In the beginning of all things, wisdom and knowledge were with the animals, for Tirawa, the One Above, did not speak directly to man. He sent certain animals to tell men that he showed himself through the beast, and that from them, and from the stars and the sun and moon should man learn…all things tell of Tirawa.
– Eagle Chief
Pawnee. Introduction to the Pawnee Songs, The Indians’ Book, by Natalie Curtis.