That before they began to decay, our forefathers in ment. formed us that the Muhheakunnuk nation could then raise about one thousand warriors who could turn out at any emergency." 1

The government of the Mahicans was a democracy. They had a chief sachem, chosen by the nation, upon whom they looked as conductor and promoter of the general welfare. This office was hereditary by the lineage of the wife of the sachem that is, the selection of a successor, on the death of a ;

Massachusetts Historical Society Collectionsy ix,

101.

In some of its parts this

tradition bears the impress of the theories entertained by the early missionaries.

OF HUDSON'S RWER.

sachem, was confined to the female branch of the family. The sachem was assisted by counselors, and also by one hero, one owl,

and one runner ;

the

of the

rest

nation

were called

The sachem, or more properly king,

young men or warriors.

remained at all times with his tribe and consulted their welfare ; he had charge of the mnoti, or bag of peace, which contained the belts and strings used to establish peace and friendship with different

and concluded

nations,

all

treaties

on behalf of his

The counselors were elected, and were called chiefs.

people. Their business

was

to consult with their sacrtem in promoting

the peace and happiness of their people.

The title of hero

was gotten only by courage and prudence in war. When a war-alliance was asked, or cause for war existed with another tribe, the sachem and the counselors consulted, and if they concluded to take up the hatchet, the matter was put in the hands of the heroes for execution. When peace was proposed, the heroes put the negotiations in the hands of the sachem and counselors. The office of owl was also one of merit.