Confining himself to such ideas as he thought would be most appreciable by the rude intellects of the forest children, he began by expressing his pleasure at the visit, and at the pacific spirit which was manifested by his red brethren.  He spoke of the happiness of himself and of his people in being able to succor the storm-tossed Taranteens, and of their readiness to extend kindness to the whole nation.  He pointed out the reciprocal advantages which would result from the establishment of trade between them, each parting with what he valued less for what he desired more.  He dwelt upon the vast power of his own nation, living beyond the sea, toward the rising sun, and riding in safety at pleasure over the mighty waves, in great canoes with wings, some of which were in sight.  He adverted to the pestilence which had swept the land just previous to the coming of the whites, hinting that it was the breath of the great Spirit which destroyed the inhabitants, to make room for his more favored people.  He concluded by saying, that they were all children of the same parent, who was most pleased at seeing them living together in harmony.

It was impossible to judge, from the countenances or manner of the Indians, how they were affected by the speech,—­only the gutteral “ugh,” responding from time to time to the translation of Mr. Eliot.  This was designed as a sign of attention, or of approval, or the contrary, but it was difficult to the English to determine in any case which.  In fact, like skilful diplomatists, the ambassadors preserved their dignity, and concealed their feelings.

When the Governor had resumed his seat, one of the oldest Indians, after a considerable pause, rose, and stepping forward a few feet, so as to separate himself from all around, turned his face to Winthrop, and began a speech in return.  It was pronounced with great deliberation, and rendered into English by the interpreter, as the orator proceeded.

“The Taranteens,” he said, “are a great nation, who having heard that a people of the same color, but speaking a different language from their friends the French, had taken possession of the country of the Aberginians, had sent him and his companions, that with their own eyes they might see, and with their own ears might hear, if what had been told them was the truth.  Besides, they desired to return thanks for the kindness shown to their countrymen, which they would not forget.  Let this belt,” said the orator, taking a piece of wampompeag from the hands of one of his companions, and laying it on the ground, “preserve my words.  It is very pleasant,” he continued, “to plant the tree of peace.  May the sapling which we shall plant to-day become a bigger tree than the great elm under which we are assembled, and may we, for many seasons, dance together in its shade.  The Taranteens are a great people; they have many warriors, and big canoes, and are so strong, that when they talk of peace, it is not so much for themselves as for the sake of others; and as my white brother hath said, hath not the Great Spirit made all men, and doth he not love to see them playing like children in the grass?