If Great Eagle were to become a published book and as such the author was asked
to be at the book signing what appears to be an empty chair would be setting there.
The author of this book was God and as a member of his fan club I was asked to
put the words to go with the story. I accept all errors because the author never
makes mistakes and therefore, I most graciously accept them. Perhaps they were
not viewed properly, perhaps they were not mentally translated correctly but
regardless of the simplicity of the situation the story is not fiction in the mind of
the author, only in the mind of the reader.
The names were not changed and are actual people living at that time and told by
the author and retold with this publication. This is the first time of allowing history
to be told while it is happening and published over two hundred years later.
Hopefully the reader will find the true humor and accounting told in these pages.
With permission from the author, I will go out on a limb and foretell of several
more years of this history however I must educate you in the fact this is my first
attempt at publishing a story and at eighty years old I may have eyesight,
hindsight, or laziness to contend with.
Along with the author I whole heartly hope you find the reading of this story to be
as fulfilling as I did telling it.
Verl K.
2
PAGE 3 CHAPTER ONE ON A MOUNTAIN TOP
PAGE 15 CHAPTER TWO WILD INDIANS
PAGE 30 CHAPTER THREE INDIAN VILLAGE
PAGE 41 CHAPTER FOUR PREPARING FOR WAR
PAGE 61 CHAPTER FIVE THE PRINCESS
Note: A ground cloth was used under blankets and usually large enough to be folded over
bedding and was waterproof. It was held behind the saddle while traveling and held by leather
strips called piggin strings.
3
CHAPTER ONE
ON A MOUNTAIN TOP
4
One thing is for certain, I have time to think over how I came to be on top of this of
mountain around twelve thousand feet with a canvas ground cloth, bedding, piggin
strings, and a few other essentials necessary while climbing this mountain such as
water, and a little Elk jerky, ropes, and my trusty riffle which is a part of me. Just
in case I gather a few small limbs about as big as my arm for firewood on the way
up.
Looking over the edge when I get to the top, I can see past hell it is far
straight down. Surrounding me is only jagged rock in an area of about twenty feet
each way. I have pulled my ground cloth over me to try and keep the wind and
cold away and allow me a little warmth and what sleep is possible. Itβs been a long
day and the travel has been hard and I am completely worn out. The ground is
bare, not a bush or shrub to protect me from the harsh winds. Looking around there
is nothing but a solid rock outcropping. With the ground cloth pulled over me it
allows me to be free of the cold and wind, but the wind is trying to lift the ground
cloth and blow it away. I can barely rase my head and all I want to do is lay it
down and get a little sleep.
Not sure if it is 1842, I think I just turned 18 years old but what year this is I
am not sure, but it is summer, and I just passed through a little burg called Denver
and was wanting to see what the Pacific Ocean looked like and figured I had
nothing but time and money which is what caused those trying to hang back and
follow me. My trusty horse Shadow is the only friend I have, and we have been on
the trail for several months and have had to fight strangers that had nothing on
earth of their own and wanted what was mine.
One thing pa had taught us young eons was how to shoot and not waste any
ammo. When we went into the woods for supper meat, we were expected to bring
back something to eat for every bullet we took. Dad never could figure out why we
should take more than three or four bullets with us as we could not carry that much
big game back. All this is going through my mind as I try to get below the edge of
a sharp crevice just to get out of the wind.
Anyway, those guys had followed me, and they just would not give up even
after my cutting their numbers down. They figured that with ten men they could do
what they wanted but I figured with twenty-five bullets they were short fifteen
men. Some people could not catch a possum with four dogs and two sacks.
I had allowed them to chase me up onto the top of this mountain I did not
want to kill any more of them than I had, and the wind was starting to annoy me
5
something terrible. I could not keep the edges of my ground cover down and over
me so I pulled a few branches I had carried up for a fire if and tied them along the
edge of my ground cloth using my pigging string I figuring by putting a foot
against the edge I could hold the bottom while getting a little rest. Then it felt so
much better I continued to tie the edge of the canvas all the way around with these
branches for better wind protection. Taking my hiking stick, I tied it from side to
side over me so it would hold the canvas off my face. After a little thought I tied
my rope from the top by my head to the to bottom below my feet allowing me to
lay my bed cloth on it and hold everything down. It felt better so I ran it three times
giving me more width to lay on. I had put my few possessions under the tarp and
placed them on the bedding over the rope for added weight which allowed me a
little rest without any effort. What this amounted to was a low tent or covering, and
it laid on me and the ropes held it down for me. I had not put the canvas under me
for fear I would need all the covering possible during any possible storm.
Before I go to sleep, I should say a little prayer which could not hurt in this
situation. Dear God, the only time you hear from me is when I am in trouble but
this time, I sure could use some help. I am on top of a mountain the enemy is
closing in on me and without a doubt they figure on killing me. I have done all I
can think of to avoid killing more of them but looks like I need some imagination
here that is way beyond me. If you could see your way clear to help me out once
again, I would mention your name next time I run into a real honest to goodness
sinner I will place myself in your hands and sleep knowing you are my strength
and guardian and following that I remember nothing having gone to sleep.
The wind came up in the night something horrible and I dreamed after
coming half-awake that I was sleeping on a cloud it was so comfortable. About
half awake I reached up to get my hat and it fell from my bag and when I reached
for it, I could not find it. I turned over to look and I was not on the mountain, I was
somewhere above nothing. The wind had picked up so strong that it had picked me
up and took me with it and I felt like a rag in a windstorm floating out over the
wild blue yonder. I was like a squirrel chased up a tree and somebody stole the
tree. The ground cloth had become a kite and I was hanging below it because I had
tied the rope from front to back to hold cover down now it was a place to lay on
below the kite. Thank God, I tied it three times to be wide enough to hold my
bedding now it is my seat for this kite. And the walking stick gave me something
over my head to hang onto.
This canβt be happening; what is going on? There is nothing between me and
the ground but God and Saint Marry. If I live through this there is no one on earth
6
going to believe this one sober or not. What kind of a fix have I gotten myself into
this time? Just blowing and floating from one place to another and no idea what to
do to change anything. Dear God, you must truly have a great imagination to place
me in heaven without being dead, yet. I know I am not to fear any evil, but this is
way past anything I have ever imagined or wanted. Watching the sun come up
from the same side of the mountain as the sun was never one of my great desires.
It is a good thing I left my old friend Shadow where she could get water and
plenty to eat if I live through this one, I will be a long time finding her again. The
only thing I ever had I could call my own and say I am the boss now I may have
lost her forever. Sure, is way up here though, God, are you watching me up here do
you know where I am? I Have sat around many campfires and heard some wild
stories but if I get that chance again would I dare tell this one? Heard stories of
lakes way up in the tops of the mountains but never meet a man who could stretch
the truth this far. If the wind stops, will I drop all at once or will I float till I run out
of beef jerky and just starve to death? Maybe pass and eagle and get a shot but then
how would I get to him? I wanted to see the ocean badly but would like to stand on
the bank not drop in from above.
I have noticed that when I lean over to look down from the right side I drift
to the right and when I lean to the left, I move that way. Makes me wonder how I
can lean to go lower. Wouldn’t it be something if I could control this thing and fly
over those guys who were looking to cook my goose? Bet it would not take over
one shot and rather I hit them or not they would run all directions if only to get
away from the smell of each other when they leave that mess in their pants. If it
weren’t for the fear of how I am going to end this day I would think this is exciting
and beautiful up here.
Wonder if I am closer to God up here, I bet I have got his attention on top of
this mountain. Dare not think any swear words up here he hears me, and I could be
in real trouble. For now, I think I will see if I can go around and around this
mountain till, I see those crooks looking for me. Get them on top of that mountain
and would be real fun to scare them right off the edge of that cliff. If I had known
that I would have been up here floating around I would have taken more time in
preparing things. Sure, would be nice if I had taken a rocking chair or even a swing
would be good. I could have talked Myrtle into a tumble if I had offered her a ride.
Oh! Sorry God, I got carried away there.
Leaning toward the mountain seems to be carrying me closer to it… WOOPS
what is this I am going straight up. Might have had something to do with being
7
next to that mountain. Maybe on the other side I will go up again will be
interesting to see. But not sure if I can handle the excitement again. Well, I am to
the back side OH damn! We are going down. Sure, was a ruff stop. Glad it did it
before we hit the ground. This makes me think of watching those birds when they
seem to just glide around and not flap their wings. I can go up again then next time
around the mountain I will rise and then not come back to the downside. That
happens how much time could I stay up here? Really, beats what I am afraid is
going to happen in the end of this trip.
Just laying here on my bedroll gives me time to think back to how I came to
be here. After studying how a picture was taken and developed, I sold a few cows
and bought a small building in downtown Boston and opened a
picture/photographic studio. I was making more money taking pictures than raising
cows and with a little profit I bought more stuff and not many understood the
process, so I did not have much competing on how the photos worked to force the
prices up. Friends came into the shop one day and after a few howdy dos and a cup
of coffee were offering to buy the studio for more money than I had ever seen.
Took ten seconds to decide I wanted to travel anyway, and this offered the excuse.
Finally deciding to travel west and see the ocean, I had went to the bank to
deposit the money and after a friendly greeting the banker Mr. Smith pulled me
into his office. And then setting down and waiting to see what an important man
who owned the bank had in mind even closing the door before speaking. Dan, he
said I have had several wanting to buy a small farm just like yours and I could
offer you a very good price. I can only imagine, after losing your father last month
and seeing your mother passed away last year you may want to take it easy for a
while, perhaps do something different for a change.
I had gotten the farm from my father who had gotten it from his father, so
the family had owned it for years and made it into a right profitable and pretty
healthy-looking property. After obtaining a top dollar for the farm, I took enough
cash to buy a mule and a few other camping items and had some cash to travel. So,
with Shadow the horse I had raised from a colt and a powerful mule they had told
me was named Buster which seemed to fit him. It didnβt take me only a couple of
days and I was on the road heading West. No sense waiting around just as well get
on the way no excuses left, and no one to explain my leaving to.
I guess by todayβs standards I would be called a rich man but only if I didn’t
try to buy or do something stupid such as buying a bigger farm. Any way the gun
smith that sold me the new saddle holster for the Henry repeating rifle I had bought
8
with five boxes of shells recommended practicing till I was able to put six holes in
a plate at six hundred yards. I was always a good shot and great at hunting but was
told to keep practicing and with the friends help and good eyes I learned to take
wind age into account and now don’t bend over in front of me any closer than a
thousand yards and not expect to have to wipe two holes. I did buy a new pistol,
but I had been using that sense I was knee high to a grasshopper so I could get it
out and banging right along with the very best of them.
I had not paid much attention to those fellers that were watching when
buying all those groceries and getting ready to light out. When the first guy
stepped up beside me and offered to take all of my stuff off my hands, I didn’t have
to strain himself. I turned and took ahold of that man like a sack of spuds, and he
went down the town well like a rock searching for a hidey hole. Probably would
not have drowned if these others had wanted to stop the fight and turn him around
and heading the other way. They had decided to help bring him out of the well of
course after those two with broken arms, and one with busted nose and all that
blood helped make up their minds of course; that new pistol pointing at your nose
would have an influence also. I heard the one guys say something like undoing a
pocket watch and having the spring come lose when they started in on me. I must
admit when someone calls the dance, Iβm always ready to play the music and name
the tune.
Turned out by the time the guy got out of the well his pants were dry but
didn’t matter in a casket. So, they felt they needed to teach me a lesson drowning
their friend, so they waited for me to cross the bridge leaving town and with seven
or eight men on horses one would expect they had the upper hand. Not sure, rather
that is what made me mad and vicious, or the nasty words used when telling me
my options to continue across the bridge. Once I get excited ever body gets excited
and being in my way takes more than a few people to slow things down. Putting a
spur into ole Shadows flanks after not being used to that she knocked two horses
over the edge before you could say Iβll be skinned alive. While they were looking
at their friends trying to learn how to fly, I went through the bunch like the clap in
a roadhouse Buster following right behind. I did not know for a few days the
bridge was eighty feet over the water and it was low water that year so the sudden
stop at the bottom is why two more of that lot meet their maker. Next time I see
those guys Iβll remind them to change their diets because what they were eating
was not good for their health.
I started West that day figuring on making twenty miles before setting up
camp, but Buster had different ideas. He was tied to my saddle horn and came
9
along behind us like a no wheeled wagon. Busters back legs just seemed to be
hooked to the ground he found every reason to slow me down he could. I think we
may be made five miles and they were hard earned miles. After unloading Shadow
and Buster, both had me tired as a 90-year-old man. Just got the fire going when
from behind me I heard a voice say may I come into your camp? As I turned
around and looked, the smile must have shown all the way out to that stranger
because he started laughing and said I guess that is a yes so here I come.
The guy stepped down from the biggest dog I had ever seen. I later found
out it was a Great Dane and it stood almost three feet high and when he stood
beside it, he wasnβt much taller than that dog. He stuck out his hand and said my
name is Trainor and what name do you go by he said. I am Daniel, Adam, David,
Soloman, Clark but you can call me Dan. Wow he said your mother must have
been a God-fearing woman to give you all that name. Well, she hoped I would
grow into one of them and didnβt know which so named me after all of them.
How did you come by with the Trainor handle? Well, he said I can train
anything on earth that eats food to do anything you want it to. Man, mister Trainor
you came to the right fire tonight I have a mule that has a hind leg problem they
lock up every time I try to make any head way. He assured me that he could train a
mule as easy as a woman because they were a lot alike, and he told me he would
tell me the woman first because she had a lot of the same charters as the mule
stubborn and the same as an elephant never one to forget so training one was
almost the same thing. Well, I told him I never had a woman but maybe if I did, I
would remember the lessons.
How much is this going to cost me, I wanted to know? Well as he poured a
cup of coffee out of my pot and as he sat back down and said one hundred dollars.
I could hire three men for a month for that I told him. Ya, however, youβre getting
two for the price of one and either one is worth more than three dummies. Can I be
learned then decide if it is worth the cost or not? Yes, he said I am so sure you will
agree to have that mule follow you without a trailing rope you will be glad to pay.
Letβs start with the women he says a real good way to start this training is to
use an example if you want to have chicken dinner with apple pie for desert on
Sunday afternoon and you were use to going fishing that day when she says she
wants you to attend church services the training is real hard but in order for her to
learn you have to bite your tongue and agree now she may come back with wanting
you to wear a stiff collar and that really makes the training hard but you must learn
to teach you have to be stern. You just go along with her, and she will learn that
10
she must have all the trimmings to go with the chicken. Sheβll learn that to get you
to go along she must give in to your wishes. Keep this up and she will be trained.
The next real tuff lesson to be taught is even if she is so ugly, she could stop
a freight train going downhill running on frozen tracks you have to learn to tell her
how beautiful she is, and you must develop a tongue so smooth it will spread
peanut butter on a cockle bur. By the time you have her trained you will have to go
to bed expecting to lose five pounds every time. Training takes time and you may
have to buy a few extra dresses and maybe a new stove, but you can train em to go
along with your every wish. Just make them think that you wanted everything they
needed just so they think it is their idea. Just remember everything they ever
needed is exactly what you were intended on doing and they will stay trained for
ever but now one thing different than the mule is it takes a harder hand, and the
mule must be whipped on occasion and if you get confused and treat the woman as
the mule all that training will go out the window. Itβs important with the woman to
learn that you are doing everything possible so much so that she couldnβt possibly
replace you with another man.
Now with the mule it is the same only a firmer hand when they hang back
you must inflect pain so that when not with you it hurts, and the reward is when
they are with you, they obtain water and food but when they hang back, they are
refused those good things just exactly opposite of the woman.
Once we start out in the morning I will stay back and when the mule resists
to follow, I will hit his back end with the tip of my whip, and he will catch up to
you like a fire on a tumble weed. Only takes a few times of correcting them and
they are quick in catching on and when they learn they stay learned you will not
have to attach a rope all you have to do is leave and they will follow. Thatβs why
the hundred dollars I will stick around till that mule is trained good.
We started out the next day early and had traveled ten miles by noon, so I
was enjoying the little fellow with the big dog. He stayed with me for two days and
had Buster two steps behind Shadow all day long. It was a real pleasure just
watching that mule stay in step. Iβm going to miss that little man but he wanted to
pursue another trail so we separated that day, and I will always remember him.
