They have their genii of lakes, rivers, mountains, and forests, to
whom they offer sacrifice. I was present at the sacrifice of a
beaver, made by an Algonquin to his familiar, or "totem," in order
to propitiate him, because he had been unsuccessful in hunting.
The beaver was roasted without being skinned, the fur only being
appropriated to the spirit, whilst the flesh afforded a luxurious
feast to the sacrificer; and in this part of the ceremony I willingly
participated.

When any of them is taken ill, the indisposition is ascribed to the
effects of "bad medicine;" and the person is mentioned whom they
suspect of having laid the disease upon them. Many violent deeds are
committed to revenge these supposed injuries. An Algonquin, who had
lost a child, blamed a _tête de boule_, who was domiciled at Lac de
Sable, for his death. The ensuing spring the _tête de boule_ took a
fancy to visit the Lake of Two Mountains, and set off in company with
the Algonquins.

On arrival of the party at the Grand River, he who had lost his child
invited the _tête de boule_ to his tent, and entertained him in the
most friendly manner for a time, then suddenly drawing his knife, he
plunged it into the side of his unsuspecting guest. The poor wretch
fled, and concealed himself in a pig-sty, where his groans soon
discovered him to the Algonquin, who, again seizing him, thrust his
knife into his throat, and did not withdraw it until he ceased to
live.

"Now," exclaimed his murderer, "I am avenged for the death of my
child. You wanted to go to the Lake to be baptized, and here I have
baptized you in your own blood."