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.

He must have a strong memory, and must be a good speaker. His business was to sit beside

his

sachem,- and proclaim his

orders to the people with a loud voice ; and also to get up every

morning as soon

them

and arouse the .people, and order

as day-light

to their daily

duties.

The business of runner was to

carry messages, and to convene councils. Precisely what relation the Mahlcans of the Hudson sustained

to the Mohegans under

Uncas, is not known.

Uncas, it

will

be remembered, was a Pequot chief, and as such occupied a district of country between the Thames and the Connecticut, called Mohegoneak. 2

After an unsuccessful conflict with the which he belonged, he fled, with some fifty of his of New London, Groton and Stonington. Stockbridge, Past and Present.

tribe

to

The Pequot and Mohegan

country

and east of the NehanLyme), from Connecticut river

lay to the south ticks

(in to the eastern

boundary

line of the colony, and north-east or north of its northern

boundary

line.

This

tract