Fort Armstrong, on Rock Island, had been selected as the place where the Indians were to be made fully free, with liberty to go whither they chose and do what they pleased, so long as they did not injure the white people. When their old comrades came in with news of the families of those who had been separated so long from them, the spirits of all rose, and as the numerous presents were distributed, every one was happy, as might be expected. The bitterest cup of which Black Hawk had to drink was now pressed to his lips. He and Keokuk had headed two warring factions of the Sacs. But for the aid given by the white men to his rival, Black Hawk was sure he would have triumphed; but that rival was more cunning than he, in that he took the side of those who were mightier than the two together. He had conquered, and was now the sole head of the Sac nation. Black Hawk must meet him, and submit to the crowning shame of all. There was no help for it. Keokuk was absent on a buffalo hunt when Black Hawk reached Fort Armstrong, but he and a number of his warriors came in the following day. It did not add to Black Hawk's peace of mind to see his rival's breast covered with medals presented to him by the people who had despoiled both. But Keokuk could afford to be genial, and when he saw the other he advanced toward him. "The Great Spirit has sent our brother back; let us shake hands in friendship." Black Hawk silently returned the pressure, and looked in the face of Keokuk with a world of pathos in his gloomy features. As he still remained silent, too depressed to find words, Keokuk began asking him questions about his journey home. Then pipes were brought out, and all smoked and chatted for an hour or more. A more formal reception took place on the morrow, when Keokuk returned and the grand council was held. There was some friction during the speaking, in which the commandant of the fort took part, but in the end all was made smooth, and Black Hawk finally left for his wigwam, with expressions of good will toward all, including the chief who had supplanted him. Black Hawk died October 3, 1838, and his funeral was attended by hundreds of whites as well as Indians. He was buried at his request in a sitting posture, with his cane between his knees and grasped in his hands. His bones were stolen and found a year later in the possession of a surgeon of Quincy, Illinois. Governor Lucas of Iowa compelled their restoration to the friends of the dead chieftain. [Illustration: THE EARLY RAILROAD IN INDIAN COUNTRY] CHAPTER XIV THE HERO OF THE EVERGLADES OSCEOLA AND THE SEMINOLE WAR