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Timeline
1687 Detail
March 19, 1687 - Mutiny causes the death of Robert Cavelier, Sieur de LaSalle.
Boy, did Robert Cavalier de la Salle have an adventurous life or what? His trips to discover a river that ran west to the Pacific Ocean and the Orient. Yes, a failure, but it was a journey that led to many discoveries around the Great Lakes. He explored the Mississippi River down the Louisiana, and now, as of 1684, was back in the Gulf of Mexico, attempting to build settlements from its mouth to the north of the river. That's when reality set in. Whether you want to describe it as the Texas Settlement reality is up to you.
"Monsieur Joutel and some others are of Opinion, that the Mouth of that Branch Monsieur de la Sale went down, is in the Bay of the Holy Ghost, and actually between the twenty eighth and twenty ninth Degrees of North Latitude, as Monsieur de la Sale found it. As for the other Channel, the same Sieur Joutel believes it is farther towards the S. W. and about the Shoals they met with about the 6th of January, 1685, between the twenty seventh and twenty eighth Degrees of North Latitude, when they were sailing along the Coast of the Bay of Mexico, and that those Shoals were the Marks of a River discharging it self there, which they neglected to inquire into. If that be so, Monsieur de la Sale was very near it, and even pass’d along before both the Mouths, but unfortunately, without perceiving them, which was the main Cause of his Death and the Ruin of his Enterprize," Journal of Henri Joutel.
The 1684 journey from France had been a disaster, and now in February 1685, it was determined that they had passed the Mississippi River and were now near today's Corpus Cristi, Texas. Some think he was convinced that the Mississippi River did empty into the bend of Texas, but that is really an unproven theory. However, what was true, was the expedition was stranded, with many of their provisions lost when ships went down along the journey. They would attempt a settlement on the right bank of the Garcitas Creek, five miles from its mouth. Discovery of eight French cannons near that location in 1996 seems to confirm the location. But what should the expedition to colonize the region do? He had one hundred and eighty colonists with him, including women and children. They used the wood from the ship Aimable to construct a two story four room house. Five additional houses were built for the settlers.
Within six months, half of the colonists were dead, from disease, starvation, or deprivation. LaSalle attempted on several occasions, three, to venture out of the settlement to explore. On the first, their last ship, Belle, was shipwrecked.
"When our Fort was well advanc’d, Monsr. de la Sale resolv’d to clear his Doubts,Monsr. de la Sale goes to discover up the River. and to go up the River, where we were, to know whether it was not an Arm of the Missisipi, and accordingly order’d fifty Men to attend him, of which Number were Monsr. Cavelier, his Brother, and Monsr. Chedeville, both Priests, two Recolet Fryars, and several Voluntiers, who set out in five Canoes we had, with the necessary Provisions. There remain’d in the Fort about an hundred and thirty Persons, and Monsr. de la Sale gave me the Command of it, with Orders not to have any Commerce with the Natives, but to fire at them if they appear’d," Henri Joutel Journal.
"Some Days after he was gone, I heard a Voice towards the lower Part of the River, crying twice Qui vive, or who are you for. I made that Way, and perceiv’d the Sieur Chedeville a Priest, the Sieur de la Sablonniere, and some others of those who had been put aboard the Bark la Belle, and were now in a Canoe. I ask’d abruptly what was become of the Bark, and was inform’d, our continual Misfortunes still pursuing us, that it had run aground on the other Side of the Bay.What was saved of the Bark la Belle. I caused the Canoe to be unloaded, there being in it, among other Things, Monsieur de la Sale’s Cloaths, Part of his Papers, some Linen, a small Quantity 110of Beads and thirty or forty Pound of Meal, which was all they had left."
May 1686, How the Bark was lost. The next Day, Monsieur de Chedeville told me the Particulars of that Misfortune, and said, That having been some Time with the Bark, in the Place where Monsieur de la Sale had appointed them to wait, their Water falling short, they had thought fit to send the Boat ashore, with four or five Casks to fill; that the Sieur Planterose went in it with six of the best Men. That towards the Evening they saw the Boat coming back, but the Wind being contrary and Night coming on, they put out a Light, which going out and the Captain neglecting to put up another, in all Likelyhood the Boat could not see the Bark, and they never heard of it after, nor of any of those in it, who it was probable had all perish’d."
Leaving Joutel in charge during his absence, a mutiny against Henri Joutel, his primary confident, was thwarted. But now, the colony was without a vessel, had mutiny in its veins, and was forced to remain there, without any thought of going back to France any time soon. LaSalle's last venture out of the settlement was a desperate attempt to reach Fort-Saint-Louis-des-Illinois. Accompanied by Henri Joutel, the settlement's historian and an experienced military man with sixteen or seventeen years in the Army prior to the expedition, and a number of others, they left twenty-three people behind in the fort. They had those eight cannons, but no cannonballs, and were left in the charge of Gabriel Barbier.
LaSalle's Journey to Find Help
"There being every Day some Discourse of the Journey to the Islinois, Monsieur de la Sale ask’d me one Day, whether I would make one of the Company, and go by the Way of Canada to France for Succours. I assured him I was entirely devoted to his Will, and would faithfully attend him. Then he began by Degrees to provide what he thought necessary for that Expedition. I had two Pair of Sheets, which he took, to make him Linen. Canvas Cloaths were made of the Sails of the Bark la Belle. The Sieur Duhaut having Linen, he took some to distribute among several Persons. Thus he hasted on the Expedition of his Design, but an Accident put it off.
Nov. 1686. It was occasion’d by a Flux which troubled Monsieur de la Sale, who having told me he could not perform that Journey, as long as he continued in such condition, I offer’d to undertake it for him, if he would allow me his Indian, and about fifteen Men; but he answer’d, That his Presence was requisite among the Islinois, and that it was requisite his Brother should go to France. Thus he refus’d my Offer, and could not shun the ill Fate of that Journey.
Dec. 1686. We spent some Time longer after this Manner, during the which, there arose a Controversy about the PrivilegesControversy about Privilege. the King grants to the First-born of the French Colonies in America. The Sieur Barbier’s wife was with Child, and he claim’d the Privilege granted for that Child. The Widow Talon had a Child born in the Passage from France to America, and alledg’d, that her Child, tho’ born before our Arrival, ought to be preferr’d; but the Sieur Barbier’s Wife miscarrying, the Dispute was not decided.
Jan. 1687. Monsieur de la Sale being recover’d of his Indisposition, Preparations were again made for his Journey; but we first kept the Christmas Holy-Days. The Midnight Mass was solemnly sung, and on Twelve-Day, we cry’d, The King drinks, (according to the Custom of France) tho’ we had only Water: When that was over we began to think of setting out. Monsieur de la Sale gave the Command of the Settlement to the Sieur Barbier, directing him what he was to do and observe in his Absence.
There Who were left in the Settlement when M. de la Sale departed. remain’d in that Habitation, the Fathers Maximus and Zenobius, Recolets, Monsieur Chedeville, the Priest, the Marquis de la Sablonniere, the Sieur Barbier, Commander, his Wife, a Surgeon and others, to the Number of twenty, among whom were seven Women, or Maids, and only the Sieur Barbier marry’d; which is much short of the Number some have given out remain’d in the Dwelling, without any Ground; for the Truth is, there were no more, and particularly no Natives, Monsieur de la Sale having absolutely forbid holding any Communication with them. As for Beasts, they amounted to seventy, or seventy five Swine, great and small, which was a good Stock; for Fowl, eighteen or twenty Hens; some Casks of Meal, which was kept for the Sick; Powder, Ball, and eight Pieces of Cannon, without any Bullets.
Persons that set out with M. de la Sale. We set out the 12th of January, in the Year 1687, being seventeen in Number, viz. Monsieur de la Sale, Monsieur Cavelier, the Priest, his Brother, Father Anastasius, the Recolet, Messieurs Moranget and Cavelier, Nephews to Monsieur de la Sale, the Sieurs Duhaut, the Elder, l’Arcleveque, Hiens, Liotot, Surgeon, young Talon, an Indian, and a Footman belonging to Monsieur de la Sale. We carried along with us Part of the best Things every Man had, and what was thought would be of Use, wherewith the five Horses were loaded, and we took our Leaves with so much Tenderness and Sorrow, as if we had all presaged, 117that we should never see each other more. Father Zenobius was the Person who express’d it to me most significantly, saying, He had never been so sensibly touch’d at parting with any Body.
The Way they travell’d.We went that Day to the Place we call’d le Boucon, because there, we had often dry’d Flesh, (which the French call Boucanner from the Indian Word). This Place was not far from our Habitation. The 13th, we cross’d a Plain, about two Leagues over, where we saw several Herds of Beeves and Flocks of Goats, Turkeys, Bustards, and other Sorts of Wild Fowl. We met with Marshy Lands, which tired our Horses, and came to a Wood that terminates the Plain, across which, runs a Branch of a River, full of Reeds, by Monsieur de la Sale call’d the Princess’s River. That Branch joins the other, and they both fell together into the Bay of St. Lewis.
We kill’d five Beeves at the Entrance into the Wood, forded the River, and incamp’d Half a League beyond it, whence Monsieur de la Sale sent Men with Horses, to bring the Flesh of the Bullocks we had kill’d; the Hides of them, which serv’d to cover us, being very useful against a violent Shower of Rain that fell.
