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[ 25 ]
CHAPTER VI.
Description of the Learning [Religion & customs of
the Ohioans]
Learning appears to be so consonant to the nature of
man & [a good] convenient share of it so easy to obtain, that some
may wonder why it is not universally defused through the world:* [But]
If we can place any reliance on the dark annals of ancient history, it is a
certain fact that letters are indebted for their existence to the inventive
genius of certain extraordinary characters. Egypt & Chaldea contended for
the honor of being the first+ who invented letters. Perhaps they
were invented in each nation nearly at the same time. [But] let this
be as it may, could no other other nation in the world produce as great
geniuses as Egypt or Chaldea? Is there any natural obstacle to prevent their
production in America as well as in Asia? Whatever may be the reasonings of
some on this subject, the fact is, that I found [letters or] some
share of learning, though in a very imperfect state, among this people. At
present I shall wave the account of its introduction & shall merely
describe the state of learning as it existed among the Ohioans. They had
characters which represent words, & all compound words had each part
represented by its appropriate character. The variation of cases moods &
tenses was designated by certain marks placed under the character. They
generally wrote on parchment, & beginning at the right wrote from the top
to the bottom, placing each character directly under the preceding one, &
having finished one column or line they [begin the] wrote the next on
the left of that & so continue on until they cover the parchment if the
subject require it in a work
*But the wonder would cease when it
is considered that mankind with but few exceptions to walk in the tracts of
their fathers & pursue the road marked out by their education.
+ Though the most
probable conjecture is that they were communicated from one nation to the
other.
[ 26 ]
of considerable Labour & time to obtain such a knowledge of their characters &
and the application as to be able to read with fluency & to write with ease &
accuracy --
In their principal Cities & towns the
Government appoint learned men to instruct the sons of the higher class of
citizens & in the course of four or five years they will make such
proficiency as to become tolerable scholars.
The works of the learned are not very voluminous.
Records are kept of the transactions of their government. Their constitution
& laws are committed to writing, [A sacred roll in in manuscript is
preserved among the records of their emperors & kings] &
are dispersed throughout the empire, & much pains is taken to defuse the
knowledge of them among the people. In all their large towns & cities they
have deposited under the care of a priest a sacred roll, which contains the
tenets of their theology & a description of their religious ceremonies.
This order of men publish comments upon these sacred writings, they publish
some tracks on moral philosophy, & some containing a collection of proverbs
& the wise sayings of their sages.
But the kind of composition in which they most
excel is poetry. In poetic numbers they describe the great events, which take
place, & the exploits and mighty achievements of their heroes. In soft
elegies they paint the amours of lovers & in pathetic strains they
delineate the calamities & sorrows of the unfortunate. In their assemblies
it is very common for a certain class of the learned to entertain the company
with a repetition of poetic pieces describing the battle and exploits of their
warriors, or to sing some amorous or witty ballad. As for theaters they have
none, but as a kind of substitute there are actors, who entertain the people by
pronouncing dialogues or plays, in which they display all the arts of mimicry
& [act out the] express in their countenance their gesture &
the tone of their voices different
[ 27 ]
passions of the human mind. As only a small
proportion of the people are instructed in the arts of reading & writing,
of consequent the great mass, must possess a large share of ignorance, but not
so great a share as savages who have no learning among them. They head the
conversation & the lectures of their sages. [They are entertained
with] Their poetic orators entertain them with the productions of their
poets, containing the history of great events & mighty achievements. Their
actors divert and please them by exciting the various passions [at the same
time communicating instruction & correcting the natural savageness
of manners by] & as the pieces they rehearse contain many ideas
& sentiments tending to expose the deformity of vice, the folly of
superstition & the disgustfulness of rude & clownish manners, the
people of consequence are improved & considerably refined. Add to this
their living in compact towns or cities in which there is a constant and
reciprocal communication of ideas, which of course would have no small effect
to inform their minds. To all these causes combined the [Ohioans] the
great mass of the people are indebted for possessing a considerable share of
knowledge and civilization.
CHAPTER VII.
Religion
In every nation there is some kind of religion,
& in every religion, however adulterated & corrupted there are some
things which are commendable, some things which serve to improve the morals,
& influence mankind to conduct better than what they would do, provided
they pursued the natural dictates of their depraved minds, [without any
restraint]. As this sentiment is an established maxim, which has been
believed in every nation from the earliest ages [of time in every
nation.] Hence it has been the policy of all
[ 28 ]
governments to encourage
& protect some kind of religion and precepts in examining the religious
sentiments which are believed and practised throughout this extensive empire
& which are encouraged & protected by the government. I found some
things which are common to the various systems of theology in Europe & Asia
& some things which have no resemblance to either. From the sacred roll as
it is denominated I shall extract the tenets of their theology & a
description of their religious ceremonies. It expresses them to this effect.
“There is an intelligent omnipotent Being, who is self existented &
infinitely good & benevolent. Matter eternally existed. He put forth his
hand & formed it into such bodies as he pleased. He presides over the
universe & has a perfect knowledge of all things. From his own spiritual
substance he formed seven sons. These are his principal agents to manage the
affairs of his empire. He formed the bodies of men from matter into each body
he infused a particle of his own spiritual substance, in consequence of which
man in his first formation was inclined to benevolence & goodness. There is
also another great intelligent Being who is self existent & possessed of
great power but not of Omnipotence. He is filled with infinite malice against
the good Being & exerts all his subtlety & pow to ruin his works.
Seeing the happy situation of man he approached so near as to touch his soul
with his deleterious hand. The poison was immediately defused &
contaminated his passions & appetites. His reason and understanding
received no injury. The good being looking upon his unhappy offspring with
infinite love and compassion made a decree that if mankind would reduce their
passions & appetites under the government of reason he should enjoy
blessings in this world & be completely happy after his soul quits his
body. Death dissolves the connection. Ethereal bodies are prepared for the
souls of the righteous. These bodies can pass through any part of the universe
& are invisible to mortal eyes. Their place of residence is on a vast plain
which
[ 29 ]
is beautified with magnificent Buildings, with trees, fruits, &
flowers. [Here they enjoy every delight which] No imagination can
paint the delights, the felicity of the righteous. But the wicked are denied
ethereal bodies. Their souls naked and incapable of seeing light, dwell in
darkness & are tormented with the keenest anguish. Ages roll away & the
good being has compassion upon them. He permits them to take possession of
ethereal bodies and they arise quick to the abodes of delight & glory:
"Now O man attend to thy duty & thou shalt escape the portion of the
wicked & enjoy the delights of the righteous. Avoid all acts of cruelty to
man and beast* defraud not thy neighbor, nor suffer thy hands secretly to
convey his property from him. Preserve thy body from the contamination of lust,
& remember the seduction of thy neighbors wife would be a great crime.
[Let thy citizens be numbered once in two years , & if the young women,
who are fit for marriage are more numerous than the young men, then wealthy
men, who are young & who have but one wife, shall have the privilege, [with
the permission of the King] to marry another until the numbers of the single
young men & the single young women are made equal. But he that hath two
wives shall have a house provided for each, & he shall spend his time
equally with each one.] Be grateful for all favors & forsake not thy
friend in adversity. Treat with kindness & reverence thy parents. Forsake
them not in old age, nor let their cheeks be furrowed with tears for the want
of bread. Bow down thy head before the aged, treat thy superiors with respect,
& place thy rulers & thy teachers in the most honorable seats. Let
rulers consult the welfare of the people and not agrandige themselves by
oppression & base bribes. Let religious teachers walk in the road which
leads to celestial happiness & lead the people after them. Let Parents
restrain the vices of their children & instruct
* No crime is so horrid as
maliciously to destroy the life of man.
[ 30 ]
their minds in useful
knowledge. Contention and strife is the bane of families & the destruction
of domestic happiness. Being yoked together the husband and wife ought to draw
in the same direction, their countenances will then [appear beautiful]
shine with the efflugent beams of friendship, & love. Peace & harmony
will attend their habitation & their affairs will prosper."
"Hold out the hand of kindness and friendship
to thy neighbor, consider him when reduced to indigence & distress, he is
as dear to the great and good being as what thou art [& now thou hast
an opportunity to manifest the disposition of thy heart.] To afford him
relief will be pleasing to thy maker & an expression of thy gratitude.
Envious & malicious souls are almost incurably contaminated with that
hellish poison which first disordered the soul of man, partake not of their
guilt by joining them in the malignant work of slander & detraction. Their
intended mischief returns upon their own heads & the slandered character of
the innocent & just shines forth with increasing luster. Let the stranger
find a [ hospitable] resting place under thy roof, give him to eat
from thy portion, that when he departs he may bless thee & go on his way
rejoicing."
"Say not to thyself I will indulge in
inactivity & idleness & lie upon the bed of sloth & slumber away
the precious moments of time, for in this thou art unwise, for disease will
attend thee, hunger will torment thee, & Rags will be thy clothing. Let
industry & economy fill up the measure of thy waking moments, so shall thy
countenance display health and sprightliness plenty shall supply the wants of
thy family & thy reputation shall be respectable."
["But I behold a being in human form, from
whom I turn away with disgust and abhorrence He is covered with so much dirt
& filth, that no ethereal body is provided for him nor can he be received
into the abodes of the blessed."]
"Suffer not thy bodies or thy garments to
remain besmeared with dirt & filth. Cleanliness prevents many
[ 31 ]
deceases & is pleasant to the sight. But from a dirty filthy mortal we turn with
disgust & abhorrence. As the great author of our existence is benevolent to
all his offspring so it becomes us to be benevolent to our fellow beings around
us. Our country is one body & we are part of its members. We are therefore
bound to maintain the rights & privileges & the honor and dignity of
our country at the risk of our lives. Great rewards attend the brave &
their exploits & achievements in contending against tyrants & in
defending the rights of their country will be celebrated on the plains of
story. --
"But the vision now expands & directs our
contemplation to fix on his attributes, whose spiritual substance is
commensurate with infinity. As only a single particle from his substance
constitutes our souls, how small, how diminutive must we appear in the view of
Omniscience. We must therefore contemplate his attributes thro the medium of
his works & admire with profound reverence & adoration his wisdom
goodness and power which are visible in the formation & arrangement of all
material bodies & spiritual beings. He requires us to supplicate his
favors, & when received to express our gratitude. As our passions &
appetites often get the ascendants of reason. We are therefore bound to confess
our faults & implore forgiveness."
"Now that you know & keep all these things
which were made known by divine inspiration, it is ordained that on every
eighth day ye lay aside all unnecessary labor, that ye meet in covenant numbers
& form assemblies That in each assembly a learned holy man shall preside,
who shall lead your devotion, & explain this sacred roll & give you
such instruction as shall promote your happiness in this life & in the life
to come once in three months. Ye shall hold a great festival in every city
& towns & your priests shall sacrifice an elk as a token that your sins
deserve punishment, but that the divine mercy has banished them into shades of
forgetfulness.
[ 32 ]
Be attentive Oh man to the words of truth which have been
recorded & pay respect to all the commandments which have been written for
your observance. Your maker will then be pleased to see you rejoice in the
participation of his favors & to behold your faces brighten with the benign
beams of cheerfulness. --
AN ACCOUNT OF BASKA. [CHAP] VIII
Among the great & illustrious characters who
have appeared in the world in different ages as instructors & reformers of
mankind Baska is entitled to a conspicuous place. The place of his nativity is
not recorded. But the first notice which is given of him is his appearance at
the great city of Tolanga, which is situate on the Banks of the Siota River. He
was attended by his wife & two little sons. The fashion of their garments
were different from the natives. Their complexion likewise was a little whiter.
Baska was grave solemn and sedate, reserved in his conversation, but when he
spoke wisdom preceded from his lips & all were astonished at his eloquence.
His fame spread rapidly throughout city & country, & he was celebrated
as a man of the most brilliant & extraordinary talents. He was conducted to
the King & introduced to him. The King asked him from what country he came.