I continued West making twenty to twenty-five miles a day and did not pass
many travelers and had pretty much got into a routine and the miles and days just
seemed to go by each other.
11
The next time I ran across those guys from back home I had completely forgotten
about them, and I had pulled up to the hitching post in front of a bar in a little town
in Kansas of just another name I knew not what. The sheriffβs office was next to
the bar and so I walked into see the sheriff who was setting with his feet up on the
desk looking at me and as I entered, he stood and said, βhello young fellow what
can I do for you?β
I explained I just traveled a long way and wanted to talk with somebody and
have a beer to wash the dust out. Well, he said I can talk to you, but you will have
to go next door to get the beer and when you go there, I would pay attention to
those two leaning on the bar I think they are waiting for someone and those outside
at the hitching post road into town with them so they must all be together. Never
been this far West before so I doubt, they are waiting for me, but I am not one to
avoid a fight if they are looking for one. Youβre looking healthy Sherriff so things
must not be too bad in your world. Oh! We have a few drunks and a couple of
problems now and again but as a whole we have a right peace full town here and I
try to keep it that way. If you would care to step into the bar, I will be glad to buy
you a beer. Well son I would but it is a little early for me to drink and as to leaning
on the bar this stool fits my ass a lot better. All right Sherriff, it was enjoyable
visiting with you.
So, as I walked into the bar those two fellows having a cold beer and leaning
on the bar separated to allow me to join them with one on each side. I had noticed
while coming in those out front around the railing were loafing as if they had
nothing to do. As I stepped between those at the bar one of them said βwe do not
like the looks of you.β Donβt know what made me think of it but I ask them if they
knew the difference between a two-dollar and a twenty-dollar gal? No, he said; and
I told them it is way they dress; and you are just not use to us fifty-dollar dudes,
but they should have learned by looking that I was too rich for their pallets.
Some guys never learn much the older they get because the guy on my left
says, βbefore I rip down your shit house, I want you to know my name is John
Brownβ as he went for his gun. I just threw my drink into the guy on the right’s
face and while holding Johnβs gun in his holster with my left while he tried to pull
it out, I shot the guy my right about belly high he dropped his gun and grabbed his
belly as he leaned down looking at the hole in his middle. Then as John broke free
from my grip and was bringing his barrel toward me, I just turned to him and gave
him two lead tickets to hell.
12
Turns out that while I was facing those in the bar room the others had started
an argument with the sheriff who had come out to see what caused the shooting.
Not stopping to count I figured perhaps five others were outside facing a gun held
by the Sheriff. But with all the yelling and scuffling around I knew the Sherriff
was in no danger. I just jumped on Shadow and found the road out of town before
he wanted to talk about the dead ones inside. I donβt doubt the local law would
straightened it all out shortly and there was no danger to him. Not wanting to spend
time explaining or any time in jail made my decision easy.
Meanwhile floating around up here in the sky, I did figure out that I could
turn on my belly and by putting my feet on both sides of my bed roll I was able to
sit up; of course, it was a little wild there for a second but after getting into position
I could lean forward and the whole thing would dive or go lower depending on
how forward I leaned. Reaching up and out I got a hold of the walking stick tied
from side to side overhead and by pulling I could move in that direction and using
the other hand I did the same thing over there and moved to the other direction.
Looking down was a real mouthful of adventure but once I got over the realization
of what had happened and started to really look the sun was just coming up and the
sight was breath taking the bright yellows from the sun, the quietness with only the
noise made of the air over the edges of my tarp. Looking down at the tops of the
green pine trees at the blue waters in the streams. I could see five or ten lakes with
deer, elk and even a couple of bears. The sides of the cliff had goats or mountain
sheep I couldn’t tell they were so far away but taking all into account was like I had
been blind and just opened my eyes for the first time and see what God had
created. I have no control over the sun coming up in the morning I can only watch,
and marvel and I find the same thing with God, and I like to share the same with
others. When I watch the sun come up, I know it will get brighter. When I watch it
go down, I know it will get darker. Thus, if I only get to watch one let it be
brighter.
Now I felt like I had a little control over this whole thing, and I got to
wondering if I could find those old boys that were hunting for me. It was a
beautiful day after the sun came up and all the clouds had disappeared during the
night with only one little bitty cloud in the sky and it seemed as though it was
hanging close to where I had been on top of the mountain. I leaned into the front
and pulled with my left arm, and we went down and over toward the mountain. As
I got close, I could see the top and it looked like five guys standing pointing a rifle
at me. OH! rats I had not thought that if I could see them, they could see me. I
could hear them talking just as plain as day with the still mountain air and being so
close and all. One said Jim get up here and let me lay my rifle on your shoulder so
13
I can use you for a rest for my gun. Tim, you get around behind me so you can see
where I shoot like a spotter.
I had nothing to hide behind and no way of avoiding getting shot so in my
mind I just accepted the finish was here and out of my mouth I just said dear father
please protect me from the lead I am about to receive. You would not believe it,
and neither would I had I not seen it right there in front of my eyes. A lightning
bolt from that little bitty cloud struck the top of that mountain and the gun the guy
was holding the rifle became a lightning rod and must have drawn the bolt right to
the gun. I don’t know how many jumped, but I am sure I saw one and maybe two
guys turn and just jump over the edge of that cliff. And about that same second a
wind picked me up and I must have gone up for a good two thousand feet almost in
the blink of an eye. There was not another cloud in the ski just that one and it just
kind of disappeared so I lay-ed back down on my bed and just sucked in the wind
that I had not even realized I had been holding.
Father, I have just seen a couple of miracles beyond anything I have ever
heard about, and I feel the presents of the holy Ghost in my very soul and having
limited knowledge and wisdom as to why this is taking place is not in my
understanding. But how can I explain what just happened? No one would believe
that why didnβt you just run them over with a herd of turtles. I could explain fast
turtles easier than that small cloud putting forth all that wind and lightning bolts.
Any doubt I had about making a safe landing has been taken away and I
now feel your protection and want to thank you for stepping in and helping me
when I have done nothing to bring your grace upon me. From this moment forward
I will try my best to do those things that I believe you would want me to do. Amen
Well, I guess I should find a place to put this kite down and a big meadow
would really look good now. I can fly past Shadow and get her to meet me there if
I can get close enough for her to hear me when I fly past. It feels right when I lean
forward a little and hold to the left for some reason it is almost like I just kind of
float toward the ground. Sure, is fun to look at all those pine trees from up here and
what a view. Wow this is beyond imagination and if I tell anyone they would not
believe me anyway. I can see Shadow now and she is out in the valley next to that
stream.
As I approach the meadow, I am reminded of Psalms 23 the lord is my
Shepard, I shall not want, he maketh me to lie down in green pastures, He leadeth
14
me beside still waters. Yea, though I sail through the valley with Shadow my
friend I will fear no failure, for thou art with me.
Here I am moving faster than I have ever heard anyone do I am flying like a
bird about to land on the ground, and I am to have no doubt I will do it. One thing I
have noticed is the wind has increased the closer I get to the ground. Even though I
have no knowledge of this I am smart enough to know the wind is part of why I
was up there in the first place. When I walk away from this would I do it again?
Thy wind and thy sail thus prepare a meadow before me in the presence of
my doubt. Thou anoint-est my head with wisdom my faith is doubtful. Surely
goodness and great landing shall follow all the way to the end, and I will dwell in
the house of the lord forever and remain in the faith.
Whoa! Boy slow down here. I will try to just stay above the ground as long
as I can, and it is slowing down the further I go. Should I have tried to land in the
water? Too late now, donβt think I can turn without upsetting the whole thing. Just
keep her going and going and here we go I am about to touch the ground, and this
is a little bit faster than I can run so I will try to stay up till I can go slower.
Oops she tried to take off and couldn’t do it, but it sure felt like it was going
to, but that sure took the speed out of things. I was so afraid that I pulled my feet
up and hit on my bedding which took most of the jarring and now I am sliding on
the bed. Got to try and get out from under this thing and see if all bones are still
OK and if no pain, I will say I did a good job. Such luck to have found a nice soft
meadow with lots of grass and a few rocks couldn’t have planned it any better.
15
CHAPTER TWO
MY FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH WILD INDIANS
16
While Dan was landing in the meadow those on top of the mountain were
piecing together just what had happened and talking together. Jim and Rabbit were
roasted like a piece of bacon on an open fire. Never saw the like of it they just
stood there and were cremated from that lightning and what a wild blast of noise
that was. Rick was blown over the edge when the wind came up and I am sure Ed
is not going to make it either, but we lost him because of a heart problem. We
started out with twelve and we are down to three thanks to Dan. Now let us be
honest, Tom says. He threw Pet down the well and he shot John and Sam and
forced the Wilson brothers to jump off the bridge but the others up there and the
lightning got the rest except for Ed, and we knew he had problems from the
beginning so we cannot blame Dan. Like hell I canβt he dangled that fortune in
front of my banker to the point he all but told me to go get it from him. We just
never expected him to up and take off that fast. If we had known in time we could
have gotten together and finished it before leaving town.
So, help me. I am going to make Dan pay for every one of those brothers and
cousins we lost before this is over; next time, I will not give him time to pray I will
blow him to hell the first chance I get, or my name is not Dusty Dramer. Jerry, it
was just as true for you, your family too, so you should feel the same way.
We have one advantage over him he does not know that we know he is heading
to see the ocean and so we can find him, and we will be ready this time. Butch you
are without a doubt the best shot here so we will get you in position next time and
at the same time we can get all three of us to shoot at the same time. That will give
us something to do while we hunt for the worthless nut, we can practice shooting
together on a signal so we all fire together and five hundred yards should be far
enough away we can get away from any who come after us.
After landing I had better get Shadow and get out of the middle of this
meadow before those fellows find me and who knows how many eyes watched me
come down? I have not ever thought about Indians I have been so worried about
those already looking for me. Shadow, get over here and quit running around like a
young colt in high clover. Ata Boy I was afraid of that silly thing floating down on
you would scare you and I am amazed that you hung around waiting for me after I
whistled.
Father, I have to say thankie to you dear lord for watching over this fool.
Sure, hope I did not jump from the pan into the fire and might have wished I had
stayed up on the top of that mountain. No thinking back at it those guys had me
treed like a mountain lion and nowhere to go. Makes me wonder how many of
17
those are left and if they are wanting to get even after losing all those friends.
Stand still Shadow let me get the rest of this stuff loaded so we can get out of here.
Buster you will get your turn move out of the way. Lucky for me it is such a
beautiful day for ending that experience.
Common Shadow let us move it and get out of this meadow and into the
trees as fast as possible and get those things we hid before going up on the
mountain. With Shadow and Buster following I left the meadow and went into the
pine trees where I had stored extra food, guns, and cooking utilities. Close to the
hollow stump where the items were hidden, I was picking up the pack saddle to
start loading and as I turned back to the mule, I see three Indians down on their
knees with their heads against the ground and they are all lined up shoulder to
shoulder towards me. Not wishing to show that I had not seen them I tried to
function as though I had seen them all the time. Something is wrong here. Why is
he bringing out the wife and young girl his child with him? Most would come out
and make sure it is safe first then if all is well bring them out but protect them is
always the way. Advancing to greet them seems important to do but how do I show
them am not a God which they obviously must think. All this flashes through my
mind in a heartbeat as I approach them.
How can this be? What is going on here? OH! I think I know they must have
saw me landing and figure I am a god are something close to it. How can I get
them off their knees and understand that I am not a god I have to understand that in
their world this is not normal. Well in mine it is not normal either, but they would
not go to this effort where I am from like bowing to a God.
Can you speak English I finally ask verbally after running every possibility
through my mind. The man raises his head, looks up, and shakes his head like what
are you saying? Thinking it over not being able to tell him what I am thinking I
turn the same direction as the Indian and get down on my knees and facing the
same way they are I bowed my head to the ground and copyβs what the Indian is
doing. The two females have not even moved from their position.
Raising my head while kneeling I take the guyβs arm above the elbow and
while getting to my feet gently pull the fellow up with me as I raise. Smiling and
pointing to the ladies I motion for them to stand. The guy is not as tall as my 6 foot
two inches, but he is close to six feet tall with long black hair and very dark brown
eyes which are looking directly into mine. The guy is very muscular and obviously
in exceptionally physical shape and is about my age of 18 years. He is waring
buckskin and so are the women. I put my fist against my own chest and say,
18
βDan.β The Indian pounds his chest and says Naaijawii. Smiling Dan repeats Jaw
and points to the guy. Understanding that Dan cannot say Naajjawii the Indian
smiles pounds his own chest and says Jaw. Then turning toward the older woman
who is about the same age he says, Dia Nanisundehaine. Wow Dan thinks this is
going to be tuff with names like this, so he says verbally, βSunshineβ because to
his ear that is as close to what it sounded like, and he smiles at the woman. She
nodes her head and smiling says, βSunshineβ. She is a very pretty gal with a shape
that would make one proud. Her buckskin bottoms are dress fashion with the top
shoulder to arms covered and are plain with a small design but clean and she has a
necklace about her shoulders with small pieces of wood and bone tied together
which are attractive.
Jaw then turns to the young woman and says, Baide which later I find means
Daughter, but think it is her name, so I repeat Baide and nod toward the gal who in
turns smiles and nods to me. Turning toward her mother Baide says Degenoni and
points to her mouth as she looks back at Dan. Shaking his head as to agreeing I
reach into the hollow log and pull out a pack with food items and cooking pots and
as I do, I hear Sunshine taking in her breath and jabbering away all excited. She is
pointing at the steel pots and is all excited and wanting to hold them which I hand
to her. Sunshine passes the first pan to her daughter and takes another one and
smiles and looks at it strangely. So, Dan reaches into the pack and brings out a
coffee pot with a lid and again both women are all excited and jabbering back and
forth looking at the pots and pans.
Jaw is making the motion for me to follow and points to the West. So as
quickly as possible I load Buster with all the stash and take ahold of Shadow
allowing Buster to follow him. After thirty minutes Jaw takes us back into the
forest till, we reach a small meadow with just a shallow spring of water and a small
fire pit dug into the ground which has rocks surrounding it. Looking around I
noticed a small shelter, it is made of an animal hide, and I can see bedding which
animal skins and is laying on what looks to be a buffalo hide. Logs had been pulled
up to the fire pit as places to set and several are used to hold food dishes and tree
bark with meat on them sticking out from under other animal skins to keep the
flyβs off.
Jaw points to a log that is pulled up to the fire pit and as he sits, he points,
and I set also. Pointing to his wife and again says DΓa Nanisundehaine what you
must assume is her name and again I try to focus on what it sounds like to my ear
so trying again to say it they all laugh. She turns and is getting something to eat so
19
I go to the pack on Shadow and get a can of peaches which they have no idea what
I have. I take my knife and open the lid which is noticed by those as a big deal.
Offering it to Sunshine she reaches in with her fingers and takes out a peach
and when it hits her lips the smile is a mile wide then I motion for her to lick her
fingers and she does and really smiles again the taste of sugar is without a doubt a
new taste for her. Turning to Jaw, she indicates to taste this and holds it toward
him, and he puts his fingers into the can and takes a peach, takes a bite, turns to the
daughter, and gives her a taste.
We have smiles and laughter all around and nothing is said that the other can
understand but we seem to have created a friendship without words. A big question
is in Jawsβ eyes, and he walks over to Shadow and acts as though he is afraid of
him points and says something and it is obvious, he wants to know about the horse,
and he must have never seen a horse in his life, or he wants to know something. I
have removed the saddle, and all the leather attachments from Shadow and have
allowed him to run free but we have been together so long I have no fear he will
stray no further than my voice. I didnβt understand what Jaw was referring to, so I
just went ahead with what I was doing.
It is clear that Jaw thinks of me as a god but without verbal communications
I cannot explain to him so I just let that part slide thinking it may be an advantage
later.
After a week of being together we have found a few words that have allowed
us to break the communication problem, but they are able to say my words easier
than I can theirs, but we are making head way after things like water, Shadow,
Dan, eat and other basic words. As the newly added words are understood the
faster, they seem to catch on and find other things to bring a better understanding
between us. I have shown them the kite and had shown how I built it trying to
make them understand that I am not a god but have learned of flying they are not
aware of. I allow them to continue to look at me as a God after all we do have God
in us. It has been told in the bible so accepting that is I wrong in a small way?
