they could gather from a long line of ancestors. A
pregnant Indian woman would often choose one of
the greatest characters of her family and tribe as a
model for her child. This hero was daily called
to mind. She would gather from tradition all of
his noted deeds and daring exploits, rehearsing them
to herself when alone. In order that the impres-
sion might be more distinct, she avoided company.
She isolated herself as much as possible, and wan-
dered in solitude, not thoughtlessly, but with an
eye to the impress given by grand and beautiful
scenery.

The Indians believed, also, that certain kinds of
animals would confer peculiar gifts upon the un-
born, while others would leave so strong an adverse
impression that the child might become a monstros-
ity. A case of hare-lip was commonly attributed
to the rabbit. It was said that a rabbit had charmed
the mother and given to the babe its own features.
Even the meat of certain animals was denied the
pregnant woman, because it was supposed to influ-
ence the disposition or features of the child.

Scarcely was the embyro warrior ushered into the
world, when he was met by lullabies that speak of
wonderful exploits in hunting and war. Those
ideas which so fully occupied his mother's mind
before his birth are now put into words by all about
the child, who is as yet quite unresponsive to their