On each occasion the Babylonian splendors struck them and they cried out: "Washtay, lela-wash-tay, lela-wash-tay te-pee," (fine, very fine, very fine houses) which was the limit of their expression; but, back in their wigwams, if unspoiled by education, they can tell the folklore stories of their people, as wonderful as Arabian Nights, yet in words and symbols of simple comprehension.

The younger years of the mountains and plains people were not devoid of their amusements, and primitive joys. Young squaws festooned their hair with wild flowers, and bucks adorned themselves with gay feathers.

The ceremonies among the corn raisers are similar to the Arcadian joys of country lads and lassies in ye olden time. You will recognize resemblance to the old husking bees.

When a brave found a perfect red ear he carried it in due form to his favorite squaw, and left it as a tribute of his affection, and when a squaw found one, she hid it until opportunity permitted her to yield it to her favorite brave. If discovered, any brave might claim her as his own. Sometimes the popular belle would pretend to find one, for the joy of the simultaneous rush towards her by her many admirers.

But if one found a red ear that was not well filled, or was crooked or tapering, all would shout with glee and sing the song "Wa-ge-nim,"

"Wa-ge-nim. Wa-ge-nim, crooked ear,

Walker of night, Stop, little old man.

And take not to flight. Crooked ear, crooked ear,

Stand up strong, Little crooked old man,