Have I sinned by some kind of injustice?
Without outward knowledge it came to me they had been calling me
Paleface not Dan, but it just seems as though it was a natural thing, so I just
skipped over the name. They had become such good friends that Jaw has even
offered me to sleep with Sunshine his woman and I tried to explain to him that in
my world we do not do this but not sure he understands because he is hurt when I
20
declines his offer. We have a different culture here I am thinking and don’t want to
hurt his feelings but if he is offering thinking I am a god then it would be double
damnation in my mind.
At first our languages were far apart and now they are coming to gather fast,
and the more time spent together just laying around eating and resting the easier it
becomes to do so. I had gotten to the point where I could explain that I could have
some enemies following and did not want them to be in danger because of it. They
in turn told me of their village and if I had understood them correctly it was two
moons away, which meant two months walking. Jaw has taught me how to shoot
the bow and he has developed a natural feeling for it and can hit anything I aim at.
I have also learned how to throw a knife and an ax right and what help that will be
in the future I have no idea, but it makes for a good sport and helps in friendly
competition. I have both a pistol and rifle but with limited powder I do not use
them often.
I want to continue to the ocean and find that is the direction to their village
and we are preparing to leave when on the morning of departure, we cannot find
Baide and yell and whistling but get no answer. With the warmer weather she has
taken to sleeping beside the tent not in the tent because she says she likes to look at
the stars at night. On checking her bed, we find it has been torn apart and not made
up as she usually does each day, so it appears she left in a hurry and not by her
choice. Looking closer I see a large boot print and it is not a moccasin as an Indian
would ware so following this I point it out to Jaw who immediately tells me there
were made early this morning and he turns and yells to Sunshine and together we
start to follow the path and find two other boot prints which tells us there are three
men and I am sure they are what is left of those that have been following me and
gave the troubles.
After looking at the boot marks Jaw had learned much, and I want him to
teach me how to read them like he does and to teach me all this information. He
has shown me that there are four horses and Flower is on a horse being led by one
of the riders. He says he can tell by the lighter weight of the horsesβ shoe print.
Sunshine sets on a large rock as Jaw sets on a log a few feet from her.
Sunshine says if we do not find her, she is going to cut off her right arm because
she is in so much hurt, she feels this is for her daughter and Jaw says he is going to
cut off his man hood for the pain he feels at the loss but also, he says he will never
father another into this world if they are to be taken away. These are both in such
grief and misery that if I were not hurting beyond what I can express what can I
21
say? I have never heard of such personal destruction because of the loss of another
human being. While they follow the prints I returned to camp and saddle Shadow
and get my rifle and strap on my pistol which I had not been wearing lately.
Meanwhile the three that are left after the disaster on the mountain have
stopped to talk and get their breaths while heading up the trail with the Indian girl.
Not only will we teach Dan not to mess with us again we will enjoy the fruits of
this young maiden as only a true man can. We will all enjoy her company for a
while then after slitting her throat will find him and put him under a dirt blanket
forever.
I have not tried to take off this way with my kite, in fact my only time was
from on top of that mountain. I think that it would be faster and easier if I could
find them from the air and then let both of you know where they are, is what I said
to Jaw and Sunshine. If this works as I am thinking it will, this will be a day to
remember and one in which many future things can be made easier.
Dropping to one knee I place my hands together and ask Father to watch
over me and help with that which is new to me and especially important to the life
of Flower and please allow me to both ride my kite and lead me to those that have
captured her, Amen. For the first time I realized there is a wind blowing from the
West and it is blowing right up the valley where we are camped. I felt or just
somehow knew that if I were to go downhill, I would have the advantage of
running downhill and into the wind, which should help. I will have Shadow
running down the mountain and not up and the further downhill the higher I will be
if I only stayed on a flat trajectory. Sunshine had been cutting deer skins and
weaving me a rope which she had presented to me with immense pride and now I
will have the use of it.
Tying that rope, and the one I already had together gave me over two
hundred feet and hopefully it would be enough to get me into the air. This is a
crazy idea but one that has been in my mind for quite some time. I tie one end of
the rope to the saddle horn and place the kite as close to the trees at the top of the
meadow and bring Shadow in line so she can run straight down the meadow and
get as much distance as possible and hopefully not break my neck trying to get off
the ground thank God I had taken the time to teach Shadow to run slow and fast
because not realizing it she would have to go slow and tighten the rope and then
she must really turn it on to get me into the air or be drug to death. I guess the only
difference between a hero and a fool is in Godβs hands.
22
OK! Shadow move away slowly, and as she does the rope tightens and when
she takes the slack out of the rope, I get the kite up on my shoulders and holding
the cross bar over my head I tell Shadow to run fast and she takes off like a heard
of stampeding buffalo. I took a few steps but have gained speed so fast I cannot
keep up, so I just sit in the seat that I have hanging from the cross bar. The kite is
swaying from side to side like it is going to hit the ground on one side then the
other, but it is raising so fast I can only hold on and thinking God help me here and
before I can say pop goes the weasel I am going up and looking down at the
meadow. I grab hold of the end of the rope and pull on the slip knot I have tied to
the bar on the front and as the rope falls away, I yell stop Shadow and even though
there is plenty of room left for her to run she stops, and I continue to climb.
I am over the trees looking down at the meadow and asking myself what
kind of a fool did I turn out to be? This is crazier than anything I could ever dream
about, and I have never been drunk but think that may be wiser than what I was
doing at this point. Wondering if I had a death wish or what but knowing I have to
turn this thing around and go up the mountain which causes me to focus my pea
brain to concentrate on the problem and not on the danger so leaning to the left and
pulling on the overhead bar I swing my weight to the left and the kite dips to the
left and turns I continue till I am looking up the mountain. I pull to the right and
follow the mountain ridge creating air lift and I am gaining height way above the
trees, so I follow the mountain ridge watching to see if I can see Jaw or Sunshine.
As it turns out I can see both Jaw and Sunshine and I begin to shout, and
they hear me and stop and look up and both are waving to me, so I wave back, and
we are tied together through a distant bonding on a joint goal. Looking up ahead I
can see the four horses and as Jaw had said I can see Flower tied on the last horse
following them up the mountain. There are three horses in front of Flower, and she
is on the last horse following them because she is being pulled by a rope. I turn
toward them and bring my rifle toward them, I am gaining fast so before they
know I am there I focus on the rider pulling Flower and he is only fifty yards in
front of me so putting the sights on the middle of his back I fire at a man for the
first time in my life and hope God will forgive me but as I watch he leans over to
his right side and falls out of the saddle. The other two heard the gun and then saw
their friend get shot and without slowing down continue as fast as possible leaving
Flower behind. Flower has now seen me and is scared I am a large bird about to
land on her as a vulture would. I can see the fear from the way she is riding while
laying low on the horseβs neck and watching the sky over her shoulder. Then she
finally realizes it is me and waves at me and just climbs down off the horse and
23
then goes to the other horse that had stopped and just stood there eating after the
rider fell off.
While she is waving at me the others that were leading her have also seen
me and they are expecting me to do the same to them which is exactly what I have
in mind but have not prepared myself a way to hold the kite, rifle, and load at the
same time. I will address this issue in the future but today I have set a milestone
beyond my imagination. Flower has gotten down off her horse and has both her
horse and that of the other fellowβs horse in hand and I wave letting her know her
mother is on her way. Thinking back on how I had taken off and flown was just
because I did it without thinking about it just up and the necessity of the situation
made it happen.
Watching Flower and not paying attention I took my eyes off what I was
doing and when I looked up and I was about to fly into a tall pine tree. Going up
the mountain had caused me to get closer to the ground faster than I had realized so
at the last moment I jumped to the right and the kite tipped to the right and my left
side hooked the top of the pine tree and jerked me toward the mountain and at the
same time the tree top breaks and the kite breaks free and continues on and as I
look up can see a rip in the outer edge of my kite. Pulling back to the middle is a
lot of work because I have to hang on my hands and pull up while the kite is
hanging to the right but with the adrenaline rush it happens so fast I leveled out and
have turned away from the mountain and now sailing directly away from the ridge
so I have gained height by just going away from the ridge and pulling to the right
a little bit turn more to the right and now I am heading back down the mountain
and every second I am going away from the mountain and higher and faster. The
excitement of flying along with the mental downer of having shot a man leads to a
melancholy sadness of which I had no experience dealing with, so I spent extra
time just gliding along not really seeing anything just trying to get my mind in
focus with the situation. Landing would be simpler than last time mostly because
of having done it before.
I went downhill past the meadow and turning I lined up with the stream now
heading uphill but had it on my left to not land in the water. I pulled myself
towards the front of the kite which put my weight on the front causing it to tilt
towards the ground and as I closed in on the meadow, I was going down, getting
closer to the meadow. The landing was smooth this time and as I touched the
ground, I just let the kite lay over on its side as I came to a stop. Thank you, Father
are the first words, out of my mouth and the first awareness of having flown again
and returned safely.
24
Back at the campsite after we had super over with, and we are enjoying a
cup of coffee which they had grown to love and was new to them. Funny how we
can learn to enjoy ourselves so fast and yet so slow to give up what we should not
be indulged in. Flower has gone to the robes after explaining the fear she had felt
when I came over her while she was on the horse. She said she was already scared
and knew what was coming in the rush to get her away from her family. Then she
saw the great big eagle coming over her and thought that she was about to die from
it before she saw it was me. Earlier tonight Flower was trying to express her thanks
to me in a way that hurts me mentally, but she is determined to thank me in the
only way she knows how and that is to take me to her robes and show how much
she loves what I have done. Flower, I say you are everything any man who has
eyes can see but I have a great spirit overlooking me as you and your people have,
and that great spirit has gave me life and guidance which allowed me to do what
was necessary to accomplish our returning you safely and punishing the those that
did it. The fact that I could not continue to follow the others was part of his plan,
but he also has taught me not to take you to the robes for my pleasure because you
are not my woman. Jaw also is trying to give me personal items he has and feels he
must show his feelings also. I tell them that Flower is my friend and I love her as a
father and as proud of her as can be but as Jaw would not take her to the robes I
would not for the same reason, and I told her that, when she tried to show her
thanks. Jaw jumped up and was just as excited as could be and declared he now
had a new name for me, and it would be remembered by all forever. You are as
Flower has said, Ah-Bat Kwinaa; From now on you will be known as the Great
Eagle.
I have not got the coffee hot by the time Jaw, Sunshine and Flower had
come to the fire with smiles that are on their faces makes anything I have done
justified and we join in a mutual hugging kissing and jumping up and down
dancing in friendship and joy as they spoke of when we saved Flower again they
just canβt stop talking about it and they loved to speak of the Great Eagle. Sunshine
insists that we celebrate again tonight and all day tomorrow before leaving on our
journey and before I could stop such an action preventing our leaving Jaw and
Flower was overly excited and let me know that was the most important thing to
celebrate, which included thanking the gods that had protected Flower and me.
Having been together continually for over a month now we packed our
things, and our communications were getting so we could almost tell each other
anything we wanted to, and the other would understand. The more we learned the
faster and the more we laughed at what we had thought something, or another had
meant. I learned the correct way of saying each of their names but by the time I
25
had down correctly it was almost impossible to change and use the correct ones
because the ones we were using seemed to fit so well. At first, having thought
Flowers name was Baide (which meant daughter) was of laughter shared by all.
The party was to be for two days which turned into more, but the happiness was
contagious, so we left as we lived enjoying each other and passing time as we
pleased. We had the camp work down to a routine with Sunshine doing all the
cooking after tasting mine we had no problem deciding I should gather wood and
help take care of the animals. Jaw took care of the hunting and care of the meat.
Akaishi in our language says Jaw but in yours it would be βSunflowerβ.
This is humors because I say Flower now, I must say Sunflower, but I will shorten
it to Flower if you donβt mind. That is permissible Kwinaa which by now I
understand means a large bird and ah-bat meaning great says Jaw. This is too much
information for me know I will continue to use Sunshine for her, and her daughter
shall be Flower and donβt try to change it now I tell him.
We talked as if to the ones left who were our enemies would return and try
to get even for all those lost friends. There was no way to answer that so we just
skipped and decided we would not be concerned until they tried again. No sense in
borrowing problems till they showed themselves. With three horses and a mule we
talked of how we would ride and decided Sunshine and Flower should ride
together because they were smaller and weighed less. We eventually agreed I
would ride Shadow and Jaw would ride the extra horse and Buster would follow
and then we changed to him to Bite (named for a habit he had) and he would be
last was to carry our foodstuff and camping gear we had not named him yet
officially and no one could find the proper name for him. I did find out that my
friends were Utes and had spent most of their lifetime around a great lake further to
the West of here. Jaw claimed it was full of salt and it was so strong that you could
float in it without sinking. That was hard to believe but many things we talked
about were strange not to mention the water that shot up out of the ground from
another area and Jaw said was too hot to bathe in.
We had found traveling together was a great advantage to all of us and each
night we just accepted our jobs and went right to them. I would take care of the
animals and see that they were unsaddled, backs checked for bruises or sores and
rub them down and hobble or tie to a rope corral which neither was necessary for
Shadow. Bite would not leave Shadow and Shadow would not leave me.
Flower would help gather wood for the fire and build the fire pit and lay out places
to set the food and gather around the fire pit. Sunshine would prepare the meals
26
and cook for us as it had been, and Jaw was busy preparing whatever was
necessary to comfort us. If it were possible to rain, he built a shelter, if not he
would prepare a place for our sleeping and anything else he felt would help our
lives.
One of the places we had stopped to take a breather and just kind of make
sure all packs on horses were in good shape and things like checking their shoes or
making sure there were no rocks, pebbles or stones between the shoe and the hoof.
Jaw had helped Flower in laying out the foodstuff and Flower was out gathering
wood for a fire that we decided was necessary so we could have a warm meal. As I
sat down by the fire Jaw looked over at me and said he had a few questions for me
he would like me to answer if I would. Yes, Jaw what is on your mind? Well, he
says Great Eagle you had confessed to me you had been up like a bird once before
in fact that is when I first saw you. So, you knew and had the experience, but you
said your god had done that for you to protect and get you out of harmβs way and
off the mountain top. Yes! That is a true story, Jaw. Well, when you were
following those men up the trail and you stopped and said you were going to fly
again how did you know you could? He went on to say that you said it like it was
a sure thing and that you would wave from the air when you found flower, but how
did you know for sure?
Pouring him a cup of coffee and waiting for Sunshine and Flower to join us I
told him I had faith in my Father and knew he would help me and with that faith I
just acted I did not have time to doubt, all that doubt was before while learning
about my God when it came right down to it I said a prayer and ask him to guide
and oversee my journey but it was important that I move forward in time and faith
both so I just knew he would provide the same as he has shown me to love Flower
and if I had doubt it was not in my love for Flower or God so I had no choice but to
move forward. Does that make sense to you Jaw? Without ever having went up in
this thing by yourself on a journey you had never tried and just went right out, and
did it? I explained to Jaw that those of us with our God in our hearts learn to trust
him in all ways and when we doubt, we have problems and I have learned to just
do it and let him have control and so by doing we have Flower and all is well, can
we ask for more? Great Eagle will our journey to my people be this way with no
enemies to fight or animals to get in the way? No, Jaw, we have no guarantees that
there will be no trials but if we just ask him to protect us, he gives us free will and
wants us to learn to be strong and trust in him.
We have a long way to go, and we will be able to discuss and learn each
otherβs ways and languages and things which will bring us together in our wisdom
27
and knowledge. If I could teach you this Jaw it may help in returning the wisdom
you have gave to me in tracking animals, trapping them, preparing them for the
hide and meals I would feel we both have gained from our friendship. Watching
Flower as a young child turning into a woman is a reward alone. How old is she
Jaw? 12 summers he says, and she is ready to meet her own warrior and build her
own family and she has her eyes on you for a mate. Please accept my teachings and
experiences as a humble friend but know that I am not at this point ready to accept
a woman in my life but that I love her all though not as a wife but as a human of
great beauty and friend. Ah but this will not stop Sunshine from trying to bring a
woman into your lodge, she feels all men should have a woman to provide for the
necessities of a man it is breed in them to do this. I know Jaw is older than I had
thought.
