When the cannon had given forth its thunder, the whole plains seemed to be covered with the moving masses of chiefs, warriors, men, women and children, some on horseback, some on foot, and the sight was presented of the most thrilling interest. Each nation approached with its own peculiar song or demonstration, and such a combination of wild and fantastic manners and dances was never before witnessed. It is not probable that an opportunity will ever again be presented of seeing so many tribes assembled together displaying ll their peculiarities, features, dress, equipments, and horses...Once all were assembled [around the council arbor], for quietness, decorum, and general good behavior, on such occasions, the Indians might be made models for more civilized society. Although they were closely pressed together, many thousands of them, everything was as quiet as in a church.