The 14th, the Rain ceasing, we travell’d over another spacious Plain, where there is a Multitude of Beeves and Wild Fowl. We saw several Tracks, leading every Way, made by the Bullocks, of which we saw several Herds, some moving on hastily, and others running out-right, which made us suppose they were drove by the Natives. In short, having halted to help up one of our Horses that was fallen, we saw an Indian following them very close. Monsieur de la Sale caus’d a Horse to be immediately unloaded, which a Man mounting, rode after, overtook and brought the Indian.
When the Savage saw himself among us, he concluded he was a lost Man, he quak’d for Fear, and not without Reason, for most of our Men had resolv’d to kill him; Monsieur de la Sale oppos’d it, alledging, that we were but118 a small Number, that very few were left behind at the Habitation, and therefore we ought not to render our selves odious to the Natives, but to use them kindly, that we might have Peace; an infallible Maxim, the Practice of which might have been fortunate to him, had he follow’d it sooner.
He therefore caus’d a Fire to be made, gave him to Eat and Smoke, and afterwards a Bit of Roll-Tabacco, and some other Trifles. Monsieur de la Sale gave him to understand, that he came not to hurt any Man, but to settle Peace in all Places, and so dismissed him. The Indian recover’d himself a little of his Fright; but being still dubious, what his Fate might be, he at first walk’d away gently, still looking about him, and when at a good Distance, made off as fast as he could. We held on our Way, and soon after saw another Indian running after the Bullocks. Monsieur de la Sale caus’d him to be taken, brought to us, and treated as the first had been.
We had not gone far before we spy’d a Company of Natives coming towards us, on our left, but we held on our Way, till they were over against us, when Monsieur de la Sale caus’d us to halt. The Savages seeing us halt, stood still also, which Monsieur de la Sale perceiving, he laid his Firelock on the Ground, and advanc’d towards them, making signs to him that Commanded them, who was a handsome Man, to draw near. That Indian came forward, and was follow’d by the rest, all of them Caressing us after their Manner, which we return’d the best we were able, and then made them Smoak.
Natives entertain’d.Next Monsieur de la Sale gave them to understand, that we were going towards the Cenis, that we desir’d to be at Peace with them all, and that we would return to our own Country, whence we would bring them all they had Occasion for. Then we distributed among them some Bits of Roll-Tabacco, some Strings of Beads and Knives, which they seem’d to be pleas’d with, and all this was done by Signs. Then every Man went his own Way: We advanc’d119 half a League farther, to get into a Wood, where Monsieur de la Sale had encamp’d when he went that Way before; we cut down Trees to secure our Post, and lay there that Night.
Before our Intrenchment was finish’d, we discover’d, first one Indian, then two, and afterwards three, coming one after another; which giving Monsieur de la Sale some Jealousy, he caus’d us to handle our Arms, with Orders to stand upon our Guard, for fear of being surpriz’d, and went towards them. They signify’d to him, that their People had told them, we did not hurt any Body, which was very well, and that they were come to see us. They were entertain’d as the others had been, and then Signs were made them to withdraw, because Night drew on, and having observ’d, that they took Notice of our fortifying our selves, we kept a good Guard all the Night, without any Disturbance.
The Fifteenth, we march’d on, intending to find out a Ford, in the River call’d of the Princess, where Monsieur de la Sale had pass’d before; but missing of it, and the River being swollen, we were oblig’d to go up higher, sometimes crossing curious Meadows, and sometimes Woods of tall Trees of several Sorts, but all Young of the same Thickness and strait, looking as if they had been planted by a Line. A fine Country.The River running through the midst of those curious shady Groves, which were also water’d by several little Brooks of very clear and good Water, afforded a most delightful Landskip," Henri Joutel's Journal.
Mutiny Ends the Journey and LaSalle's Life
"The first of March, we join’d the Indians, on the Edge of132 the Marsh, which we had just cross’d, where the Rains kept us till the Fifth, during which Time we went to find out where we might pass a rapid Torrent, that discharges it self into the River call’d of Canoes, which we pass’d the 6th, in the Canoe we had made, and which did us good Service, to pass other Rivers we met with the 7th and the 8th on our Way.
River of Canoes.The 9th, we did not stir, because of the Rain. The 10th, incamp’d on the Bank of a small River, which we cross’d the 11th, and the same Day another River, and incamp’d on the Bank of it, and found it adorn’d with very fine Mulberry Trees. The 12th we cross’d another River, and incamp’d near it. The 13th, came again to the River of Canoes, so called by Monsieur de la Sale, because he the first Time put Canoes into it, at his former Journey. We pass’d it the 14th, and incamp’d on the other Side where we again join’d the Indians.
The 15th, we held on our Journey with them, and found a pleasanter Country than that we had pass’d thro’; and Monsieur de la Sale having in his former Journey hid some Indian Wheat and Beans,Provisions hid, spoilt. two or three Leagues from that Place, and our Provisions beginning to fall short, it was thought fit to go to that Place. Accordingly he order’d the Sieurs Duhaut, Hiens, Liotot the Surgeon, his own Indian, and his Footman, whose Name was Saget, who were followed by some Natives, to go to the Place he described to them, where they found all rotten and quite spoilt.
The 16, in their Return, they met with two Bullocks, which Monsieur de la Sale’s Indian kill’d, whereupon they sent back his Footman, to give him Notice of what they had kill’d, that if he would have the Flesh dry’d, he might send Horses for it. The 17th, Monsieur de la Sale had the Horses taken up, and order’d the Sieurs Moranget and de Malre and his Footman, to go for that Meat, and send back a Horse Load immediately, till the rest was dry’d.
Monsieur Moranget, when he came thither, found they had smoak’d both the Beeves, tho’ they were not dry enough; and the said Sieurs Liotot, Hiens, Duhaut and the rest had laid aside the Marrow-Bones and others to roast them, and eat the flesh that remain’d on them, as was usual to do. The Sieur MorangetDiscontent occasion’d by Monsr. Moranget. found fault with it, he in a Passion seiz’d not only the Flesh that was smoak’d and dry’d, but also the Bones, without giving them any Thing; but on the contrary, threat’ning they should not eat so much of it, as they had imagin’d, and that he would manage that Flesh after another Manner.
Conspiracy to murder Monsr. de la Sale. This passionate Behaviour, so much out of Season, and contrary to Reason and Custom, touch’d the Surgeon Liotot, Hiens and Duhaut to the Quick, they having other Causes of Complaint against Moranget. They withdrew, and resolv’d together upon a bloody Revenge; they agreed upon the Manner of it, and concluded they would murder the Sieur Moranget, Monsieur de la Sale’s Footman and his Indian, because he was very faithful to him.
They waited till Night, when those unfortunate Creatures had supp’d and were asleep. Liotot the Surgeon was the inhuman Executioner, he took an Ax, began by the Sieur Moranget,Bloody Murderers. giving him many Strokes on the Head; the same he did by the Footman and the Indian, killing them on the Spot, whilst his Fellow Villains, viz. Duhaut, Hiens, Teissier and Larcheveque stood upon their Guard, with their Arms, to fire upon such as should make any Resistance. The Indian and the Footman never stir’d, but the Sieur Moranget had so much Vigour as to sit up, but without being able to speak one Word, and the Assasins obliged the Sieur de Marle to make an End of him, tho’ he was not in the Conspiracy.
This Slaughter had yet satisfy’d but one Part of the Revenge of those Murderers. To finish it and secure themselves it was requisite to destroy the Commander in Chief. They consultedConsult to murder Monsr. de la Sale. about the safest Method to effect it, and resolved to go together to Monsieur de la Sale, to knock out the Brains of the most resolute immediately, and then it would be easier to overcome the rest. But the River,134 which was between them and us, being much swollen, the Difficulty of passing it made them put it off the 18th and 19th. On the other Hand Monsieur de la Sale was very uneasy, on Account of their long Stay. His Impatience made him resolve to go himself to find out his People and to know the Cause of it.
This was not done without many previous Tokens of Concern, and Apprehension. He seem’d to have some Presage of his Misfortune, enquiring of some, whether the Sieur Liotot, Hiens and Duhaut had not express’d some Discontent; and not hearing any Thing of it, he could not forbear setting out the 20th,He goes to seek them. with Father Anastasius and an Indian, leaving me the Command in his Absence, and charging me from Time to Time to go the Rounds about our Camp, to prevent being surpriz’d, and to make a Smoke for him to direct his Way in Case of Need. When he came near the Dwelling of the Murderers, looking out sharp to discover something, he observed Eagles fluttering about a Spot, not far from them, which made him believe they had found some Carrion about the Mansion, and he fired a Shot, which was the signal of his Death and forwarded it.
The Conspirators hearing the Shot, concluded it was Monsieur de la Sale, who was come to seek them. They made ready their Arms and provided to surprize him. Duhaut passed the River, with Larcheveque. The first of them spying Monsieur de la Sale at a Distance, as he was coming towards them, advanc’d and hid himself among the high Weeds, to wait his passing by, so that Monsieur de la Sale suspecting nothing, and having not so much as charg’d his Piece again, saw the aforesaid Larcheveque at a good Distance from him, and immediately ask’d for his Nephew Moranget, to which Larcheveque answer’d, That he was along the River.Is murder’d. At the same Time the Traitor Duhaut fired his Piece and shot Monsr. de la Sale thro’ the Head, so that he dropp’d down dead on the Spot, without speaking one Word.