Nightly they came to me with many questions, and we sat beside a small
stream one day and Jaw wanted to know why I felt I had to tie my rope between
two trees every night and walk from one end to the other several times. Then I
would have the rope tied to a tree or mountain and climb the rope. I explained to
him that I was building strength in my arms and climbing up a mountain with the
rope I was building leg muscles allowing me to be strong. I told him when I had
my kite in the air, I found I was hanging from the overhead bar a lot and needed
the strength to guide me while I stayed up there. He still looked at me as a god and
didn’t know why I would need this but as a friend he says he was amazed at how
long I could hand walk on the rope and to climb as I did was more than he could
- For me to chop wood to leave for others was acceptable to him but that I would
spend hours building muscles was not a way in their world they felt we get enough
exercise just doing what is necessary to survive.
I had an inner feeling that because I had gave this gift of flying it was for an
intended purpose and I wanted to be as prepared for it as possible the same with
my shooting I was a very good shot with my rifle, and I wanted to keep it that way
and I could hit anything I could see with my pistol within a reasonable distance. I
was using up most of my powder and trying to find saltpeter or niter to make gun
powder was among those things I keep watching for. I know it is made of
limestone and mostly found in soil and I believed I would know it when I saw it.
Charcoal should be easy to find or make. Then I need to find salt peter which is the
crap from a bat so finding a cave would be good. Being this far from a source of
powder was almost as bad as lack of salt or coffee but then we learned to adapt to
the situation.
28
We continue daily travailing 25 to 35 miles a day but sometimes much
slower. The first days of our trip were in the high Rocky Mountains and those
known trails were slow because of the high passes we had to go over, and some
had snow on them even though we were traveling in the heat of the summer.
Sunshine had turned into a fantastic cook and Flower did part of it still trying to get
me to accept her as a mate even though she never said a thing about it. I have been
wrestling with Jaw as much as possible wanting the necessary knowledge of his
fighting and to build necessary muscle for that should it become necessary. He
continued to tell me about his family in the large village and how we would learn
many things when with others of his tribe.
We have passed some high peaks and are now travailing over roweling hills
with more open and flat valleys and that has allowed us to make 50 miles a day if
we wanted it would be easy, but we are sometimes stopping early and bathing in
the rivers and lakes and just enjoying each otherβs company. Sunshine has told Jaw
she thinks she is carrying his son, but it is too soon to know but she says she is sure
she is with child. We have become a family in many ways and Sunshine is
determined that when we reach, her people she is going to find me a woman. When
I was at home the women did the same thing, so it appears they feel a necessity to
be match makers rather they are Indian or white.
This morning Jaw showed me a mountain far in the distance that was named
Timpanogos and he told of an old story of an Indian maiden that went up on the
mountain to die and had lay-ed down with her head toward the South so when she
sat up, she would be looking toward the North in the days she will raise again.
When looking at that mountain you can see her hair flowing down the mountain
and her head and the rise of her breast and even her feet. It will be there for
eternity, and all will think of this fair maiden. Jaw says we could make it to their
village in two days were we to hurry.
We have been eating antelope, snake, deer, elk, partridge, quail, dove, ducks,
geese and more than I can speak of but the feast we have daily would make a king
jealous. Fishing is only a matter of putting a hook in the water and the fish will
fight to get to the hook. The water is so clear you can watch the fish when they hit
the bait. We find the bait by turning over logs and rocks and the small things that
are under them are great for fishing. Also are grass hopers which make wonderful
bait for fishing and will catch many kinds of fish.
The closer to the village the more Sunshine told me of all the friends and
relations who would make me a great helper in my lodge. She painted a very pretty
29
picture of those young gals and all they would do to help me in my adventure to
the great sea. I must admit she did have me interested in the possibilities of having
a woman to look after my every need and keep my bed warm.
I like to spend a little time looking out over this big valley and the large lake
we could see from the peak of the pass going into a great valley that stretched for
miles and miles as far as the eye could see. The other side of the lake was so far
away it was not possible to see but Jaw told me it was so this was not the great
waters I was looking to see. He told me again that the salt in this lake was so strong
you could float like a log on the water. He said when you get out you must go find
a clear stream and wash the salt off from your skin or it will crust and hurt. All
three of my family were persistent in travelling on to the village and we could
come back later and look as often as we wanted but right now, they were close to
home and family and wanting to see them. It is said that when you ride a horse
away from the barn, he is slow but when you return, and he figures out that you are
heading to the barn he is hard to slow down from running and this is so true with
my friends today. We are moving faster than we have ever traveled making it
obvious they are excited about returning to their home and families.
30
CHAPTER THREE
MY FIRST LARGE INDIAN VILLAGE
31
Normally we would meet outside of the village according to Jaw by
several scouts protecting the people, so something is strange we are entering
without these welcoming guards. As we entered the village, I noticed there
were very few children playing and not much activity for the size of the
village as described by Jaw. It seems kind of humble and quiet but there were
several who came to us with hugs and smiling but being able to speak their
language I understood as Sunshine asked where everyone was where were
her nieces and nephews? Not knowing for sure, I figured something bad must
have happened or she would have already introduced me to her family.
After much discussion and many tears, the head chief of the village
came forward and declared a holiday for the returning party and he ask that
the whole village prepare a great feast and a worthy introduction to the God
that Sunshine had brought to their village. I had thought I put that notion to
the side in our time together, but it appears she had only stopped saying it not
stopped believing it. Now that I had a basic knowledge of their language I
could speak and correct the misunderstanding.
Food was being prepared at every tepee and every woman was doing
something to make ready for the great celebration this evening. The warriors
were out hunting and gathering all the meat. The younger women had gone to
the forest to gather berries and wild onions to add to the special meal. I
counted twenty lodges but not all had family or people living in them, some
were standing empty. We had been gave a big lodge that was empty with a
very big fire pit inside and in front of this place for our personal use.
Being accepted and feeling safe I was allowed to wander throughout
the village, and most knew who I was and were friendly and when they found
I could speak their language seemed to break down any hidden worries on
their part. I saw women with fingers missing and one had cut the end of her
nose off showing to all her deep sorrow of a loved one. I did not understand
at the time of how these people showed their loss of family by selfdegradation Having lived in what I would have called a modern world or
white manβs world to hear them describe it. Having gained much knowledge
by spending time with the Ute familyβs and saw the deep affection to not only
the family life but their belief in a deity was astonishing to me. Back home
we had preachers or minister but here they had medicine men, healers,
profiters, and students in training throughout the village and all believed and
32
accepted it as part of life. No one would question the truth from those of
command or position. Truth was a way of life and to not be the outcast by
speaking an untruth. Anything of importance to the village was brought
before a counsel and discussed but before any meeting what could be a prayer
was a part of the meeting never passed over.
I felt kind of like the third dog in a two-dog race as everyone had
something to do and all I could do was stand and stare at all the activities.
Even Flower was going in and out of lodges visiting and hugging friends and
family. Through all the turmoil knowing that the village had been attacked
several days prior to our returning and that the Iguassu (enemy) ((this is what
it sounded like to my ear)) had come in the early morning and killed many
and took those young ones and other valuables with them when they left. The
only ones they didn’t take were papooses left in the cribs and furs inside and
hidden from view because they would be hard to travel with. Many of the
strongest warriors were killed and why the enemy had left when they did no
one knew but they were sure they would be back.
While wondering through the village and past those with cooking fires
and children playing a young girl I called Tiney because she was so young
and small came up to me with a young dog in her arms and she was crying
and held the small puppy up to me indicating that I was to take it which I did
but upon gathering it to my bosom I saw it was not a dog but a wolf a grey
timber wolf.
The puppy had just been born by the looks of it and it must be hand fed
for it to live it was so small. The puppy nuzzled up to my chest and was
whimpering for something to eat. Tineyβs mother came to me and asked if I
would be so good as to take the puppy and what I did with it was up to me,
but she did not want her daughter to fall in love with something that could
later be a danger to her. So, I took the puppy and found a mother who was
giving milk and with her blessings agreed to give me the necessary milk.
Chief Yogi had told me he was happy that I had found favor with their
people and was preparing for a great feast and would allow me to speak to the
full tribe all together. Thinking it over should I try to explain I was not a god
but a mortal soul just as they were? To what good would it be? If they
thought of me as a god and I could give them hope would that not be better
33
than the truth? Is false hope a sure way to go or should I try to explain the
difference to them? I had a bible which I had turned to many a time when in
doubt as to my obligations to my fellow man and taking this with me I went
from the village and having told the chief I would return but that I had to
have time to pray to my father spirit and creator alone and I would return.
I found a small area protected by large rocks and trees with a small,
secluded stream that seemed like an exceptionally good spot to allow me to
address my fears and pray, asking for guidance as to what I should do.
Kneeling and holding my bible to my chest I ask God to come into my heart
and help me with my turmoil. My decision was very important to these
people and without a doubt would determine future events. I had named my
grey puppy nuzzle because of his first actions so I ask God to protect him and
help him grow to maturity. He stayed at my side all the time rather I was
praying, eating, or just visiting with friends.
As I spoke aloud and could hear my own words and I knew that the
truth was necessary or somewhere in the future I would have to explain the
lie and be accountable for it. Upon hearing my own words echo in my ears I
knew I had reached the right conclusion to the problem. Now I had to decide
how I would present this in such a way they could understand the truth and
still feel I could be a valuable visitor to help them in this future fight. As I
concentrated on the outcome, I realized that the fear I had was doubt and why
should I doubt the ability of God now? What has caused me to fear he would
leave me now? This is ridiculous in every way. Had he not brought me off
the very pinnacle of death when on that mountain? Had he not brought
lightning and death to those who threatened me? Why should I doubt him
now? I know from reading the letter or bible he left to me that he said he
would never leave me nor forsake me so with that I know I am in his hands
so thanks for showing me the light and the way to my question. Father,
hopefully the outcome that happens to this village and the part I play will be
with your blessings, and I thank you in advance. Amen
Jaw, I said as we met outside of the village where he had come looking for
me to let me know I was invited to speak to all the brothers and sisters of his tribe.
Upon hearing of my acceptance of speaking to the village I told Jaw I would like
him to be there when I spoke to translate any words that I they may not understand.
Also, I told him I would like him to somehow get me an area of about five feet
34
long, three feet wide and at least two feet high close to the fire pit so that I could
see everyone, and they would see me when I was speaking. He wanted to know if
it mattered what it was made of, I told him anything that would hold me up and not
come crashing down. He promised to have it ready when the time came. Also, I
asked him to find someone to watch over Nuzzle while I was busy with the
meeting, and he agreed and said he was surprised the puppy had been so
affectionate for a wild animal which I agreed with him.
After having shared a great meal all the villagers gathered at the Chief’s fire
pit and after the fire was blazing higher than normal the Chief spoke to all telling
them who I was and asking me to come forward, which I did.
I climbed up on these logs that Jaw had prepared for me and standing before
many strangers I started by telling them my true name. My full names are Daniel,
Adam, David, Solomon, Clark. But my Ute friends call me Great Eagle and I am
proud of that name. I have traveled over 12 moons to get here. Most of you have
never traveled over a full moon each way if that; and I have been over twelve
moons just getting here and the great creator has sent me to tell you that we can
overcome the Waaβe raid, and we would gather and find a strength that we had
forgotten we had. Together we are going to take back our children our sons and
daughters would be returned to us, and we again will be a great nation of Gods
children. I have traveled many moons to lead you in this, and together we will
again have health and happiness among us. I believe I have been sent to you to for
added strength and wisdom as we have become family in the few days together
understand that I feel my warmth in our friendship.
It has been spoken and whispered among you that I can fly like the great
birds in the sky, and I am here to tell you I am not a God but a man who has the
hand of God on his shoulder and I believe he has sent me to lead you to victory.
This will not be easy but working together and planning out our war path will
return us to this goal.
While Dan is speaking the enemyβs from back home have found the location
of this village and have prepared a shooting spot from which it will be 450 yards
and a bit higher in elevation which will add to the drop of the bullet that will take
Danβs life. Dusty along with Butch have practiced shooting at 450 yards together
and are sure they can make the shot and get away before they can be caught.
Together they have went over and over the path from the shooting to the river and
rolled stones out of the way, cut necessary bushes that could hinder there sped in
getting to the river. From the spot they will shoot they only have to cross a small
35
meadow and pass the narrow corridor to the river which has very tall walls on each
side and the rushing river will allow them freedom from any pursuit. They will
leave the horses and jump into a canoe which they have built and prepared for their
escape.
As Dan is speaking Dusty is adjusting, testing the windage for the shooting
and with Dans elevation there is no way they can miss. Are you ready? On the
count of three shoot, one, two, three. And as performed, both guns fire and
everything goes according to the plane. Picking up rifles and jumping on the
waiting horses they leave and head for the river figuring on leaving the horses at
the riverbank to run or do as they please.
All eyes are on Dan as those in front see blood appear on each shoulder and
each near the heart but wide by a margin of less than an inch. Those in the rear of
the crowd hear the shots because they are close and know where it has come from
and turning immediately and running many are not stopping for a horse or
weapons, they take immediate action and running to where the shots were fired
from. Finding the spot takes less than two minutes to see and the horses having run
full out have left a trail a child could follow.
Following the trail, they find the horsemen running back and forth trying to
cross the meadow but upon entering the open area they had been overwhelmed
with turtles thousands and thousands of turtles all moving and causing the horses to
panic and fight any move forward. Both riders were taken without a shot being
fired or harm done to either side the men are so taken by the turtles they forgot in
the panic to think of the Ute behind them. Taken to the village they are
immediately deprived of all their clothing and put on their backs on the ground
with arms and legs spread, they are staked to the ground facing the sun and left for
a future they know not what.
Dan is taken to a nearby lodge where he is laid on bear skin robes and while
not awake, he is breathing, and the great spirit has blessed him to be alive. The
Villagers, although just moving from a much larger village, were blessed in having
one of the greatest and most experienced healers, Ata, come with them. The
woman who will oversees Danβs health is a very large woman perhaps by a white
manβs scale would run over three hundred pounds but very educated in medicine
and she rapidly finds both holes in Dan are on both sides so the bullets has gone all
the way through and out the back leaving a larger hole when exciting. To stop the
blood, she heated a steel blade knife over the fire until it was bright red. Then laid
the red-hot knife to the wounds and burnt the skin after which she applied bear fat
36
to the burns. Dan moved and groaned even though he was not conscious at the time
which was good because she knew he was still alive. The smell from the burning
flesh was carried outside of the teepee where others spoke of it. Having stopped
blood loss immediately she made Dan comfortable as possible and made sure he
was warm by coving him with several blankets and has ask two young women to
strip to the skin and hug Dan from both sides to make sure he is warm. A third girl
sits waiting only in case one of the others needs to go for body calls or for any
other reason she is to take her place Dan is not to be without any need possible.
Nuzzle had climbed onto the bed with Dan and refused to leave. He crawled
below the covers and Ata drew them over to Dan and the girls but Nuzzle would
growl if Ata tried to remove him from the bed. Ata could see the wolf somehow
knew of Dans problem and would not be allowed to be moved away so she just
accepted him and said maybe little one your extra love will help him heal.
Chief Yogi has gathered all members of the tribeβs counsel and are deciding
what is to happen now. All have agreed the new member Great Eagle has power
and will aid the fight which is without a doubt coming. Runners are sent to other
villages telling of this and asking for warriors to help in the coming fight.
Many other Chiefs have gathered to decide if they should attack the enemy
or wait and prepare a fight at this place which has advantages because of lodges,
water, food, and all can participate in the fight giving many more available. The
worst part is having the old and injured being close to the fight and causing a
concern. The tribe takes exceptional care for the elderly and injured as part of their
heritage and customs.
All agree it is possible the enemy could wait to attack they had losses and
would have familyβs morning even then it would seem impossible for them not to
want to punish the Ute for the loss they had received. Many other things determine
the resulting fight, mainly the ceremonies for the dead, then the rituals of those and
taking care of those injured and food for the return would have to be hunted and
prepared. So, it would be possible they would not return for one or two moons
which could give Dan time to recover and warriors from other areas to join them.
