joseph were gone.
Why do I have the feeling I have been here before
Mary? Was it looking down from the mountain top or was
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it looking at the trees from the kite for the first time? Is this
what Peter felt as he stepped out of the boat on the sea of
Galileo? Like many things in this world, it has already been
handed to me now all I must do is accept it so I will and
that will add a slayer of worship in those that we are about
to face.
Come with me Nuzzle as I face the people of nation of
Paiute Indians, I don’t want to be alone. There must be
some humor in that somewhere Mary. The two of us shall
face them together just me and my wolf. I may not be
David, but I sure feel like I am about to face Golath. So,
when you are ready Mary, please join me at the counsel of
fire. With that Dan threw back the skin that covered the
opening and stepped out to greet the world.
As I stood up after leaving the short opening of the Tee
pee several men and women were standing there waiting
for me. As I stood no less than five started talking at the
same time and so I held up my hand and said, Good
Morning to all. And they responded in like manor and were
all smiles. I greeted each other as we moved toward the fire
pit, but they were asking so many questions that I had to
stop them and tell them we would have to find a better way
of doing this I could not keep up with them they were more
questions than I could answer at the same time.
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Another of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse showed up and he
said he would like to ask many questions also but wanted
to know if I would join him at his lodge for breakfast and
we could talk. I said as soon as Mary was ready, we would
be glad to join them. He told the group that we would be
eating together this morning, and he would talk to us about
a counsel fire this afternoon. Nuzzle was standing by my
side as usual and the Chief looked down and asked if he
was tame. Yes, I said he is tame if I am treated friendly, but
should someone show aggression toward me he would not
be friendly. As he was speaking Eeny stuck her head out of
the doorway and gave a low growl. He smiled and said I
have never been this close to a Puma and not been afraid
how had we tamed all these animals? Hunger I said will
tame man or beast, but the great creator has been a part of
that.
Mary stepped out as we were speaking and Meeny and
Miny were with her as she stood up, they sat to her side.
Do they go everywhere with you, he asks? No, I told him
we can leave Nuzzle to watch over them. Are you not
comfortable with them being at our joint meal. He said he
would prefer they did not attend so I turned to the cats and
said go into the shelter and wait for us. We will be back
shortly and Nuzzle can watch over you. With that they
turned and went into the Tee pee and Nuzzle followed
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them. Mary said she had fed the kittens so they should be
alright for a while. As we left others started to drift away
and when I looked back no one was around our place so I
felt the kittens would lay down and sleep again so no one
would hear them playing.
When we entered Crazy Horse’s home his wife was
standing at the door with the flap tied back and told us to
enter. In the center of the Tee pee was a fire pit with a small
fire burning and two gals were arranging things so we
could have a place to sit. Crazy Horse introduced his wife
small flower, and she told us to be settled, and she would
bring us our meals. As we sat down, she told us the two
girls were Snowflake and her sister Blue Sky.
I was handed a bowl of a warm liquid with some kind
of meat in it, and it was very tender and delicious. That is
a very good Small Flower. What is that meat? And she told
me it was roasted raccoon and to get it that tender she had
to boil it slowly for several hours. The dish had wild onions
and a berry of some kind plus something I could not
identify but was sure it was a herb of some kind. Mary was
also very interested in what was in the bowl and asked
Small Flower if she would teach her how to make it. As the
ladies talked of how to prepare the soup which is what I
called it Crazy Horse and I just eat our meals and from the
way Crazy Horse acted he didn’t like the women talking
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while we eat but he said nothing, and I believe it was
because we were there, or he may have said something.
When the meal was finished, and we were leaning back
relaxing, the Chief asked me how it was that we could
speak their language this morning but last night we had to
have help. I explained that my Father in heaven blessed us
with the ability to speak their language. The next question
was where were Mayone and Joseph? I told them they had
left in the night not wanting to have to try and explain that
one. Crazy Horse said they had guards out and no one said
anything about seeing either of them leave. It was very late
I explained and let it go at that. He was still wondering how
we could speak that fast I again told him of the great spirit
and his ability to protect and teach us. And that is one of
the subjects that I would like to talk to you about Chief.
I went on to explain that we had come to their land on
our way to the great ocean under the setting sun. I would
like to have a great counsel where all the people could hear
my story, and I would like Mary to also explain some of the
things that those in the village were asking. The Chief
thought that would be a very good idea and he would call
for counsel from the tribe and ask for their blessings and
ask that it be so.
