The effect was indescribable. The portentous nature of the whole speech needed only that last touch
of mystery. It sent through every heart a wild and awesome thrill, as at the shadow of approaching destiny.
The multitude were silent; the spell of the prophet's lofty and mournful eloquence still lingered over them. Multnomah rose. With him rested the decision as to who was the greatest orator. But the proud old war-chief knew that all felt that Tohomish had far surpassed his competitors, and he was resolved that not his lips but the voice of the tribes should proclaim their choice.
"Multnomah was to decide who has spoken best, but he leaves the decision with you. You have heard them all. Declare who is the greatest, and your word shall be Multnomah s word."
There was an instant s silence; then in a murmur like the rush of the sea came back the voice of the multitude.
"Tohomish! Tohomish! he is greatest!"
"He is greatest," said Multnomah. But Tohomish, sitting there dejectedly, seemed neither to see nor hear.
"To-morrow," said the war-chief, "while the sun is new, the chiefs will meet in council and the great talk shall be ended. And after it ends, Multnomah's daughter will be given to Snoqualmie, and Multnomah will bestow a rich potlatch [a giving of gifts] on the people. And then all will be done."
The gathering broke up. Gradually, as the Indians gazed on the smoking mountains, the excitement pro duced by the oratory they had just heard wo
