Note 460 — SENECA FICTION, LEGENDS, AND MYTHS (continued 6)

Then all who were able to do something were set to work, and they prepared a symbolical field of peace460 whereon they and theirs might enjoy life and might promote their welfare in such manner as seemed to satisfy their desires. When they had completed the task they cried to those across the river who had accepted the propositions of peace: “Come now! Do you come across the river and let us enjoy ourselves together.” Willingly obeying, the people soon crossed the stream, and they soon were standing on the prepared field of peace, whereon they ranged themselves in long files preparatory to taking part in the dances. Then the leaders grasped each other’s arms, saying, “Now, let us all take hold of one another’s arms, and then let us dance,” and then they continued, “We must now dance all night long.” Then they danced. Thereupon the singer began to sing: Häʼ ʹäʼ hoiāʹneʻ, häʼʹäʼ hoiāʹneʻ; wăʹʻhu, wăʹʻhu, wăʹʻhu, hãʼʹäʼ hoiãʹneʻ. (The only word in this line which has a clear meaning is the second, which is the title of the highest order of federal chiefs.—Ed.)