Mary and Small Flower had formed a very good
friendship in such a short time and as we stood to leave,
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they hugged and agreed to meet again as soon as they were
through with their chores. I returned to the lodge with
Mary, and we walked along I told her of what the Chief had
asked me and told her how hard I thought it would have
been to explain who Mayone and Joseph was, and could
she imagine what he would have said if I had told him they
just left like that. Some things are better not said than to
speak about something so far over their head that it is not
understood. I do believe that they have a better
understanding of the spirit world than most, but I want to
both share and learn from them and I think telling them
how we got here or explaining my travels from Boston to
here would help in their understanding. When we get to
your people and you, I will stop and bring you up and let
you explain how you came to be here. I don’t know if they
even saw me up in the sky, they may have thought the kite
was just a big Eagle and never knew it was me so if I don’t
learn more on that subject it is going to be a really big deal
when I explain about flying. We are not living the normal
life as these people know it, we have animal friends they
have never saw living with anyone ever now we come
along with a Wolf and three Cougars, and I don’t think they
even know about Teyah would they believe we have a
trained deer to give milk to the little ones? This meeting is
going to be very interesting to say, and I sure hope it goes
as good as I pray it can. Perhaps Dan, I should walk out and
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take Nuzzle with me and see if I can get some more milk
for the little ones. They are almost big enough to eat sold
food, but I am not sure they will yet. Perhaps when I go out
for the milk I can have Nuzzle, get a rabbit or something
that we can give to the cats and see if they are ready to eat
it or not.
Crazy Horse came by our camp and told me he had
been in a meeting with several of the other Chiefs and they
had agreed that it would be a good thing to have us tell the
whole village of our travels and it would be entertaining to
them also. They use things like this as a diversion to keep
the people active and it brings harmony to the village. He
told me that after the last meal of the day they would build
a large fire and invite all to attend so just at about dark we
would join them again. He said that the Small Flower had
wanted to prepare a special meal and several of her friends
wanted to help so they would bring it to us later this
afternoon.
Mary and I just sat around a small fire outside of our
lodge and discussed what we would be speaking of during
the meeting and in this discussion it had come to me that
Mary had not been born again and now was a good time to
discuss what that meant and so I started to explain then I
said no maybe I should talk to all about this and you will
learn with the others.
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Mary had gone with Nuzzle so I just laid back in the
sunshine and took advantage of the warm sun and no one
bothered me made nap time a great and wonderful idea. I
had just given the best speech the world had ever heard
when I felt Mary shaking me to wake up and help feed the
little ones. Well, it was a great speech, but I had just not
delivered it yet except in my dreams.
As the time neared, I walked with Nuzzle to the
council fire and as I grew near, I heard the Chief tell those
in attendance that here he is now, so I just continued up till
I was standing before the Chief and greeted him in voice
and in eye contact. He held his arm out toward the crowd,
and I turned to face the village.
Momentarily I was petrified and did not know if I
could find it in me to speak. As I stood there calmness
overcame me, I could hear the cheering and the yelling of
greetings from the crowd. As I waited for the noise to quiet
down, I felt more comfortable as the noise settled down and
so did my heart rate and fear. My name is Daniel, Adam,
David, Soloman, Clark, but I go by the name of Dan in the
world I came from but in this world, I am known as Great
Eagle and that story is why I am standing before you. I
came from where the sun rises in the morning, and my
journey took two hands of moons to travel this far. To have
you understand what I am saying, how many of you have
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left this village and traveled from one full moon to the next
without turning around and coming back?
In that land there is a body of water that if one were to
take a canoe and travel it would take as long to cross as it
took me to get here. That is how big that water is, and it is
called an ocean and there is one where the sun settles in the
West and that is where my journey leads me.
I traded all that I had for those things I would need to
make that journey and when I left there were those that saw
my worldly possessions and wanted to take them from me.
After several fights and I had killed many of them I climbed
a very high mountain to the very top where I was going to
make my last stand to fight those that were left of my
enemies. I had a robe that was very thin, allowing me to
carry it on my horse easily and I had laid that over me to
keep the wind and rain off while I slept. The wind was
blowing so hard I could not sleep and hold down the skin
so I had tied the edges with sticks I had and then I tied a
walking stick from side to side which I laid on and by body
held down the sides so I could sleep but even then I could
not completely rest so I took a rope and tied from the top
by my head to the bottom and I did that three times then I
fell to sleep after giving my great creator who I call Father
thanks and knew no more because I went to sleep,.
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I awoke floating out over the mountain and trees and I
was up in the air like a bird in the sky. With this I stopped
for those to understand what I was telling them and the
murmurers, the aweing, and whispers were so loud I waited
for it to quiet down. When it became silent, I again told
them Yes, I was floating up in the sky like a leaf in the wind.
I did not know till I reached for my hat, and it fell so as I
turned to pick it up it was gone and so was the mountain I
was laying on.
When your warriors found me hanging in a tree it was
because I had hooked the tree with my kite and had been
torn from the sky and blunged to the ground with the tree
limbs slowing my fall. Those that took me prisoner had not
known I had come from the ski they must have not seen me
flying with the birds in the sky.
My God had taken me from the mountain and allowed me
to fly then he took me from the sky and crashed me into a
tree where I was to be found by your people, and he
protected me from your torture and bondage and forced
you to set me free. These are true words that you must
know because you faced the wrath of holding me prisoner
and mistreating me.