His reply was at a great distance from the westward. He then asked him induced
him to come into his country. He replied:
CAPT VIII
Perhaps Reader before we describe the government of
the Ohioans it might be proper to relax our minds with a few sketches of
Biography. The character which will best connect with the history of the
learning, religion & government of the Ohioans is that of the great &
illustrious Lobaska. He is the man, who first introduced
[ 33 ]
their present method
of writing, who first presented them the sacred roll which contains the tenets
& precepts of their religion, & who formed their political constitution
as it respects the connection of various kingdoms or tribes under one
government. There are many anecdotes, which tradition has handed down
respecting this extraordinary man which have the complexion of [the miraculous
& hence I conclude they must be fabulous] fables. [Such as] as for
instance he is represented as forming a curious machine & having seated
himself upon it he mounted into the atmosphere & ascended a great height,
& having sailed a considerable distance through the air he descended slowly
& received no damage, that multitudes of astonished spectators had a number
of times seen him perform this miraculous exploit, & that he declared that
when he took these excursions his extraordinary wisdom & knowledge was
communicated to him. If he did in fact perform such exploits no wonder that he
managed an ignorant people as he pleased. But as it is not my intention to
amuse my readers by a splendid relation of fables I shall confine myself to
facts which cannot be contested. The place of his nativity is not recorded. The
first account given of him was his appearance in the great city of Tolanga
which is situate on the Banks of the Siota River. When he entered that city he
was attended by his wife & four sons, the eldest of which was about
eighteen years of age. He himself appeared to be about forty. His personal
appearance was commanding, being of middling stature, of a bold frank
countenance & eyes lively and penetrating, In his general deportment he was
cheerful, yet displayed much sedateness & gravity. He was affable and
familiar in conversation but not loquacious. He never would converse long on
trifling subjects, had a wonderful facility to intermix some wise sayings &
remarks [that should improve] & of turning with dignity &
gracefulness the attention of the company to subjects that were important &
interesting -- None could
[ 34 ]
then withstand the energy of his reasoning, & all
were astonished at the ingenuity of his arguments & the great knowledge
& wisdom which he displayed. His fame spread throughout the city and
country & multitudes frequently assembled & importuned him to give them
instruction. Always cheerful to gratify the curiosity & comply with
reasonable requests of the multitude he entertained them by conversing with
them familiarly, & by exhibiting public discourses. All were charmed with
his wisdom & eloquence, & all united in pronouncing him to be the most
extraordinary man in existence & generally believed that he held
conversation with celestial beings, & always acted under the influence of
divine inspiration. The people were very liberal in their donations, which
enabled him to support his family in affluence. Having thus in a short time
established a character superior with respect to wisdom & eloquence to any
man who had ever appeared before him in the nation, he then, at an interview
which he held with the King & the chiefs, told them that he had invented
the art of expressing ideas by certain marks or characters, & having
explained the nature of the subject to their full satisfaction he then proposed
to establish a school for the instruction of the sons of the principal subjects
of the King. The proposal was received & accepted with much gratitude &
cheerfulness. A house was immediately prepared for the accommodation of
scholars & in a short time the numbers amounted to near two hundred. But
here it must be ob served that the art of making & applying the characters
to the words which they represented was taught principally by his sons. They
had all received an education from their father, & even the youngest, who
was but about eleven years old could read and write with great correctness
& facility. He superintended their instruction & very frequently gave
them lectures on scientific & moral subjects. His scholars made great
progress in learning, & delighted their parents with the improvements
[ 35 ]
they had made in literature civilization & refinement. He still continued to
associate among the people & was indefatigable in his labors to dispel
their ignorance, correct their superstition & vices to excite their
industry & to defuse a more accurate knowledge of the mechanical arts. The
manufacture of iron in particular was not known: this he taught a number by
showing them how to build a small furnace & to cast iron ware, & then
how to build a small forge & refine pigs and convert them into iron. He had
resided among the Sciotans about three years & the happy effects of his
labors were visible to all observers. A great reformation had taken place in
the morals & manners of the people, industry had increased, agriculture
& the mechanical arts had received great improvement, & houses were
built on a more commodious & elegant construction. But not willing to stop
here the benevolent mind of the great Lobaska meditated a more important
revolution, now the prosperous era had arrived & the way was prepared for
the introduction of that system of theology which is comprised in the Sacred
Roll. In the first place he read & explained the whole system to the king
& the chiefs of the nation, who cordially gave it their approbation &
gave permission to propagate it among the people. Under a pretence that this
system was revealed to him in several interviews which he had been permitted to
have with the second son of the great & good Being, the people did not long
hesitate, but received as sacred & divine truth every word which he taught
them. They forsook their old religion which was a confused [&
absurd] medley of Idolatry & superstitious nonsense & embraced a
religion more sublime & consistent, & more fraught with sentiments
which would promote the happiness of mankind in this world.
Whilst the Siotans were thus rapidly progressing in
their improvements they were unhappily disturbed by the certain prospect of
war. Bombal the king of the Kentucks, a nation which lived on the south side of
the
[ 36 ]
great River Ohio, had taken great umbrage against Hadokam the King of
Siota, This Bombal was the most haughty & powerful prince, who reigned in
this part of the western Continent. It had been the custom for several ages for
the king & chiefs of the Kentucks to have the exclusive right to wear, in
their caps a bunch of blue feathers, which designated their pre-eminence over
every nation. The Siotan princes envying them this distinguished honor &
considering themselves as being at least their equals assumed the liberty to
place bunches of blue feathers upon their caps. This in the opinion of the
Kentucks, was an unpardonable offence, if persisted in, & a most daring
insult upon their super-eminent dignity. [A messenger was
immediately.] After a solemn council was held with his chiefs, Bombal,
with their unanimous consent dispatched a messenger to Hadoram, who thus
proclaimed: "Thus saith Bombal the king of kings & the most mighty
prince on earth -- ye have insulted our honor & dignity in assuming blue
feathers, which was the badge of our preeminence. Know ye that unless ye tear
them from your caps, ye shall feel the weight of of our vengeance."
Hadoram replied, "tell your Master that a great company of wolves made an
attack upon a city to rob the citizens of their dear & elk. & they let
forth their dogs upon them, which attacked them with such fury & courage,
that they fled, mangled, & torn, to a most dreary swamp. Here by the most
plaintive howling, they lamented their sad disaster & disgrace."
An answer so shrewd & insulting, it was
expected would soon be followed by an invasion. Measures must immediately be
taken for the defence of the kingdom. Lobaska was invited to set in Council,
all were unanimously of opinion that to comply with the haughty demand of
Bombal, by tearing the blue feathers from their caps would be degrading the
honor of the nation and a relinquishment of their natural right. They were
likewise sensible that the most vigorous exertions were
[ 37 ]
necessary to save the
country from ruin. The opinion and advice of Lobaska, was requested, "It
is my opinion," says he, "that by using a little stratagem this war
might be brought to a conclusion which will be honorable to this kingdom."
We will pursue," says the King, "your advice & directions."
"I shall be happy," says Lobaska, "to assist you with my best
advice. Call immediately into the field an army of three thousand men, provide
two thousand shovels, five hundred mammoth-hooks, & one thousand
wheelbarrows was, & one hundred axes; I will give directions how to make
them." Not a moment was lost, the army was assembled and implements
provided with the utmost expedition, & they marched down the river to a
certain place where the army of the enemy must pass, in order to arrive at the
city of Tolanga. At this place the hill or mountain came within less than a
mile of the river & flat or level land intervened. Here Lobaska directed
that a canal should be dug from the river [to the river,] to the hill.
That it should be eight feet wide & eight deep & that the dirt which
they dug should be thrown into the river [that the canal] except what
should be wanting to lay over thin pieces of split timber, which should be
extended across the canal, & so weak and slender that the weight of a man
would break them down. This novel invention was soon carried into effect, &
the work completely finished. Every precaution was used to prevent, any
intelligence of these transactions from getting to the enemy. In the meantime
Hadokam brought into the field seven thousand and more of his warriors, men of
brave hearts and valiant for the battle. The indignant King of the Kentucks by
this time had assembled an army of thirty thousand men who were ready at the
risk of their lives to vindicate the pre-eminence of their nation and the
transcendent dignity of their king & his chiefs. [Had of this] At
the head of this army Bombal began his march to execute his threatened
vengeance on the Siotans. As he entered their country he found the villages
deserted & all the movable property
[ 38 ]
conveyed away. Not a man, [or
woman] to be seen until he came in view of the army of Hadokam, who was
encamped within a small distance of the Canal. Bombal halted and formed his men
in two ranks extending from the river to the hill. He had a reserved core, who
were placed in the rear of the main body. Having thus arranged them for battle,
he went from one wing to the other, proclaiming aloud, "we have been
insulted, brave soldiers, by these cowardly Siotans. They have assumed the blue
feather, the badge of our preeminence & exalted dignity. Behold it flying
in their caps, will your high born souls submit to behold such bastards place
themselves on equal ground with you. No my valiant warriors, let us revenge the
insult by the destruction of their puny army & the conflagration of their
city. Make a furious charge upon them, & the victory is ours. Let your
motto be the blue feather & you will fight like wolves robed of their
puppies." Hadoram had by this time formed his army in order of battle
close to the edge of the canal & extended them only in one rank from the
river to the hill. As the Kentucks approached within a small distance, the
Sciotans gave back & began a retreat with apparent confusion,
notwithstanding the pretended exertions of the King & his officers to
prevent their retreating. Bombal observing this commanded to rush forward on
the full run but to keep their ranks in order. This they instantly obeyed as
one man & as soon their feet stepped on the slender covering of the canal
it gave way & they fell to the bottom, some in one position and some in
another. A disaster so novel & unexpected must have appalled the stoutest
heart & filled their minds with amazement & terror. Nor did this
complete the misfortune of the army of Bombal, an ambush of of the Sciotans,
who lay on the side of the hill opposite to the reserved Corps of the Kentucks,
rushed down upon them in an instant. Surprise & terror prevented
resistance, they threw down their arms & surrendered. The retreating army
of Hadoram immediately returned
[ 39 ]
with shouting to the edge of the canal. Their
enemies, who but a moment before, thought themselves invincible & certain
of victory were now defenseless & wholly in their power. Lobaska was
present & saw the success of his stratagem his great soul disdained revenge
on an helpless & prostrate enemy, he conjured the Siotans not to shed one
drop of blood, but to be generous & merciful. Bombal had now recovered from
his surprise & seeing the deplorable situation of his army, his haughty
soul felt the keenest anguish. "Where," says he, "is the King of
the Siotans?" "Here I am," says Hadoram, "what is your
request my Brother?" "Reduced," says he, "by a Stratagem
the most ingenious & artful, to a situation which subjects us wholly under
your power, & in which you can take ample revenge. I now implore your
generosity & compassion for my army. Spare their lives, & then name
your terms & if I can comply with them, without degrading the honor of my
Crown, it shall be done." "Your request," says Hadoram, "is
granted. Surrender your arms & let your army return in peace. As for your
majesty, & the chiefs of your nation, who are present, you will give us the
pleasure of your company in our return to the city of Tolanga, & there we
will execute a treaty of peace & amity that shall be advantageous &
honorable to both nations." These terms were accepted & the Kentucks
returned in peace to their own country, not to describe exploit, & bloody
victories, but the curious stratagem of Lobaska. The two Kings & their
splendid retinue of princes, having arrived at Tolanga [every attention was
paid by Hodaram and his chiefs to their honorable visitors.] Hodaram made
a sumptuous entertainment at which all were present. The next day both parties
met for the purpose of agreeing to terms of peace & perpetual amity.
"What are your terms," says Bombal. "Lobaska," says
Hodaram, "shall be our
[ 40 ]
Arbitrator. He shall name the terms, his wisdom
will dictate nothing which will be dishonorable to either party."
"Your proposal," says Bombal, "is generous Lobaska shall be our
Arbitrator." Lobaska then rose. " Attend," says he, "to my
words ye princes of Siota & Kentuck. You have all derived your existence
from the great father of Spirits. You are his children & belong to his
great family. Why then have you thirsted for each others blood for the blood of
brethren, & [what has]what has produced this mighty war? A blue
feather, a badge of preeminence. It is pride, it is cursed ambition &
avarice which devastate the world & produce rivers of human blood, &
the wars which take place among nations generally originate from as trifling
causes as the blue feathers."
"Let this be [the first article of]
your treaty that any person may wear a blue feather in his cap, or any other
feather that he pleases. [Let this be second,] that the individuals of
each nation may carry on a commerce with each other, & that they shall be
protected in their persons and property. [Let this be the third,] that
I shall be at liberty to establish [a school or] schools in any part
of the domains of Kentuck & furnish them [such] instructors
[as I please.] That none shall be restrained from hearing our
instructions, & that we shall be patronized & protected by the King
& his chiefs. [Let this be the fourth], that perpetual peace &
amity shall remain between both nations. And as a pledge for the fulfillment of
these articles, on the part of the princes of Kentuck, that the eldest son of
the King & four sons of the principal Chiefs shall be left as hostages in
this city for [the term of] Term of three years." These terms met
the cordial approbation of both parties & were ratified in the most solemn
manner.
Thus happy, was the termination of the war,
about the blue feather, [having taken place] Lobaska proceeded with
indefatigable industry & perseverance in his benevolent scheme of
enlightening & reforming mankind.
And how happy would it be for mankind, if all wars
about as trifling causes as this, might terminate in the same way. The
benevolent mind of Lobaska soared
[ 41 ]
above trifles, viewing all mankind as
brothers & sisters he wished the happiness of all. Hence he made provision
in the treaty with the Kentucks for the introduction of schools [in
Kentuck] among them. This was the first step, which he foresaw would
introduce improvements in agriculture & the mechanical arts, produce a
reformation in their morals & religious principals & a happy revolution
in some part of their political institutions.