The pounding in my head became louder and louder till I could not think of
anything else. I had to force my eyes open with all the noise it was as much the
darkness haunting me as the noise pounding that caused me to force my eyelids to
open and the first thing, I saw was the biggest rear end I had ever saw this woman
was two axe handles across the ass. Her legs were the size of small trees. I had
37
never seen such a Hugh rear end except on a horse it made and it me think of
Shadow she was so large. She turned and saw my eyes were on her and she smiled
and asked if I was going to stay with them this time. What do you mean I ask, have
I been here before? She placed her hand on my forehead and said, βYes you have
been here, left and came again several times in the last days. Now that you are
awake maybe that puppy will allow us to feed him and leave your side. He runs out
very briefly to answer natureβs call then is back in a flash. Drinking little and
eating less he has been at your side continually.β
Just how many days have I been laying here? Well, I would have to think on
that but about two hands twice. What is your name, I ask? I am a healer and I
answer to many names and many think of me as just family so I am called Ata or
to some Ada, you can call me what you are comfortable with. I am told you are
called Great Eagle in our lodges is that what you want to answer to? That would be
fine Ada I am a little tired and feel like I am going back to sleep. Do you hurt
anywhere awfully bad I could give you more willow tea to ease the pain she says. I
am too tired to think ask me later.
The next time I came around I saw Jaw sitting to my side along with Nuzzle
and he had a cup of coffee in his hand for me. That is so nice of you it seems as
though I have not had a cup of coffee for days, I told him. That is true brother he
says you have not had much in many days, and we have been pounding the drums
bringing in the spirits to heal you. Thatβs what all that noise was I thought you
were trying to punish me for getting shot Jaw. Oh, you knew you were shot. Yes, I
said I felt the bullets tare into me just before I lost balance, and I knew nothing till
I saw the largest woman ever watching over me. She is the best in all the Ute
Nation and any who she helps is proud to say she did. That may be special, but
everybody knows the stores of those that wake up in a teepee injured with the
young woman helping is always beautiful and busty why didnβt I get one of those?
You did, in fact you had the two most prized in all our tribe at the same time. For
several days you had one on each side of you with nothing on and you were as you
were born. Damn God is this another of your corny jokes? What a guy wishes for
his whole life, and he is unable to enjoy it. Kind of like dying and coming back
with many beautiful gals and being without a root.
Well, if you feel like talking this much you must be feeling good. Everyone
in the village has been fasting and asking the great one for your return to us. You
must not speak so badly of Ata she has saved your life. No, I said she did not save
my life my God did that she made me more comfortable and gave me things that
would allow my body to heal faster, and she saw to my every need but in my heart,
38
I know my God saved me the same way I told you about up on the mountain.
Believe me Jaw if God wanted me, I would have joined him at the time of the
shooting.
Jaw we must consider that the enemy can attack at any time, and we must
work out a plan for our village to survive. What can you do lying in bed you canβt
even attack a small woman. I may not be physically able but there is nothing
wrong with my head and I know things that may help our brothers in this fight.
Perhaps Nuzzle will fight your fight for you. One thing I am certain of is my kite
must be ready to fly as it will be a very big factor in this coming fight. That may be
true Dan, but you are not a Chief and the counsel shall meet, and they will decide
what is to be. I will tell them of your concern and that you would like to be
involved in the planning process but that shall be according to Chief Yogiβs and
the councils wishes.
Perhaps Dan you do not understand we are a proud and very many people. I
have told you of the area of the lands of our people, but you must understand we
have sent out runners to other villages telling them of our loss and they will
respond as to all the families they will send warriors they will send food they will
not be pushed aside. The noise you hear is those of the great drums beating as our
hearts beat telling our stories to the great creator. We dance to the great bear dance;
the prayer dances the healing dance we dance night and day to the creator we live
according to what has been forever in our lands. We are not afraid of the enemies
that have come, we will bring in as many warriors as the grass in the meadow.
Those of us that lost family and friends will be joined, and we will show much
strength unknown to the others. As we speak the white man is wanting us to join
them in a treaty and they do so because we are strong, and they fear us. They think
we are dumb that we do not know, and they try to move us into one small area
where they can treat us like cattle in the fields.
Our village is much larger than when you went to the robes. When you look
about after being in this lodge you will be amazed at the number of lodges that
have been added to our village. When the enemy returns, he will find a strong and
mighty enemy to face. We hear your voice speaking of helping our brothers and
thank you for it and as all wise men before us we will hear your words, but we
have many voices with much experience in facing enemies of our people. We do
not fear those that came in the early morning without our knowledge, but it will not
happen again, we will be prepared. Togβoiak (thank you) my brother for showing
what your heart is saying to us and we hear it.
39
What do you have in mind that can help us fight this enemy? Well, Jaw I
was thinking that if you were to help me build a kite that when looked upon in the
air would look like something an enemy feared would add to our strength and
cause them to be more afraid of attacking us. War cries and painted faces have
been your way of inciting fear in an enemy, but can you imagine if they were to
see a large black crow soaring over their heads before they were to attack? With
your help we could build something that would cause panic and fear in our enemy,
it would be something that would be told around the fire and many dances would
tell this story. Most are afraid of the Raven because of its dark color and because of
it being a scavenger so death is what others see when looking at a Raven so to
make this kite appear as close to the real thing will be strong medicine.
HEAR ME WHITE MAN! Jaw became a screaming, yelling violent
person who Dan did not recognize. You do not own the great one who you talk of.
You do not control him he does not appear just for you. Our people have known
him for generations, he has stood over us for years when we had no food, he stood
by us when we fought our enemies and when you were on the edge of life near the
time of walking with him. We beat drums bringing him to us for you. He heard us
and we told him of your brotherhood and everyone in our village told him we
needed him to help you. He did not save you just because you asked, he saved you
because we also told him our need. And we do not need you to put fear into our
enemyβs. We put fear in all who know us. We put fear in all who hear the name of
our great warriors. Our fathers, our fathersβ fathers and their fathers stood tall and
fought many enemies and today they remember and fear us as it should be.
Dan we would like to do as you say with the kite even our children laugh
and play games knowing the power you have and the god you serve but remember
we are a proud people, and we can fight together but understand we have trained
and fought for generations, and we train our young ones to fight from the time they
can stand to walk. You will be wise to hear the words of our leaders and learn
while you can.
Jaw I am sorry that I said it the way I did, and I am also sorry that you had to
put me in my place as an outsider and a new friend. Please let me know that you
will not think of me less than you have. Great Eagle no more shall be spoken of
this from now forward but always know we are a great nation with great warriors.
Know brother the white man came to our lands to kill our buffalo our elk,
our deer our food they did not consider they had been ours for hundreds of years
and we protected and hunted as we needed to eat. White man came to destroy, they
40
stole our yellow rock even though we did not need it they did not care that it was
not thereβs for the taking. We protected our families and they thought of us as the
ignorant the dumb, the savages, we only saw them as thieves destroying and killing
anything from the earth. One day brother your lands will be stolen from you the
same way you steal from us. The great spirit remembers and punishes those who
tread on others. We fight for the strength and training of our young to get what
others have or to protect what is ours, but the great creator favors those that have
strength.
41
CHAPTER FOUR
THE VILLAGE PREPARES FOR WAR
42
What happens in the future is not ours to see Jaw, however we can make
today become what we want it to be by prayer and planning. After calming down
Jaw turned as Sunshine kneels to the side of Danβs head and smiling down at him
says, βPerhaps my brother is well enough to drink something to nourish his body.β
Looking up Dan says, βI am so hungry I could eat the South end of a North bound
Skunkβ. That is good she says it shows that Ata has been doing the right thing and
you are getting well, I am told she continues and that the muscles have no bad
color, and the skin is repairing. You should be able to eat something with meat in it
shortly. I will have those ladies that are lined up waiting to serve you prepare
something for you before the sun goes down. I will also be lucky to get it to you to
eat it with Nuzzle by my side he may take the meat in a big hurry he has been on a
fast for a long time for such a young puppy. I am surprised how well he is doing
with little food and no exercise he rarely leaves your side.
Ladies line up to serve me. Dan Says. Just what does that mean? Our village
is in great difficulties because of you Dan part of the village does not want a white
man having any say in our ways and others are wanting you to have much to say
and the young ladies want to show how much love they have for you. As you know
Sunshine, I will not take to my robes anyone I have not taken to be my woman and
if I were to think other ways in the shape, I am in I could not even hold their hands.
That will change very fast now that you are losing the spirit of the old one who has
left you and gaining the young one, we know who is making a visit to our home.
Perhaps you are well enough you could accept a visitor or two? Would you like me
to invite a few of those who admire your spirit? No Sunshine please allow me a
little more time and let me gain energy to show my thanks. Dan, I do not think I
can put Mary off any longer, she will not stop asking to see you. She is special but
must know of my weakness please tell her to wait for now.
After drinking the soup Dan can just remember Ata joining them and then he
goes to dream land again. The next Dan knew he was setting up and Ata was
handing him a bowl of meat floating in a liquid with onions and other herbs he did
not recognize. Taking a chunk of meat and putting it into his mouth he looked up at
Ata and says, βthis is very good and how is it that it is so tender?β Those that
would see you have been chewing it to make it easier for you to eat. It is our
custom to break down the part of the meat that is tough and allow it to be taken by
you later with pleasure. Dan thinks this over as he is taking another chunk of meat
trying to decide if he really wants to eat this or not. Must have gave in to the
hunger because it disappears slowly. If you can continue to devour the meat the
bear in, you shall gain, and the pigeon will be gone. That is if you can get some
43
away from Nuzzle. Your color is getting better, and I would have it that you should
start the day by getting out of this darkness and seeing the sunshine and the bright
world awaiting you outside. With your wishes I will have you taken to the firepit
outside and be made comfortable.
I think I would like that Ata it is so nice of you to offer, and I want to thank
you for all the things you have done for me to keep me in this world and if Nuzzle
could speak he would say his thank you also which brought a small bark from
Nuzzle just like he knew what was said.
Having been placed facing the small fire with the sunshine in his face Dan
feels the warmth of the fire and the friendship of all those joining him. He looks up
into the eyes of many young boys who are all smiles and clapping. Behind them
are many young ladies who are also giggling, and several have their hands together
like we would do in saying a prayer. The smiles are infectious, and the warmth
radiated as the sun would and Dans smile must take in a breath as he is over done
with love for these people. How can one feel so much love and affection so soon
after joining these people? Back home he never saw this anywhere of course he
was never shot back home, and this is a new experience and a wonderful way to
start the day. The children could hardly wait to hold Nuzzle and to pet him even
though he showed no anger toward any of them it was obvious that he would rather
be left alone.
As the day goes by Dan is joined by many warriors he had never saw before
and each wanted to say something or ask questions of Dan which made him aware
of the way each had felt toward his joining the village. It makes sense that
everyone would have questions and want to know more about their quest. Would
an Indian be accepted back home? I do not think so and outsiders would find
friendship rare in the city. What makes these people so warm and friendly when
only a few days or weeks ago I was a stranger and to them the word stranger means
enemy. Perhaps they are not as ignorant of the ways of the world as we are. Maybe
having less makes them appreciate having anything more valuable like family and
friends. Could it be we have much and donβt learn the things that are really
important? We teach reading, writing and arithmetic but not the basic fabric of
living and caring for each other perhaps that can only be taught at home.
The day ends and Dan is carried back into the teepee and as he looks around,
he feels the darkness is comfortable but not just the darkness it is the loss of having
those who were nearly taken away from him. Only a few weeks ago I believed I
was happy and enjoying life Dan thinks but now with the ability to look deeper
44
into the ways of those who had taken him into their lifeβs and shown him what
really is important perhaps he must take more time to smell the roses as it has been
said.
Day by day Dan is taken outside and allowed to enjoy the sunshine in the
company of friends and who have grown to become a part of his life and he looks
forward to each day and each meal is better and better. Dan is feed from a different
bowl with markings on it to identify the owner and let him know that he may say
or show favor to those that are bringing the meal. The young gals that set each
meal before him make special movements that allow him to see that they are
looking for championship and want his attention to be on them. It becomes harder
to show more gratitude to the one and then do it added for the next one. Dan finally
decides the best way is to just be yourself and not to put on any airs toward any
just be honest and donβt try to outdo himself each time. Mary and her brother John
stopped by and hardly ever missed a day. The days go by quickly and he learns the
village grew to over 200 teepees and many warriors and other Chiefs have joined
what was once a small village and now is growing more daily.
As his knowledge of the Ute Indians grew so did his ability to speak their
language and understand their customs that were every much a part of what made
them a great nation. Dans kite was known throughout the village and much of the
discussion was around it. During the conversations Dan had told of wanting to
have a thin cover made that was the shape of a large bird. When one looked up
from the ground it was to look like a large bird, one that brought fear and it should
fly as a large bird would. As he explained to the others how it was to be
constructed one of the men had suggested using bamboo for the outside edge to
hold it together because it was light and strong, and he was brought some bamboo
so he may see what it is. After looking at and holding it Dan found this to be a
great gift, an idea of much merit.
On one of the first mornings the outside fire pit Dan was joined by Jaw and
several other friends and family members and when possible, each would question
the other on the ways and customs. One of Dans first questions is what happened
to those that had shot him. Jaw explained in detail the fast retreat to safety they
expected and the massive number of turtles that had stopped the shooters from
escaping. How they had been tied to the ground, striped of all clothing, and gave to
the women of the village first and they stripped the skin from the chest and sides
then the men till blood ran free. Then the men made them pay with their lives and
the pain been prolonged for many days.
45
Dan explained to those that would listen that thousands of years before the
Ute had ever been on earth the ancestors of his people had found that by
constructing a cross bar above the ground and putting a man upon it with his feet
nailed to the standing bar and his hands nailed to the cross bar the victim could last
a week or more of intensive pain and suffering. Dan also explained that his God
had been placed on a cross such as this and had died there.
Many who were listening to this had questions and wanted to know more
about his God and why these people would do that and why if he were a mighty
God did, he allow it. The questions were on going and the crowd grew with a
hunger for information and every time Dan spoke on the subject, they had a greater
number of those that wanted to know more. It turned out that every morning Dan
had worshiped his God the crowd grew, and they ask more questions to the point it
became a ritual every morning as Dan was brought into the sunlight more and
more villagers joined them for this subject to be talked about. It grew to the point
that Dan decided he had to offer his teachings daily and at sunrise. Ata was still
preparing his meals and bathing him daily and putting him on his fur before going
to sleep at night. Durning the time around the fire Dan found a young gal that he
just could not keep their eyes off. He had gave her the name of Mary and she had a
brother he named John who had been visiting every day when he came outside.
John was three or four years younger than Mary. It was clear to all that Mary had
eyes for Dan but in his frail condition he would do no more than speak of it.
Dan had learned to speak the language well but found the names hard to
remember so he had decided long ago to do as the others did him and just give
them a name that he found matched what he might remember about them. He had
named Rowena, Sally, Sharon, Roberta, and Maureen and the names were the
same for the men he had James, Jim, Robert, David and many more that were his
friends from years before but some thing about this person reminded him of them
so he found naming them he could remember when and it also served to bring his
English Language in mind so he would not forget it. The villagers were excited
that he gave them these special names and stood in line hoping to be blessed with a
white manβs name. Part of the day was spent with those that wanted to learn how to
speak his language so that was a part of his daily habit of schooling as he thought
of it. Because of the schooling the time went by very fast for Dan.
It turned out that Sunshine had been encouraging the ladies to look to Dan
with favoritism as to him becoming their mate. She had also confined in Dan that
Alta had served Dan night and day and in return when his body would allow it, she
wished to be allowed to receive a child from Dan. He had explained to Sunshine
46
that was not a thing his god allowed without marring her. Sunshine had then
explained to Dan that this was a normal way of life for her and her people. That is
how the village grew and was by the strong warriors of other tribes giving life to
the young ladies of the village. Dan laughed and told Sunshine mating these young
gals reminded him of Christmas and he smiled as he sang βhere comes Santa
Clauseβ. He stated he would have to pray and ask for guidance on this because it
was not like it was adultery to give life to those wishing to have a child.