Father Anastasius, who was then by his Side, stood stock still in a Fright, expecting the same Fate, and not knowing whether he should go forwards or backwards; but the Murderer Duhaut put him out of that Dread, bidding him not to fear, for no Hurt was intended him; that it was Despair that had prevail’d with him to do what he saw; that he had long desir’d to be revenged on Moranget, because he had designed to ruin him, and that he was partly the Occasion of his Uncle’s Death. This is the exact Relation of that Murder, as it was presently after told me by F. Anastasius.
Such was the unfortunate End of Monsieur de la Sale’s Life, at a Time when he might entertain the greatest Hopes, as the Reward of his Labours. His Character.He had a Capacity and Talent to make his Enterprize successful; his Constancy and Courage and his extraordinary Knowledge in Arts and Sciences, which render’d him fit for any Thing, together with an indefatigable Body, which made him surmount all Difficulties, would have procur’d a glorious Issue to his Undertaking, had not all those excellent Qualities been counterbalanced by too haughty a Behaviour, which sometimes made him insupportable, and by a Rigidness towards those that were under his Command, which at last drew on him an implacable Hatred, and was the Occasion of his Death.
The Shot which had kill’d Monsieur de la Sale, was also a Signal of the Murder to the Assassins for them to draw near. They all repair’d to the Place where the wretched dead Corps lay, which they barbarously strip’d to the Shirt, and vented their MaliceBarbarity towards the dead Body. in vile and opprobrious Language. The Surgeon Liotot said several Times in Scorn and Derision, There thou liest, Great Bassa, there thou liest. In Conclusion, they dragged it naked among the Bushes, and left it exposed to the ravenous Wild Beasts. So far was it 136from what a certain Author writes, of their having bury’d him and set up a cross on his Grave.
Murderers return to the Camp.When those Murderers had satiated their Rage, they set out to come to us at our Camp, with the dry’d Flesh, which they had caus’d to be brought over the River by the Indians, who had been Spectators of the Murder and of all the inhuman Actions that had been committed, with Amazement and Contempt of us. When they were come to the Camp, they found Messieurs Cavelier, the one Brother, the other Nephew to the murder’d Commander, whom Father Anastasius acquainted with the dismal End of our Chief, and enjoyn’d them Silence, which it is easy to imagine was very hard upon them; but it was absolutely necessary.
However, Monsieur Cavelier the Priest, could not forbear telling them, that if they would do the same by him, he would forgive them his Murder, and only desir’d them to give him a Quarter of an Hour to prepare himself: They answer’d, They had Nothing to say to him; that what they had done was the Effect of Despair, to be reveng’d for the ill Usage they had receiv’d.
I was absent at that Time; he they call’d Larcheveque, who, as I have said, was one of the Conspirators, had some Kindness for me, and knowing they design’d to make me away too, if I stood upon my Defence, he parted from them, to give me Notice of their Mischievous Resolution. He found me on a little rising Ground, where I was looking upon our Horses as they graz’d in a little adjacent Bottom. His Intelligence struck me to the Heart, not knowing whether I should fly or stay; but at length, having neither Powder nor Shot,The Author sav’d by a Friend. nor Arms, and the said Larcheveque giving me Assurances of my Life, provided I was quiet and 137said Nothing, I committed my self to God’s Protection, and went to them, without taking any Notice of what had been done.
Duhaut,Duhaut, the Murderer, usurps the Command. puff’d up with his new gotten Authority, procur’d him by his Villany, as soon as he saw me, cry’d out, Every Man ought to command in his Turn; to which I made no Answer; and we were all of us oblig’d to stifle our Resentment, that it might not appear, for our Lives depended on it. However, it was easy to judge with what Eyes Father Anastasius, Messieurs Cavelier and I beheld these Murderers, to whom we expected every Moment to fall Sacrifices. It is true, we dissembled so well, that they were not very suspicious of us, and that the Temptation we were under of making them away in Revenge for those they had murder’d, would have easily prevail’d and been put in Execution, had not Monsieur Cavelier, the Priest, always positively oppos’d it, alledging, that we ought to leave Vengeance to God.
However the Murderers seiz’d upon all the Effects, without any Opposition,March continued. and then we began to talk of proceeding on our Journey. We decamp’d the 21st, with our Indians, and march’d with such a heavy Rain, that we were oblig’d to halt on the Bank of a great Stream, where one of the Natives that had left us, arriv’d with his Wife. We went on the 22d and 23d, and pass’d the River, where Father Anastasius, Monsieur Cavelier and I, who could not swim, had been drown’d, but that the Natives assisted and sav’d us. The 24th, we went on thro’ a marshy Country, never quitting a small Path which led to the Village of the Cenis, till the 28th, when we rested on the Bank of a River of the same Name, Cenis River. tho’ about ten Leagues distant from the Village.
We had hop’d to ford that River, as Monsieur de la Sale had done, when he return’d from that Country; but it was so swollen, that there was no doing it, and we were forced to make a Canoe of Bullocks Hides. Whilst we were138 employ’d at that Work, the Indians swam over and went to give Notice to the Cenis of our Arrival.
We found the Country pleasant enough about that River, tho’ the Land did not seem to be any of the best; but still it was delightful to the Eye, well planted with fine Trees of several Sorts, among which, is one that Monsieur de la Sale had nam’d Copal,Copal Tree. being very beautiful, the Leaves of it between those of the Maple and the lime Trees in Resemblance, and from it comes a Gum, of a very agreeable Scent. In the same Place we saw a great Tree, on which the late Monsieur de la Sale had caus’d Crosses and the Arms of France to be carv’d.
The Hunting of Bullocks had fail’d us, and we had seen none from the Place where our late Leader had been murder’d. Thus our Provisions began to fall short, and it was resolv’d on the 29th, to send some Men before, to the Village of the Cenis, to know, whether they had any Indian Corn, and were willing to barter for it. The Author sent to the Cenis for Provisions.I was appointed, with the Surgeon Liotot, the Teisieers, and Hiens, who was a Buccanier, Monsieur de la Sale had taken up at Petit Gouave, to go with him upon this Expedition. I was very unwilling to undertake that Journey, with a Murderer and two of his Companions, of whom I was suspicious; but it was very requisite to obey, and Duhaut having all the Effects in his Possession, alledging, that a great part of them belong’d to him, he gave us some Axes and Knives to barter for Indian Corn, as also for Horses, if any were to be had, and accordingly we pass’d the River.
The Country describ’d.We found the Country made up of several little Hills, of an indifferent Height, on which there are Abundance of Wallnut-Trees and Oaks, not so large as what we had seen before, but very agreeable. The Weeds which had been some Time before burnt by the Natives, began to spring up again, and discover’d large green Fields very pleasing to the Sight.
When we had travell’d some Time, we discover’d three Men a Horseback, coming towards us from the Village, and being come near them, saw one dress’d after the SpanishA Man clad like a Spaniard. Fashion, with a little Doublet, the Body whereof was of blue, and the Sleeves of white Fustian, as it were imbroider’d, with very streight Breeches, white worsted Stockings, Woollen-Garters, a broad-brim’d, flat-crown’d Hat, and long Hair. We presently concluded he was a Spaniard, and the rather because we had been told, that some of them were to come to join in League with the Cenis, against an Enemy nation, and we were at a Nonplus; for if we fell into their Hands, we must never expect to get away, but be condemn’d to serve either in the Mines, or in the Quarries, in the Kingdom of Mexico, for which Reason we provided to give the pretended Spaniard an unkind Reception, and then to make the best of our Way back.
Being come up to him, I spoke some Words of Spanish and Italian, to which he return’d no Answer; but on the contrary, made use of the Word Coussica, which in the Language of the Cenis, signifies, I do not understand you; which Answer of his remov’d our Apprehensions. The two others were quite naked, one of them being mounted on a fine grey Mare, and on her were besides two Panniers, handsomely made of Reeds, full of very fine Meal parch’d, or roasted. After several Questions, to which we had no very satisfactory Answers, we lighted Fire to make them smoke, and then they presented us with the two Panniers full of Meal, giving us to understand, that their Chief expected us in the Village, and having signify’d, that they were sent to meet us, we gave them some Knives and Strings of Beads.
We ask’d them, whether they had any Men among them like him that was a Horseback in the Spanish Habit, they answer’d, there were two in a Neighboring Nation, call’d Assony, and that he who was clad, had been in their Country, and brought thence the Cloaths we saw him wear. That Man then shew’d us a Spanish printed Paper, containing140 the Indulgences granted to the Missioners of New Mexico. After this they left us to go on, to our People, for which Reason I writ a Note, giving an Account of our having met them.
We alighted to eat, and let our Horses graze on the Bank of a Rivulet; but it was not long before the same Natives, who had been with us before, appear’d again hard by us. We made Signs to them to draw near and eat with us; which they did, and then went along with us towards the Village, which we would not go into, because it was Night. The Indian that was clad, stay’d all Night with us, and the two others went away.