Bombal had become so captivated with Lobaska that
he solicited him to bear him company to his own dominions. He consented &
when he had arrived at the royal City of Gamba, which is situate on the River
Kentuck. He there pursued the same course which he had done at Tolanga &
his success answered his most sanguine expectations. The people were now
prepared for the introduction of a school. He returned back [to
Tolanga,] & sent his second son & three of the most forward
scholars of the Sciotans to establish a school at Gamba. [In the mean time
his intention was to make some amendments in the government of Sciota. But as
there were several Cities and a great number of villages, that acknowledged the
jurisdiction of the Sciotan King, which still were ignorant of the principles
& doctrines which he taught. He found it necessary to visit them & to
introduce instructors amongst them. In this work he was engaged about two
years, & the happy effect of his labors were now visible in various kinds
of improvements & in the reformation of manners, morals & religion. The
way was now prepared to introduce his system of government. The chiefs of the
nation were invited to attend a grand council at Tolanga. When they were met,
Lobaska rose, & presented them with the following constitution of
government.
[The king of Siota shall be stilled the Emperor
of Ohson & the King of Siota. His crown shall be hereditary in the oldest
male heir of his family. The cities & villages who now acknowledged his
jurisdiction or who may hereafter do it shall be entitled to protection from
the emperor -- If
[ 42 ]
invaded by an enemy he shall defend them with the force of the
empire, once every year the chiefs shall meet at Tolanga to make laws for the
good of the nation. ]
These young men having imbibed the spirit &
principles of the great preceptor, spared no exertions to instruct the scholars
& to defuse useful knowledge among the people. The happy effects of their
labors were visible in a short time. The people embraced the religion of
Lobaska & became more industrious & civilized. In their various
improvements in agriculture, the mechanical arts and literature they even
excelled the Sciotans & appeared to be as prosperous & flourishing.
Even Bombal himself declared that the termination of the war about the blue
feather, which at first appeared unfortunate yet as it occasioned such happy
effects among his people it gave him more satisfaction & pleasure than
[the reputation of being a great Conqueror] what he could have
received from the reputation of being a great conqueror.
CHAP. IX.
Government & money
The people who were denominated Ohioans were settled
on both sides of the river Ohio, & along the various branches of the river.
The settlements extended a great distance in the time of Lobaska, but how far
it is not mentioned. They lived in compact villages or towns. [We might
except the cities Tolanga on the river Sciota & Gamba on the river Kentuck.
These various villages or towns formed independent Soveranties, & were
governed by their respective chiefs.]
Excepting the cities of Tolanga & Gamba, whose
Kings claimed jurisdiction over an extent of country about one hundred &
fifty miles along the river Ohio & about the same distance back from the
river, the remaining
[ 43 ]
part of this extensive country was settled in compact
villages or towns. These formed independent sovereignties & were governed
by their respective Chiefs. Frequent bickerings, contentions and wars took
place among these Chiefs, which were often attended with pernicious
consequences. To remedy these evils & to facilitate & accomplish the
great & benevolent plan of reforming & civilizing the Ohioans, Lobaska
had formed a system of Government, with a design of establishing two great
empires, one on each side of the River Ohio. Their [different]
constitutions were on the same plan, & were presented by the hand of
Lobaska to the respective Kings of Sciota & Kentuck.
The Sciotan Constitution was comprised in the
words. The country east of the great river Ohio shall form the Empire of
Sciota. At the head of this empire shall be placed with the title of Emperor
Labarmock the oldest son of Lobaska. The office shall be hereditary in the
eldest male of his family. He and his sons successively shall marry natives of
the kingdom of Sciota, & all their daughters shall marry within their own
dominions. He shall have four counsellors. He with the advice of his
counsellors shall have the exclusive right of making war & peace & of
forming treaties with other nations. He shall be commander in chief of all the
forces, & the King of Sciota shall be next to him. All controversies
between the rulers of chiefs of the different tribes shall be referred to the
decision of him & his counsellors, & he is authorized to compel a
compliance. He shall hold his settings annually in four different parts of the
empire. The King of Sciota & the chiefs of the different tribes shall hold
their offices & exercise the same authority in civil matters that they have
done. They shall be amenable to the emperor & his counselors, whose duty it
shall be to enquire into all complaints against them from their subjects, &
to redress grievances & punish for oppression & injustice by fines. He
and his counsellors shall have the exclusive privilege of coining money -- They
may
[ 44 ]
likewise lay taxes for the support of government & for the defence of
the nation. They shall coin no more money than what is necessary for the
convenience of the people & in such quantity only that the value shall not
depreciate. He shall appoint the officers of his army, except where the chiefs
chose to command their own subjects, in that case they shall be subject to the
command of the Emperor. The people in every city, town or village shall
respectively chose one or more censors, whose duty it shall be to enquire into
all mal-conduct of rulers, & all vicious & improper conduct of the
priests & the people, & they shall pursue such measures to obtain
justice & to produce a reformation of morals in the offenders as the laws
shall direct.
In order that the priests & instructors of
learning may know and perform their duty for the benefit of civilization,
morality & religion, Lambon the third son of Lobaska shall preside over
them & shall have the title of High Priest, & the office shall be
hereditary in the eldest males of his family successively. There shall be
associated with him four priests as his assistants, they shall exercise a
jurisdiction over all the priests of the empire & shall see that they
faithfully perform the duties of their office. They shall attend to the
instructors of learning, & shall direct that a suitable number are provided
throughout the empire. It shall likewise be their duty at all suitable times
& places to instruct rulers & people in the duties of their respective
stations, & to labor incessantly to persuade mankind to subject their
passions & appetites under the government of reason, that they may secure
happiness to themselves in this life & immortal happiness beyond the grave.
The people shall make contributions, in proportion to their wealth for the
support of their priests. If any refuse, they shall be denied the privilege of
their instructions, & shall be subjected to the ridicule & contempt of
the people. For the convenience of the people & for the easy support of the
government, it is necessary that
[ 45 ]
there should be something which shall
represent property, & which is of small weight. It is therefore provided
that certain small pieces of iron stamped in a peculiar manner, shall be this
circulating medium, to represent property. Each piece according to its
particular stamp shall have a certain value fixed upon it. It shall be the
peculiar prerogative of the Emperor & his counselors to direct the coining
of these pieces, which shall be denominated money. No more money shall be
coined than what will be for the benefit of the empire. Nor shall the Emperor
or High Counsellors receive any more of it, than an adequate compensation for
their services. They shall keep an account of the amount of money coined
annually & the manner in which it has been distributed & expended. This
amount shall be submitted to the examination of the King of Siota & the
chiefs of the empire. The Emperor shall always be ready to receive the
petitions & complaints of his subjects. He shall consult the welfare of his
people & save them from oppression & tyranny, & by his beneficent
acts shall gain their affection & obtain the appellation of a just, a good
& gracious Prince.
When Hadoram king of Sciota had received this plan
of government, he immediately assembled all the chiefs or princes within his
kingdom Lobaska pointed out the defects of the existing government, & the
excellencies of that form which he presented for their acceptance. His reasons
could not be resisted, they unanimously agreed to establish it as their
constitution of Government. Labamack accepted the office of Emperor, & his
four Counsellors were appointed. Lambdon was ordained High Priest & his
four assistants chosen. The new government was now put in operation. The
various tribes living contiguous to the empire seeing its prosperity solicited
the privilege of being received as parts of the empire. Their requests were
granted. Improvement & prosperity attended them. This induced other
contiguous
[ 46 ]
Tribes to request the same privilege, & others still adjoining
them came forward with their petitions, all were granted & the same
regulations established in every part. Within about three years from the first
establishment of the empire Lobaska had the pleasure of seeing his son reign
over a territory of more than four hundred miles in length along the river
Ohio, & of beholding a nation rapidly progressing from a state of
barbarism, ignorance & wretchedness to a state of civilization knowledge
& prosperity.
Having now beheld the happy success of his
experiment at Sciota, Lobaska made a second visit to Banbo king of Kentuck. His
second son whose name was Hamback was present at the city of Gamba. His
youngest son Kato attended him. He made known his plan of revolution to Bambo
who cordially acquiesced, & calling together his princes. They unanimously
agreed to place Hamback on the throne of the empire south of the Ohio river,
& to ordain Kato as their high priest. With the exception of names and
places, the Constitution of government was the same as that which the Sciotans
adopted. The same measures were pursued to ensure its success. A great &
flourishing empire arose, & barbarous tribes connecting themselves with the
empire & under the fostering care of the government became civilized
wealthy & prosperous.
Thus within the term of twelve years from the
arrival of Lobaska at Tolanga, he had the satisfaction of beholding the great
& benevolent objects which he had in view accomplished. He still continued
his useful labors, & was the great Oracle of both empires. His advise &
sentiments were taken upon all important subjects, & no one ventured to
controvert his opinions -- He lived to behold the successful experiment of his
institutions -- & to see them acquire that strength & firmness as not
easily to be overthrown. Having acquired that renown & glory which are
beyond the reach of envy & which aspiring ambition would despair of
attaining. At the age of
[ 46 ]
eighty he bade an affectionate adieu to two empires
& left them to lament in tears his exit.
These two empires continued to progress in their
improvements & population & to rival each other in prosperity during
the reign of ten successive Emperors on the throne of Sciota. Peace &
harmony & a friendly intercourse existed between them. No wars took place
to disturb their tranquility except what arose from the surrounding savages,
who sometimes disturbed the frontiers in a hostile manner for the sake of
gaining plunder. But these attacks were generally repelled & defeated
without much loss of blood. They were in fact of such trifling consequence as
to make no perceptible impediment to prevent the population, improvement or
prosperity of both Empires, & happy thrice happy would it have been for
them, if they had still continued to have pursued the amiable & benevolent
principles which first marked the commencement & progress of their
institutions.
CHAT - X
Military arrangements. Amusements. Customs. Extent of the
Empire. Forts.
The customs and amusements of a nation evince the
state of society which exists among the people. When the two Empires of Sciota
& Kentuck had commenced their new career on the plan which was formed by
Lobaska, they adopted this as a true maxim, that to avoid war it was necessary
to be in constant preparation for it. It was the wise policy of the two
governments to make such military arrangements as never to be surprised by an
enemy unprepared. In every city, town & village the people were required to
provide military implements & to deposit them in a secure place. These
magazines were to contain a sufficient quantity of arms
[ 48 ]
to furnish every man
who should be destitute. [In order that every man might have sufficient
skill to use them to advantage, great pains was taken to prepare him by
teaching him the art of war.] The knowledge of military tactics as it was
then attainable, was likewise defused among the people. Young men from sixteen
to twenty years old, were required to take the field four times in each year,
& to spend sixteen days during each time in learning the military art &
in building fortifications. And every able bodied man was required to spend
eight days in each year in the same employment. In consequence of these
regulations a revelry existed among the different sections of the empires to
exceed each other in skill & dexterity in military maneuvers. Hence it was
a general custom in every part of the country for different bodies of men to
meet [to engage in feigned battles] once every year, in order to make
a display of their improvements in the art of war. Premiums were given to those
who were the most expert in shooting the arrow or in managing the spear &
the sword.
Their amusements were generally of the athletic
kind, calculated to improve their agility & strength, & prepare them
for warriors. Wrestling, slinging & throwing stones at marks, leaping
ditches, fences, climbing trees, and precipices were some of their most
favorite diversions. And as they took great pains to perfect themselves in
these exercises it would astonish spectators of other nations to observe the
improvement they had made in the extraordinary feats of agility & strength
which they exhibited. --
Other diversions, which had no tendency to fit them
for war, they seldom practised, except when in the company of women. Being
taught by their religion the social virtues they manifested a great regard for
the rights of the other sex & always treated them with attention, civility
& tenderness. Hence it was curious to observe that [when in the company
of women] they easily exchanged the [warriors] ruged [&
bold] attitude of the
[ 48 ]
bold warrior for the complasant
[&tender] deportment of the affectionate gallant. The amusements
which were pleasing to the female mind were equally pleasing to the men
whenever they held their social meetings for recreation. These meetings were
frequent among the younger class of citizens, whether married or single.
Various kinds of amusements would frequently be introduced at such times for
their mutual entertainment, but that which held the most conspicuous place was
dancing. But their manner of dancing was different from that of the polished
Europeans. Gracefulness and easy attitude were not so much studied in their
movements as sprightliness & agility. Those tunes which admitted the
greatest display of activity and sprightliness were generally the most
[pleasing &] fashionable. Hence those bodies were formed for the
quickest, if they kept time with the music were the most admired.
