THE EAST WIND AND THE BIRCH

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 101, 20 July 1927, Page 12

THE EAST WIND AND THE BIRCH

HEARD BY A BRAVE Redfeather — Many moons ago as I lay outside my tepee, I heard the wind whisper to the Birch, “Hast heard of Redfeather, father of many?” And the Birch answered, “Nay, East Wind; what is it he would do?” And the East Wind said: “From prairie to prairie, From river to river, Tie calls up together, Tribes of our land.” I waited not to hear more. Going to the nearest rise I took my tom-tom and beat out the message: “Where is. Redfeather?” Back came the answer: “In the Wigwam, by the Lake of Many Waters.” After many moons of travelling I have arrived. I stand without the Wigwam. As always the flap is raised. From within comes the sound of laughter One step forward. . . But I dare not enter. . . With silent foot I turn to flee back down the well-beaten trail. . . I see the Totem Pole. . . What magic is this? The newest and freshest name is that of Blue-fringed Moccasin. I return. . . I enter. —Blue-fringed Moccasin (aged 14). THE SAILOR ASHORE There is a solid comfort in a roaring storm ashore here. But on a calm day, when it is raining, when it is muddy underfoot, when the world is the colour of a drowned rat, one calls to mind more boisterous days, the days of effort and adventure ... It is at such times that I remember the good days, the exciting days, the days of vehement and spirited living. —Masefield.