The Removal of the Poncas
settle difficulty in camp. Had coffin made for dead Indian, which was brought to camp at twelve o'clock at night from Blue Rapids. A fearful thunder-storm during the night, flooding the camp equipage.
"June 19. The storm of last night left the roads in an impassable condition, and in consequence was obliged to remain in camp all day. Buried Little Cottonwood in a cemetery about five miles from camp.
"June 25. Broke camp at six o'clock. Marched to a point about fifteen miles farther up Deep Creek. Two old women died during the day.
"June 26. The two old women who died yesterday were given Christian burial this morning.
"June 30. Broke camp at six o'clock. Passed through Hartford, and camped about six miles above Burlington. A child of Buffalo Chief died during the day.
"July 1. Broke camp at six o'clock. Marched twelve miles, and went into camp. Purchased a coffin at Burlington, and gave the dead child of Buffalo Chief a Christian burial at that place."
Christian burial seems to have been the only good thing the agent had to offer these exiles. He continued the good work, for six weeks later he says,
"Since the arrival here there have been eight deaths, all of which have been given Christian burial with but small expense to the service."
Far out upon the bleak steppes of northern Asia,
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