There remains no more, except to speak of the calumet. There is nothing more mysterious or more respected among them. Less honor is paid to the crowns and sceptres of kings than the savages bestow upon this. It seems to be the god of peace and of war, the arbiter of life and of death. It has but to be carried upon one's person, and displayed, to enable one to walk safely through the midst of enemies, who, in the hottest of the fight, lay down their arms when it is shown. For that reason, the Ilinois gave me one, to serve as a safeguard among all the nations through whom I had to pass during my voyage. –Jacques Marquette, 1673

Based on the passage, what inference can be made about the gift given to the explorers?

It would help them navigate through new, unfamiliar territory.
It would help them interact with other new tribes they encountered.
It could serve as a weapon that would protect them on their travels.
It could be used to claim territory as they traveled through the region.