BOURGEOIS - Toronto Public Library

THE MISSISSOURI INDIANS 335
Being now on the eve of spring, the snow began to thaw, the
rills to run, and the Natives to cross their effects to their summer
residence on the opposite banks of the Mississouri. Of this
change, I was not aware at the departure of Mr. La Rocque,
therefore no provision ,was made for it. To remove all the property
was inconvenient; to remain with it after the departure
of the Indians was dangerous; however, circumstances would
only admit of the last alternative, and at length, I found myself
reduced to the company and protection of my worthy landlord,
who remained behind his friends merely to oblige me. He, notwithstanding,
thought our situation very insecure and was
conseqnently perpetually on his guard, being greatly in dread
of the enemy.
In the day time, he repaired to the top of the highest hill in
our neighbourhood; at night he could not sleep in peace and
when he did slumber, it was always under arms. Seeing my
hospitable friend in this continual state of alarm and auxiety, I
began to feel uneasy and proposed to give communication of our
apprehension to the American Gentlemen, who were stationed
about lIine miles from us.
The old man was highly pleased at my design, and he con·
sented to remain about, the following day, during my absence
on this message, but the same evening Mr. LaRocque made his
appearance, and the old man was happy; he fired away all his
powder in demonstration of his joy.
Mr. La Rocque, notwithstanding great difficulties on the way
and considerable sufferings, had been very expeditious, almost
incredibly so, but he was disappointed, I may say doubly disappointed.
The Indians who had induced him to make the journey
traded the greatest part of their hunt to others in Mr. LaRocque's
absence. Nor did he find Mr. Chaboillez at home, he was on a
visit to Mr. Henry's, in Lower Red River.