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1858 Across the Plains 33

Sept. 4th We were joined by Mr.Louch, an English gentleman who was on a hunting tour, expressing the wish to spend in hunting in the vicinity of Fort Pitt or Carleton, and return to merrie England in Spring. Sold one of our carts to Augus McKay for two guineas or $10, which is all that they are worth. The country through which we passed through this afternoon is similar to that on the opposite side of the river. Camped near a swamp, where there was plenty of wood, water and grass. Rained hard during the night, and we all got soaking wet. Distance travelled during the day was about sixteen miles. 16 Sept. 5th Sunday - Today we passed through rocky and gravely prairie for eight miles till we came to Qu Appelle or Calling River. This river is small and barley fordable, it is skirted with timber, and here, is the last oak you will you will see on the route. The descent to the river is very bad and precipitous, on arriving at the bottom. Mr. Parnbrun looked out for a ford, as the water was too deep at the regular ford - finally they found one and by cutting down the banks on the opposite side, made a tolerable ford. Our carts being heavily loaded, we had to wade it, the water being very old. It occupied all the afternoon in crossing, even camped near the camped near the banks. Rained all day and night. Distance from last night's camp eight miles. 8 Sept. 6th Monday It took us all morning to ascend the hill, having to double teams, the hill being very bad and long. Character of the country on of top of the hill similar to what we passed through. Passed several lakes - killed a mess of Canvass Backs and Teil. Heavy winds and rain all day and night - trail good- Camped as usual on the prairie, near lake and grove. Travelled about 15 miles. 15