Rings on the Awkward Shadow

As a tree might grow rings - around its years
One tree threw rings on its shadow - its awkward tears
This attracted young attention by those - who could see that truth
And the anguish this shadow shed - caused death to the youth
The tree was harder than stone - & free from leaves
The few who tried cutting - were tried by onion smell & misery
When white man stumbles - upon some odd bound indian so??
He wants to die, drain blood, darken skin - or crawl in a hole
Well some one wanted the youths - to be knowledge warned
Because the loss of loved ones - brings our hands to mourn
The church group from the federalist - town up north came
But weeping & despondent left by evening - gloomily on a (train?)
So then someone decided the indians - could take the spirit
And were asked with baubles & blanket - & sad excitement
Although mourners were not assure - or thought were understand
The trade items were taken - & led through the woods
Sewing kits & leather & old cloth loops - & new beads
Were talked at 'til sun up - with odd words to heed
Then they rested until sun ceased its warm
The sewing commenced in the eve - & soft? on strange forms
Through feathers reminded the tree - it was only pure?