The Cenis meet the French in solemn Manner.When it was Day, we held on our Way to the Village; the Indian that was with us conducting us to their Chief’s Cottage. By the Way, we saw many other Cottages, and the Elders coming to meet us in their Formalities, which consisted in some Goats Skins dress’d and painted of several Colours, which they wore on their Shoulders like Belts, and Plumes of Feathers of several Colours, on their Heads, like Coronets. Six or seven of them had square Sword Blades, like the Spanish, on the Hilts whereof they had fasten’d great Plumes of Feathers, and several Hawks Bells; some of them had Clubs, which they call Headbreakers, some only their Bows and Arrows; others, Bits of White Linen, reaching from Shoulder to Shoulder. All their Faces were daub’d with black or red. There were twelve Elders, who walk’d in the Middle, and the Youth and Warriors in Ranks, on the Sides of those old Men.
Being come up to us in that Manner, he that conducted us, made a Sign for us to halt, which when we had done, all the old Men lifted up their Right Hands above their Heads, crying out in a most ridiculous Manner; but it behov’d us to have a Care of laughing. That done, they came and imbrac’d us, using all Sorts of Endearments. Then they made us smoke, and brought to us a French Man among the Indians. of Provence, who was one of those that had forsaken the late Monsieur de la Sale, at his first Journey.
The whole Company conducted us after the same Manner, to their Chief’s Cottage; and after we had staid there a short Time, they led us to a larger Cottage, a Quarter of a League from thence, being the Hut in which they have their publick Rejoycings, and the great Assemblies. Indian Entertainment.We found it furnish’d with Mats for us to sit on. The Elders seated themselves round about us, and they brought us to eat, some Sagamite, which is their Pottage, little Beans, Bread made of Indian Corn, and another Sort they make with boil’d Flower, and at last they made us smoke.
During our Repast, they entertain’d us with the Discourse of their Design to make War on a Nation, who were their Enemies, and whom they call’d Cannohantimo. When it was over, we presented them, according to Custom, with some Knives and Strings of Beads for their Wives. We desir’d them to afford us some Indian Corn, in Exchange for other Things, which they promis’d, and the French Man who was with them, having told us, that there was a District, which afforded more Corn, than that where we were, and where his Cottage was, we resolv’d to go thither. We propos’d it to the Elders, who would needs go along with us, attended by a great Number of Youth, and having got ready our Horses, we set out for that Place.
By the Way, we saw several Cottages at certain Distances, straggling up and down, as the Ground happens to be fit for Tillage. The Field lies about the Cottage, and at other Distances, there are other large Huts, not inhabited, but only serving for publick Assemblies, either upon Occasion of Rejoycings, or to consult about Peace and War.
Huts and Families in them.The Cottages that are inhabited, are not each of them for a private Family, for in some of them there are fifteen or twenty, each of which has its Nook or Corner, Bed and other Utensils to its self; but without any Partition to separate it from the rest: However, they have Nothing in Common besides the Fire, which is in the Midst of the Hut, and never goes out. It is made of great Trees, the Ends whereof are laid together, so that when once lighted, it lasts a long Time, and the first Comer takes Care to keep it up.
Manner of Building.The Cottages are round at the Top, after the Manner of a Bee-Hive, or a Reek of Hay. Some of them are sixty Foot Diameter. In Order to build them, they plant Trees as thick as a Man’s Thigh, tall and strait, and placing them in a Circle, and joyning the Tops together, form the Dome, or round Top, then they lath and cover them with Weeds. When they remove their Dwellings, they generally burn the Cottages they leave, and build new on the Ground they design to inhabit.
Their moveables.Their Moveables are some Bullocks Hides and Goats Skins well cur’d, some Mats close wove, wherewith they adorn their Huts, and some Earthen Vessels, which they are very skilful at making, and wherein they boil their Flesh or Roots, or Sagamite, which, as has been said, is their Pottage. They have also some small Baskets made of Canes, serving to put in their Fruit and other Provisions.Beds. Their Beds are made of Canes, rais’d two or three Foot above the Ground, handsomely fitted with Mats and Bullocks Hides, or Goats Skins well cur’d, which serve them for Feather Beds, or Quilts and Blankets cured with the hair on, to serve as mattresses and bedclothes; and those Beds are parted one from another by Mats hung up..."
" ... We arriv’d there at Night, and found other Elders coming out to meet us, much after the same Manner as the others mention’d before. They led us to their Cottage, made us sit down on Mats and smoke, but not with so much Ceremony as the others. That done, it was Time for us to take our Rest, having given them to understand that we were weary.
French Entertained by the Natives.The French Provencal would needs have us go to his Cottage, that is to the Hut where he had his Dwelling; for, as I have said, there are several Families in one of them, and that was one of the greatest in the Canton, having been the Habitation of one of their Chief’s, lately deceased.
They allotted us a Place there, for our Goods and Packs, the Women immediately made Sagamite or Pottage, and gave it us. Having eaten, we ask’d the French Man whether we were safe, and he answering we were, we lay down, but yet could not sleep sound.
Apr. 1687. The next Day, being the first of April, the Elders came to receive and conducted us to the Cottage where we had been the Day before. After the usual Ceremonies, we traded with them for Corn, Meal and Beans, giving in Exchange for the same, Needles, Knives, Rings and other Toys. We also purchased a very fine Stone Horse, A Horse sold for an Ax. that would have been worth twenty Pistoles in France, for an Ax.
The Day was spent in driving our small Bargains and gathering Provisions, which the Women brought. When that was done, it was agreed, that I should remain there, to lay up more Store, and that the others should return to our Company, which we had left near the River, to carry the Provisions and satisfy them they might come safely.
Tho’ I thought my self not over secure among the Indians, and besides had the Dissatisfaction of understanding none of their Language; yet was I not unwilling to stay, that I might have an Opportunity of seeing the two other French Men, who had forsaken the late Monsieur de la Sale, when he first travell’d into that Country, that I might enquire of them, whether they had heard no talk of the Missisipi River, for I still held my Resolution of parting from our wicked Murderers.
As soon as they were gone, I gave a young Indian a Knife, to go bid those two other French Men come to me, and whilst he was going I drove on my little Trade for Provisions, and had frequent Visits from the Elders, who entertain’d me by Signs, with an Account of their intended War; to which I still answer’d, nodding my Head, tho’ very often I knew not what they meant. It was some Difficulty to me to secure my small Merchandize, especially at Night, for the Natives were covetous of them.
This Care, which kept me from Sleeping sound, was the Occasion, that one Night I heard some Body moving near my Bed, and opening my Eyes, by the Light of the Fire, which never goes out in those Cottages, perceiv’d a Man stark naked,The Author meets another French Man among the Indians. with a Bow and two Arrows in his Hand, who came and sat down by me, without saying any Thing. I view’d him for some Time, I spoke to him, he made me no Answer, and not knowing what to think of it, I laid hold of my two Pistols and my Firelock, which the Man perceiving, he went and sat by the Fire. I follow’d, and looking steadfastly on him, he knew and spoke to me, throwing his Arms about and embracing me, and then made himself known to be one of the French Men I had sent for.
We fell into Discourse, I ask’d him for his Comrade, he told me, he durst not come, for Fear of Monsieur de la Sale. They were both Sailors, this Man, who was of Britany, was call’d Ruter; the other, of Rochelle, Grollet. They had, in that short Space of Time, so perfectly enur’d themselves to the Customs of the Natives, that they were become meer Savages.French turn’d savage. They were naked, their Faces and Bodies with Figures wrought on them, like the rest. They had taken several Wives, been at the Wars and kill’d their Enemies with their Firelocks, which had gain’d them Reputation; but having no more Powder nor Ball, their Arms were grown useless, and they had been forc’d to learn to shoot with Bows and Arrows. As for Religion, they were not troubled with much of it, and that Libertine Life they led, was pleasing to them.
I acquainted this Man with the unfortunate Death of Monsr. de la Sale, his Nephew and the rest, at which, he was surpris’d and concern’d, at least in outward Appearance. I ask’d him, whether he had not heard talk of the Missisipi; he told me he had not; but only that there was a great River forty Leagues from thence towards the N. W. where the Natives said there were many Nations along its Banks. That made me believe, it was the very River we were in Search of, or at least that it must be the Way to come at it. I gave him to eat, and we went to Rest," Henri Joutel Journal.
There were problems from the start. The men who had been honored to serve under Robert Cavalier de la Salle, were only two months into the rescue mission, still in East Texas, when they started to fight each other as described above. Five men died, including LaSalle. Others went to live with the Indians who would have them; five eventually made it back to France, including Henri Joutel and Abb@eacute Cavalier.
And what happened to the settlers left back on the Garcitas Creek. Sometime at the end of 1688 or the beginning of 1689, they were befriended by the Karankawa Indians, only to be murdered. Most of the children were spared and taken to live with the tribe. Most were eventually rescued; some of those taken were murdered as well.