As Dan spent more and more time at the fire and was drawn into many
conversations he had not considered to think about because he had no idea such
behavior even existed. One day he was told of several Chiefβs that wanted to speak
with him on his beliefs because the subject was obviously carried far, and wide to
other villages had questions and, they accepted him as a member of their village so
his understanding of both sides of the treatyβs being almost forced on them.
The next morning had been decided by all the Chiefβs to a meeting. All
agreed on sunrise, and they would use the councilβs area to allow for more
members and privacy. The word for treaty in the Utes Language was accepted as a
put down or a weakness of others. If not, it was not understood why would you ask
this if you were not afraid of us? The same was the word for stranger which was
just another word for enemy in their minds. Had Dan not dropped in from above he
would have found it hard to make friends as he had. Appearing as a God made
them think of him as a friend not a stranger and allow friendship as he had.
As the meeting started, all were setting on bear, buffalo, or wild animal
hides surrounding a fire pit whereby a small fire was continually feed with small
dry wood to keep it burning with minimum smoke. The area was so large the
women would walk behind the men to serve them. The meeting started by chief
Yogi lighting a pipe with an unknown substance in it and he drew on the pipe and
using the pipe as a pointer fist saying to the God of the North, then the God of the
East and he addressed each God in the same respect each time by drawing smoke
from the pipe then pointing to each direction. After completing this he passed the
pipe to the next who was also a Chief of another village, and this ceremony was
duplicated till all in attendance had shown their allegiance to the Gods of all points
of the compass. Then Chief Yogi told of how Dan had been found coming to them
from the sky and every detail told in every imaginable way and many Dan had
completely forgotten about, but every detail was spoken and explained completely
and any questions that were ask were either answered by the Chief Yogi or he
would ask Dan to explain. No one spoke out of turn, and no one spoke over a
normal tone. Chief Yogi had allowed time for silence as others thought of anything
47
that they wanted to know. Dan would not have been able to sit that long but
Maureen had gave Dan a present of a special chair with βDanβ not Great Eagle on
it she had hand made for him in which he was able to set long hours without
getting overly tied. Where Dan had come from why he had chosen to land in the
land of the Utes was ask in many ways by most but always the same thing.
The meeting had gone on for hours and hours and Dan had lost track of time,
but he found it hard to hold his head up any longer and the others had noticed it
and had agreed to come back the next day to continue the questions. Even with
strong leadership shown among the Chiefβs they continually showed reverence to
Dan in several ways, and he cold plainly see they respected him as much a God as
a man which surprised him. The first impression had certainly proved to be
effective in this situation.
Jaw and his brother Brut (big bruiser) picked up Dan and carried him to his
lodge without his ever knowing he had fallen asleep. The next morning when
waking to the smell of coffee as he opened his eyes Ata was smiling and handed
Dan a cup of coffee and a warm smile. You are so attentive to me Ata that I canβt
express how much you have helped me and how much I have depended on you.
Please sit down here for a minute and let me explain something to you.
Ata, Sunshine has told me of your wishes to have a baby by me and I want
to explain something to you about that. We have gotten very close with you
bathing and caring for my body sense I was shot and that is not a sin according to
my God because that is necessary well letβs say most of that is necessary the
personal touches not included. However as I have explained to you sense knowing
you that because of you large breast and loving nature I admit to the temptation
however I would have to go against everything my God has told me so you have to
know that even if he did not care that I was giving you a child which would add
strength to the village and allow you to use your special talent toward the child I
would be doing an unjust and unkind service to that child when I left him and
traveled to the great waters in the West. I would be leaving knowing I fathered a
child and then did not stay to care for him. That alone would be a sin in my eyes
and without a doubt my God would see it the same way. So, I want you to know I
canβt give you that wish because it would destroy our fiend ship and be against all
that has created me. Do you understand that Ata? Ata had been looking at the
ground and raised her head showing tears running down her cheeks, but she tipped
her head indicating that she knew.
48
After having a big breakfast and just settling back for another cup of coffee,
a tap on the leather door and Dan said, βEnterβ and Jaw came in with Brut and
wanted to know if we were ready to go to the meeting. With one on each side, they
picked Dan up and carried him to the hutch provided for this gathering and placed
him at a spot that was obviously intended for him. All in attendance acknowledged
Dan with a head movement toward him but no one spoke other than Chief Yogi
who offered Tsao Tupuninna which to Dan was good morning. Dan had become so
familiar with the Shoshoni language he had to wonder if the Chief was speaking
English or Shoshoni. The Chief told him most of the questions today were
regarding Dans creator and others had wonders if the white man even felt there
was a creator. They felt that the fact that White menβs words were of little value to
them, and they seemed to want treaties only to find if they could deceive those who
agreed. The Chief went on to explain that they fought with cunning and wise ways,
but the white man had no rules they would kill any way they could using any
method they thought would destroy the enemy. If the white man had a God, why
would they do as they do?
Dan had to explain that the white man was so may more people than the
Utes every thought possible. White man has so many Chiefs there are Chiefs to the
Chiefs. The white man has so many that a treaty is important to those that say it to
the Indians but what they are promising may not be accepted by the Chief that
followed and even those signing it agreed and expected their own Chiefs to follow
that agreement, but it does not always happen, and the white man does not go to
the great creator as the Indians do. Some follow a God and live by those rules, but
many do not believe in a God and have no rules to follow. I personally speak to my
creator at least twice a day and sometimes more. Rarely do I start my day Dan said
without thanking the great one and asking him to guide me through the coming
day. Each Chief gave thanks to Dan for his wisdom and answering their questions
and among those were those that wanted to know what they could do to help him
with his coming flight on the great kite. During the meeting it was agreed that they
would do all possible to help and wanted to know how long before he could show
them his wings. Dan explained the strength necessary to fly the great kite and he
had to gain a lot of strength before he could do it again and could only say he
would when he could and leave it at that. He also explained that many men and
women were adding to the kite to make it look like a Raven so when they
completed those things, he would show the kite. Also, to be noted is the feet are
being made to fit his feet so when he is flying overhead it will look as the claws of
a great bird.
49
Chief Yogi held up his hand for silence and all responded in like manor; we
have brought this one called Great Eagle to be in our presence for several reasons
and we have all had our say and our questions answered by him, but I have one last
request before he leaves us today. Would you tell us why you are here in our land
and how you chose this place to be. Turning to Dan, he held his hand out for Dan
to speak. Let me explain by pointing out my travels to this place from where I
started. Where the sun rises in the East if you travel for many moons you will come
to a great water that called an ocean in my tongue. I was born and raised to a young
man in this land, and I wanted to see the great ocean that is said to be where the
sun sets in the evening so I left there with a horse and a mule and before leaving I
had gave everything I owned for white manβs money and when I did that others
saw that I had possessed much and they wanted it. They had twelve men who
gathered and agreed to take it from me. After following me for several moons they
confronted me, and I killed one of them by throwing him down a well which is a
deep hole dug to receive water and fighting several others I managed to get away.
They tried to stop me from leaving the area and I drove two of them off a bridge
with my horse. Several months later they met me in a white manβs town and two of
them confronted me and I managed to shoot them and again got away. After
leaving a large village I found they were still following me so trying to get away I
climbed the highest mountain I could see and hoping they would give up, which
they did not, they continued to follow me. I was like a mountain lion pushed up a
tree I was up on top of a mountain into the clouds. I had no shelter and no
protection from the weather. I covered over with a ground cloth and my God
brought forth the winds and while I was sleeping took me off that mountain and
away from my enemies. He did this the only way possible without taking my life
he floated me out in the clouds and above the trees, lakes and streams way up in
the sky. Once I was off that mountain, he brought lightning and struck several of
those chasing me and burnt them to ashes. Some were so frightened they jumped
off the top of that mountain to their deaths. There were three left and they found
me as I was traveling with my brother Jaw and his woman and daughter. They
came in during the night and took Flower Jawβs daughter and ran. Not knowing
where they had went, I took the same kite that my God had gave to me and went
back up into the sky and could see those escaping with Flower and from the air I
shot one and allowed Flower to be free while those others ran as a coward, and we
were so busy taking Flower to safety we allowed the others to continue away. I did
not know where I was when I ended in the meadow with Jaw and his family it was
only because my God lead me to that location that I was allowed to be friends and
from there to now you know all there is to the story.
50
Dan continued with the fact that he felt God had led him to the Utes and
with his blessings he was allowed to speak and befriend each of you. I believe he
allowed them to shoot me so that I could make friend with the greatest healer of all
your people Ata. She has been at my side and done everything possible to bring me
through being shot twice and I should have been dead. I was spared for a reason
and for all I know it could be just to tell you of my all and powerful God or it could
be for what is to follow I do not know but I just trust that what saved me in the past
will guide me in the future. I want to thank each of you for allowing me to be a
part of your life and village. With your help I hope to again fly over the enemy and
put fear into their hearts to the point they leave, and we will try to lose no one of
our village. My friend the wolf at my side was a gift from a woman in your village
and he has been at my side sense.
Upon leaving the meeting Dan was carried to the open fire pit that was the
gathering of many friends. Mary and John were both there waiting for Dan and had
many questions for Dan. Ata came out and brought Dans breakfast and a large cup
of coffee which she knew he would like. Ata seemed to always know exactly what
Dan would need and want. It was humbling to Dan to have someone so attentive
and giving in every way. Ata was a big woman and as large as she was, she was
exceptionally pleasing to the eyes, and she filled out the front of her dress beyond
any others in the village. Mary held Danβs attention because of her beauty and her
attention to Dan was noted by Ata without any verbal words.
Others came and took control of the gathering by discussing the building of
the kite and what was to be done to accomplish it. The kite had been built and was
over twelve feet wide and fifteen feet long. The outside edges had been held with
buck skin lacing tying the skins to the bamboo. This had all been accomplished fast
because of all those that helped. From the wings to the tail were the same skins but
on the underside the area between the wings and the tail had been darkened with
berries or something they found and used giving it the look as like a raven. Dan
had ask Jaw to teach him the call of the raven so he could imitate the sound which
he readily agreed to.
Everyone in the village was excited and on high expectations as to the flight
Dan was to accomplish. Dan had only been a few weeks since having been shot but
he was recovering faster than one could ever imagine. He wanted to get up and
walk explaining to Ata that his lower body was not damaged that he should be able
to walk, and she explained it was the hole bodyβs strength necessary to recover and
waking would take part of that energy which she felt was needed to speed full
recover, so she did not want him to even try to stand yet.
51
After the excitement of the kite was discussed, re discussed and talked about
by everyone possible the subject was finally changed to what had happened in the
meeting with all the Chiefs. No one in the village ever remembered having that
many great Chiefs attend a meeting let alone allowing a white man to be in
attendance. With that many Chiefs in the village at one time everyone wanted to
know if a major fight was about to begin. Why had they not told everyone of the
coming fight? Was there a great fight soon? What was going on that no one spoke
of?
Dan tried to explain that part of it was the fact that he wanted to fly this kite
and try to avoid any war or fighting if possible and he could not do anything until
he received his strength.
While setting by the fire and most all had gone back to their homes Dan was
snoozing awake and then asleep and during this slumber, he raised his eyes to see a
small boy about five years old standing in front of him he had he hands inside his
shirt from each side because the shirt was torn and had no pockets. The boy had his
head toward the ground, his eyes on his feet and Dan noticed the boyβs clothing not
only was torn but extremely dirty and he had on no shoes his pants were rags and
filthy.
Pehnaho Pihianneweh Dan address him as small boy and the boy looked up
at Dan and never shown any expression or gave no verbal answer, so Dan asks him
if he was hungry or in any pain. The boy then said that he was tired and hungry, he
had nowhere to sleep and no one to help him. Dan turned his eyes to another
woman standing at a little distance away and ask her if she would be so kind as to
go get Ata for him. Then turning back to the boy told him he would have someone
here who would find the boy some food. The boy told Dan that he had lost his
mother and dad when the noise and killing happened. He told Dan he wished his
mom would come back and help him he had no one that cared anymore.
You have come to me, Dan explained because you were drawn to me for a
reason and that reason is because I care and even though we just meet we will
become great friends and along with that friendship is caring. As he spoke Ata
walked up and Dan asked her if she would return with something that a small boy
would like to eat. Smiling Ata just smiled and with a nod of her head turned and
returned to their teepee. Turning back to the boy, he told him that everything was
going to be better and that he cared for and loved the boy. The boy looked up and
smiled for the first time and Dan patted the ground next to him and asked the boy if
he would please sit by him so they could speak together.
52
Dan explained that no one was ever alone, they always had the great creator
at their side, and would do as he had just now done, he had led the small boy to
Dan and that was just the start because together they could do wonders. Dan asks
what his name was, and the boy responded he did not know. Well Dan said
because you are the first friend today, he was going to name him Adam and from
this day forward he had a name he could be proud of, and the boy smiled and held
out his arms to be hugged, which Dan did. Ata came up at this moment and had a
dish of something she gave to the boy and a glass of water to go with it.
Adam took the dish and began to eat, and he was stuffing it into his mouth
so fast Dan told him slow down and explained no one would take it from him, and
he was to enjoy what was offered to him. While the boy was eating a man waked
up and said to Dan, I have been looking all over for this boy he wondered off and
we could not find him. He explained to Dan that the boy was simple-minded and
because he had lost his family it had made him this way. The man whose name was
unclear to Dan allowed Dan to offer him a new name from Dans lips which turned
out was wanted by everyone in the village. It appears that someone named with a
name from Dan was regarded as very special so most tried to receive one. Well
Sam, (giving him a new name) Dan says you seem to care for the boy and thank
you for sharing the story and because of the problem the boy was having Dan
asked that he be allowed to have him spend a few more minutes with Adam. Sam
smiled knowing the boy had received this special name and Sam repeated the name
saying Adam and smiling and saying it again making the boy look up as he knew
that was now his name. As Adam finished his meal and set the bowl down, he
stood and put his arms out for Dan to hug and with that hug Dan knew he had a
friend forever. Sam took the boy by the hand and told him letβs go home and the
boy turned and waved to Dan and off they went. Dan turned to Ata who was still
standing there and said it makes the heart warm to find a new friend and I hope it is
always that way.
Ata you are a healer why did you not want to help Adam? She told him they
were afraid of those who were not of a sound head. She pointed to her head and
made a circle with her finger showing his mind was not good. But if you can heal
the body he asks her, why canβt you heal the head. No, she said it is not to be the
creator created him that way, so it was to be. No, he told here that is not so he was
created as all but those who destroyed his family and Adam saw it happen had
caused a fear so strong in closed a widow in his head which could be opened if
helped. She did not agree but Dan went on to explain that his God did healing and
could make Adam right. She asks why he did not fix Adam if he knew how. He
tried to explain that he knew God and he would pray for Adam.
53
Dan was carried back to his home and on the way, he asks Jaw if he would
listen to him to make the sound of a Raven so that when he was in the air, he could
make that sound to add to the effect of the kite. Jaw laughed and said when you
come over like a big Raven you think that will matter? It sure canβt hurt Dan said
to Jaw. Jaw agreed to help him practice saying it was one of the easier sounds to do
so he knew Dan would learn fast you have ask before, so I know itβs important to
you.
The next morning, as before, Dan was placed at the fire pit, and many joined
him as happy jovial times were shared by many. Later that morning Adam showed
up at the gathering all dressed up and looked like he was clean as a baby duck.
Wow you look great Adam. Adam looked up at Sam his father and smiled, Sam
turned to Dan and told him that when he went home Adam had told Gwaii (Samβs
wife) that Dan had spoken good things about Adam and he went to bed taking to
the great creator and when he got up he said that he had a dream and Daniel,
Adam, David, Soloman Clark had blessed him and he was going to be happy for
ever. How did he know my name, Sam Dan asks? He could have heard them at
first when Dan spoke to the village before being shot but Sam didnβt think he was
there but that was the only way possible. But when he got out of bed Adam spoke
of many things and he was a new boy and wanted to run down here to tell you how
happy he was but before he did, he wanted to bath in the river after refusing many
times before and put on the new clothes which he had refused to wear the day
before. Whatever that dream was he would not tell but he changed overnight, and
we are proud and happy for it to be.
