| Citation |
AG-A.771.001
25 Nov 1771:11,12,13 (1/1)
A Dialogue, between Mercury, an English Duellist, and a
Mohawk Savage.
Duellist. Mercury, Charon's boat is on the other side of the
water. Allow me, before it returns, to have some
conversation with the North-American savage, whom you
brought hither at the same time as you conducted me to the
shades. I never saw one of that species before, and am very
curious to know what the animal is. He looks very grim--
Pray, sir, what is your name? I understand you speak
English. . . [1 column, discussion between the two over how
they died. Then begins a boasting contest:]
Duellist. I danced very finely.
Savage. I'll dance with thee for thy ears.--I can dance all
day long. I can dance the war-dance with more spirit and
vigour than any man of my nation. Let us see thee begin it.
How thou standest like a post Has Mercury struck thee with
his enfeebling rod? Or art thou ashamed to let us see how
aukward thou art? If he would permit me, I would teach thee
to dance in a way that thou has not yet learnt. I'd make
thee caper and leap like a buck. But what else canst thou
do, thou bragging rascal?
Duellist. O Heavens! must I bear this! What can I do with
this fellow? I have neither sword nor pistol. And his
shade seems to be twice as strong as mine.
Mercury. You must answer his questions. It was your own
desire to have a conversation with him. He is not well
bred; but he will tell you some truths which you must hear
in this place. It would have been well for you, if you had
heard them above. He asked you what you could do besides
eating and dancing.
Duellist. I sung very agreeably.
Savage. Let me hear you sing your Death Song, or the War
hoop. I challenge you to sing.--The fellow is mute.--
Mercury, this is a liar.--He tells us nothing but lies. Let
me pull out his tongue. . . [24 lines, conclusion.]
|