Because of my ability to fly I was also allowed to
speak to the Ute Nation and because of my powerful God
was awarded a princess of special honors and, I became a
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member of their tribes. I believe that the Paiute Nation is
so powerful and respectful of the great creator he has
allowed me to bring word of his presents to you through
me. I am not a God but a massager for him and as such
would like to spend time with your people and tell of the
powerful God I speak of. We are not here to represent the
Ute Nation we are not here to make less of the Paiute
Nation, but we are here to bring understanding and
knowledge of another God you should learn to respect. I
am not an ordained minister only a man who has
experienced the glory and love of a special God and as such
would like to share that with you.
If your people allow it, we will continue this as you
may wish but for now let me introduce you to my
wonderful partner and wife as called by my tongue. Mary,
please come up here and say a few words to these people.
With that Mary stepped up onto the large rock that had
been placed there for that reason. The crowd went wild the
women danced and waved their arms the men shouted, and
Mary’s name was shouted by most and the laughter and
jovial passion was so strong in the area that one would
think Mary had stepped right of a cloud from heaven the
way she was accepted. After several minutes of total causes
Mary raised her arms and held her hands open before the
village and as she stood there, they became silent. Thank
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you, my newfound friends, for the warm and friendly
welcome you have shown us. I had stepped to the side and
Nuzzle was at my hip all the time and now he just sat and
watched the crowd. The three kittens were not fully grown,
but they sat to the side of Mary as she was speaking, and
they also just sat and watched the crowd.
Mary started out by explaining that she had been living
in the village of Chief Yogi of the Ute Nation and as a
young girl she had known the great creator of her people
and had a belief in him the same as all of her friends and
family did but along came the Great Eagle and spoke of a
God of his people. I later found this God to be a truthful
God and found he was not just Great Eagles God but a God
of all people not just those of the white skin but of all skins.
I found this God to be a loving living God and the more I
learned the deeper was my love and faith in this God who
I have grown to admire. As you have found he has saved
the Great Eagle from a death by fire to a warrior to be
respected. The Great Eagle has not only told us of this great
spirit, but he has shown us he is real, and he is father to all
who would worship him. Our journey to the great ocean in
the West has brought us into your village and into our
hearts the love you have shared with us. While in my
village back home the Great Eagle explained to all the ways
of his God and as he has told not all even his people do not
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always live as his God has told us we should. Our people
do not always do as our creator’s spirit leads us, but we all
agree he is guiding us every day.
Great Eagle please come back up here, and we will say
a prayer together and ask for our lives to be joined and
knowledge shared together. I joined Mary and when I did
the three cats stood like they had come to attention and with
that it came to me. I raised one finger and Eeny growled at
the crowd. I raised two fingers and Meeny growled at the
crowd. I then raised three fingers and Miny growled then I
raised all, and the three cats growled as Nuzzle howled and
the crowd went wild. I held up a fist and sat down and
looked at those in the crowd like a singer taking a bow.
With that finished we all joined the villagers as they
crowded around us, and everyone tried to speak at the same
time. Much laughter and smiles were shared by all who
were there. Even the children were laughing and sharing
the time together. The women brought out food they had
prepared, and the men started a large fire, and the drums
began to sound and with that the party began. Those
participating in the festivities were either dancing around
the fire or singing. Meanwhile, those who were not
engaged in dancing or singing were enjoying their meals
and the overall celebratory atmosphere.
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When I had stepped down from the rock and was
standing among the crowd the thing I heard most was, they
wanted to see me fly. If you can do this, would you please
show us? Yes, I said but I must have the things that allow
it to happen, and they are partly in the tree where you found
me. I will need to repair the kite that must be in the tree and
for me to show you I will need that and let me explain to
you what must be done after gathering the remains of what
is in the tree. Someone must go to that tree and take it down
and bring it back to be repaired.
When Chief Crazy Horse heard this, he turned to
several and instructed them to go to that tree and take what
is there down and bring it to us. Is that all that is necessary,
he asked me. No, I said I will have to repair it when it gets
here, and I need things that are at the camp we were staying
at. I can return to that camp and gather all our possessions
and return there. It took us two days to get here from where
you found me so it will take two days to go and two days
to return. It will take but a few hours to gather those things
and prepare to return. Let me talk with Mary and we will
leave as soon as possible.
Let it be so the Chief said, and he directed us to a lodge
that was in the center of the village for special guests when
they came to the village. As I looked at the lodge, I told the
Chief that we would prefer not to be in the center of the
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village, we had the animals to be conserved with, and they
would need to be away from the mass of people that would
crowd the lodge he had suggested we use. The Chief heard
what I said and agreed to allow us another lodge that was
on the very edge of the village, and we went to that, and I
agreed this would be much better for all. He told us he
would see that we received food for our immediate needs,
and we could join them for the evening meal, and we could
talk about the return trip at that time.