Dan had to use a crutch and even then, had to be helped along, but was
insistent he be allowed to try he felt so much better. The crutch was crude but was
not expected to be used for that long so Dan didnβt want others to spend a lot of
work on some that would not be necessary. The pain or problem as explained by
Dan was not the standing, it was the weakness in the upper body from the two
shots that took place. I must build strength he said and get better fast because we
donβt know how much time we have before we are attacked again. Jaw said that he
was not worried because the village has grown so big that many would be
necessary to try to do them harm. Sense you have joined our village Dan we have
grown many times in size, and we have had an abundance of meat made available
and our people are healing and getting back to a normal life, and many think it is
because you have joined us.
Those that have been working on the Raven are wanting to show you what
has been done and wanting your approval if you would like to see it. Of course, I
54
would like to see it and the sooner the better. So, after giving praise to the great
creator and now many were saying God. The village enthusiasm was almost thick
enough to see everyone joining hands laughing dancing and some were pounding
drums others beating on hollow logs and yelling for others to join the celebration.
Dan was not sure why the village was so excited, but the excitement had his heart
beating, and he was enthused and didnβt know why.
People and cultures arrive at different times and different places. However,
without knowing each other a common thread is woven through time and distance
and without a doubt a supreme being is foretold in each society. Dan did not
understand what was happening, but he recognized the effect the great creator was
having with all in attendance tonight. It is easy to be humble when joining hands
and singing together and the words are not necessary to feel the meaning. The
beating of the drums, the laughter in the crowd, the pounding of the feet gave birth
to a multitude of spirits not of visible beings but of spiritual awareness that went on
for hours and hours. Dan was returned to his robes by new faces with big smiles
and gentle hands and the actual meaning of the dance and ceremony were unknown
to Dan, but he knew he had witnessed a sacred bear dance and it would remain in
his memory forever.
The next morning Mary and her brother John were among the first to join
Dan with his morning bible reading. Thankfully he knew the Shoshone language
(the language spoken by these people) well enough to translate as he read because
the crowd was so silent, he could hear the movements of the children in the arms of
the mothers suckling and even those were not fussing or causing any disturbance.
If those in the cities back home could see this and grasp the magnitude of these
people, to say they were uncivilized would have a better understanding. The whole
village had respect for the great creator, respect for each other and most of all a
united effort with the laws of the village. It was common knowledge that everyone
still had his personal right to many things but always they respected the rights of
others. Dan grew to understand more than just the spoken words of the language,
he found a profound energy generated in these people.
As time went on Dan was able to join the outside fire pit without assistance
from others though Nuzzle was there to lean on if needed. He was weak and could
not move without a walking crutch, he did show a marked improvement each day
and others were quick to speak of it. If Dan set down his walking stick Nuzzle was
quick to grab it and wait for Dan to retrieve it. Ata had gave Dan many warnings
and continual support but did allow him the opportunity of building the strength
necessary to overcoming his weakness. The faster he gained strength the more
55
others grew closer and understanding he would one day be gone had caused many
to draw closer and ask for more intermit questions. Mary had shown a favoritism to
Dan that was so strong Jaw had wanted to know if there were more going on
between them than he knew about. No Jaw but I find her easy to my eyes and find
myself thinking more and more of her. The longer I am with the village the harder
it will be to continue my journey to the ocean. Even Shadow has found friends he
spends much of the day with and if I donβt start spending more time with her, she
will forget the things I have taught her.
You have learned much, my friend Jaw told Dan one afternoon while sitting
by the stream. The voice of the Raven the Magpie the Coyote and the chipmunk
have become a second language for you. The kite training of Shadow to pull the
kite has continued by my hand as you have instructed me to do so I think the day
of flight is drawing near. Chief Yogi has allowed me to use the meadow daily and
we have many braves who attend each day and offer encouragement to those
helping prepare for that day. You will be remembered for generations to come after
you move those enemies from our lands with fear and no deaths to our people. Jay
letβs just hope the flight of the kite goes as it has in the past with no problems and I
am strong enough to handle the situation. Dan Mary has expressed worries and has
had many dreams of your flight and John, her brother has spoken of you as if you
were the great creator himself. Dan, he has replaced his father in his mind with you
and he will be at a great loss when you leave the village unless you were to take
him and Mary with you. What has made you say that currently Jaw? I have
watched you Dan and I know you have eyes for her so why would I not see more?
I have said nothing to you are anyone else. Dan there are things said with the eyes
that are not heard by the ear but felt in the heart and it would certainly be good for
you to have a woman to warm your blankets at night and prepare your meals and
John may even teach you something if you allow it. Ata would be hurt beyond
words should I do as you say Jaw. Allow the God you worship to move your heart
as necessary Great Eagle.
The closer to Danβs flight the more excitement is created in the village and
the news has been carried to other villages and from those to more and like a secret
is has been kept by few. Dan continues to build muscles from swinging by robes
tied to the trees and he has been walking daily and swimming several times a
week. The more Dan works at it the more excitement is generated. Warriors have
made leggings for Dan to wear when in flight to make his feet look like the legs
and claws of an Eagle. Feathers to ware on his arms to hide them from below and
blend into the wings of the great bird. Dan has warned all to not approach the
56
enemy because he will find them from above and when he does, he will circle so
that all can know the location of the enemyβs village.
This morning is especially bright with sunshine and blue skies. The warmth
of the day is just starting to bring the birds to sing and the enthusiasm of all is
gaining in momentum as the day begins. John Maryβs brother runs up to Dan and is
panting and breathing hard he has excitement in his very being and is so trying to
tell Dan something, but his words come out so fast Dan must take him by both
shoulders and looking him in the eyes he says slow down John and speak to me so
that I can understand what you are saying. I went to your place of sleeping to talk
to you and I found Ata lying part way out of the door and in great pain. I rolled her
on to her back to speak but she was not fully aware of my presents, and I could not
get any sense out of her to know what happened.
Running back Dan finds Ata as John has described and as he kneels by her
side, he finds himself in a very un-familiar position and in his hurry and excitement
yells in tongues to the lord and with no outwards knowledge that no one
understands what he is saying. As he regains his composure, he asks for help in
putting her in the robes just in the doorway and he takes her hand in his and is
frantically looking for any signs of life. Ata Ata can you hear me Dan screams. Her
eyes open slowly, and she looks into Danβs eyes, and she says Dan I love you so
much I can’t stand it seeing you leave our village and that you may be taking Mary
with you has caused me to take my own life. No Dan says this must not be Ata the
whole Ute nation not just this village, depends upon your blessings and healing. I
cannot heal others Dan when I have such a heavy heart. Ata we are all seeds in a
great wilderness and we each mature and grow for a purpose some never learn
what that purpose is, but you know, and you have allowed others to learn and grow
and for you to take away from those who love and admire you would be a greater
loss than many could bare, and I am one of those.
What did you eat and what did you do to cause this Ata? I have eat of a plant
that has the power of life and death and I have chosen death while drinking of it. I
have ask my God for your life and I will pray and continually fast and pray for
your return to us. Now I would ask you to drink of something else if you would
please. Dan turns in the immediate area and sees a slop jar with fowl and smelly
things in it and he turns to her, and she drinks it down. Immediately she starts to
empty her stomach and very violently gives away her insides to the world. Thank
you, Father Dan whispers to himself this should be a big step in the right direction
and if you will guide me and bring her back to her health, I will be forever grateful
57
and, in your debt, as if I werenβt already. Covering her with several robes he makes
her as comfortable as possible.
Standing and looking down at Ata Jaw takes ahold of Dans arm just above
the elbow and says Dan we have a problem please come away from here. As they
walk away Jaw explains to Dan that runners have brought word of the advancing
enemy of great numbers that have been moving toward our village. We have many
times more than we had ever thought possible and our Chief has ask that we meet
now and talk about defending our village.
When Dan arrives at the counsel fire there are many other Chiefβs gathered
with Chief Yogi and they are in an excited state all wanting to speak at the same
time which is very unusual. As Dan enters all heads turn to him and they ask if he
can do anything to aid them. Runners have been sent all directions to and smoke
signals are in the ski as we speak telling of the coming war do you think you can
help us with the great kite at this time? A great gust of wind howls so loud it is
hard to hear. Dan says that will be my God telling us of his presents and with that
wind comes my faith in him that all will be as it should be. Please send word to
those in the meadow to prepare for my flight and as soon as we are finished here, I
will start our journey to our destiny.
As Chief Yogi I propose we allow the Great Eagle to show us the enemyβs
camp and we will rid the world of every one of them including the women and
children. We will repay the damage they have done to our people so be prepared to
act. Dan does not hear this because he is on his way to the meadow to prepare for
the flight after leaving instructions that Ata is not to be left alone and someone is to
be with her always giving her anything necessary for her recovery. Thinking it
over quickly Dan tells others standing there to find Mary and have her help Ata.
Upon arriving at meadow Dan finds Shadow with a new saddle and he looks
at it and asks Jaw where it came from. Jaw explains that the Utes have been
building saddles for generations the white man thought they were first and the only
ones. We have made saddles to allow our warriors to hang under the horseβs neck
and fight we have made saddles that weigh very little and does not burden the
horse so this one I built personally for this flight and the rope is tied securely to a
tree knot woven into the leather of the saddle giving it strength and little weight as
your saddle was very heavy.
As Dan prepared to get under the kite and into position to guide it, he
noticed that there were warriors on both sides with their war ponyβs painted and
58
the warriors had fierce war paint on from foot to head. Not wanting to take the time
to learn why this was done at this time he didnβt spend time asking but thought it
was unusual in the least.
Having put on the leg trim with the Eagle claws and pulled on the arm
coverings Dan signaled he was ready to go and the warriors on each side took
ahold of the edge of the kite and as Dan yelled go to Shadow those on each side on
horses held the kite from tipping so take off was only a matter of hanging on.
Obviously, this whole thing had been studied and everything necessary to help was
done. The wind was blowing, and Jaw had even lined them up so that Shadow was
to run downhill into the wind which at the time Dan didnβt realize how much that
helped his take off.
Dan went up like he was tied to the sun and went air born so fast he was
amazed it was possible. As he turned to look back over his shoulder, he could see
all those below were waving and he could hear the screams and yells as he
continued to climb above the meadow. Not knowing which way, the enemy camp
was Dan just allowed the kite to gain altitude and he circled as he climbed. It was
an if this was his destiny and he was paying and talking to God continually as he
knew this would be spoken in all counselβs wherever the Ute would assemble
regardless of the outcome.
The day could not have been better because there was not a cloud in the sky
and the visibility was as far as you can see. He looked back at the meadow and
those he could see looked like ants to him and he was thanking his father he had no
fear of falling and no doubt he would have a successful flight. Just watching the
hills and valleys smoke would be a tale to tell of the village he wanted to find. He
had seemed to have been up for hours and had gotten so high he had problems
breathing, the air was so thin. He thought of the fable of the man flying so close to
the sun the wax in his wings melted.
Dan could not get Ata off his mind what would happen if she were to die?
What would he do if he knew it was his fault that she wanted to take her own life?
The more Dan thought of this the more questions came to mind, and he finally
decided he must get his mind back on the issue facing him not behind him.
Dan guessed he could see for fifty miles or more and no sign of smoke or
any villages, so he was getting depressed, and worries started off what if he never
found them? What if and he caught himself as he finally determined that God
would provide what ever happened so forget all the junk and stay with the present.
59
Watching for anything to show him a sign his eyes were beginning to water,
and he was having trouble focusing on the horizon as he must. Dan was traveling
from one mountain to another and wondering how they could hide a full village.
Finally, just barely visible he sees a light haze in the far distance and as he glides
toward it realizes that it is the smoke he has been hoping to see. It is miles away
from the meadow and further than those on the ground would be able to travel in
hours. Dan circled and circled as was agreed when making the plans with Chief
Yogi so after many times around Dan pulled himself forward bringing the front of
the kite lower and causing it to dive toward the ground.
Dan came over the village with such speed that he barely had time to give
the scream of the Raven Kraah Brronk Prruk over and over Dans yells. climbing
beyond the village Dan climbed and then turned and made another dive toward the
center of the village where complete chaos was taking place. Dan realizes how
important choosing the raven was because these people are totally petrified by it.
Women were chasing children; dogs were barking men were on their knees
without a doubt praying. The horses pulled free of the restraints and were running
through the village knocking over teepees and kicking anything possible.
Campfires were being torn apart Dan was so close to the ground and almost flew
into a tall tree when he figured out, he was watching them more than he should and
had to pay attention to what was happening with the kite.
Knowing he had torn the village into complete ruin he turned to the lower
end of the valley and allowed his flight to gain height and was heading back to the
meadow which he knew was several mountains East of where he was, but the wind
was perfect and the time to return went past as the blink of an eye. Dan came over
to the valley and turned just like he had done this hundreds of times over and, he
really had done very few times.
When the kite came toward the meadow and was just off the ground many
people were right there to take ahold of the wings and help him stop gracefully.
Cheering and screaming was beyond imagination. Those who were there to help
were all smiles and graduations and the children were jumping up and down, all
was excited, and Dan could say nothing that could be heard above all the noise.
Dan could not walk back to the village, he was taken on the shoulders and
carried by so many that he felt beholding to them. Upon getting to the village
Nuzzle was first to be at his side pushing all out of the way getting to Dan and
jumping into his arms. Mary and John were on each side congratulating and
60
pounding on his back. Mary wanted to tell of Ata but with all the noise found it
impossible.
Food was everywhere and anything Dan wanted was brought to him without
hesitation. It was very humbling to be treated like this and he was not sure how he
should act toward it. How does one give thanks to those thanking him? After a few
minutes of dwelling on it, Dan dropped to his knees and gave thanks to the one he
knew allowed this to happen. It was not until the next day that he learned that when
the warriors got to the village it was empty except for all that had been taken from
the Utes when they were raided, many were left in cradle baskets and blankets
waiting for them. No sign of another man’s dog or horse, except the horses that had
been stolen, all the village had been left and all had just disappeared. No slaughter
happened because there was no one to challenge them, those that were left behind
were put on horses that could ride and those small ones were gathered and carried
home to be united with their families.
Danβs flight had scared the enemy so badly they had picked up and left
everything and just scattered into the forest leaving all behind. It would be many
years before the enemy would try to attack that village again. Dan had become a
legend and the Great Eagle would be known far and wide after the story was told.
Ata? gained back her strength both health and mental and was thought of as
a hero for her attending to Dan. His chair was left at the fire pit with his name
βDanβ on the back to remind all of his presence not just his legion of Great Eagle
but his personal character. Great Eagle would be told in song and dances for years
to come. The flight of the Crow was unimaginable of all that had been told of the
story because the crow was known to be a bird of wisdom and the black wings
were told to be death so choosing the crow was a symbol of both wisdom and
death. The fact that the enemy had left the village and left behind everything that
had been taken from the previous raid was proof to the Utes that the great creator
had granted their people much power and strength.
Every nation of Indians though out the Rocky Mountains told the story of
the great flight of the crow and as the story was told the Great Eagle became a
legend of such magnitude that most did indeed believed Dan to be a God on this
world. Dans travels to the Pacific Ocean would be told and retold to the point that
he had no fear of any enemyβs because they looked at him as a true God.
61
CHAPTER FIVE
FINDING THE PRINCESS
62
As the celebrations were slowing down and the days of honor and
humblingβs were shared and shown to all Dan was preparing for his departure from
the village and love of seeing the Pacific Ocean. He was playing with Nuzzle one
morning and as always training him in one thing or another. He had his friend a
growing wolf set up, staying on command, fetching things and he could hide
something and later just with hand commands have Nuzzle go find it watching
over his shoulder to see which way he should turn to go on the object. Dan had
even tied his hands together both in front and behind him and trained him to get
them undone without voice commands.
As he had been working the last few days, knowing he would be leaving,
Mary showed up each morning and asked Dan this or that and if he was going to
leave and not stop and say goodbye and she had a small tear in her eyes as she
spoke. Turning to her, Dan said we have grown very close, and I have often
thought of what it would be like if I were to ask you to join me but there are
several reasons that I held back.
Please tell me why you did not want me to be your partner in your future
life. Dan explained that the older he got the closer he became to his own creator,
and he did not know if she would accept his ways and give up her creator because
his God was a jealous God and Dan felt he needed to serve him only and was Mary
willing to join that belief? Why did you not give me the chance to tell you of my
own feelings on the subject Dan, I feel as though you did not want me for other
reasons.