Image above: Painting, "La Salles Expedition to Louisiana in 1684," 1844, Théodore Gudin. It shows the three ships, La Belle (left), Le Joly (middle), and L'Aimable (right, run aground), at the entrance to Matagorda Bay. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons. Image below: Montage (left) LaSalle at Fort Frontenac, 1652, John David Kelley. Courtesy Library and Archives Canada via Wikipedia, and (right), Painting of LaSalle taking possession of the lower Mississippi River for France, 1870's, lithograph by Jean-Adolphe Bocquin, printed by Lemercier & Cie, Paris. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons. Info source: "LaSalle's Texas Settlement," 2011, Thomas S. Weddle, Texas State Historical Association; "Joutel's Historical Journal of Monsieur de La Salle's last voyage to discover the river Mississippi," 1714, Henri Joutel; Wikipedia.
"Monsieur Joutel and some others are of Opinion, that the Mouth of that Branch Monsieur de la Sale went down, is in the Bay of the Holy Ghost, and actually between the twenty eighth and twenty ninth Degrees of North Latitude, as Monsieur de la Sale found it. As for the other Channel, the same Sieur Joutel believes it is farther towards the S. W. and about the Shoals they met with about the 6th of January, 1685, between the twenty seventh and twenty eighth Degrees of North Latitude, when they were sailing along the Coast of the Bay of Mexico, and that those Shoals were the Marks of a River discharging it self there, which they neglected to inquire into. If that be so, Monsieur de la Sale was very near it, and even pass’d along before both the Mouths, but unfortunately, without perceiving them, which was the main Cause of his Death and the Ruin of his Enterprize," Journal of Henri Joutel.
The 1684 journey from France had been a disaster, and now in February 1685, it was determined that they had passed the Mississippi River and were now near today's Corpus Cristi, Texas. Some think he was convinced that the Mississippi River did empty into the bend of Texas, but that is really an unproven theory. However, what was true, was the expedition was stranded, with many of their provisions lost when ships went down along the journey. They would attempt a settlement on the right bank of the Garcitas Creek, five miles from its mouth. Discovery of eight French cannons near that location in 1996 seems to confirm the location. But what should the expedition to colonize the region do? He had one hundred and eighty colonists with him, including women and children. They used the wood from the ship Aimable to construct a two story four room house. Five additional houses were built for the settlers.
Within six months, half of the colonists were dead, from disease, starvation, or deprivation. LaSalle attempted on several occasions, three, to venture out of the settlement to explore. On the first, their last ship, Belle, was shipwrecked.
"When our Fort was well advanc’d, Monsr. de la Sale resolv’d to clear his Doubts,Monsr. de la Sale goes to discover up the River. and to go up the River, where we were, to know whether it was not an Arm of the Missisipi, and accordingly order’d fifty Men to attend him, of which Number were Monsr. Cavelier, his Brother, and Monsr. Chedeville, both Priests, two Recolet Fryars, and several Voluntiers, who set out in five Canoes we had, with the necessary Provisions. There remain’d in the Fort about an hundred and thirty Persons, and Monsr. de la Sale gave me the Command of it, with Orders not to have any Commerce with the Natives, but to fire at them if they appear’d," Henri Joutel Journal.
"Some Days after he was gone, I heard a Voice towards the lower Part of the River, crying twice Qui vive, or who are you for. I made that Way, and perceiv’d the Sieur Chedeville a Priest, the Sieur de la Sablonniere, and some others of those who had been put aboard the Bark la Belle, and were now in a Canoe. I ask’d abruptly what was become of the Bark, and was inform’d, our continual Misfortunes still pursuing us, that it had run aground on the other Side of the Bay.What was saved of the Bark la Belle. I caused the Canoe to be unloaded, there being in it, among other Things, Monsieur de la Sale’s Cloaths, Part of his Papers, some Linen, a small Quantity 110of Beads and thirty or forty Pound of Meal, which was all they had left."
May 1686, How the Bark was lost. The next Day, Monsieur de Chedeville told me the Particulars of that Misfortune, and said, That having been some Time with the Bark, in the Place where Monsieur de la Sale had appointed them to wait, their Water falling short, they had thought fit to send the Boat ashore, with four or five Casks to fill; that the Sieur Planterose went in it with six of the best Men. That towards the Evening they saw the Boat coming back, but the Wind being contrary and Night coming on, they put out a Light, which going out and the Captain neglecting to put up another, in all Likelyhood the Boat could not see the Bark, and they never heard of it after, nor of any of those in it, who it was probable had all perish’d."
Leaving Joutel in charge during his absence, a mutiny against Henri Joutel, his primary confident, was thwarted. But now, the colony was without a vessel, had mutiny in its veins, and was forced to remain there, without any thought of going back to France any time soon. LaSalle's last venture out of the settlement was a desperate attempt to reach Fort-Saint-Louis-des-Illinois. Accompanied by Henri Joutel, the settlement's historian and an experienced military man with sixteen or seventeen years in the Army prior to the expedition, and a number of others, they left twenty-three people behind in the fort. They had those eight cannons, but no cannonballs, and were left in the charge of Gabriel Barbier.
Nov. 1686. It was occasion’d by a Flux which troubled Monsieur de la Sale, who having told me he could not perform that Journey, as long as he continued in such condition, I offer’d to undertake it for him, if he would allow me his Indian, and about fifteen Men; but he answer’d, That his Presence was requisite among the Islinois, and that it was requisite his Brother should go to France. Thus he refus’d my Offer, and could not shun the ill Fate of that Journey.
Dec. 1686. We spent some Time longer after this Manner, during the which, there arose a Controversy about the PrivilegesControversy about Privilege. the King grants to the First-born of the French Colonies in America. The Sieur Barbier’s wife was with Child, and he claim’d the Privilege granted for that Child. The Widow Talon had a Child born in the Passage from France to America, and alledg’d, that her Child, tho’ born before our Arrival, ought to be preferr’d; but the Sieur Barbier’s Wife miscarrying, the Dispute was not decided.
Jan. 1687. Monsieur de la Sale being recover’d of his Indisposition, Preparations were again made for his Journey; but we first kept the Christmas Holy-Days. The Midnight Mass was solemnly sung, and on Twelve-Day, we cry’d, The King drinks, (according to the Custom of France) tho’ we had only Water: When that was over we began to think of setting out. Monsieur de la Sale gave the Command of the Settlement to the Sieur Barbier, directing him what he was to do and observe in his Absence.
There Who were left in the Settlement when M. de la Sale departed. remain’d in that Habitation, the Fathers Maximus and Zenobius, Recolets, Monsieur Chedeville, the Priest, the Marquis de la Sablonniere, the Sieur Barbier, Commander, his Wife, a Surgeon and others, to the Number of twenty, among whom were seven Women, or Maids, and only the Sieur Barbier marry’d; which is much short of the Number some have given out remain’d in the Dwelling, without any Ground; for the Truth is, there were no more, and particularly no Natives, Monsieur de la Sale having absolutely forbid holding any Communication with them. As for Beasts, they amounted to seventy, or seventy five Swine, great and small, which was a good Stock; for Fowl, eighteen or twenty Hens; some Casks of Meal, which was kept for the Sick; Powder, Ball, and eight Pieces of Cannon, without any Bullets.
Persons that set out with M. de la Sale. We set out the 12th of January, in the Year 1687, being seventeen in Number, viz. Monsieur de la Sale, Monsieur Cavelier, the Priest, his Brother, Father Anastasius, the Recolet, Messieurs Moranget and Cavelier, Nephews to Monsieur de la Sale, the Sieurs Duhaut, the Elder, l’Arcleveque, Hiens, Liotot, Surgeon, young Talon, an Indian, and a Footman belonging to Monsieur de la Sale. We carried along with us Part of the best Things every Man had, and what was thought would be of Use, wherewith the five Horses were loaded, and we took our Leaves with so much Tenderness and Sorrow, as if we had all presaged, 117that we should never see each other more. Father Zenobius was the Person who express’d it to me most significantly, saying, He had never been so sensibly touch’d at parting with any Body.
The Way they travell’d.We went that Day to the Place we call’d le Boucon, because there, we had often dry’d Flesh, (which the French call Boucanner from the Indian Word). This Place was not far from our Habitation. The 13th, we cross’d a Plain, about two Leagues over, where we saw several Herds of Beeves and Flocks of Goats, Turkeys, Bustards, and other Sorts of Wild Fowl. We met with Marshy Lands, which tired our Horses, and came to a Wood that terminates the Plain, across which, runs a Branch of a River, full of Reeds, by Monsieur de la Sale call’d the Princess’s River. That Branch joins the other, and they both fell together into the Bay of St. Lewis.
We kill’d five Beeves at the Entrance into the Wood, forded the River, and incamp’d Half a League beyond it, whence Monsieur de la Sale sent Men with Horses, to bring the Flesh of the Bullocks we had kill’d; the Hides of them, which serv’d to cover us, being very useful against a violent Shower of Rain that fell.
The 14th, the Rain ceasing, we travell’d over another spacious Plain, where there is a Multitude of Beeves and Wild Fowl. We saw several Tracks, leading every Way, made by the Bullocks, of which we saw several Herds, some moving on hastily, and others running out-right, which made us suppose they were drove by the Natives. In short, having halted to help up one of our Horses that was fallen, we saw an Indian following them very close. Monsieur de la Sale caus’d a Horse to be immediately unloaded, which a Man mounting, rode after, overtook and brought the Indian.
