Knickerbocker's History of New York Vol. 1 Book II Chapter VI

In which the narrator muses upon the uncertain origins and various quaint etymologies of the island now known as Manhattan, weaving together both learned conjecture and amusing legend with a gentle wit. The tale reflects on the mutable nature of names and the colourful impressions of early settlers and native tribes alike, casting the island as a place of delight, mystery, and jovial camaraderie.