In the mean time, the people of Jackson county were not inattentive to the premeditated attack of Gen. Smith, the Prophet.
CHAPTER XIV.
But to return to the grand army. On the second day of their march, they arrived at New Portage, about 40 miles distant; where about 100 more fell into the ranks. Here the whole were organized into bands of fourteen men, each band having a captain, baggage wagon, tents, &c. Just before leaving this place, Smith proposed to his army, that they should appoint a treasurer to take posession of the funds of each individual, for the purpose of paying it out as he should think their necessities required. The measure was carried, without a dissenting voice, of course. The Prophet was nominated and voted in, as Treasurer, no one, of course, doubting his right. After pocketing the cash of his dupes, the line of march was resumed, and a white flag raised, bearing upon it, the inscription of "PEACE," written in red.
Somewhere on their route a large black snake was discovered near the road, over five feet in length. This offered a fair opportunity for some of the company to try their skill at miracles, and Martin Harris took off his shoes and stockings, to "take up serpents," without being harmed.—He presented his toes to the head of the snake, which made no attempt to bite; upon which Martin proclaimed a victory over serpents; but passing on a few rods farther, an-
