During the time of Indian troubles,
a friendly Indian visited Governor Jenks, of Rhode
Island, when the governor took occasion to request
him to let him know if any strange Indian should come
to his wigwam. This the Indian promised to do,
and the governor agreed to give him a mug of flip
if he should give such information. Some time
after, the Indian came again, and said, “Well,
Mr. Gubernor, strange Indian come to my house last
night.” “Ah,” said the governor,
“what did he say?” “He no speak,”
replied the Indian. “What, not speak at
all?” inquired the governor. “No,
he no speak at all.” “That looks suspicious,”
said his excellency, and inquired if he was there
still. Being told that he was, the governor ordered
the promised mug of flip. When this was disposed
of, and the Indian was about to depart, he mildly said,
“Mr. Gubernor, my squaw have child last night.”
The governor, finding the strange Indian was a new-born
pappoose, was glad to find there was no cause for
alarm.