"'The desire to initiate and be initiated is a very ancient deep-laid impulse. Handled judiciously and under the direction of a competent adult guide, it becomes a powerful force for character building, for inculcating self-control.
"'In Woodcraft we carefully select for these try-outs such tests as demonstrate the character and ability of the new-comer, and the initiation becomes a real proof of fortitude, so that the new girl is as keen to face the trial, as the Tribe she would enter is to give it.'"
Zan finished reading and looked up to ask: "Is that all you want me to read, Miss Miller?"
"Just a moment, Zan. I now wish to speak a word to the new members about what is expected of them. We will leave the paragraph about the initiation trials for the last, then the girls will not forget what they are to do. Read now the paragraph that mentions the new work for members."
So Zan continued. "'After the new member has learned the Laws and taken the initiation tests, the first thing to claim her attention is that of qualifying for the rank of Pathfinder and later of Winyan, then the Achievements, each with its appropriate badge, which are described on page 327 of the Manual. In time she will have a Woodcraft suit, but this may come later."
"Now Zan," interrupted the Guide, "turn over to page 18 and read (the new members) what we expect a Wayseeker to do and be. A Wayseeker is the first order of a Big Lodge Girl's membership."
"'To qualify for a Big Lodge--that is, to enter as a Wayseeker--one must:
"'Know the twelve Laws and state the advantages of them.
"'Be voted in unanimously by other members of the group.
"'Having passed this, the candidate becomes a Wayseeker and receives the Big Lodge Badge of the lowest rank, that is with two tassels on it.
"'The next higher rank is that of Pathfinder,'" read Zan.
"So you see, girls, you six will be Wayseekers if you pass the trials and fulfil the requirements just read to you," said the Guide. "Now Zan, will you please read from page 24--the meaning of a Council Ring? Better begin at the bottom of the page where I have marked the sentence for you."
Zan turned over the pages till she found the place indicated and read: "'Why do we sit in a circle around a fire? That is an old story and a new one.