When the Savage saw himself among us, he concluded he was a lost Man, he quak’d for Fear, and not without Reason, for most of our Men had resolv’d to kill him; Monsieur de la Sale oppos’d it, alledging, that we were but118 a small Number, that very few were left behind at the Habitation, and therefore we ought not to render our selves odious to the Natives, but to use them kindly, that we might have Peace; an infallible Maxim, the Practice of which might have been fortunate to him, had he follow’d it sooner.
He therefore caus’d a Fire to be made, gave him to Eat and Smoke, and afterwards a Bit of Roll-Tabacco, and some other Trifles. Monsieur de la Sale gave him to understand, that he came not to hurt any Man, but to settle Peace in all Places, and so dismissed him. The Indian recover’d himself a little of his Fright; but being still dubious, what his Fate might be, he at first walk’d away gently, still looking about him, and when at a good Distance, made off as fast as he could. We held on our Way, and soon after saw another Indian running after the Bullocks. Monsieur de la Sale caus’d him to be taken, brought to us, and treated as the first had been.
We had not gone far before we spy’d a Company of Natives coming towards us, on our left, but we held on our Way, till they were over against us, when Monsieur de la Sale caus’d us to halt. The Savages seeing us halt, stood still also, which Monsieur de la Sale perceiving, he laid his Firelock on the Ground, and advanc’d towards them, making signs to him that Commanded them, who was a handsome Man, to draw near. That Indian came forward, and was follow’d by the rest, all of them Caressing us after their Manner, which we return’d the best we were able, and then made them Smoak.
Natives entertain’d.Next Monsieur de la Sale gave them to understand, that we were going towards the Cenis, that we desir’d to be at Peace with them all, and that we would return to our own Country, whence we would bring them all they had Occasion for. Then we distributed among them some Bits of Roll-Tabacco, some Strings of Beads and Knives, which they seem’d to be pleas’d with, and all this was done by Signs. Then every Man went his own Way: We advanc’d119 half a League farther, to get into a Wood, where Monsieur de la Sale had encamp’d when he went that Way before; we cut down Trees to secure our Post, and lay there that Night.
Before our Intrenchment was finish’d, we discover’d, first one Indian, then two, and afterwards three, coming one after another; which giving Monsieur de la Sale some Jealousy, he caus’d us to handle our Arms, with Orders to stand upon our Guard, for fear of being surpriz’d, and went towards them. They signify’d to him, that their People had told them, we did not hurt any Body, which was very well, and that they were come to see us. They were entertain’d as the others had been, and then Signs were made them to withdraw, because Night drew on, and having observ’d, that they took Notice of our fortifying our selves, we kept a good Guard all the Night, without any Disturbance.
The Fifteenth, we march’d on, intending to find out a Ford, in the River call’d of the Princess, where Monsieur de la Sale had pass’d before; but missing of it, and the River being swollen, we were oblig’d to go up higher, sometimes crossing curious Meadows, and sometimes Woods of tall Trees of several Sorts, but all Young of the same Thickness and strait, looking as if they had been planted by a Line. A fine Country.The River running through the midst of those curious shady Groves, which were also water’d by several little Brooks of very clear and good Water, afforded a most delightful Landskip," Henri Joutel's Journal.
River of Canoes.The 9th, we did not stir, because of the Rain. The 10th, incamp’d on the Bank of a small River, which we cross’d the 11th, and the same Day another River, and incamp’d on the Bank of it, and found it adorn’d with very fine Mulberry Trees. The 12th we cross’d another River, and incamp’d near it. The 13th, came again to the River of Canoes, so called by Monsieur de la Sale, because he the first Time put Canoes into it, at his former Journey. We pass’d it the 14th, and incamp’d on the other Side where we again join’d the Indians.
The 15th, we held on our Journey with them, and found a pleasanter Country than that we had pass’d thro’; and Monsieur de la Sale having in his former Journey hid some Indian Wheat and Beans,Provisions hid, spoilt. two or three Leagues from that Place, and our Provisions beginning to fall short, it was thought fit to go to that Place. Accordingly he order’d the Sieurs Duhaut, Hiens, Liotot the Surgeon, his own Indian, and his Footman, whose Name was Saget, who were followed by some Natives, to go to the Place he described to them, where they found all rotten and quite spoilt.
The 16, in their Return, they met with two Bullocks, which Monsieur de la Sale’s Indian kill’d, whereupon they sent back his Footman, to give him Notice of what they had kill’d, that if he would have the Flesh dry’d, he might send Horses for it. The 17th, Monsieur de la Sale had the Horses taken up, and order’d the Sieurs Moranget and de Malre and his Footman, to go for that Meat, and send back a Horse Load immediately, till the rest was dry’d.
Monsieur Moranget, when he came thither, found they had smoak’d both the Beeves, tho’ they were not dry enough; and the said Sieurs Liotot, Hiens, Duhaut and the rest had laid aside the Marrow-Bones and others to roast them, and eat the flesh that remain’d on them, as was usual to do. The Sieur MorangetDiscontent occasion’d by Monsr. Moranget. found fault with it, he in a Passion seiz’d not only the Flesh that was smoak’d and dry’d, but also the Bones, without giving them any Thing; but on the contrary, threat’ning they should not eat so much of it, as they had imagin’d, and that he would manage that Flesh after another Manner.
Conspiracy to murder Monsr. de la Sale. This passionate Behaviour, so much out of Season, and contrary to Reason and Custom, touch’d the Surgeon Liotot, Hiens and Duhaut to the Quick, they having other Causes of Complaint against Moranget. They withdrew, and resolv’d together upon a bloody Revenge; they agreed upon the Manner of it, and concluded they would murder the Sieur Moranget, Monsieur de la Sale’s Footman and his Indian, because he was very faithful to him.
They waited till Night, when those unfortunate Creatures had supp’d and were asleep. Liotot the Surgeon was the inhuman Executioner, he took an Ax, began by the Sieur Moranget,Bloody Murderers. giving him many Strokes on the Head; the same he did by the Footman and the Indian, killing them on the Spot, whilst his Fellow Villains, viz. Duhaut, Hiens, Teissier and Larcheveque stood upon their Guard, with their Arms, to fire upon such as should make any Resistance. The Indian and the Footman never stir’d, but the Sieur Moranget had so much Vigour as to sit up, but without being able to speak one Word, and the Assasins obliged the Sieur de Marle to make an End of him, tho’ he was not in the Conspiracy.
This Slaughter had yet satisfy’d but one Part of the Revenge of those Murderers. To finish it and secure themselves it was requisite to destroy the Commander in Chief. They consultedConsult to murder Monsr. de la Sale. about the safest Method to effect it, and resolved to go together to Monsieur de la Sale, to knock out the Brains of the most resolute immediately, and then it would be easier to overcome the rest. But the River,134 which was between them and us, being much swollen, the Difficulty of passing it made them put it off the 18th and 19th. On the other Hand Monsieur de la Sale was very uneasy, on Account of their long Stay. His Impatience made him resolve to go himself to find out his People and to know the Cause of it.
This was not done without many previous Tokens of Concern, and Apprehension. He seem’d to have some Presage of his Misfortune, enquiring of some, whether the Sieur Liotot, Hiens and Duhaut had not express’d some Discontent; and not hearing any Thing of it, he could not forbear setting out the 20th,He goes to seek them. with Father Anastasius and an Indian, leaving me the Command in his Absence, and charging me from Time to Time to go the Rounds about our Camp, to prevent being surpriz’d, and to make a Smoke for him to direct his Way in Case of Need. When he came near the Dwelling of the Murderers, looking out sharp to discover something, he observed Eagles fluttering about a Spot, not far from them, which made him believe they had found some Carrion about the Mansion, and he fired a Shot, which was the signal of his Death and forwarded it.
The Conspirators hearing the Shot, concluded it was Monsieur de la Sale, who was come to seek them. They made ready their Arms and provided to surprize him. Duhaut passed the River, with Larcheveque. The first of them spying Monsieur de la Sale at a Distance, as he was coming towards them, advanc’d and hid himself among the high Weeds, to wait his passing by, so that Monsieur de la Sale suspecting nothing, and having not so much as charg’d his Piece again, saw the aforesaid Larcheveque at a good Distance from him, and immediately ask’d for his Nephew Moranget, to which Larcheveque answer’d, That he was along the River.Is murder’d. At the same Time the Traitor Duhaut fired his Piece and shot Monsr. de la Sale thro’ the Head, so that he dropp’d down dead on the Spot, without speaking one Word.
Father Anastasius, who was then by his Side, stood stock still in a Fright, expecting the same Fate, and not knowing whether he should go forwards or backwards; but the Murderer Duhaut put him out of that Dread, bidding him not to fear, for no Hurt was intended him; that it was Despair that had prevail’d with him to do what he saw; that he had long desir’d to be revenged on Moranget, because he had designed to ruin him, and that he was partly the Occasion of his Uncle’s Death. This is the exact Relation of that Murder, as it was presently after told me by F. Anastasius.
Such was the unfortunate End of Monsieur de la Sale’s Life, at a Time when he might entertain the greatest Hopes, as the Reward of his Labours. His Character.He had a Capacity and Talent to make his Enterprize successful; his Constancy and Courage and his extraordinary Knowledge in Arts and Sciences, which render’d him fit for any Thing, together with an indefatigable Body, which made him surmount all Difficulties, would have procur’d a glorious Issue to his Undertaking, had not all those excellent Qualities been counterbalanced by too haughty a Behaviour, which sometimes made him insupportable, and by a Rigidness towards those that were under his Command, which at last drew on him an implacable Hatred, and was the Occasion of his Death.
