The Central States and Great Lakes
and burn this thing. If he does so will you set us free and become a Christian?"
"I will; but if you fail, you die."
"And if I win you must pardon your daughter."
White Otter granted his assent.
The sun was high and brought spicy odors from the wood; an insect hummed drowsily, and a bird-song echoed from the distance. Unconscious of what was being enacted about her, Wanena kept rocking to and fro, singing her death-song, and waiting the blow that would stretch her at her father's feet. The savages gathered around the image and watched it with eager interest. Raising his crucifix in a commanding gesture, the priest strode close to the effigy, and in a loud voice cried, in Chippewa, "In the name of God, I command fire to destroy this idol!"
A spot of light danced upon the breast of the image. It grew dazzling bright and steady. Then a smoke began to curl from the dry grass and feathers it was decked with. The Indians fell back in amazement, and when a faint breeze passed, fanning the sparks into flame, they fell on their faces, trembling with apprehension, for Marquette declared, "As my God treats this idol, so can he treat you!"
Then, looking up to see the Manitou in flames, White Otter exclaimed, "The white man's God has won. Spare us, O, mighty medicine!"
"I will do so, if you promise to become as white men in the faith and be baptized." Tamed by fear,
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