In small assemblies it was fashionable to amuse
themselves [with] at playing with pieces of parchment. This they
denominated the Bird Play. Each piece was of an oval form & of convenient
length & width, & on each is portrayed the likeness of a bird. All the
birds of Prey that came within their knowledge, have the honor of being
represented on these pieces of parchment . On the other pieces are portrayed
other birds of different kinds. The whole number of the pieces amount to about
sixty. These are promiscuously placed in a pack & dealt of to the company
of players whose number does not exceed six. The person then who has the
greatest number of carnivorous birds, by a dextrous management, may catch the
greatest number of the other birds & thus obtain the victory. --
During these interviews of the different sexes,
& even in their common intercourse with each other they are always very
cheerful & sociable & often display that fondness & familiarity,
which in Europe, would be considered indicative of a lascivious character -- but
in this country are considered as harmless, as what good
[ 50 ]
manners required. Nothing rude, nothing indecent or immodest according to their ideas
of the meaning of these terms, are admissible in company -- & absolute laciviousness \
would meet the most severe reprehension. --
When a young man wishes to settle himself in a
family state, he proclaims it by wearing a red feather in his cap. This is
considered as an admonition to the young women, who would not receive him for a
husband to avoid his company. Whereas those whose inclinations towards him are
more favorable admit his attention, from this number he selects one as the
object of his addresses. He obtains an interview & proposes a courtship. If
the proposition accords with her wishes, they then agree on a time, when he
shall make known the affair to her parents, whose approbation being obtained he
is then permitted to visit her ten times in sixty days. At the expiration of
this time, the bargain for matrimony must be finished. Otherwise there must be
a final termination or a postponement of the courtship for the term of one
year: [The parties are at liberty, during the postponement
to] But if the parties are pleased with each other, the contract is made
& the time for the performance of the nuptial ceremonies is appointed. An
entertainment is provided,, friends are invited, & the Bridegroom and Bride
present themselves in their best apparel. The company form a circle & they
take their stand in the center. The father of the Bride speaks, "For what
purpose do you present yourselves?" They answer, "To join hands in
wedlock. Our hearts are already joined & we have made a solemn covenant to
be true and faithful to each other." The company then all exclaim:
“Blessings will attend you, if ye fulfil, but curses if ye
transgress." They are then conducted to a log round which, a Rope is tied.
The Bridegroom takes hold of one end of the rope & the Bride the other,
& being commanded to draw the log into the house, they pull in opposite
directions with all their might. Having worried themselves for some time to no
purpose, to the great
[ 51 ]
diversion of the company, the parents of both parties
step forward, & giving them a severe reprimand command them to draw in the
same direction. They instantly obey, & the log is easily drawn to its
destined place. The rest of the time is spent with with great cheerfulness
& merriment. They partake of the entertainment & conclude with
customary amusements.
The Bridegroom & Bride are now desirous to form
a family by themselves. If there parents are of sufficient ability they furnish
them with a convenient house and such furniture as will be required for family
use & such other property as they need, to enable them to obtain a
comfortable living. But if their parents are poor they receive assistance and
contributions from relations & neighbors & are placed in such a
situation that with proper industry & economy, they can live above
indigence & enjoy life agreeably. At the time they enter their new
habitation, they are attended by a Priest & by their relation &
friends. They kneel in the center of the room, & the priest places his
right hand on the head of the Bridegroom & his left on the head of the
Bride. After explaining and enjoining in the most solemn manner, the various
duties of the marriage state he concludes his injunctions with these words:
"My dear children. I conjure you. [as you regard your own peace &
felicity, as you would wish to acquire wealth and respectability, & set an
example worthy of imitation, that as you are now yoked together] to draw
in the same direction." They then rise and he presents each with a piece
of Parchment on which is written. Draw in the same direction, all the duties of
the conjugal state, in their opinion, are comprised in this
[injunction] command.
[As the Priests & the Censors were
[vigilant & careful] to see that parents restrained the vices of their
children & instructed them in the knowledge of their religious principles,
the effects were very conspicuous parents]
Having been early taught to [restrain the]
govern their passions & to regard the practice of virtue as their
[ 52 ]
greatest
good, it was generally the case, that love, friendship & harmony existed in
families. [& when parents were treated by their children with great
tenderness & respect --] Parents manifested an anxious solicitude for
the future welfare & respectability of their children, & in their turn
children treated their parents with respect & reverence. Nor did they
forsake them in old age, but provided liberally for their support. But we are
not to suppose that in the most virtuous age of the nation, all were virtuous.
Far from this. But with such punctual exactness were the laws executed, in the
most prosperous state of the nation, that vice & impiety had but few
advocates & the wicked were ashamed of their own characters. Though every
vice was prohibited by law, yet the penalties were not severe. Murder alone was
punished with death, with respect to other laws, they were calculated to wound
the pride of & ambition of the transgressor, & produce shame &
regret
Adultery is punished by obliging the culprit to
were a pair of Elk-horns on his shoulders six days & to walk through the
city or village once each day, at which times the boys are at liberty to pelt
him with rotten eggs. The thief is compelled to make ample restitution. For the
third offence he is covered with tar & feathers & exhibited as a
spectacle for laughter & ridicule. Pugilists or boxers, if they are equally
to blame for fighting are yoked together at least one day, & in this
situation are presented to the view of the multitude. They must were the yoke
until the quarrel is settled. Such being the nature of their penal laws &
such the punctuality of executing the penalties on offenders, that crimes were
far less frequent in this country than in Europe where the laws are more
severe, & offenders more often escape punishment. Tho' learning,
civilization & refinement had not arrived to that state of perfection in
which they exist in a great part of the Roman Empire, yet the two Empires of
Sciota & Kentuck during their
[ 53 ]
long period of peace & prosperity were
not less happy. As luxury & extravagance were scarcely known to exist,
especially among the common people, [an happy equality was] hence
there was a great similarity in their manner of living, their dress, their
habits & manners. Pride was not bloated & puffed up with enormous
wealth. Nor had envy fuel to inflame her hatred & malice. As the two
empires were not displeased with each others prosperity & happiness,
[& the two governments had no thirst] nor jealous of each others
power, & as the governments were not infected with thirst for conquest
peace of consequence waved her olive branch & the maligned passions lay
dormant. As avarice & corruption did not contaminate the ruling powers nor
bribery infect the seats of justice the people felt secure in the enjoyment of
their rights, & desirous to raise up families to partake of the same
blessings which they enjoyed. --
We can now trace the causes of their increase &
prosperity. To a religion, which presented powerful motives to restrain vice
& impiety, & encourage virtue. To the diffusion of a competent share of
learning & knowledge to enable the people to understand their rights &
enjoy the pleasures of social intercourse. To the establishment of political
institutions, which guarded property & life against oppression injustice
& tyranny, to the knowledge which the people obtained of agriculture &
the mechanical arts & their habits of industry & economy. To the mild
nature of their laws & the certainty of executing the penalties upon
transgressors, and to such an equality of property as to prevent the pride of
wealth & the extravagance of luxury. To such causes may be ascribed the
rapid increase of population & the contentment & felicity which
extended throughouy every of the country. We might add likewise the long peace
that continued & the friendly intercourse that existed between the two
rival Empires. A peace which had no interruption for the term of near five
hundred years. During this time their vilages & cities were greatly
enlarged -- new settlements
[ 53 ]
were formed in every part of the country which had
not been inhabited, & a vast number of towns were built, which rivaled as
to number of inhabitants, those which existed at the time their imperial
governments were founded. Their settlements extended the whole length of the
great river Ohio to its confluence with the Mississippi, & over the whole
country on both sides of the Ohio river, which are watered by streams which
empty into it. And also along the great Lakes of Eri & Michigan & even
some settlements were formed in some part of the country which borders on Lake
Ontario. Such was the vast extent of the country which they inhabited, &
such the fertility of the soil that many millions were easily fed &
supported with such a plenty & competence of provision, as was necessary
for their comfort and happiness.
During the time of their rising greatness &
tranquility their policy led them to fortify their country in every part, the
interior as well as the frontiers. This they did partly for their own safety,
provided a war should take place & they should be invaded by an enemy,
& partly to keep alive [a military] & improve a warlike spirit
& the knowledge of military tactics. Near every village or city they
constructed forts or fortifications. Those were generally of an oval form &
of different dimensions according to the number of inhabitants who lived in the
town. The Ramparts or walls, were formed of dirt which was taken in front of
the fort. A deep canal or trench would likewise be formed. This would still
increase the difficulty of surmounting the walls in front. In addition to this
they inserted a piece of timber on the top of the ramparts. These pieces were
about seven feet in length from the ground to top which was sharpened. The
distance between each piece was about six inches through which they could shoot
their arrows against an enemy. Some of their fortifications have two Ramparts,
which run paralel with each other built in the same manner, with a distance
between of about
[ 55 ]
two or three perches. Their Gates are strong & well
constructed for defence. Within these forts are likewise a number of small
houses for the accommodation of the army & inhabitants in case of an
invasion, & likewise a storehouse for the reception of provision &
arms, A country thus fortified, containing so many million of inhabitants,
hardy & robust & with habits formed for war, might well be supposed as
able to defend themselves against an invading enemy. If they were beat from the
frontier, they could still retreat back to the fortifications in the interior
& their make a successful stand. But what avails all the wisdom, the art
& the works of men. What avails their valor, their strength & numbers
when the Almighty is provoked to chastise them & to execute his vengeance
in their overthrow & destruction --
CHAT. XI --
As the Sciotans & Kentucks had maintained with
each other an interrupted peace and friendly intercourse for the space of four
hundred & eighty years, it seems almost incredible, that a cause, which was
of no great importance to either nation, should excite their resentment against
each other & produce all the horrors of war. But such were the unhappy
effects of an affair, which had no regard to a single person, except the
imperial families of the two empires & the King of Sciota.
As these families were descended from the great
Lobaska, they had, during the reigns of all their emperors been in the habit of
visiting each other, but as each emperor & his children were required not
to marry out of their respective dominions, no intermarriages had taken place.
They however claimed relationship & still continued to each other, the
appellation of our dearest & best beloved cousin. A cousin of this
description, who was the eldest son of Hamboon
[ 56 ]
the Emperor of Kentuck arrived
at the city of Talanga with a small but splendid retinue of friends. At that
time Rambock, who was the fourteenth emperor, was siting on the throne of
Siota. He received the young prince with apparent sensations of the highest
pleasure & spared no pains to manifest towards him by his treatment the
greatest esteem and friendship. The Emperor had an only son, whose name was
Moonrod. He ordered him to attend the young prince & to treat him with
every thouht of affection & honor. They spent their time in receiving
visits from the officers of the government, in viewing curiosities, & in
the assemblies of the first class of young citizens who met for recreation.
Elseon, for this was the name of the young prince, was, soon after his rival,
introduced to Lamesa, the eldest daughter of the Emperor. She was a young lady
of a very fair and beautiful countenance. Her features & the construction
of her person, were formed to please the fancy, whilst the ease, the
gracefulness & modesty of her deportment were very pleasing to all her
acquaintance. Her mind was replenished with the principles of knowledge &
virtue, & such was her vivacity & the ease with which she expressed her
ideas, that all were delighted with her conversation. No wonder that this fair
imperial damsel attracted the attention of Elsion, & at their first
interview, enkindled a spark in his bosom, which he could hardly prevent from
being discovered through his blushing countenance & the embarrassment he
felt in conversation. He strove to erase those tender impressions which she had
made on his heart, but in vain. Every renewed interview only served to fix her
image deeper in his mind, & to make the flame of love more difficult to
extinguish. He reasoned on the obstacles in the way of obtaining this young
lady for his partner, but instead of cooling it only increased the ardor of his
passion & produced a resolution, that with the consent of Lamesa, nothing
should prevent the attainment of his wishes. To a mind thus ardent, which
possessed the native courage
[ 57 ]
resolution & perseverance of Elseon, the most
gigantic obstacles would vanish into vapor. Nor was it long before he found
that a correspondent passion was existed in her breast. The moment she first
saw him her heart palpitated, her face was covered with crimson. She turned her
eyes & attempted to speak, her tongue stopped its motion in the middle of a
period. She hummed, sat down & observed that she was not well. A
description of this scene is painted by a Sciotan Bard in poetic numbers, he
represents the young lady as recovering in a short time from this state of
agitation & confusion & as being afterwards composed, & of having a
better command of her passions. To follow this Poet in the description which he
gives of Elsion, to whom he attaches a countenance & figure, superior to
other mortals, & qualities which produced universal esteem &
admiration, would not comport with the faithful page of history. Suffice it to
say that Lamesa was captivated with his person, & was impressed with those
ideas & sentiments, that her happiness fled, except when she either enjoyed
or anticipated his company. After Elsion had firmly determined to marry Lamesa
he was impatient for a private interview with her to disclose his sentiments.
This occurred in a short time. They were together in one of apartments of the
Emperors palace, the company had all retired. "I have," said he in a
low voice to Lamesa, "conceived that opinion of you, that I hope you will
not be displeased if I express my feelings with frankness &
sincerity." "You must," she replied, "be the best judge of
what is proper for you to express. I am always pleased with sincerity."