The Shot which had kill’d Monsieur de la Sale, was also a Signal of the Murder to the Assassins for them to draw near. They all repair’d to the Place where the wretched dead Corps lay, which they barbarously strip’d to the Shirt, and vented their MaliceBarbarity towards the dead Body. in vile and opprobrious Language. The Surgeon Liotot said several Times in Scorn and Derision, There thou liest, Great Bassa, there thou liest. In Conclusion, they dragged it naked among the Bushes, and left it exposed to the ravenous Wild Beasts. So far was it 136from what a certain Author writes, of their having bury’d him and set up a cross on his Grave.
Murderers return to the Camp.When those Murderers had satiated their Rage, they set out to come to us at our Camp, with the dry’d Flesh, which they had caus’d to be brought over the River by the Indians, who had been Spectators of the Murder and of all the inhuman Actions that had been committed, with Amazement and Contempt of us. When they were come to the Camp, they found Messieurs Cavelier, the one Brother, the other Nephew to the murder’d Commander, whom Father Anastasius acquainted with the dismal End of our Chief, and enjoyn’d them Silence, which it is easy to imagine was very hard upon them; but it was absolutely necessary.
However, Monsieur Cavelier the Priest, could not forbear telling them, that if they would do the same by him, he would forgive them his Murder, and only desir’d them to give him a Quarter of an Hour to prepare himself: They answer’d, They had Nothing to say to him; that what they had done was the Effect of Despair, to be reveng’d for the ill Usage they had receiv’d.
I was absent at that Time; he they call’d Larcheveque, who, as I have said, was one of the Conspirators, had some Kindness for me, and knowing they design’d to make me away too, if I stood upon my Defence, he parted from them, to give me Notice of their Mischievous Resolution. He found me on a little rising Ground, where I was looking upon our Horses as they graz’d in a little adjacent Bottom. His Intelligence struck me to the Heart, not knowing whether I should fly or stay; but at length, having neither Powder nor Shot,The Author sav’d by a Friend. nor Arms, and the said Larcheveque giving me Assurances of my Life, provided I was quiet and 137said Nothing, I committed my self to God’s Protection, and went to them, without taking any Notice of what had been done.
Duhaut,Duhaut, the Murderer, usurps the Command. puff’d up with his new gotten Authority, procur’d him by his Villany, as soon as he saw me, cry’d out, Every Man ought to command in his Turn; to which I made no Answer; and we were all of us oblig’d to stifle our Resentment, that it might not appear, for our Lives depended on it. However, it was easy to judge with what Eyes Father Anastasius, Messieurs Cavelier and I beheld these Murderers, to whom we expected every Moment to fall Sacrifices. It is true, we dissembled so well, that they were not very suspicious of us, and that the Temptation we were under of making them away in Revenge for those they had murder’d, would have easily prevail’d and been put in Execution, had not Monsieur Cavelier, the Priest, always positively oppos’d it, alledging, that we ought to leave Vengeance to God.
However the Murderers seiz’d upon all the Effects, without any Opposition,March continued. and then we began to talk of proceeding on our Journey. We decamp’d the 21st, with our Indians, and march’d with such a heavy Rain, that we were oblig’d to halt on the Bank of a great Stream, where one of the Natives that had left us, arriv’d with his Wife. We went on the 22d and 23d, and pass’d the River, where Father Anastasius, Monsieur Cavelier and I, who could not swim, had been drown’d, but that the Natives assisted and sav’d us. The 24th, we went on thro’ a marshy Country, never quitting a small Path which led to the Village of the Cenis, till the 28th, when we rested on the Bank of a River of the same Name, Cenis River. tho’ about ten Leagues distant from the Village.
We had hop’d to ford that River, as Monsieur de la Sale had done, when he return’d from that Country; but it was so swollen, that there was no doing it, and we were forced to make a Canoe of Bullocks Hides. Whilst we were138 employ’d at that Work, the Indians swam over and went to give Notice to the Cenis of our Arrival.
We found the Country pleasant enough about that River, tho’ the Land did not seem to be any of the best; but still it was delightful to the Eye, well planted with fine Trees of several Sorts, among which, is one that Monsieur de la Sale had nam’d Copal,Copal Tree. being very beautiful, the Leaves of it between those of the Maple and the lime Trees in Resemblance, and from it comes a Gum, of a very agreeable Scent. In the same Place we saw a great Tree, on which the late Monsieur de la Sale had caus’d Crosses and the Arms of France to be carv’d.
The Hunting of Bullocks had fail’d us, and we had seen none from the Place where our late Leader had been murder’d. Thus our Provisions began to fall short, and it was resolv’d on the 29th, to send some Men before, to the Village of the Cenis, to know, whether they had any Indian Corn, and were willing to barter for it. The Author sent to the Cenis for Provisions.I was appointed, with the Surgeon Liotot, the Teisieers, and Hiens, who was a Buccanier, Monsieur de la Sale had taken up at Petit Gouave, to go with him upon this Expedition. I was very unwilling to undertake that Journey, with a Murderer and two of his Companions, of whom I was suspicious; but it was very requisite to obey, and Duhaut having all the Effects in his Possession, alledging, that a great part of them belong’d to him, he gave us some Axes and Knives to barter for Indian Corn, as also for Horses, if any were to be had, and accordingly we pass’d the River.
The Country describ’d.We found the Country made up of several little Hills, of an indifferent Height, on which there are Abundance of Wallnut-Trees and Oaks, not so large as what we had seen before, but very agreeable. The Weeds which had been some Time before burnt by the Natives, began to spring up again, and discover’d large green Fields very pleasing to the Sight.
When we had travell’d some Time, we discover’d three Men a Horseback, coming towards us from the Village, and being come near them, saw one dress’d after the SpanishA Man clad like a Spaniard. Fashion, with a little Doublet, the Body whereof was of blue, and the Sleeves of white Fustian, as it were imbroider’d, with very streight Breeches, white worsted Stockings, Woollen-Garters, a broad-brim’d, flat-crown’d Hat, and long Hair. We presently concluded he was a Spaniard, and the rather because we had been told, that some of them were to come to join in League with the Cenis, against an Enemy nation, and we were at a Nonplus; for if we fell into their Hands, we must never expect to get away, but be condemn’d to serve either in the Mines, or in the Quarries, in the Kingdom of Mexico, for which Reason we provided to give the pretended Spaniard an unkind Reception, and then to make the best of our Way back.
Being come up to him, I spoke some Words of Spanish and Italian, to which he return’d no Answer; but on the contrary, made use of the Word Coussica, which in the Language of the Cenis, signifies, I do not understand you; which Answer of his remov’d our Apprehensions. The two others were quite naked, one of them being mounted on a fine grey Mare, and on her were besides two Panniers, handsomely made of Reeds, full of very fine Meal parch’d, or roasted. After several Questions, to which we had no very satisfactory Answers, we lighted Fire to make them smoke, and then they presented us with the two Panniers full of Meal, giving us to understand, that their Chief expected us in the Village, and having signify’d, that they were sent to meet us, we gave them some Knives and Strings of Beads.
We ask’d them, whether they had any Men among them like him that was a Horseback in the Spanish Habit, they answer’d, there were two in a Neighboring Nation, call’d Assony, and that he who was clad, had been in their Country, and brought thence the Cloaths we saw him wear. That Man then shew’d us a Spanish printed Paper, containing140 the Indulgences granted to the Missioners of New Mexico. After this they left us to go on, to our People, for which Reason I writ a Note, giving an Account of our having met them.
We alighted to eat, and let our Horses graze on the Bank of a Rivulet; but it was not long before the same Natives, who had been with us before, appear’d again hard by us. We made Signs to them to draw near and eat with us; which they did, and then went along with us towards the Village, which we would not go into, because it was Night. The Indian that was clad, stay’d all Night with us, and the two others went away.
The Cenis meet the French in solemn Manner.When it was Day, we held on our Way to the Village; the Indian that was with us conducting us to their Chief’s Cottage. By the Way, we saw many other Cottages, and the Elders coming to meet us in their Formalities, which consisted in some Goats Skins dress’d and painted of several Colours, which they wore on their Shoulders like Belts, and Plumes of Feathers of several Colours, on their Heads, like Coronets. Six or seven of them had square Sword Blades, like the Spanish, on the Hilts whereof they had fasten’d great Plumes of Feathers, and several Hawks Bells; some of them had Clubs, which they call Headbreakers, some only their Bows and Arrows; others, Bits of White Linen, reaching from Shoulder to Shoulder. All their Faces were daub’d with black or red. There were twelve Elders, who walk’d in the Middle, and the Youth and Warriors in Ranks, on the Sides of those old Men.
Being come up to us in that Manner, he that conducted us, made a Sign for us to halt, which when we had done, all the old Men lifted up their Right Hands above their Heads, crying out in a most ridiculous Manner; but it behov’d us to have a Care of laughing. That done, they came and imbrac’d us, using all Sorts of Endearments. Then they made us smoke, and brought to us a French Man among the Indians. of Provence, who was one of those that had forsaken the late Monsieur de la Sale, at his first Journey.
