More than a hundred years ago, a Belgian Jesuit, Father Pierre De Smet, set out for the mountain country of the Flathead Indians. It was the beginning of pioneering exploits that rivaled those of Daniel Boone, of writings and maps that guided settlers through the wilderness. Above all, he went to tell the red men of the white man's God.

During this time the great Indian wars were fought. The Sioux, the Arapahoes, the Cheyennes, all were on the warpath. They resented the encroachment of the white man on Indian territory and his broken promises to them. The United States army could not subdue these fierce warriors; government agents were afraid to approach them.

There was only one man whom the Indians trusted: Father De Smet. The government appealed to him for help, and thus began his role as peacemaker. Fearlessly he visited the warring tribes and worked out settlements with them. The courageous priest pushed on even to the camp of Sitting Bull, who had sworn to kill any white man who crossed his path, and persuaded him to come to terms.

It was no fault of Father De Smet's that in the end his beloved Indians were betrayed and the missions taken from the Black Robes. He himself labored, prayed, and fought for justice for the red man. Thomas Hart Benton said of him in Congress that "Father De Smet has done more for Indian welfare and keeping them in peace and friendship with the United States than an army with banners."

From the dust jacket