"As the sun," says he, "my dear Lamesa, when he rises with his
radiant beams dispels the clouds of anxiety which rest upon my soul. The Crown
of Kentuck will be like a rock upon my head, unless you will condescend to
share with me the glory & felicity of my reign. Will you consent to be my
dearest friend & companion for life? There is
[ 58 ]
nothing,"
she replies, "would give me more pleasure than a compliance with your
request, provided it shall meet the approbation of my father. But how can he
consent, when our Constitution requires that his daughters should marry in his
own dominions? Besides my father intends that I shall receive the King of
Sciota for my husband." "By performing," says he, "the
ceremonies of Marriage at Tolanga we shall literally comply with the imperial
constitution, as Talanga is within the dominions of your father. But as for
this King of Sciota do you sincerely wish to have him for a husband?"
"No," she quickly speaks, anger sparkled in her eyes. "No! The
King of Sciota for my husband! His pride, his haughtiness, the pomposity of all
his movements, excite my perfect disgust. I should as leave be yoked to a
porcupine."
These lovers, as you may well conjecture, said many
things too tender & endearing to please the taste of the common class of
lovers. In this interview, which lasted about four hours, they exchanged the
most transporting expressions of love, made the most solemn vows of sincerity
& perpetual friendship, & finally agreed that Elseon should make known
to the Emperor their mutual desire to be joined in wedlock. The next day he
wrote to the Emperor as follows:
"May it please your most excellent Majesty.
Permit me to express my most sincere gratitude for the high favors & honor
which through the beneficence of your majesty, I have enjoyed in your
dominions. I am likewise impelled to request a favor which to me would be the
most precious gift that is in the power of your majesty to bestow. Having
contracted an acquaintance with your most amiable daughter Lamesa & finding
that a correspondent affection and esteem exist in our hearts towards each
other & a mutual desire to be united by the solemn covenant of marriage, I
would therefore solicit your majesty's permission, that such a connection
[ 59 ]
may be formed. -- Such a connection, I conceive, may in its effects be very
salutary & beneficial to both Empires. It will unite the two imperial
families nearer in the bond of consanguinity & fix upon them an additional
obligation to cultivate friendship, peace & amiable intercourse. It will
strengthen the sinews of both governments & promote an happy interchange of
friendly offices. As to the objection which might arise from the constitution
requiring, that the Emperors daughters should marry in his own dominions. This
according to its literal meaning can have no respect only to the place where
the Emperors Daughters shall marry. If by your Majesties permission I should
marry your daughter Lamesa, in your dominions it will be a literal fulfillment
of the constitution. From this ground therefore I conceive no objection of any
weight can arise. Will your majesty please to vouchsafe an answer to my
request.
Signed. Elseon, Prince of Kentuck.
This letter was presented to the Emperor by Helicon
an intimate friend of Elseon. The Emperor read it, assumed the aspect of deep
consideration. walked the room a few moments, then took a seat & told
Helicon that he might inform the young prince that he should receive an answer
within ten days. --
But why ten days? A long time for two ardent Lovers
to remain in suspense. But the Emperor must consult his Counsellors, his
priests, & the last & most fatal counsellor of all the King of Sciota,
who presumed to claim the hand of the fair Lamesa. The affair became public.
The popular sentiment at first favored the connection. The Emperors Counsellors
& his priests were at first inclined to recommend an affirmative answer.
But the interest of the Sciotan King soon prevailed. This produced a different
view of the subject. The counsellors perceived that such a connection would be
a most flagrant violation of the true meaning & spirit of the constitution
& the Priests considered that it would be
[ 60 ]
an act of the greatest impiety,
as it would transgress an explicit injunction of the great founder of their
government & religion. This opinion had vast weight on the minds of a great
majority of the people. The more liberal sort vindicated the cause of Elseon.
This produced a great debate, altercation & confusion throughout the city.
All were anxious to know the Emperors decision.
On the tenth day the Emperor transmitted to the
prince the following answer to his letter --
" To our best beloved Cousin Elseon, Prince of
Kentuck. The letter we received from your Highness has impressed our hearts
with a deep sense of the honor & benefits which you intended our family
& empire. At first we were inclined to accept of the alliance you proposed.
But having considered the subject with great seriousness & attention we
find that to admit your Highness, who is not a citizen of our empire, to marry
into our family, would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning and
spirit of our Constitution & an impious outrage on the sacred memory of its
founder. For these reasons we must solicit your Highness, not to insist on our
compliance with your request.
Signed Hambock Emperor of Sciota.
As Elseon had been informed of the complexion which
his affairs had assumed in the court & throughout the city he was prepared
for the answer which he received. Without manifesting the least chagrin or
resentment, he appeared to acquiesce in the decision of the Emperor. He
displayed in his countenance, his conversation & deportment his usual
cheerfulness & vivacity. He continued his amusements, & associated with
company with the same ease, gracefulness and dignified conduct which he had
done before. At the same time his determination was fixed to transport the fair
Lamesa into his fathers dominions. The first interview which he had with her
after he received the Emperors letter, he informed
[ 61 ]
her of its contents. She
trembled, paleness began to cover her face & had not Elseon received her
into his arms, perhaps she would have fallen from her seat. However by a few
soothing words & caresses, she was restored to her former composure &
recollection. "Believe me," quote he, "my dearest Lamesa, you
shall be mine. This heart shall be taken from my bosom & these limbs from
my body, nothing else shall prevent our union & complete enjoyment of
happiness. Can the ancient scribbling of a great Sage or the decree of an
Emperor prevent the streams from uniting with the ocean with the same ease
& propriety can they prevent the union of our hands since our hearts are
united. With your consent, you shall be mine!" Is it possible," she
replies, "is it possible? Oh Elseon, to disregard the authority of an
indulgent & beloved parent & disobey his command. This I never
did." "What if he should command you," says Elseon, "to
marry the King of Siota, would you obey." "He might," she
replies, "with more regard to my happiness command me to plunge a dagger
into my heart -- I cannot endure that supercilious bundle of pride &
affectation.
At this moment her maid entered the room & gave
her a letter. "I received this letter," she says, "from your
brother, who told me it was from the Emperor." Lamesa opened the letter
& read --
"My dearest & best beloved daughter.
Having the most tender & affectionate regard for your future welfare &
felicity we have concluded a treaty of marriage between you and Sambal the King
of Sciota. This alliance will be honorable to our family, & be productive
of many benefits to the Empire. On the tenth day from this time the nuptial
ceremonies will be consummated in our Palace. You will be in readiness &
yield a cheerful compliance with our will.
Signed, Rambock, Em. of Sciota.
Had the lightning flashed from the clouds &
pierced
[ 62 ]
her heart, it could not have produced a more instantaneous effect. She
fell into the arms of Elseon, the maid ran for a cordial, Elseon rubbed her
temples & hands & loosened the girdle about her waist. Within about an
hour the blood began to circulate. Elseon to his inexpressible joy felt her
pulse beginning to beat & perceived flashes of color in her face. With a
plaintive groan she opened her eyes once more to the beams of day, & in a
kind of wild distraction exclaimed: "Oh cruel cruel Father, why have you
doomed your daughter to a situation the most odious & disgustful. As well
might you have thrown her into a den of porcupines, opossums & serpents.
With such animals I could enjoy life with less disgust & torment, than with
this mighty King of Sciota. An alliance with him an honor to our family, an
honor to the descendents of the great Lobasca! What wicked counsellors have
deceived my father & induced him to throw me into the arms of this hateful
monster. Oh whether shall I fly & escape my barbarious destiny."
"I am your protector," says Elseon, "I am your friend & will
conduct you beyond the loving & gigantic grasp of Sambal." His
loathsome arms shall never encircle my dear Lamesa. Consent to my request &
we will be within ten days at the city of Gamba. There you will be esteemed as
the brightest ornament of my Fathers Empire.
"No longer," she replies, "Oh Elseon
can I refuse my consent to your proposal. When a compliance with my fathers
command will entail wretchedness & misery throughout life. Heaven will
pardon my disobedience. Yes Elseon I will go with you, & place my happiness
in your power. I would share with you the worst of fortune, rather than fall
into the hands of this haughty Sambal." [What could she say more, to
express the feelings of a heart struggling under the operation of different
passions & opposite motives. She has taken her resolution. Love has gained
the preeminence over every obstacle.]
[At this resolution Elseon was transported with
joy.
[ 63 ]
He now proceeds to form his plans for their flight. On the fourth
day after he called upon the Emperor & requested his permission to depart
to his own country. The Emperor importuned him to tarry & be one of the
guests at Lamesa's wedding. But he declined by urging as his apology the
anxiety & impatience of his father for his return. -- Permission was granted
& the Emperor added that he should do himself the honor to furnish the
Prince with an escort when he left the City. Elseon replied that he was not
fond of much parade, he would wish the escort might consist of the
Emperor’s children only with each of them a friend. These says he
are my dearest & best beloved cousins, for whom I shall ever retain the
most sincere friendship. Nothing can afford me more pleasure says the Emperor
than to comply with your request. Elseon took an affectionate leave of the
Emperor & on the second day after, being prepared for his journey, he sat
off with his three friends and their servants. Moonrod, prince of the empire
& Lamesa, with her two sisters. With each of them a friend attended him on
the journey about twenty miles. They all tarried at a viliage over night --]
Imagination alone can paint the pleasant &
happy scene. Elseon was transported with joy. He pressed her to his bosom with
all the ardor of enthusiasm & she yielded to all his tender & innocent
embraces, with a grateful sensibility & modest resignation.
The invention & ingenuity of Elseon must now be
employed in forming a plan of their flight to his fathers dominions. As he
appeared to acquiesce in the decision of the emperor & had maintained the
same cheerful deportment none were suspicious of his designs. The Emperor &
the whole Court, still manifested toward him every token of high respect &
sincere friendship. Without any hesitation the Emperor cheerfully complied with
his request, that his dear cousin, the son and the three daughters of the
Emperor, with each of them a friend, should accompany him about twenty miles,
on his return to Kentuck -- The retinue of the young Prince
[ 64 ]
consisted of four of
his most intimate friends & other servants. He took care to send their
baggage on by two servants one day before they set out. The morning arrived,
the sun shone with radiant splendor, not a cloud intervened or was seen to
float in the atmosphere. It was the fourth day after Lamesa had received the
letter which doomed her to the embraces of Sambal. The Emperor, his
counsellors, his priests & principal officers assembled, & having
invited the young prince & his friends to meet them, they entered the
circle with great ceremony. The Emperor then addressed the Young Prince,
thanked him for the honor of his visit & expressed his firm determination
to maintain a sincere friendship & an inviolable peace with the government
of Kentuck. Elseon replied that these sentiments would meet the cordial
approbation of his father who retained the same sentiments of friendship &
peace towards the government of Siota. He then thanked the Emperor & whole
assembly for the high respect they had shown him. This was done with that
frankness & apparent sincerity that the whole assembly were highly pleased.
The Emperor then embraced him & gave him his blessing. Customary ceremonies
were mutually exchanged by the whole company, & even tears were seen to
drop from every eye.
As the whole of this parade indicates no flight of
Elseon & Lamesa, we might now view them, with their select company of
friends setting out on a short journey. All mounted on horses, they rode about
twenty miles to a village were they halted. An elegant supper was provided.
They were cheerful & sociable, none appeared more so than Elseon &
Lamesa. The next day Elseon requested the company of his dear cousins a short
distance on his journey. When they had rode about two miles they halted &
proposed to take their leave of each other. Lamesa & her friend without
being perceived by the company rode on. It was a place where the road turned
& by riding one rod they could not be seen. The
[ 65 ]
rest of the company entered
into a short conversation & passed invitations for reciprocal visits &
friendly office. They then clasped each others hands, & bowing very low
took an affectionate farewell. But where are Lamesa & her friend? During
these ceremonies their horses moved with uncommon swiftness, her heart
palpitates with an apprehension that she might be overtaken by her brother. But
now a friend more dear, her beloved Elseon, with his companions, outstrip the
wind in their speed, & within one hour & half they overtake these
fearful damsels. They all precipitate their course casting their eyes back
every moment to her pursuers. But pursuers had not sufficient time to overtake
them. They safely arrive on the bank of the great river. Elseon & Lamesa
were the first that entered the boat, the rest followed. Such was Elseon’s
engagement & anxiety to secure his fair prize, that he even seized an oar,
& used it with great strength & dexterity. As their feet stepped on the
opposite shore. Elseon clasped his hands & spoke aloud: "Lamesa is
mine; She is now beyond the grasp of a pompous tyrant & the control of a
father, whose mind is blinded by the sordid advice of a menial junto of
counsellors & priests. She is mine, & shall so on be the princes of
Kentuck." Their movement is slow throughout the remaining part of the
journey. They at length arrive at the great City of Gamba. We may now
contemplate them as having new scenes to pass trough. Not to delineate the
parade which was made at the court of Hamboon, for the reception of his Son,
Lamesa & their friends. Nor to describe the joy that was exhibited in every
part of the City on their arrival, & the universal surprise occasioned by
the story of the flight of these two lovers. Suffice it to say that those who
beheld Lamesa did not blame Elseon.
