Snake Expedition, 1825- 1826 341 red color, very rich from grass on them. In this quarter are 3 boihng fountains^ which I did not see, but am told are sul- phur. The country since the 4th has been bare, only a few fir trees — flint stones in abundance ; animals scarce ; all the rivers being discharged into the Columbia. From the chief factor, McLoughlin, I expected to have found Mr. McDonald pro- vided with guides, but it is the reverse and places me in an unpleasant situation. I must find an Indian who knows the country. If not, must make the attempt without; this will cause loss of time, it being such a mountainous country ; course south. Saturday, loth. Remained in camp. As we cannot ford the river with our horses we have a canoe made. Indians' who had accompanied Mr. McDonald from Ft. Vancouver took their departure for this quarter and I forwarded letters by them to the Columbia; also sent 4 men invalided to Vancouver; were not benefit here. Paid our guide from Nez Perce, though from his conduct he was not entitled to any payment. The anxiety and trouble Indian guides give is known only to those at their mercy. An Indian promised to go for his family and accom- pany me on my voyage, but the evening has come without his appearance. Four of our horses missing — had the rest sent across. The current strong, but not a horse drowned. More fortunate than I expected. An Indian brought the two horses missing on the 6th. So far lucky. Sunday, nth. Very foggy. Horses missing yesterday found today; the rest crossed also part of the property with men to guard the horses. Made Charley Nez Perce a present for past services, also as a bait to induce some Indian to ac- company us. Of many here, two only are acquainted with the country I wish to reach. A Snake Indian, who has lived for many years with the Cayuse Indians, consented to come. A more fit person could not have been selected. If he does not desert us we may consider ourselves fortunate.
I In neighborhood of Warm Springs Indian Agency.----