When Mary joined me at the location, I was shown we
spent very little time moving in because we have very little
with us. WE discussed rather she should go with me on the
return trip or not and she told me she would like to go but
felt it would not be necessary sense I would only gather
that which was there and bring it back. She pointed out that
it would be much better if the animals could travel back
with me on the trip. As we talked further it was obvious
that if she were to go with me, she could care for the kittens,
and it would be better as a family to stay together as we
knew how to travel as a unit better than for me to try and
care for the kittens and the nighttime would be made easier
if things were as we had learned to do coming this far. So,
after taking it over it was decided she would join me on the
return trip, and we would keep the family together as we
had done in the past.
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While we were talking about the trip two lads showed
up with arms full of food and robes for our lodge. We
would need those for comfort tonight and when we
returned, they would be necessary. We thanked them and
were rewarded with a very friendly visit and Kately asked
if we join them for the evening meal at the counsel fire.
Kately was the Chiefs daughter and had many questions
she would like to ask us. We answered her and told her
when we returned, we would spend a lot of time together
and she would have time with us alone and each would be
allowed time with us. Kately sister Morning Star was just
as full of questions, and she wanted to know personal
things about Mary and would like to talk with her when I
was not there. Mary told her she would make time and that
they would become very good friends and she was very
excited they had met.
After the girls left, we sat down and enjoyed our time
alone and shared the meal that had been brought to us.
Thankfully the kittens were starting to eat a little meat, and
they were satisfied partly playing with the solid food and
yet eating it at the same time. Having never been around
young cats before we had no idea whether they were to be
forced off the milk and onto solid food or not so we just
kind of made it available and hoped it would work out.
Nuzzle had slipped out when we had not noticed and the
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first, we knew was when he entered with a sage hen he had
in his mouth, and he placed it in front of the three kittens
like here take this and just stepped back and sat down.
The kittens swatted the bird like testing to see if it was
alive or dead and another would nuzzle up to the bird and
push it with her nose and watch to see if it moved. It was
very entertaining to watch and see what they did with the
bird, but they eventually got a taste and as one ate a little
so did the next, so the feathers flew, and the bird
disappeared. We gave an extra thanks to our heavenly
father for the kittens and that they had finally found solid
food and that we may not have to hand feed them any
longer. It was an exciting time for all of us, being alone and
having new friends in the high lodge and village to protect
us.
Mary we are facing a dangerous point in our
relationship with the Paiute people when they see me fly,
they are going to think of me as a God not as a man and
that is a bad thing to create. It is going to be very important
that I teach them that God controls this and he is the reason
for the ability to fly not me not the kite, but they will see it
from their wisdom, and I must increase that knowledge so
when I fly, they see beyond the flight and see the truth. Well
Dan, you did a good job back home teaching every
morning, maybe you should do that again. These people
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have a belief in a spirit and in a creator, but they know not
the true one because no one has been accepted by them to
the point they would believe but this will be a balancing act
of truth and wisdom and visual stimulation. I have
explained to Crazy Horse how the kite is to be built the
thinness of the material and the tying of the bamboo along
the sides. I have asked that it be made to look like an Eagle
and the size of the whole thing, so he has a good idea of
what is necessary to build. We will leave in the morning,
and we should be back in a week, but they will get the kite
from the tree and be back faster because they will ride night
and day to do it.
The next morning Snowflake and Blue Sky arrived
early and had brought us breakfast and had a sack of food
to carry us on our journey and they were excited to tell us
how much they were looking forward to our joining their
village. We assured them the feelings were mutual and
were looking forward to friendship and meeting a having
more friends. After a short meal we loaded Buster and
saddled Shadow and Dawn, and we gone within an hour.
The first day went fast and we were enjoying our aftersupper coffee when we heard the yell from outside of our
camp. It was Porcupine and Badger. Are you heading to the
tree to get the kite I ask? No, they said we were on our way
back we would have been faster, but Badger was unable to
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climb the tree like a true Badger would have and it took
much longer to get all the pieces down. Wow I told them
you guys had a really good time how did you do it so fast?
Well, he said you can see we have two horses each and we
trade back and forth and besides that we have not slept in
two days. Climb down and we will give you something
warm to eat. No Snowflake said we must be on our way we
just stopped to say hi. We will see you in the village next
week and with that they were off and running.
It is amazing how far they went in that length of time,
but did you notice that all three cats ran to the side of our
camp and hid? They must have known they were friends
because they made no noise and never showed themselves.
Yes, Dan said I would hate to be someone wanting to harm
us and have three cougars and a wolf attack without
warning. Let us turn in the morning will come early, and
we must make what time we can to be back within the
week.