What other reasons could I possibly have to not want you to join me, Mary?
Do you find me attractive? Yes of course, Dan said. Do you find me desirable to
join you in the robes at night? I can hardly think of anything else that would be
more pleasing to me and I dwell on that so much it is hard to full fill my
obligations to myself. All the time they were speaking Nuzzle was jumping up on
Maryβs legs trying for the attention. Looking down Dan said even Nuzzle has lost
tract of his master and turns to you for attention. Do you not care for the meals I
prepare for you? Yes, you seem to know exactly what I like and how to prepare it
for me. Mary said I am wondering what your God did to get your attention I have
not tried to carry out. Maybe she said I should push you off a high mountain and
see if the sudden stop would jar your head enough to see me Mary said.
Maybe Mary, it was just that I was afraid to ask for fear you would deny me,
and I would lose your friendship. What is friendship if you are not willing to share
your life with me Dan? Does your God not want you to be happy? No, Dan said
63
the Lord said he came to allow us to have a full life. Could you have a full life by
yourself with only Nuzzle to be by your side? I think it would work out if I were to
explain a few basic facts that would be necessary for us to join as one Mary.
Finally, after moons of being together and much time spent sharing
memories and being together, you are prepared to not continue our speaking
together. It should be a tall mountain to bring your memory to your eyes. Or all
white men ruddled with false values? What do you mean Mary? Ever sense the
first time I saw you I wanted to share your robes even after I felt you may pass on
to the next world, I was hoping for your recovery so we could get on with our lives
together. I felt the same way about you Mary, but we are from a different people
with a different lifestyle, and I have nothing to offer you that a woman could want.
What do you think a woman would want? Here you are just a young man who has
never had a woman that you have spoken of and yet you know what is necessary to
make one happy. I think Dan I could convince your God to give me a chance easier
than I can you.
Mary, I have said the wrong things and have not shared my deep thoughts
with you as I should have, and I am sorry I have been so slow in seeing what I
really need and want out of life. Please forgive me and from this day till we pass to
the other side I will promise to voice my ideas and share my thoughts. If you agree
we will speak with Chief Yogi and ask if he will unite us as one before our
departure. I would like us to be as one forever and ever.
Together they went to the Chiefs lodge and as they stepped in front of the
opening the Chief came out and with a big smile welcomed them to his lodge.
βWhat can I do for the two of you so that you can humble me with your presents,
he asks.β We would like to be joined as one Mary said. Well, itβs about time that is
what everyone in the village saw and hoped it would come to be. It took a tall and
big mountain to fall on me to open my eyes chief. A strong horse usually takes
more time to tame, the chief said. Notice he did not say a wise horse Dan said
under his breath.
The chief asks when they would like this occasion to happen. Turning to
each other, both spoke at the same time. Now they spoke in unity and boisterous
laughter followed by all three. I will prepare for this special occasion right now if
you will allow me to leave you. Great Eagle you must be prepared for this special
occasion, and you must know that to join with a princess of our nation has several
obligations that maybe you had not heard of.
64
In my mind my mate is a princess but what do you mean Chief when you
talk of her being a princess? Perhaps Nadeweide has not spoken of the heritage
with our people. Her father was the Chief of our Nation while I was a small boy
and I learned much from him. And her mother was the daughter of a great Chief of
our nation, so she is to be a great influence in our village and many other villages.
She did not tell me of this. For you to join lives with her you must fast for four
days and be in a sweat house for two days and spend one day praying to the great
creator. So, you have seven days of preparations not counting that while you are
preparing for this very special princess our leaders will have to admit you to our
councils, which in your situation will be granted for sure. So, allow me to start
those preparations. You must know Great Eagle that when you unite with a
princess you take on obligations as a leader. It takes a strong warrior to wed such a
great princess.
Dan made a great bend at the waste and throwing out his arm toward the
village said continue. With smiles from all Mary and Dan left to return to Dans
lodge along with Nuzzle that had not left their side all this time.
Mary, you did not tell me about your father or mother, why is that? Would
that have made you want me more? No of course not. Well then why would I
spend moments telling of something that was not important to our future? Our
children will know, and our childrenβs children will know, but for us we shall be as
one and my past is not going to have mattered. I must find Jaw and learn of these
things I am to do for I must get started as soon as possible for me to find my
happiness and our future together.
Jaw why did you not tell me of the importance of Mary and her family? Dan
you must know that when we came here you did not know her, and we had other
things much more important and as you had eyes for her it did not seem that I
should tell someone of your statue of another with great statue it just kind of fit
together like the sun and warmth. You both came together like it was not of this
world but created by another from above. Everyone in the village was hoping and
praying that the two would become one because who else would be strong enough
to ask for her? Great Eagle some things are just meant to be, and we should not
question what is meant to be.
We will have to go down by the creek and build a small shelter that we can
cover with mud and protect from the cold outside. I will show you how it is to be
done and it will have to be big enough to hold several who will want to join you in
this venture. I can have others help and you can go to the high hills and tell your
65
own creator and talk with him and ask for his leadership in guiding you and Mary
to your future lives together. You must spend from sunrise to sunset searching for
your God. That is not a problem for me as you know Jaw, I spend many hours
searching and talking with my God so this will be according to your customs.
The very next morning Dan took Nuzzle who went every morning with him
anyway, in fact it was a challenge to avoid taking him, so he was just a part of the
daily prayers. After climbing to the top of a mountain just West of the village Dan
got down on his knees and looking at the sky began his devotion to his father and
told of his surprise and ask for his blessings. Dan had begun his fast this morning
and would continue it as long as necessary to full fill his obligations but without a
doubt would be coming back for more prayer after the cleaning in the hot house
and before joining Mary for the wedding.
Let me tell of his words as they came from him: Dear Father you know all
you created all you know where my bones will lay you know when I started this
journey where I would end. Because you know and gave me free will to find my
travels, I would like to thank you for that which you have taken from me to make
me see the greater gifts that would replace those I lost. When you took my mother,
I thought the hollow in my world would never be replaced. When you took my
dad, I worried I could withstand the hurt never imagining you would replace those
with a partner and soul mate. It was beyond my vision, but you knew and provided
the void with a stronger and younger replacement. Never in all my imagination
would I dream of a maiden let alone a princess. The enemies that would do me
harm you protected my every move. You replaced a small family with a large
village of friends and now family. My Dreams were small at best, and I was
continent with little and you gave me much. I have soared with the eagles. I have
dined with the Chiefs, the greatest of leaders.
Dan went on with his prayers and as requested by tradition he spent the day
in prayer and returned to the village and was welcomed by a large crowd waiting
for his arrival. One of the first questions asked was what did you do with Nuzzle
while you prayed? Great Eagle told me that although he is still a puppy, he laid on
his belly with his head on his paws and slept through it all. Just maybe he was
talking to his god while I talked with mine.
The sweat lodge is completed, and the Chief would like to join us on this
first morning with your acceptance. Of course, Jaw we shall enjoy the heat together
and perhaps melt into one. I hope that donβt happen Great Eagle or Mary will not
be thrilled over that.
66
The next morning Dan got his firsthand knowledge of how a sweat box wore
a man out. The heat was almost more than Dan could stand, had it not been for
others he would have gotten out and never returned but he could not bear the
ridicule of leaving so he withstood the heat and stayed. Another thing he was not
sure if his climbing out of the sweat box would prevent his joining with Mary so he
promised himself he would die before he would leave this heat. Maybe that was the
thinking it took to allow him to continually absorb the heat, but he managed to fill
that obligation and complete this cleaning of the body all the way to the bones.
Well Great Eagle it looks like your future will be with a Ute Indian Princess
Jaw said as they were looking out over the village while walking with Nuzzle and
taking the opportunity of being alone again. I would never have expected such a
thing joining with a woman and then having her be a princess was not even in my
wildest imagination. I never thought she would give up her family here to join me
on my visions for travel. Well Great Eagle when a woman really cares for a man
she will go or do whatever is necessary to be with him that is proven in history.
Tomorrow night at this time you will be allowed to join her in the robes and
the ceremony teepee has been completed and is far enough away from others that
we will not have to hear her cry because you are not capable of satisfying her.
Brother judge me not by your experiences, I am sure my appetite for her will show
me to be the leader of the pack. I am sure I will be able to full fill my duties even
though I have never ventured on this trail before. I go to bed each night in a
blanket but I wake up in a tee pee so it should be an easy task to perform.
Great Eagle your imagination is limitless, but your pleasures shall be
limited, good luck my friend. Let us return to the village and I shall share you
humor with our friends, and I will strive to keep Nuzzle with me and not allow him
to be your excuse for failure with Mary. Jaw, you speak of my imagination when
you are in a mindless dark forest. The ants have eaten your thoughts and the
squirrels have buried what was left of them. When we return to your village Nuzzle
will weigh 200 pounds and have two of my sons riding upon his back. If you are
gone that long, I hope you can still see and are able to walk. Will you remember
me, that long Great Eagle?
As the sun rise touched the village the Chief and visitors who had been
called by runners of all directions to watch the Great Eagle joined with the Princess
of importance to start a new life together. Decorations were abundant everywhere
food was in colorful dishes everywhere you looked. The ladies wore the finest
dresses and had many colorful ornaments in their hair. The warriors were lined up
67
shoulder to shoulder and held ornaments of war to signify the strength of the
village in keeping rite secret. The children were allowed to watch at their mothersβ
feet and the old men were gave front seats at the foot of the many Chiefs.
Rare were the rituals of this size expressed so openly with so many in
attendance. Maryβs parents had been killed in the raid on the village, so she had
only her relatives to share her happiness, and many had traveled several days to
attend and watch this great event.
Danβs fame along with Maryβs famous family leadership had created a
celebration that was holy and respectful of those in attendance. The large crowd
was proof of this and with the added Chiefs of many villages the magnitude of the
joining was felt by all. The celebration started at sunrise with a prayer to all Gods
of the North, East, South and West and included the sun Gods and Gods Dan had
never heard of.
Dan did not lay eyes upon Mary the hole day through he wondered where
she was and when he would be with her. Finally, when he was to be united, he
stood at the head of the long line of family and friends and as he turned toward Jaw
to ask where Mary was, he looked and saw her approaching from between a long
line of women and she was walking with Chief Yogi.
Never in his wildest dreams was he prepared for what his eyes beheld. Mary
was dressed in a pure white leather dress with tassels across the bottom which was
at her knees. The tassels hung around the bottom and below were knee high boots
that were also white leather with bright stones on the front and black tassels
hanging from the tops of the boots. The top of the boots had a black belt
surrounding the boots with a silver edge giving the boots a breathtaking beauty.
The white leather dress was pulled tight across a very small set of hips with curves
that drew the eyes. Across the belly of this awesome creature was a black leather
belt which was mink perhaps, but the hide was short hair and jet black making the
dress a deeper white. The top of the dress and across her breast were turquoise of a
sky-blue color in a pattern of a sun surrounding a large bright red stone the size of
the palm of your hand. Maryβs hair hung down dark black as a Ravens wing.
Flashing with the darkness of night and yet bright as anything ever viewed. Upon
her ears were thin silver earrings shaped as the cross of Jesus which shown across
the distance to me.
Maryβs eyes were black as coal and her eye lashes longer than I had
remembered them. It took me several moments to breathe again; how could such
68
an incredibly beautiful women been kept away from others long enough for me to
meet and Mary such a princess. The rest of the ceremony could have gone on for
two days or two minutes I am not sure, and I cannot remember try as I will. I do
know that never in the world has any woman been entitled to wear white as she did
that day. Without a doubt there was not one person in the whole village that did not
envy me at that moment. The memory will last forever of that bright white dress
with that jet black hair and the smile of pure love.
The joining was a short part of the hole celebration which had continued all
day and as the sun set that evening Dan and Mary were taken by many to their
private location and with a jovial parting left to share their first time together alone.
After entering the lodge Dan pulled the flap down into the doorway and tied
it to prevent anyone entering without acknowledgement. As he turned to Mary, he
was suddenly aware of Nozzleβs howling and yapping at the entrance. He has
never been prevented from joining me and Jaw said he would keep him entertained
for a few days but Nuzzle must have found a way of avoiding him and snuck out to
find us and to be honest I am not sure it was me that he came looking for you seem
to have a great influence on him. Weβll let him in Dan, he will not tell anyone of
your ambitions or expectations and if you do not, he will stay out there and tell the
whole village of our pleasures.
Great one, mate, Dan, Great Eagle what do you wish me to call you from
this time on? Call me by the name my mother gave me, Dan, as you have. Dan, do
you know that now you are a part of this village and as such you are also a Ute
Indian accepted and a part of our family? I had not thought of that, but does it
matter? If you have not heard, you will be allowed to set in the healing and the
other medicine counsels. When the wise ones receive voices from the ones that
have gone on to another world you will be allowed to hear when they speak of
those voices. To my beliefs no white man has ever been allowed to attend these
counsels. Am I free to attend or is it my obligation to attend? Why do you ask me
this? Because part of what you are saying I do not want to attend I believe that my
God would not want me to receive this knowledge, or he would give it to me. That
would be a subject we could speak of but if we are to leave would it matter?
Dan, I have agreed with all you have offered and all that you have ask now I
would ask you something if I would take kindly if you were to grant me. What
would that be my special Princess? I would ask that we return as often as possible
to allow our friends and family to see us and that our children could unite with
their past friends. I would never decline you or my children anything that would
69
destroy that memory. It would be good if they should be with them often to
understand where they came from and always know of their beginnings.
Mary, as we grow together, I pray we will grow spiritually as well and
together I truly believe our travels will take us where God has planned for us to go.
Dan, you will father three sons and two daughters that will be strong and take us
through many trails and adventures in the future. How can you say this Mary, how
can you make such a statement? My mother had the gift, and her mother had the
gift so that we could see things that had not happened, but we knew they would be.
It is not easy for one who has never had the gift or been around one who has but
sometimes things just appear in my head, and I know they will be. How many
years have you had these dreams or whatever you call them? I have known of
things to be sense I was a little girl like I knew that you were to be my man even
before I saw you. I knew you were on your way and that you would be a strong
father and a great leader for me and my people.
Wow! Mary, this is going to take me a little time adjusting and coming to
grips with what I have learned. I will have to think I will have to pray and then
perhaps I will be able to understand and accept this as part of life. Can you look
into the future any time you want, or do they just appear in your sleep? I do not
know how to make them happen because I have never tried to bring them or maybe
I have not ask for them. I have spoken to my mother about these things, and she
has told me to accept them and not question the great creator or his ability to give
gifts to us.
Mary our God or creator as you call him tells us that anything we ask shall
be gave to us, but I knew not of this gift, and it is amazing that one could have such
an ability and to know these things could be a real problem if one thinks about it. If
I knew the enemy was waiting, I would not travel in that direction and if I never
met the enemy, I would not grow the strength to fight. Do you see we would avoid
the conflict and that would be what gave us the strength to fight. We grow strong
by problems and if we knew to avoid all problems that would be a problem. I can
get dizzy trying to think of the things that I should not even be aware of. Just on
the tip of the subject I think I would rather not know and be surprised than to know
and worry it was coming. But then I donβt have that option, so it is not something I
need to worry about. Tell me Mary, will my daughters be pretty like you? No
mother would say she was prettier than her daughters because she would see them
through the eyes of love not as a stranger would.
70
Tell me, is there anything else that you see that I should know of? Well only
that you are going to be used soon to find where our animals are located and where
we must go to hunt. I can see where that could be a gift to your people knowing
where to go and not have to hunt to find them. Also, the cold of the season is
coming on and we do not want to leave before the warmth of the summer is before
- Nuzzle will grow and be a help in our adventures also.
Dan, without your knowledge your mother named your sons. They will be
known by your names Adam will be the first son and he will grow strong; David
will be the second son and he will not be as large a man as Adam but will be
known for his strength. Last of all the sons will be Soloman and he will be wise
beyond most, and he will be a leader of men.
We will travel and you will save many people and our journey will be told
by many for years to come. The kite will only be a small story in your destiny, but
everyone will hear and tell others which will tell others and it shall be repeated for
many generations.
This is not the ending but the beginning of a great adventure.