As Hamboon was not very punctilious in his regard
to the Constitution, being posed of very liberal sentiments, Elseon found no
difficulty in obtaining his consent to marry Lamesa -- On the fourth day after
their arival,
[ 66 ]
Elseon & Lamesa with each of them a friend appeared on a
stage which was erected on the public square of the city. The Emperor &
empress with his counsellors, his priests, his officers & all his relation
with the principal ladies of the city formed a procession & surrounded the
stage. The common citizens being a great multitude took their stand as they
pleased. The Emperor & Empress then mounted the stage & united Elseon
& Lamesa in the bond of wedlock according to custom. And as pulling the log
was an indispensable ceremony, one was provided with a rope round it on the
stage. The bridegroom & bride played their parts in pulling the rope with
such dexterity & gracefulness, that the whole assembly were most pleasingly
entertained. When all was ended, the whole assembly clapped their hands &
cried, long live Elseon & Lamesa, & giving three hurrahs the common
citizens dispersed. The rest repaired to a sumptuous entertainment & spent
the remaining part of the day & evening in conversation, singing &
recreation. --
CHAP. XII -
The reader will recollect that Elseon & his
friends left Moonrod & his friends in a very pleasant mood without the
least suspicion that Lamesa & her friend had deserted them. When they had
arrived at the village, what was their surprise when they found Lamesa &
her friend were not in company. nor had any one any recollections of her being
in company, after they had stopped to take their leave of Elseon. Moonrod &
the other Gentlemen immediately rode back with the greatest speed to the place
where they had halted, & not finding any traces of Lamesa, the conclusion
was then certain that she had prefer the company of the young Prince & was
on her way to Kentuck -- Pursuit would be in vain, their only
[ 67 ]
alternative was, to
hasten back & carry the doleful intelligence to the Emperor. Their speed
was nearly equal to that of Elseon. Without waiting to perform the customary
ceremony of entering the palace Moonrod immediately rushed into Emperors
presence & exclaimed: "your daughter Lamesa has been seduced by Elseon
to leave our company unperceived & has gone with him to Kentuck."
Nothing but the pencil of the Limner could paint the astonishment of the
Emperor. He rose, stood motionless for a moment, then starring fiercely on
Moonrod he spoke: "Is it possible, is it possible? Are you not mistaken my
son? "I am not," says he, "my most excellent father, I am not
mistaken. This morning we attended Elseon a small distance from the village
where we lodged, when we halted to take our leave, & our attention was all
engaged. She & her friend rode off unperceived by any of our company, nor
did we miss her until we arrived again at the village. We have made full search
& enquiry & find that she has absolutely gone with the young prince to
Kentuck." "What an ingrate," says the Emperor, "what a
monster of hypocrisy. Did the honorable attention we have shown him demand such
treatment? How has he insulted the dignity of our family & outraged the
high authority of our government. This affair will demand the most serious
consideration. Oh Lamesa, Lamesa my darling, my best beloved child was it
possible for you to be so deceived by that artful prince, was it possible to
disobey the command of your indulgent father?
/......../ & bring upon
our family such wretchedness & dishonour.
Fame with her thousand tongues commenced her
pleasing employment, & as swift as the wings of time she wafted the
intelligence thro the city with many distorted & exaggerated particulars,
all was astonishment confusion & uproar. Resentment enkindled her indignant
sparks into a flame, & the general cry was revenge & war. The Sciotan
King was walking in his parlor feeding his imagination with the pleasing
prospect of
[ 68 ]
his future glory & felicity. "I am," quote he to
himself, "honored above all the other princes of the empire, & even
above the heir apparent to the imperial crown of Kentuck. Who could be admitted
except myself to marry the fair Lamesa, the eldest daughter of the Emperor, the
most amiable, the most accomplished & the most honorable lady in the
universe. This is a distinction which will place me on equal ground with the
Emperor himself, & command from all my subjects the homage of their highest
respect & reverence. Besides I have a soul that can relish the charms of
the beautiful Maid. She will adore me as her Lord & think herself highly
honored & exceeding happy to submit to my most endearing and affectionate
embraces. But oh mighty Sambal you little thought how soon this delightful
prospect would be reversed, & that your soul would be filled with chagrin,
indignation & revenge." A messenger burst into his parlor &
announced the astonishing tidings of Lamesa’s elopement. " She has
absolutely gone," says he to become the wife of Elseon & the empress
of Kentuck. -- Not the tremendous roar of ten thousand thunders
[spontaneously throughout the atmosphere] could have produced greater
surprise. His countenance was all amazement. It was for a moment covered with
paleness his lips quivered, his knees smote together & his gigantic body
trembled like the shaking of a tower under the effects of an earthquake. But
soon [after a little silent] his reflections, & cogitations caused
the blood to return with a tenfold velocity into his face, [it assumed the
color of redness & clinging.] He assumed the attitude of terrific
majesty & poured forth his feelings in a voice more terrible than the
roaring of a volcano. How have I been insulted, abused, dishonored &
outraged. How have my prospects of glory been instantaneously blasted & my
character [become utter] become the ridicule of a laughing world -- What
felicities of enjoying the imperial maid in my arms adoring me for her husband
are now vanished. And by whom am I thus disgraced, insulted & injured?
[ 69 ]
By
the mock prince of Kentuck -- an effeminate stripling, a cringing & plausible
upstart. He has robed me of the fairest ornament of my kingdom, Lamesa, who was
mine by solemn contract -- & must he now revel in her charms, which are mine,
& pride himself in those deceitful arts by which he has seduced her &
stolen her from my enjoyment. No ungrateful & insidious monster, your
triumph shall be of short duration, & this arm shall visit your crimes upon
your head with a tenfold vengeance. Having poured forth a torrent of the most
dreadful imprecations & menaces, he left his parlor, & walked forth to
consult his principal officers on the best plan to obtain revenge --
In the meantime, the Emperor less haughty &
indignant, & possessed of sentiments more humane & benevolent, sent an
invitation to his counsellors to attend him. They were unanimous in the opinion
that the offence of Elseon required reparation. But should war be the
consequence if he refused to return Lamesa? On this question, two of the
counsellors contended that a humble recantation would repair the injury done to
the honor of the imperial family & the authority of the government. The
other two insisted [that would not be sufficient] that they should
demand in addition ten Mammoths which would be an adequate compensation. But
they all deprecated the horrors of war. In the midst of their debates which
were managed with great coolness & impartiality Sambal presented himself.
"I have come forward," says he, "may it please your most
excellent majesty, to demand the fulfillment of that solemn contract which you
made to deliver me your oldest daughter in marriage. She has been
surreptitiously carried off by the young prince of Kentuck. She is mine by
contract & your majesty is bound to deliver her to me. [I demand]
Let her be immediately demanded, & if the Emperor, the father of the young
prince shall refuse to return her, this will implicate him in the same crime
& be a sufficient cause of war. In that case war will be
[ 70 ]
indispensable to
vindicate the honor of our respective crowns, & the rights of the Empire. I
should then give my voice for war & would never sheath my sword until
torrents of blood had made an expiation for the ingratitude baseness &
perfidy of the young prince. An humble recantation or the delivery of ten
mammoths would this be a sufficient reparation for an offence so flagitious, so
enormous. No the very proposal would be an insult on the dignity of our
government. Can anything short of the repossession of the fair object stolen of
the invaluable prize feloniously taken from us be an ad equate compensation.
Nothing short of this can heal our bleeding honor, appease the indignation of
our subjects, & reinstate friendship & an amicable intercourse between
both Empires. Let a refusal be followed by an immediate declaration of war. Let
the resources & energies of the nation be called forth, assemble your
armies & pour destruction upon all who shall oppose the execution of our
revenge. I myself will lead the van & mingle my arm with those who fight
the most bloody battles. Heroes shall fall before us, their towns shall be laid
in ruins, & carnage shall glut our indignant swords.
When further deliberation had taken place, the
Emperor & two of his counsellors adopted the advice of Sambal [to
demand Lamesa] & an Envoy was immediately despatched to the emperor of
Kentuck with the following letter.
May it please your most gracious Majesty.
"Nothing could have given us more pleasure than
the disposition you manifested in sending, Elseon the heir apparent to your
crown to visit our family. We treated him as our dearest cousin & as our
most intimate friend. He was invited to associate with our children & to
consider himself whilst he tarried as a member of our family. Such being the
confidence we placed in his rectitude & honor, that he assumed the liberty
to contract the most intimate acquaintance with Lamesa
[ 71 ]
our eldest daughter.
This produced an agreement between them that with our consent they would be
united in marriage. Nothing would have been more pleasing than such a
connection. But we found that it would be a most flagrant violation of the true
meaning & spirit of our Constitution & an impious outrage on the memory
of its great founder. For these reasons we signified our pleasure that Elseon
would not insist on our compliance with his request. He appeared to acquiesce
in our decision, & we afterwards contracted with Sambal, king of Sciota to
give her in marriage to him. But the after conduct of your Son, may it please
your most gracious majesty, did not correspond with the high confidence we
placed in him. With deep regret & the most painful sensations we are
compelled to declare that he has committed a crime, which has disturbed our
peace & happiness, dishonored our family, & outraged the authority of
our government & the rights of our empire. He [has] formed a plan
to transport Lamesa into your dominions. To accomplish this [he made use of
the most insidious arts.] He took advantage of our clemency &
condescension & the high respect we manifested towards him, & without
our consent & contrary to our will. He has succeeded [in transporting
to the city of Gamba] in his perfidious design. Lamesa is doubtless with
you in the city of Gamba. A crime of such malignity, committed against the
honor & interest of our family, government & empire. demands
reparation. Your majesty will perceive that the only adequate reparation which
can be made will be, the return of Lamesa to our dominions. We therefore demand
that she be conveyed back with all possible expedition. No other alternative
can prevent the interruption of that confidence, friendship & peace which
have long continued between both empires, & save them from the horrors
& calamities of war. --
Signed. Rambock, Emperor of Sciota.
When Hamboon had received this letter, he
immediately
[ 72 ]
invited his counsellors to attend him & laid it before them,
& as it was a subject of vast importance to the empire he likewise invited
his priests & principal officers to join them in council. The various
passions appeared to operate in the course of their consultations. To avoid
hostilities with all its attendant calamities was what they most ardently
desired, & some concluded that if no other alternative could be agreed upon
it would be for the interest of the Empire & the best policy to return the
princess, but others reprobated this measure as pusillanimous & cowardly,
& advised, if no other reparation could be received, to retain the princes
& maintain the conflict with a manly & heroic firmness. What say they,
do not honor & justice require, that we should defend the rights of the
imperial Family. If the Sciotan government should demand, that we should send
them our Emperor or Empress, would not honor impel us to spurn at the demand
& reject it with indignation. Their present demand is preposterous, &
as insulting. No satisfaction will they receive for the supposed injury, except
that we should seize the princes of the Empire tear her from the bosom of her
consort & transport her to Sciota. Are we capable of an act so unjust &
inhuman, so base & disgraceful? As the debates were proceeding, Elseon
rose, "May I says he claim your attention a moment. Undaunted by the cruel
demand & haughty menace of the Sciotan government, I am willing to abide
your decision If transporting Lamesa into our dominions, when she has been most
unjustly & inhumanly demanded for a companion, is a crime [so
perfidious & fugacious as] of such mighty magnitude, then inflict a
punishment that shall be adequate to the offence But if the Almighty whose
benevolence is infinite, has designed the union of hands where hearts are
united. I have then transgressed no divine law, but have obeyed the divine will
-- I am therefore innocent of any crime. I have an undoubted right to retain
Lamesa for my wife -- & no government on
[ 73 ]
earth have any authority from heaven
to tear her from my bosom. Nor will I submit to such an event so long as the
life blood circulates through my heart & warms my limbs. If war must be the
consequence of my proceedings, [which transgressed no principles of honor
justice or humanity, we are both innocent & honorable, it will give me the
most perfect feelings."]
" I shall deplore it certainly, but will never
shrink like a Dastard from the conflict. The Sciotan King, who is at the bottom
of all the mischief shall never behold me fleeing before his gigantic sword or
sculking to avoid a single combat with him. You have therefore no other
alternative but either first to slay your prince & then like cowards to
send back your princes to Sciota, or else to make immediate preparation to meet
their threatened vengeance with fortitude and courage." This speech of the
young prince united the whole council & they unanimously agreed to reject
the demand of the Sciotan government. A letter was written & an envoy
dispatched with instructions to attempt a reconciliation. He precipitated his
journey to the court of Rambock & when he arrived he delivered him the
following Letter.