The next day we arrived at our old camp, and nothing
had be disturbed from when we left it, We built up the fire
and ate a warm meal and decided that with everything
already laid out we just as well enjoyed one night here
before returning to the village. The kittens knew their beds
and after eating all three were like a nest of snakes, they
were wrapped around each other and sound asleep
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immediately. Nuzzle had just sat to the side of the cats
when three men on horses pulled up to our fire pit without
having gave us any warning they were coming.
Looking up I told the one in front who appeared to be
the leader of the group that it was not good manners to just
walk up to a man’s fire without notice. He said he could
care less about manners they would do as they pleased and
to forget what everyone else thought if they didn’t like it
that would be tuff. The men were dirty and had not saw
water in months from what they looked like, and the
clothing was old and well worn. The overall appearance of
all three of them was offensive and I could smell them this
far away. I said we had not saw any white men in months
where had they been hiding. He told me it was none of my
business he was going to enjoy my pretty lady then he was
going to eat all the grub we had in camp.
Well, I said that is going to be amazing to see without the
use of your arms and being bloody would not make eating
much fun. While I was talking, I had watched the three cats
circle the horse and the horses had started to jump and
stamp they had smelt the cats and were wanting to get out
of there. The men did not notice their horse were getting
uncontrollable and because of it they could not bring the
riffles to point at either Mary or me. I held up all fingers
and the three cats growled and Nuzzle howled and growled
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making the horses go wild one threw his rider before he
could get ahold of the saddle horn and the other two had
turned and ran leaving the area and both had lost the guns
they had in their hands because they were busy trying to
hang on. The one that was the leader found himself with
Nuzzle standing on his chest and his teeth right in front of
the man’s face. The guy was screaming and yelling to get
the wolf off him. Why should I do that, I ask when he was
there to do us harm. We were just joking we were not going
to do anything we just wanted to scare you folks.
Perhaps the next time you want to scare someone if we
should decide to allow you to leave that is you will think of
this as a lesson in manors. With only a word or two you
would have been the next meal for our animals. I really
didn’t want them to eat you for fear of spoiled meat though
because you stank so badly that I think you are rotten.
Nuzzle let him up, he is going to run down to the lake and
take a swim and clean up a little. With that Nuzzle sat and
just looked at the guy who was shaking from fear. He stood
and started to walk to the lake when I said no run does not
walk and with that Nuzzle bit him on the back side and that
guy almost flew to the lake and dove in. Nuzzle was
standing watching him but so were all three of the cats so
the guy swam out from the bank and as he did, he was
taking off his jacket and outer garments which was
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stopping him from swimming as fast as he wanted. I said
you stay out there tonight so we know where you are while
we get a little sleep. If you try to reach the bank our friends
will make a meal of you. Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Nuzzle
do not let them on the bank if they do you have my
permission to eat them. With that I turned and joined Mary
in our robes.
The next morning while having coffee we could hear
the guy yelling and begging to be allowed to come on
shore. Do you hear something Mary? No, she said I heard
nothing but the wind. That’s all I hear so let us finish and
get on the way as soon as possible. When we left, I looked
back, and the guy was swimming toward the shore and his
partners had never showed up, so I guess they just keep
going.
On our return, Mary, I want to stop by the eagle’s nest
and make a short flight over the nest and if everything is as
it should be I will drop more food. Dan, did you say Moe
food or more food? What do you mean Mary? You said
Moe is what I heard, like Eeny, Meeny, Miny & now Moe.
Do you think that is an indication of what is coming Dan?
I have learned not to try and out guess our father he
arranges what is necessary for our journey so what is to
come will be as he wishes.
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Upon reaching the tree which was not far from the
original camp site we stood back and watched, and we
could see the baby eagle’s head appear as it moved around
in the nest. So, we took the Ravens kite out, but the bamboo
was gone because Porcupine and Badger had taken them
down when they came. We gathered a few small branches
and used them for the outside of the kite and tying them on
we stretched out the rope and Shadow backed up
immediately knowing what we had in mine. I had not
noticed but there was a small wind blowing but as I
prepared to take off, we had a gust of wind and when
Shadow started to run the wind picked up helping me take
off. The rabbits Nuzzle had gotten for us were tied in a
bundle so I could drop the two rabbits and the sage hen in
one drop.
Mary and I had talked of the problem I had last time I
flew over the nest, but I told her I learned my lesson this
time I would not try to get so close so as I turned and lined
up with the nest I got the food ready and as I came over the
top of the nest looking down I saw Moe looking at me like
what’s for lunch Dad? Directly overhead I dropped the
bundle, and it fell right into the nest almost on top of the
eagle and I noted he had head feathers, but they were not
white as I had expected them to be. I heard a cry from the
baby like he knew who I was, which made me smile. I had
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already accepted him as Moe and wondered how that had
come about.
