366 Peter Skene Ogden Journal, 1827-1828 [US] Saturday, Dec. L The day and month have begun with a wild storm of wind and snow. 5 Snake tents have joined our camp. I had rather they kept at a distance as they answer as a screen for horse thieves. Our numbers are but 12 men; the Snakes exceed 1500. We are completely at their mercy. I am on good terms with the chiefs and will try to remain so. I feel most anxious in regard to McKay's party, also the man I left on Sickly River. Now 4 inches of snow on the plains which helps our horses' feet. No trapper can do justice to his traps unless he has 4 good horses. My party average this ; but the horses too young to endure privations. One died today. Very severe cold. The trappers came in covered with ice and nearly froze. Tuesday 4 Dec. The Snake camp in motion towards Blackfoot Hill. A stolen trap restored to me today by the chief. It is the opinion of many that winters in the Snake country are mild ; but the bare- ness of the plains causes us to feel the cold greater than it is. In my leather hut with only willows for fire I find it far from pleasant. We now number 900 beaver. We shall raise camp in quest of buflalo tomorrow. Saturday 8 Dec. Followed down the fork to Portneuf River and this stream to its discharge on Snake River south and camped. 1 Have grass for our horses and wood for fires. It was my opinion that a trapper with his family could be fully equipped with a year's supplies for Snake country for £15, but I think now for blankets etc. it should be £25. Friday, 14 Dec. It would relieve me to hear of Mr. McKay. Mr. S. Mc- Gillvray's party from the east side of the mtns. 2 if no accident has happened ought to be in the waters of Salmon River. If 1 Not far west of Pocatello, Idaho; Fort Hall built near here by Nath. Wyeth six years later. 2lndicates that the H. B. Company sent trading parties from some Canadian Fort as well as from Vancouver.