The whole Company conducted us after the same Manner, to their Chief’s Cottage; and after we had staid there a short Time, they led us to a larger Cottage, a Quarter of a League from thence, being the Hut in which they have their publick Rejoycings, and the great Assemblies. Indian Entertainment.We found it furnish’d with Mats for us to sit on. The Elders seated themselves round about us, and they brought us to eat, some Sagamite, which is their Pottage, little Beans, Bread made of Indian Corn, and another Sort they make with boil’d Flower, and at last they made us smoke.
During our Repast, they entertain’d us with the Discourse of their Design to make War on a Nation, who were their Enemies, and whom they call’d Cannohantimo. When it was over, we presented them, according to Custom, with some Knives and Strings of Beads for their Wives. We desir’d them to afford us some Indian Corn, in Exchange for other Things, which they promis’d, and the French Man who was with them, having told us, that there was a District, which afforded more Corn, than that where we were, and where his Cottage was, we resolv’d to go thither. We propos’d it to the Elders, who would needs go along with us, attended by a great Number of Youth, and having got ready our Horses, we set out for that Place.
By the Way, we saw several Cottages at certain Distances, straggling up and down, as the Ground happens to be fit for Tillage. The Field lies about the Cottage, and at other Distances, there are other large Huts, not inhabited, but only serving for publick Assemblies, either upon Occasion of Rejoycings, or to consult about Peace and War.
Huts and Families in them.The Cottages that are inhabited, are not each of them for a private Family, for in some of them there are fifteen or twenty, each of which has its Nook or Corner, Bed and other Utensils to its self; but without any Partition to separate it from the rest: However, they have Nothing in Common besides the Fire, which is in the Midst of the Hut, and never goes out. It is made of great Trees, the Ends whereof are laid together, so that when once lighted, it lasts a long Time, and the first Comer takes Care to keep it up.
Manner of Building.The Cottages are round at the Top, after the Manner of a Bee-Hive, or a Reek of Hay. Some of them are sixty Foot Diameter. In Order to build them, they plant Trees as thick as a Man’s Thigh, tall and strait, and placing them in a Circle, and joyning the Tops together, form the Dome, or round Top, then they lath and cover them with Weeds. When they remove their Dwellings, they generally burn the Cottages they leave, and build new on the Ground they design to inhabit.
Their moveables.Their Moveables are some Bullocks Hides and Goats Skins well cur’d, some Mats close wove, wherewith they adorn their Huts, and some Earthen Vessels, which they are very skilful at making, and wherein they boil their Flesh or Roots, or Sagamite, which, as has been said, is their Pottage. They have also some small Baskets made of Canes, serving to put in their Fruit and other Provisions.Beds. Their Beds are made of Canes, rais’d two or three Foot above the Ground, handsomely fitted with Mats and Bullocks Hides, or Goats Skins well cur’d, which serve them for Feather Beds, or Quilts and Blankets cured with the hair on, to serve as mattresses and bedclothes; and those Beds are parted one from another by Mats hung up..."
" ... We arriv’d there at Night, and found other Elders coming out to meet us, much after the same Manner as the others mention’d before. They led us to their Cottage, made us sit down on Mats and smoke, but not with so much Ceremony as the others. That done, it was Time for us to take our Rest, having given them to understand that we were weary.
French Entertained by the Natives.The French Provencal would needs have us go to his Cottage, that is to the Hut where he had his Dwelling; for, as I have said, there are several Families in one of them, and that was one of the greatest in the Canton, having been the Habitation of one of their Chief’s, lately deceased.
They allotted us a Place there, for our Goods and Packs, the Women immediately made Sagamite or Pottage, and gave it us. Having eaten, we ask’d the French Man whether we were safe, and he answering we were, we lay down, but yet could not sleep sound.
Apr. 1687. The next Day, being the first of April, the Elders came to receive and conducted us to the Cottage where we had been the Day before. After the usual Ceremonies, we traded with them for Corn, Meal and Beans, giving in Exchange for the same, Needles, Knives, Rings and other Toys. We also purchased a very fine Stone Horse, A Horse sold for an Ax. that would have been worth twenty Pistoles in France, for an Ax.
The Day was spent in driving our small Bargains and gathering Provisions, which the Women brought. When that was done, it was agreed, that I should remain there, to lay up more Store, and that the others should return to our Company, which we had left near the River, to carry the Provisions and satisfy them they might come safely. Tho’ I thought my self not over secure among the Indians, and besides had the Dissatisfaction of understanding none of their Language; yet was I not unwilling to stay, that I might have an Opportunity of seeing the two other French Men, who had forsaken the late Monsieur de la Sale, when he first travell’d into that Country, that I might enquire of them, whether they had heard no talk of the Missisipi River, for I still held my Resolution of parting from our wicked Murderers.
As soon as they were gone, I gave a young Indian a Knife, to go bid those two other French Men come to me, and whilst he was going I drove on my little Trade for Provisions, and had frequent Visits from the Elders, who entertain’d me by Signs, with an Account of their intended War; to which I still answer’d, nodding my Head, tho’ very often I knew not what they meant. It was some Difficulty to me to secure my small Merchandize, especially at Night, for the Natives were covetous of them.
This Care, which kept me from Sleeping sound, was the Occasion, that one Night I heard some Body moving near my Bed, and opening my Eyes, by the Light of the Fire, which never goes out in those Cottages, perceiv’d a Man stark naked,The Author meets another French Man among the Indians. with a Bow and two Arrows in his Hand, who came and sat down by me, without saying any Thing. I view’d him for some Time, I spoke to him, he made me no Answer, and not knowing what to think of it, I laid hold of my two Pistols and my Firelock, which the Man perceiving, he went and sat by the Fire. I follow’d, and looking steadfastly on him, he knew and spoke to me, throwing his Arms about and embracing me, and then made himself known to be one of the French Men I had sent for.
We fell into Discourse, I ask’d him for his Comrade, he told me, he durst not come, for Fear of Monsieur de la Sale. They were both Sailors, this Man, who was of Britany, was call’d Ruter; the other, of Rochelle, Grollet. They had, in that short Space of Time, so perfectly enur’d themselves to the Customs of the Natives, that they were become meer Savages.French turn’d savage. They were naked, their Faces and Bodies with Figures wrought on them, like the rest. They had taken several Wives, been at the Wars and kill’d their Enemies with their Firelocks, which had gain’d them Reputation; but having no more Powder nor Ball, their Arms were grown useless, and they had been forc’d to learn to shoot with Bows and Arrows. As for Religion, they were not troubled with much of it, and that Libertine Life they led, was pleasing to them.
I acquainted this Man with the unfortunate Death of Monsr. de la Sale, his Nephew and the rest, at which, he was surpris’d and concern’d, at least in outward Appearance. I ask’d him, whether he had not heard talk of the Missisipi; he told me he had not; but only that there was a great River forty Leagues from thence towards the N. W. where the Natives said there were many Nations along its Banks. That made me believe, it was the very River we were in Search of, or at least that it must be the Way to come at it. I gave him to eat, and we went to Rest," Henri Joutel Journal.
There were problems from the start. The men who had been honored to serve under Robert Cavalier de la Salle, were only two months into the rescue mission, still in East Texas, when they started to fight each other as described above. Five men died, including LaSalle. Others went to live with the Indians who would have them; five eventually made it back to France, including Henri Joutel and Abb@eacute Cavalier.
And what happened to the settlers left back on the Garcitas Creek. Sometime at the end of 1688 or the beginning of 1689, they were befriended by the Karankawa Indians, only to be murdered. Most of the children were spared and taken to live with the tribe. Most were eventually rescued; some of those taken were murdered as well.
Image above: Painting, "La Salles Expedition to Louisiana in 1684," 1844, Théodore Gudin. It shows the three ships, La Belle (left), Le Joly (middle), and L'Aimable (right, run aground), at the entrance to Matagorda Bay. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons. Image below: Montage (left) LaSalle at Fort Frontenac, 1652, John David Kelley. Courtesy Library and Archives Canada via Wikipedia, and (right), Painting of LaSalle taking possession of the lower Mississippi River for France, 1870's, lithograph by Jean-Adolphe Bocquin, printed by Lemercier & Cie, Paris. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons. Info source: "LaSalle's Texas Settlement," 2011, Thomas S. Weddle, Texas State Historical Association; "Joutel's Historical Journal of Monsieur de La Salle's last voyage to discover the river Mississippi," 1714, Henri Joutel; Wikipedia.
History Photo Bomb
The Treaty of Penn with the Indians, 1771-2, Benjamin West. Courtesy Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts via Wikipedia Commons.
Painting titled Portrait of a Man, supposedly of Joseph Dudley, circa late 17th century. Courtesy Wikipedica Commons.
ABH Travel Tip
You can visit much of the Pre-Revolution history of the United States throughout the many trails and historic sites of the nation. And don't miss out on the Native American history throughout Florida or other regions. The history of the nation and North America comes from the culture of the many tribes that made up the mosaic of human culture in each state. They were here before the majority of us, after all, and their history is an amazing collection of wonder, beauty, and dedication to the land that sits beneath us.
Painting of the Signing of the Mayflower Compact, 1899, Jean Leon Gerome Ferris. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons.
Timeline Book