Landing was like settling in the front porch swing on
Saturday night. I just dropped down, and it was over
without incident. The first thing Mary wanted to know was
if the baby looked healthy and was alright. I informed her,
but he looked up like he knew me, and I dropped the bundle
and said to myself I had fed Moe, and it was like his name
came to me easily. We gathered up the Kite wrapping it as
before and just threw the sticks away. Rolled up the rope
and put it inside of the kite as before.
Returning to the Paiute Village was an easier ride than
the one I had when going to that village the first time. It is
much better to ride upright on the horse than lying over and
tied down. As we rode along Mary agreed with me that we
had to teach them of our father in heaven a little bit at a
time and we did not feel it wise to push them they had been
following their great creator for their whole life now we
were offering a different view and a different living God.
They had never heard of a God still alive they thought of a
God as being dead or in another world never hearing of
being dead and coming back to life. This was a new thing
to them, one that did not seem possible, but I wanted to
explain and not be tied to a burn post when I did. I was
anticipating having time to explain and inform them what
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was available to everyone regardless of white, black, or
red, so when we returned, we would approach the subject
carefully.
We enjoyed the last night of camping before we were
surrounded by others wanting to ask questions and all, so
the evening was very comforting, and we took our time
eating and then resting. We laid on the ropes looking at the
stars and dreaming of what it would be like to see the
pacific ocean and hear the waves pounding the shore. We
had been told the weather was always warm and they did
not have frost or snow. We were looking forward to a new
experience and wanted to know if all we had heard was
really true.
We arrived at the village in the early afternoon and by
the time we made the middle of the village we had a group
of maybe twenty or so children, women and a few warriors
walking along with us. The cougars stayed almost inside of
the backpack made for them. The only thing showing we
the eyes watching but Nuzzle walked right along with us
and stayed beside Shadow and Buster followed as usual
with no tie rope.
We decided to go right on through the middle and
continue to our lodge so we could put the stuff we had
brought with us and the animals could be comfortable in
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the lodge or if they should decide to join us, they could do
that also.
As we passed Chief Crazy Horses lodge he stepped out
and we our hellos and friendly jesters but explained we
would return after putting away or possessions which he
said was a good idea and we were invited to the village
meeting just a finger above sundown. That told us he had
ten to fifteen minutes before sundown set as to the time of
the meeting. We later learned that the meeting was intended
for us to explain how the flight of the Eagle was to take
place, and they wanted to present the new kite they had
made for me. We could tell they were excited and looking
forward to our comments on what they had built, and we
could tell them had worked tirelessly to get it done before
we returned.
We went to the counsel fire area before the designed
time because we were hungry and knew there would be
food available. As it happened, we had no idea there would
be the amount of people there or the amount of food there
would be, the Chief had criticized the ceremony trying to
conceal the excitement throughout the village. Everyone
was talking about the flight, and it turned out they had
family and friends coming from other villages wanting to
see if this was true. Is the Great Eagle capable of flying like
a bird.
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Eating our supper was almost impossible because of
the children hanging on us wanting our attention to them
and the questions continued to the point that I finally set
down the meat I was trying to eat and stood before all and
explained that we had to look at the kite and before I could
say more a group of men walked up with a long bundle tied
tight and was on the shoulders of three men stepping in
time and they stopped in front of us. I had not noticed but
as the men was approaching us the drums had been beating
the villagers were clapping and chanting right up till the
men stopped in front of us and at that moment all noise
stopped, and the Chief dressed in full head dress appeared
from the counsel lodge in all glory and it was almost breath
taking the way they had created this moment of excitement.
I was presented with the most beautiful kite anyone
could ever imagine. It was the size I had instructed them to
build but the material was so soft you wanted to lay it
against your checks to feel the softness. The wings were
shaped just like an eagle and the white on the wings and
the tail feathers were so real it was amazing. I was awed by
the quality of the workmanship and told Crazy Horse that
very thing. I told him I was speech less it was so beautiful
and the craftmanship was perfect. I will be proud to fly with
the eagles when I look just like one of them.
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Everyone wanted to know if I would fly the next
morning and I explained to them that if it was Gods will,
but I wanted them to know it was not me that they should
be looking to but my father in heaven that enabled me to
fly in the sky with the birds. If there was wind, I would
show them, but it would be all according to the weather. As
we were standing around the fire and all eyes were on Mary
and me I told them to turn away from the fire and look at
all the stars in the heavens and as we did I explained to
them that our father in heaven was so big he could put our
world and all the stars in the palm of his hands and that he
had made everything they saw just by saying it was to be
so. Then I went on to explain not only is he that big he is
also so knowledgeable that he knew every one of us as his
children and looked at us with the same love you would for
your personal child. I would explain all this in the days to
come but I wanted them to know that what they saw was
because of him I was allowed to show what he could do for
us if we would obey and listen to his wisdom. I wanted all
of you to know that his power was why I could fly, it was
like the stars in the heavens he made so we could all see
what he could do.
