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of the hill, and beckoned to La France who was still at too great a distance to hear me, at length when he reached me[.] The poor man seemed more dead than alive – his countenance was entirely changed into a dark hue, and a thick scurf affected his mouth[.] He instantly got into the water, of which he partook so plentifully that I was fearful of the consequences[.] The horses also Drank largely – and I was afraid that they might be injured also[.] [A]fter resting for some time in the vicinity of the water – We renewed our course – but we did not proceed far, when our late extravagant libations began to operate both upon ourselves and upon our horses[.] Notwithstanding this effect, we thought it prudent to return, and pass the night at the same pool because we might fare worse by continuing and be obliged to encamp without water.

Next morning at day break we went on and that evening arrived at the Fort – Where we found M^r Henry in charge – he and his people in a State of Starvation[.] We were welcome guests, for we had plenty of Provisions[.]

So Ended my Second Expedition to the Mississourie[.]

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