May it please your most excellent Majesty. --
" Next to the welfare and prosperity of our
Empire we should rejoice in the welfare and prosperity of yours. It is
therefore with extreme regret that we view the unhappy difference which has
arisen, & which threatens to involve the two empires in the calamities of
war. Had you demanded a reparation for the supposed injury which would consist
with the principles of justice & the honor of our crown & government,
it should be given you with the utmost cheerfulness. But to return you Lamesa --
who has now become the princis of Kentuck, would be tearing her from the arms
of an affectionate husband & breaking the bond of solemn wedlock -- And
compliance with your demand will subject us to the commission of such injustice
& cruelty, it must therefore be our duty
[ 74 ]
to declare, that we will not
return the young princess. And as such an event would destroy her happiness as
well as that of her affectionate consort, we shall permit her to tarry in our
dominions and grant her protection. We are however desirous that an honorable
reconciliation may take place and a good understanding be restored. To effect
this most important and very desirable object, we have given full authority to
Labanko our beloved brother, the bearer of this letter, to negotiate a
settlement of our difference, provided you will receive any thing as a
substitute for what you have demanded.
Signed Hamboon Emperor of Kentuck.
The mind of Rambock was not formed for the
propertual exercise of resentment & malice. And having conversed a
considerable time with Labanco, who apologized for the conduct of the young
prince with great ingenuity, his anger abated & he felt a disposition for
the restoration of friendship. But the indignation & malice of Sambol
increased with time, his dark soul thirsted more ardently for revenge &
nothing would satisfy but blood & carnage. He employed instruments to
assist in fanning the sparks of resentment & blowing them into the flames
of war. Not content to represent facts as they existed, & in their true
colors, monstrous stories were fabricated & put into circulation,
calculated to excite prejudice & rouse the resentment of the people against
Elseon & the whole empire of Kentuck. He had recourse to a class of men who
were denominated prophets & conjurors to favor his design. They had for
many ages a commanding influence over the minds of a great majority of the
people. As they pretended to have art of investigating the councils &
designs of the heavenly Hierachy & to have a knowledge of future events,
the people with pleasure listened to their predictions [with vast
pleasure,] & thought it impious to question or or doubt their
fulfillment. A small company of the necromancers or juglers assembled on the
[ 75 ]
great square of the City & mounted a stage which was provided for them. -- The
Citizens attended. It was a prodigious concourse of all classes, of all
descriptions, both wise and simple, both male & female. They surrounded the
stage and were all attention, all anxious to learn the hidden decrees of
Heaven, & the future destinies of the empire. Drafolick their chief prophet
extended his arms & cast up his eyes towards Heaven. Quote he: "
Heaven unfolds her massive gates & opens to my view a prospect, wide &
vast. The seven sons of the great Spirit see their glittering swords &
swear they shall not be sheathed till blood in torrents run & deluge the
fair land of Kentuck. I behold enemies marshaling on the celestial plain, &
hear warriors & heroes cry, ` avenge the crime of Elseon,' I hear a
thundering voice proceeding from the great Throne of him who rules the world
proclaiming thus -- corn shall not grow on Sciotan fields, nor mammoth yield
their milk, nor fish be taken in the snare but pestilence shall roam, unless
Sciota shall avenge the crime of Elseon. Drafolick ended his prophesy.
Hamack then arose & in his hand he held a stone which he pronounced
transparent, though it was not transparent to common eyes. Through this he
could view things present & things to come, could behold the dark intrigues
& cabals of foreign courts & discover hidden treasures, secluded from
the eyes of other mortals. He could behold the gallant & his mistress in
their bed chamber & count all their moles warts & pimples. Such was the
clearness of his sight when this transparent stone was placed before his eyes.
He looked fiercely & steadfastly on the stone and raised his prophetic
voice. -- I behold Hamboon with all his priests & great officers assembled
around him with what contempt he declares he despises all the Sciotans.
"They are," says he, "cowards & paltroons, they dare not
face my brave warriors. Here I see four men coming forward bearing an image
formed with all the features of ugliness and deformity. This they call Sambal --
the King of Sciota -- The whole company
[ 76 ]
break forth into boisterous
laughing. "I see & they are cutting off his head with their swords
yes, and are now kicking it about the palace. Here is a pole it is stuck upon
that and carried throughout the city. Oh my loving sparks Elseon & Lamesa,
what makes you so merry, why Elseon says he has outwitted the Sciotans, he has
got the prize & he little regards their resentment." Hamack was
proceeding with such nonsensical visions when the multitude interrupted him
with a cry -- "Revenge, Revenge! We will convince the Kentuckans that we
are not cowards or poltroons. Their heads shall pay for their sport in kicking
about the pretended head of our beloved King. We will avenge the crime of
Elseon. The great and good Being is on our side, & threatens us with famine
& pestilence unless we avenge the crime of Elseon.
The arts of these Conjurers were the consummation
of Sambal's plan, to produce in the minds of the multitude an enthusiasm
& rage for war. He now repairs to the Emperor & solicits him to
assemble his counsellors immediately proclaim war & concert measures for
its prosecution. The Emperor replies, that they should soon be assembled -- But
as to war it was a subject which required great consideration. --
Early on the next day his counsellors, priests
& principal officers all meet him in the council room. He laid before them
the letter of Hamboon, & observed, that though the government of Kentuck
had refused to return Lamesa, yet they had offered to make to our government a
recantation of Elseon's crime & to pay us almost any sum as a
reparation for our injury. The council sat silent for some time, at length the
venerable Boakim arose, "I must beg," says he, "the indulgence
of your Majesty & this honorable council a few moments. Never did I rise
with such impressions of the high importance of our deliberations as what I now
feel. The great question to be decided is peace or war. If peace can be
preserved with honor, then let us maintain peace, but if not, then let us meet
war with fortitude & courage. -- As to the great crime of
[ 77 ]
Elseon, no one
presumes to present an apology. Even their own government by offering to make
reparation implicitly acknowledge that he has been guilty of a crime. But is it
of such malignity as to require the conflagration of towns & cities &
the lives of millions to make an expiation. [Can no other reparation
consistent with justice & humanity be received.] Or must we
[compel] in order to have an atonement made for the crime of Elseon,
compel the government of Kentuck to commit another crime, to separate, to tear
from each others embraces the husband & wife. Such a reparation as this we
cannot in justice expect. Shall we then accept of no other? Cannot our bleeding
honor be healed without shedding blood, without laying a whole empire in ruins.
Such refined notions of honor may prove our own ruin, as well as the ruin of
those on whom we attempt to execute vengeance. The calamities of war have a
reciprocal action on the parties, each must expect to endure a portion of
evils, how large a portion would fall to our share, in case of war, it is not
for us to determine. While thirsting for revenge, we contemplate with infinite
pleasure, their armies routed & their warriors bleeding under our swords,
their helpless women and children expiring by thousands & their country in
flames. But reverse the scene, suppose the enemy have as much wit as much
stratagem courage strength & inhumanity as what we possess, & such may
be our situation, when the flood gate is once opened, who can stop the torrent
& prevent devastation & ruin. [We ought therefore] It was
never designed by the great & good Being that his children should contend
& destroy that existence which he gave them. They all have equal rights,
& ought to strive to maintain peace & friendship. This has been the
maxim of our fathers & this the doctrine taught by the great founder of our
government & religion. Under the influence of this maxim our nation has
grown to an immense multitude, & contentment & happiness have been
universal. But why can we
[ 78 ]
not enjoy peace with honor? What insurmountable
obstacles are then to prevent. [Why truly, a recantation & property are
no compensation for the injury? For other offences these are accepted, &
why must the offence of Elseon be singular -- --]
The Emperor's daughter we presume is
happy, nor can it be a disgrace to the imperial family that she has married the
son of an Emperor, the heir apparent to his crown. [But she was to have
been the wife of Sambol the King of Sciota?] We can therefore with honor
to our government accept the reparation offered, & thus preserve the
blessings of peace. But if we suffer resentment, pride & ambition to plunge
us into a war, where will its mischief, where will its miseries end? As both
empires are nearly equal as to number & resources I will venture to predict
their eventual overthrow & destruction.
Boakim would have proceeded, but Hamkol rose &
interrupted. It was impudence in the extreme, but he had much brass &
strong lungs, & would be heard further than Boakim. "Such
sentiments," says he, "may comport with the infirmities of age, but
they are too degrading & cowardly for the vigor and youth of manhood. If we
suffer insult, perfidy & outrage to pass of with impunity, we may
afterwards bend our necks to be trodden upon by every puny upstart &
fanaical coxcomb. -- No! -- Let us march with our brave warriors into the
dominion of Hamboon. His effeminate & luxurious Court will tremble at our
presence & yield the fair Lamesa into our possession. But if they should
still have the temerity to refuse, we will then display our valor by inflicting
upon them a punishment which their crimes deserve. Yes our valiant warriors
shall gain immortal renown by their heroic exploits. [& by the
destruction of all shall who.] Sciota will ever after have preeminence
over Kentuck, & compel her haughty sons to bow in our presence. Let war be
proclaimed, & every kingdom & tribe from the river to the lakes will
pour forth their warriors anxious to
[ 79 ]
revenge our countries wrongs." Scarce
had he done speaking. And Lakoon the High Priest arose. [He was in the
interest of Sambal & had married his sister. He had taken great umbrage at
Elseon for saying that the priesthood had too great an assendence of the court
of Rambock.] And lifting up his sanctimonious eyes slowly towards heaven
& extending his [right] reverend hand a little above an horizontal position
he spoke. "When the Laws which are contained in our holy religion are
transgressed, it is my duty as High Priest of the empire to give my testimony
against transgression. Elseon, the heir apparent to the imperial throne of
Kentuck has been guilty of robbery & impiety within our dominions. He has
robed this empire of an invaluable treasure & as this crime is a most
flagitious transgression of our divine law, it must have been committed in
defiance of the high authority of Heaven, & therefore it is an act of the
greatest impiety. The injury, the insult & outrage has not been committed
against us alone, if this was the case perhaps we might accept of reparation,
but it committed against the throne of omnipotence & in defiance of his
authority. No reparation can of consequence be received except it be a return
of the stolen treasure, or the blood of the transgressor, nothing else can
satisfy the righteous demand of the Great & good Being. He therefore calls
upon the civil power to execute his vengeance, to inflict an exemplary
punishment, and as it is his cause, & you are employed as his instruments
you may be assured that his almighty arm will add strength to your exertions
& give you a glorious victory over your enemies. The mighty achievements of
your warriors shall immortalize their names, & their heads shall be crowned
with never fading laurels, & as for those who shall die, gloriously
fighting in the cause of their country & their God, they shall immediately
receive ethereal bodies, & shall arise quickly to the abodes of increasing
delight and glory." He said no more, he hath discharged some part of his
malice again Elseon for saying, that the priesthood
[ 80 ]
had too much influence in the court of Rambock.
The door was opened & it was seen that Sambal,
at the head of a great multitude of citizens had taken their stand in front of
the house, all crying with a loud voice: "Revenge & war! -- Long live
the Emperor & King! -- We will avenge their wrongs." This uproar,
& the harang of the High Priest determined the wavering mind of the
Emperor. [But the venerable Boakim & Bithawan opposed the torrent
[& stood as stood firm.] They boldly affirmed that a war was impolitic
& unjustifiable. But [they] their opposition however was vain.
The popular voice was against them, & the other two counsellors, Hamkol
& Gamasko [gave their vote for war], urged with great vehemence that war
should be declared. ]
In vain were all the reasonings of the venerable
Boakim & Bithawan. The other two counsellors Hamkol, & Gamasko joining
the Emperor they proceeded to make out a declaration of War -- It was in these
words --
War is declared by the government &
empire of Sciota against the government & empire of Kentuck. The Sciotans
are required to exterminate, without distinction of age or sex all the
inhabitants of the empire of Kentuck, they are required to burn their houses,
& either to destroy, or to take possession of their property for their own
use & benefit. This destruction is commanded by the great benevolent Spirit
& by the government of Sciota.
Signed Rambock Emperor of Sciota.
A copy of this declaration was given to Labano the
brother & evoy of Hamboon. He demanded a guard to defend him against the
rage of the common people, who discovered a disposition to plunge their swords
into the heart of every man, whose fortune it was to be born on the opposite
side of the river. Labanco was guarded as far as the river & conveyed
across in safety. He repaired to Gamba, [& there he proclaimed the
intelligence of this
[ 81 ]
declaration of War,] & there made known all the
proceedings of the Sciotan government.
