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Journal of a Second Journey Expedition to the

Mississouri by M^r Ch^s M^cKenzie – 1805

In the course of our first trip to the Mississouri having seen several Rocky Mountain Indians we made inquiries of the state of their Country regarding Trade – And learned that Beavers were as numerous in their Rivers as Buffaloes were in their plains which amount was confirmed by old Menard an Old Canadian who had lately been rambling among the Rocky Mountains.

From this information M^r Chaboillez was decidedly of opinion that an advantageous trade could be established in that quarter. He therefore lost no time in forming a plan. and M^r La Rocque was appointed to carry it into execution & I was ordered to accompany him as far as the Mandanes[.]

Upon the 3^d of June every thing was in readiness the party took their departure. It consisting of M^r La Rocque[,] Lafrance[,] two men and myself provided with thirteen horses[.] Soo

Soon after, accidentally, falling in with a large band of Assiniboines we experienced some difficulty to get clear of them with our Property in safety. This was the same band that pillaged the Hudson Bay men the foregoing fall. The Chief is a rascal[.] We Knew his weakness – he was bribed and we escaped unhurt[.]

We were […] arrived scarcely arrived on the Banks of the Mississouri when the Gros Ventres sent Canoes to ferry us over to their villages where we were much surprised to find the whole of the people with blackened faces and the Young men dancing & singing singing & dancing round the village with an In Indian scalp[.]

There was a great change in dress – which in many instances consisted of Articles never used among distant tribes of Indians viz. Russia Shirting trousers. Swansdown vests, Corduroy Jackets, fine Calico Shirts

fine

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