There are only a few references to the displaced Indians in this novel, but one such reference comes on 95 while Emil is visiting Amédée’s baby and wife. Emil says,  “I say, Angelique, one of Médée’s grandmothers, ‘way back, must have been a squaw. This kid looks exactly like the Indian babies.” Angelique responds by making a face at Emil while Mrs. Chevalier lets out “a stream of fiery patois” (95) that prompts Emil to leave the kitchen. Clearly, Emil’s comment is taken as a severe insult, to which these women react in different ways. Thus, I assume that Emil meant this comment as an insult. Given Emil’s status as a somewhat likable character, why do you think Cather has him make an use the Indians to insult this family? What does that show about his character or perhaps about all characters?