That night as Mary and I said our prayers together and
I as usual spent a few minutes in her schooling of the
alphabet so she could read we spoke of the coming flight.
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It is important that they do not think of me as a God flying
in the heavens but that I am but an instrument in his hands
and I believe I have started the mental imagery necessary
to accomplish this. Mary, if we can become friends and be
with the Paiute the same as we are with the Ute, we will
have a large area of friends to visit on our way back from
the ocean.
The next morning, we joined the villagers for our
morning meal and together we all went to the meadow just
below the village for the flight. I told Nuzzle to get Shadow
and he took off immediately and before we knew he was
back, and as usual Buster was following Shadow. Mary
came and had a small package in a leather case with a rabbit
and a few other small game animals and as she handed it to
me, she said it was only a few days ago sense you feed
Moe, but I think while you are up there you should go past
and drop another meal for our latest friend. Yes, I told her
I had thought of going past and seeing but what would
make it even more exciting is with this new kite I believe
our friend will think of me as daddy. Mary laughed and said
just as long as I stay away from that tree and return fast so
she knows I am ok she is good with it.
I had explained to all how the takeoff would go and
how Shadow had been trained to go slow then speed up and
how the wings of the kite should be held off the ground till
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I was in flight so when we go ready I noticed the ones to
hold the wing tips were on horses that were painted to the
hilt with fancy eagles and even had eagle feathers tied to
the horses tail. The riders had eagle feathers in their hair,
and they also were painted up not as they would when
going to war but with different and bright ornaments that
made one smile when observing. As I looked down at the
meadow, I saw it was lined with people and their drums,
and anything they thought would make a noise to bring
excitement to the moment.
I had explained I would go by the eagle’s nest and told
them from the air it would not take very long but I would
be out of sight for a little bit so not to get worried I would
be back. As I got under the kite and those on each side had
a hold of the wings Shadow was tied to the kite and all was
ready, I stopped and said a prayer not silent but loud
enough that all could hear, and I did this for several
reasons. One and the most important thing was I needed his
blessings and a safe flight and another thing almost as
important was to let all know that I valued my words to my
father, letting him know I needed his blessings. This was
not unusual for these people, they all had a reference and it
showed in many ways. Another important thing was to
make all who sees or hears of this flight to know it was the
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glory of God that allowed me to do this, and all should
know when they see or hear of what happened.
After the prayer I turned to Shadow and said alright
let’s take up the slack and she did then as it got tight, I
yelled go and again instantly I could take but a few steps
and I was going too fast to run so I picked up my feet and
up I went. I saw out of the corners of my eyes the warriors
waving their arms and yelling. As I left the ground it was
exciting to see it as it happened.
Climbing above the trees and into the blue sky was
again a humbling experience, the fact I had done this before
did not make it less of an experience. I felt so exalted that
I wanted to try and do more to show the greatness of God’s
blessing as I rose above the mountain. I turned to the East
and went directly to the eagle’s nest, and I brought the front
of the kite toward the nest so I could drop another meal and
as I did, I saw the baby eagle watching me and as I flew
over, he raised his head and looked me directly in the eye.
I let go just perfect for the bundle to land right at the feet
of Moe. As I went over, I could not refrain myself. I put
forth the loudest cry of an eagle as Jaw had taught me and
it was justifying, and I had an adrenaline rush just
experience it. I immediately climbed as the wind allowed
and headed to the Paiute Village.
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I could see all the people there was such a large group
they stood out from this far away and just seeing them
caused a showoff type of feeling inside of me I just could
not help but feel I wanted to more than just fly over and
wave I wanted to show off for some crazy reason. I
approached the village and went over them then turning
when was well past them I tipped the kite toward the
ground and headed right for the main body of viewers. As
I neared the ground my speed increased and when I was
barely over their heads I leveled out and went past so fast,
they had to turn, and I could hear the screaming and yelling
as I went past. Having never done any of these things was
kind of scary yet satisfying in a strange way. Not knowing
what would happen if I were to use that speed to climb
faster so I sat back in my seat causing the back of the kite
to lower and the front went higher and with jaw dropping
amazement I went up faster than I had ever experienced in
all my flights. Playing around and showing off I had
learned something that I did not know that by going down
and gaining speed I could use that speed to go up fast I will
remember that one. I again flew over the head but at a lot
higher this time and as I did, I waved and tipped the kite
from side to side like I was waving with the kite. I turned
the kite into a tight circle and went around and around the
village watching and enjoying the excitement of all. I
finally pointed to the meadow and let out a screeching
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crying eagles sound after passing the meadow I turned so,
I would be going uphill when I landed, and I set the point
of the kite to where I wanted to land and just waited as the
kite neared the ground.
Just as I was ready to touch the ground with my feet a
horse and rider ran alongside my kite and the Warriors each
took ahold of my wing tips and holding me up as they ran
the horses, they gently sat me on the meadow grass. They
had timed it, so it was a beautiful thing to see just as if we
had rehearsed it several times before.