Here one leaf of the manuscript, pages 133 and 134,
appear to be missing. Page 135 proceeds as follows:
Habelon, King of Chiango was the next proud chief
who appeared at Galanga with a chosen band of warriors. He had fifteen thousand
who boasted of superior strength & agility. Their countenances were fierce
& bold, being true indications of their hearth which feared no danger. They
were always obedient to the order of their king who always sought the most
conspicuous place for the display of his valor. Possessed of gigantic strength
& of astonishing agility he was capable of performing the most brilliant
achievements which would almost exceed belief. His mind was uncultivated by
science & his passions were subject to no restraint. His resentment was
quick & fury & his anger knew no bounds [for expression.]
Nothing was concealed in his heart, whether friendship or enmity, but always
exhibited by expressions strong & extravagant. He had a soul formed for
war. In the bustle of campaigns, in the sanguine field where heroes fell
beneath his conquering sword, his ambition was gratified & he acquired the
highest martial glory.
Ulipoon King of Michegan received the orders of the
Emperor with great joy. War suited his niggardly & avaricious soul, as he
was in hopes to obtain great riches from the spoils of the enemy. Little did he
regard the miseries & destruction of others if by this means he could
obtain wealth & aggrandize himself. A mind so contracted & selfish was
not capable of imbibing one sentiment of generosity or humanity, or even of
honor. None however were more boisterous than he for war. None proclaimed their
own valor with so loud a voice. yet none were more destitute of courage &
more capable of treachery, baseness & cruelty. Yet with the sounding
epithets of patriotism, honor & valour -- he proceeded
[ 82 ]
with great expedition
to collect a chosen band of [dauntless warriors, they consisted of]
Eighteen thousand warriors. Their marshal appearance entitled them to a
commander of more generosity & valour, than the niggardly & treacherous
Ulipoon.
Numapon, the King of Colorangus [made no]
was prompt to comply with the imperial requisition. Though he preferred the
scenes of peace. And Being very fond of study & of the mechanical arts his
mind was replenished with knowledge & he took great pleasure in promoting
works of ingenuity. He was farmed for [great] wisdom &
[subtlety] penetration of mind, was capable of forming great plans
& of prosecuting them with vigor & perseverance. He was deliberate
& circumspect in all his movements [but was always quick, on any sudden
emergence, to concert plans & to determine] had the full command of
his mental powers in every situation, & even when dangers surrounded him
would instantly determine the best measures to be pursued. He preferred the
scenes of peace, but could meet war with courage & firmness. At the head of
a select band of sixteen thousand men, all completely armed & anxious to
meet the foe he marched to join the grand army. Not far behind appeared Ramuck
the King of Genesco. [With] Furious & resolute, he had made the
utmost expedition to collect his forces. Nor did he delay a moment, when his
men were collected & prepared to move. At the head of ten thousand bold
& robust warriors he appeared at the place of general rendezvous within one
day after the King of Colorongus had arrived. He boosted of the rapidity of his
movements & though he commanded the smallest division of the grand army,
yet he anticipated distinguished laurels of glory, not less than what would be
obtained by their first commander.
When these Kings with their forces had all arrived
at Talanga. the Emperor Rambock ordered them to parade on a great plain. They
obeyed and were formed in solid columns. The Emperor, then, attended by his son
[ 83 ]
Moonrod, his Counsellors & the High Priest, presented himself before them.
His garments glittered with ornaments, & a bunch of long feathers of
various colors were placed on the front of his cap. His sword he held in his
right hand, and being tall and strait in his person, & having a countenance
grave & bold, when he walked his appearance was majestic. He was the
commander in chief, & such was the high esteem & reverence with which
the whole army viewed him, that none were considered as being so worthy of that
station. Taking a stand in front of the army, he brandished his sword. All
fixed their eyes upon him & gave profound attention. He thus made an
address. " Brave warriors. It is with the greatest satisfaction & joy
that I now behold you assembled to avenge the most flagitious crimes, of which
man was ever guilty. Ingratitude & perfidy, seduction, robbery & the
most daring impiety against heaven have been perpetrated within our dominions.
The young prince of Kentuck is the monster, whose has been guilty of these
crimes. Our most amiable daughter Lamesa he has seduced & contrary to our
will has transported her into his own country, wishing to avoid the effusion of
human blood we offered to withhold our revenge if the Emperor of Kentuck would
restore our daughter. But he has refused. He has implicated himself & all
his subjects in the horrid crimes of his son. Their whole land is now guilty,
& every man woman & child are the proper objects of severe
chastisement. The great & good Being is indignant towards them, [&
views them with the utmost detestation & abhorrence.] As we have
received our power from him he requires, that we should not only avenge our own
wrongs, but likewise execute his vengeance on those perfidious ingrates &
monsters. [of wickedness & impiety.] That this is his divine will
has been clearly investigated by our holy prophets & priests, who have
given us the most [indubital] positive assurance that success shall
attend our arms, that we shall be enriched with the plunder of our
[ 84 ]
enemies,
that laurels of immortal fame will crown the achievements of our warriors,
& that they shall be [gloriously] distinguished on the plains of
glory like Suns & Stars in the firmament of heaven. Our cause is just, the
celestial powers above are on our side, they have brandished their swords &
sworn, that blood shall deluge the fair Land of Kentuck. You have done well my
brave warriors, that you have assembled around the standard of your Emperor. I
will conduct you to the field of Battle & direct your movements. My son
Moonrod, whose arm unlike mine, is not enfeebled by age, will mingle with the
boldest combatants & lead you on to victory. By the most valorous exploits
by blood & slaughter we will convince our enemies that we are not cowards
& poltroons. Their ridicule and derision shall be turned into mourning
& lamentation, & we will teach their effeminate & luxurious
government not to despise the hardy & brave sons of Sciota. In full
confidence that we shall gloriously triumph, & add immortal lustre to our
names, we will now march forward. [We will] & avenge the injuries
done to the honor of our imperial government & the rights of our empire,
& all the celestial beings above shall rejoice in the execution of divine
vengeance." He said no more. The whole army with one voice proclaimed --
"Long live the Emperor! -- We swear that he shall never find us cowards
and poltroons." The Emperor then ordered them to march by divisions &
each king to lead on his own subjects. They began their march towards the land
of Kentuck. Their provisions & baggage were born on the backs of Mammoths.
Each man had a sword by his side & a spear in his hand, & and on their
breasts down to their hips & on their thighs they wore pieces of mammoth
skins to guard them from arrows & the weapons of death. And on their caps
they wore bunches of long feathers. Their garments were short, so as not to
encumber them in battle. Thus equipped & ornamented they moved on in exact
order until they arived at the great River. Here they halted to provide
[ 85 ]
boats to transport them across. Their baggage & provisions were carried on the
backs of their mammoth which carried prodigious loads. And here we will leave
them for the present & take a view of the proceedings at Kentuck.
When Labanco had presented to Hamboon, the Emperor
of Kentuck, the declaration of war & related the proceedings of the Sciotan
government, he immediately assembled his Counsellors, who unanimously agreed to
make the most active & vigorous preparation for war. The Emperor sent forth
his mandates to all the princes of his empire requiring them to assemble the
most courageous warriors in their respective kingdoms, & to march to the
city of Gambo. All the princes of the empire were quick to obey the requisition
of their Sovereign. The army assembled and paraded on a great plain before the
city. Hamboon attended by his two sons, Elseon & Hanock, & by his
counsellors & three of his principal Priests walked out of the city &
presented himself before his army. His garments were of various colors &
his cap was adorned with a bunch of beautiful feathers, which waved high in the
wind. In his left hand he held a spear & in his right a sword. His
countenance was bold & resolute, & such was his gracefulness &
elocution, when He spoke, that all eyes were fixed upon him & all ears were
attention.
"My brave sons," says he, "I
extremely regretted the necessity of calling you from your peaceable
employments to engage in the bloody scenes of war. But such is the violence the
malice & ambition of the Sciotan government that nothing will satisfy them
but hostilities between the empires. They have proclaimed war, even a war of
extermination against our dominions. Nor was it in our power to prevent this
most dreadful calamity unless we tore asunder the bond of wedlock between the
prince and the princess of the Empire & transported her like a culprit into
their dominions. This was the only alternative which they offered to accept to
prevent this
[ 86 ]
terrible crisis, & why the vigor of this demand. Was it
because the young prince had violated any law either human or divine? -- No, it
was because the King of Sciota had fallen in love with the princess, &
wished to have her for his wife. But as she viewed him with the utmost hatred
& disgust, he has been disappointed. To gratify his malice & revenge he
has roused the Sciotans to take arms & threatens to deluge our cities with
the blood of our citizens & to lay our country in ruins. It is a war on
their part to gratify malice & revenge, & nothing will satisfy their
malignant passions but our complete extermination. On our part it is a war of
self defence or self preservation, a defence which will extend to our wives
& our children & to all the blessings & endearments of life. We
must either submit to behold [our dearest friends expiring in agonies,] our
property torn from us, our houses in flames -- & our dearest friends
expiring in agonies, & like cowards suffer them without resistance to cut
our own throats, or we must meet them like men determined to vindicate our
rights, & to retaliate all their intended mischief. Nor need we fear the
event of the contest. Infinite benevolence will regard our situation, &
grant us that assistance which will give success to our efforts. You my brave
sons will be inspired with courage. Your hands will be strong for the Battle
& their warriors will fall before you like corn before the reapers sickle.
With all their mighty boasting, & high confidence in superior cunning &
prowess. Our swords will find a passage to their hearts, & the vital blood
gushing forth, they will fall prostrate at our feet. Let us march then with
courage to meet the implacable foe, determined either to die gloriously
fighting, or to obtain victory."
Having thus spoken, the whole army, with a loud
voice, replied: "Victory or death! -- Lead us on to victory!" At the
head of this army, which consisted of one hundred & fifty thousand men, he
marched towards the great
[ 87 ]
river. They arrived on the bank & beheld the Sciotans, all busily employed in
making preparation to cross the river.
The Empress, the princess Lamesa, & the
Emperors daughters attended by a few friends & their servants; arrived at
the place where the army was encamped. As soon as Elseon heard the news of
their arrival, he hastened to the place, & found the company had alighted
[at an house] & that Lamesa & her friend Holiza were in a room
by themselves. As soon as he entered Lamesa arose. The gloom & anxiety
which for a number of days were visible in her countenance, at his appearance
were dispelled. He received her into his arms with an affectionate embrace,
& expressed the greatest pleasure at seeing her once more. The tears ran
down his cheeks, for a moment she was silent. She raised her head &
replied, "Oh Elseon were it not for you I should be the most wretched
being in existence & yet my love for you has been the cause of all my
present affliction. If I never had seen you, those horrid prospects which now
present themselves to my view, would never have been. But you are innocent, nor
am I guilty of any crime. But how can I endure to behold the calamities which
must fall upon both nations in consequence of our connection? Two empires at
war, spreading carnage & ruin, warriors bleeding on the field of battle,
innocent women & children screeching in the agonies of death, & towns
& cities in flames. Oh horrid prospect. Have you & I my dear Elseon
produced these dreadful calamities? [Is our conduct the cause which
must."] "We are not," says he, "my dear Lamesa,
responsible for the horrid effects of malice & revenge, which may be
occasioned by our innocent conduct. If men will be so indignant towards each
other, because we do right as, to massacre & do all the mischief they can,
we may deplore their weakness & depravity, but have no more reason, to make
ourselves unhappy on the account, than if these effects were [produced]
by some other cause. They alone are responsible for their crimes, & have
reason for unhappy reflections.
[ 88 ]
"But how can I endure?" says she,
"To behold my dearest friends, become each others implacable enemy? To see
them mutually engaged to destroy each others life? My Father, for whom I ever
had the greatest affection, & my only Brother are now at the head of one
hostile army. And your Father and you my dearest husband are at the head of the
other. When these armies meet would you not plunge your sword into the heart of
my father & my brother, & would they not do the same by you if in their
power? When such scenes present themselves to my view they pierce my soul like
daggers, & produce the keenest anguish. Oh that I could fly to my Father,
& on my bended knees implore forgiveness." "Yes," says
Elseon, "& when you have done that, he will give you to the mighty
Sambol for his wife."
" No never," says she, "never would I
submit. I abhor the monster more than ever. He is the most malignant scoundrel
in existence. To gratify his revenge whole empires must be laid in ruins. What
punishment more just than that he himself should fall in battle, & endure
the agonies which his vengeful soul is bringing on others. But as for my father
and my brother, they have, by his artifices been deceived. I conjure, you if
you have any regard for my happiness, not to take their lives if in your
power."
"Their lives, " says he, "are safe
from my sword. Rather that my hands should be stained with the blood of your
dearest friends I will present my bosom to their swords. But hark -- there is
an alarm!" An express arrived & informed him, that the Sciotan army
had found means to get their boats down the river in the night unperceived
& had landed, without opposition, about three miles below the Kentuckian
encampment. Elseon then embraced his wife & said, "when your
protection & my honor call, I must obey." He left her in tears
imploring heaven to protect him, & running swiftly to the army he took his
station.
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