The Cambridge History of English and American Literature in 18 Volumes (1907–21). VOLUME XVIII. Later National Literature, Part III. XXXI. Non-English Writings I. § 28. The Drama. The first drama written in Louisiana took a native theme. Poucha-Houmma was composed by Le Blanc de Villeneufve at the age of seventy-eight, being based upon an Indian story he had heard fifty years before while in the employ of the government among the Tchactas (Choctaws). It is a tragedy in the familiar Alexandrines, and it observes the unities. It was written, says the author, to vindicate the noble character of the Indian. The manner is that of Corneille; indeed, the play might well be called a Louisiana Cid. The old chief addresses his warriors thus:         Augustes descendants d’n peuple sans pareil, Très illustres enfants des enfants du Soleil.   34