The questions I had before were nothing compared to
what I heard when I was among the crowd. They wanted to
know if my God could allow them to fly as I had and what
else could my God do. I stopped all an told them give me
time to thank my God for his deliverance and safe landing
and I told my father that I especially was thankful they
understood that the flight was not me, but that God had
aloud and helped it happen. Everyone in attendance
understood fully well that it was not me alone but my father
in heaven who had brought this to be. I believe everyone in
the crowd got the full effect of the revelation they had
witnessed.
Even though I was surrounded by many Nuzzle
pushed and shoved till he was at my side and then he was
content just to be at my side. I looked up and Mary was
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watching and each of the kittens was standing watching all
the excitement and if a cat could smile, I would say I saw
four of the biggest brightest smiles just like they had
captured a lighting bug and put it into a jar. I was pulled
and pushed so much I lost track of May and the little ones
and did not see them again until we were united around the
fire later that afternoon. Crazy Horse told me not to be
concerned about the kite, horses, or anything else they
would take care of all and just wanted me to join the
celebration at the community council fire area.
With all that I am not sure if I walked or was carried
but it was maybe part of each, but the yelling and
screaming was beyond imagination. The excitement was so
strong I could not have cut it with a sharp knife. I had
become an important man in this village and those that
could wanted to touch me, and all wanted me to speak. As
the noise grew I had less and less chance of slowing it
down, my voice had become too small, and I had shouted
so much I became horse and could barely speak above a
whisper. The food was everywhere and one thing I can say
about those Indians they knew how to cook and how to
celebrate. Before you knew it the camp became dark, and
we were still eating and celebrating, and I think my
shoulder would be days getting healed from all the pats I
received. They wanted to hear of my God of my father of
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everything, and they were questions on questions that came
wanting to know more. I assured them I would offer a
morning prayer, and all were invited to attend and
assuming my voice had returned I would explain each
morning as much as they wanted to learn what I would
teach.
Joining Mary in our lodge that night I told her of my
fears that because I had been led into a flight, because I had
been spared from death, I had become a minister without
guidance, and it was a burden I was not sure I could follow.
These people are expecting me to give them information
that I do not have and tell them things I have not been told,
only those which I have experienced. How can I stand
before them and teach when I have not been trained to
teach. What if what I tell them is false? I did not leave home
to preach the gospel to the natives or anyone else I have
stepped into a roll I am not sure I am capable of filling.
When we leave here Mary, I would like them to think of
me as a friend not as a God. I do not want to tell lies or
stretch the truth at all.
Dan Mary said you do not have to lie you do not have
to make up things all you can do is tell the facts of what has
happened in our world what it was like to find a living spirit
that was helping you Mayone and Joseph are as real as
Shadow and Nuzzle we saw and we talked with them I have
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saw what can only be described as beyond normal people
and what has been allowed to happen to us is not really
explainable to those of doubt but what is real can only be
understood by those that want to believe. Dan, you can only
tell what you know not what someone else wants to hear.
Tell them what you know to be true and those that doubt or
do not believe will have to follow their own spirit. Those
that look at the stars in the daytime cannot see them but
those who believe will know and will believe the stars are
there. Dan let us value the time we have with these people
and then we will move on and see what our destiny will
bring, let us not worry about the time now I believe it will
be solved for us. You have taught me to trust and be faithful
so now is that time and we together will wait and let our
creator do as he will. Mary, you are so good to me, and you
are right if we are to believe in a kite what is that to the
world? I will not doubt again but try to do as I feel is right
and tomorrow, we will tell what is true and what has
happened to us.
Mr. Daniel, Adam, David, Soloman Clark, another
thing that is important that you must know is that I am with
a child. I have within me the beginnings of Adam, your first
son. Mary, you drop this information on me like it is
incidental and not important, and it is the greatest news I
have ever heard in all my life. This is a gift so awesome
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and wonderful I want to tell the world as if it were the first
child ever born. Well Mary said it is my first and yours too
so how many before only matters to others and we shall
enjoy this as a reward for our faith in our father in heaven.
After joining the villagers for breakfast, the next
morning, I could not hide my pride and joy that had been
foretold to me by Mary. Others thought I wanted to talk
about the flight, and it was the furthest thing in my mind. I
had never imagined being a father would be qualified to
handle this. I could not contain my feelings and pride. I told
everyone who would listen about Mary’s gift of seeing the
future and her telling me of my forthcoming sons and
daughters but even then, I did not fully understand the
impact it would have on me. My prayers this morning were
thanks and humbling stumbling mumblings of what was in
my mind. I was overcome with joy and incredible
worshiping feelings for the lord for this blessing. I could
not express words to tell of my excitement. I had more to
say than I was qualified to say. I found my mouth could not
find words to match what I felt in my heart.
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CHAPTER SIX